An update to the closer report has been made. It can be found here.

An update to the closer report has been made. It can be found here.

Our podcast, in which we discuss starting pitchers is now available from Spreaker or iTunes.

Starting Pitchers – Part 1

There is nothing wrong with moving early on Starting Pitching this year, but it’s important to remember that you don’t have to. You can and will be able to find solid upper-tier starters right through the 5th Round. Starting pitching is deep, with plenty of talent from top-to-bottom, allowing us the opportunity to pick the path we wish to journey.

1. Sandy Alcantara, MIA – He led the League in IP by a whopping 23 2/3 over runner-up Aaron Nola, while posting a 2.28 ERA. His six complete games led the Majors. He is the consummate workhorse in a League where that phrase can’t be used very often. 
2. Shohei Ohtani, LAA – We should be incredibly thankful to watch the best all-around player in the game’s history.
3. Gerrit Cole, NYY – In the past five full seasons, Cole has started 33, 32, 33, 30, and 32 games. Over that span, he has bested the 250-strikeout mark three times. Even with a mid-3 ERA, there’s a lot to like.
4. Corbin Burnes, MIL – As a parting gift to the Milwaukee faithful, he’ll attempt to carry them to a playoff spot in 2023.
5. Aaron Nola, PHI – 2021 proved to be a hiccup, as we saw Nola return to his workhorse-type ways last year—Bank on 200 innings of low-3 ERA and 200+ strikeouts.
6. Dylan Cease, CWS – Over the past two seasons, only eight starters have recorded back-to-back 200+ strikeout seasons, and Dylan Cease is one of those eight.
7. Shane McClanahan, TBR – A left shoulder impingement at the end of August cost McClanahan three weeks, but he still managed to build on his excellent 2021 rookie campaign. There will be a Cy Young Award in the future.
8. Alek Manoah, TOR – When you toss 196 2/3 innings of 2.24 ERA ball and are a finalist for the AL Cy Young Award in your first full season in the League, you’re an ace and should be treated as such heading into 2023.
9. Justin Verlander, NYM – In a career that began in 2005, Verlander defied the odds and returned from TJS to post a 1.75 ERA, the best of his long and stellar career. Cooperstown awaits!
10. Julio Urias, LAD – He’s the MLB win leader with 37 in the past two years while posting a 2.96 and 2.16 ERA. Yes, he could post higher strikeout numbers, but that’s a pretty minor issue when you look at what he brings to the table.
11. Jacob deGrom, TEX – When healthy, deGrom is the best pitcher in the game. The last time he was 100% healthy was in 2019. Take anything over 135 innings and consider it a bonus.
12. Spencer Strider, ATL – In 131 2/3 IP, he posted a 2.67 ERA with 202 strikeouts. A repeat of that amazing rookie campaign, adding in ten starts, and you have a Top-5 SP.
13. Max Scherzer, NYM – “Mad” Max is now heading into his age-39 season, and the volume of work might be dropping slightly, but not the quality of that work.
14. Shane Bieber, CLE – Bieber started 31 games last year, with 25 of them being of the “quality start” variety. The only thing that he doesn’t do is light up the radar gun with 100 mph heat, and he doesn’t have to.
15. Carlos Rodon, NYY – A healthy Rodon is an ace, and with 31 and 24 starts over the past two seasons, the health concerns should be starting to fade.
16. Max Fried, ATL – Since becoming a member of the Braves rotation in 2019, we’ve seen improvement each year with the same consistent (30, 28, and 30 starts) workload. Pencil him in for 30 starts, and enjoy the ride.
17. Brandon Woodruff, MIL – Woodruff didn’t replicate that stellar 2021 campaign but didn’t miss by all that much. The Brewers will need another very good year from Woodruff to make it into the playoffs.
18. Cristian Javier, HOU – Those who exercised patience were rewarded handsomely and will continue to reap the rewards for many years.
19. Luis Castillo, SEA – A full year in Seattle should see a return to double-digit wins with the consistently solid ERA and strikeout totals.
20. Zac Gallen, ARZ – We finally witnessed an entire season from Zac Gallen, as he bested his last season-high innings pitched by a whopping 62 2/3 innings. It was worth the wait.
21. Zack Wheeler, PHI – Wheeler missed a month while dealing with forearm soreness but finished the season strong. Another 200-inning season might not be in the cards, but 160-to-175 solid innings make Wheeler a solid #2 Fantasy SP.
22. Joe Musgrove, SDP – The past two seasons have been a model of consistency for Musgrove. A little run support would be just what the doctor ordered.
23. Kevin Gausman, TOR – Double-digit wins with 200+ strikeouts as a #2 SP.
24. Yu Darvish, SDP – Darvish is coming off his best season since 2013 and was handsomely rewarded for his efforts.
25. Triston McKenzie, CLE – That curve ball is a thing of beauty.
26. Logan Webb, SFG – Webb has allowed only 29 home runs in his first 434 2/3 innings. The workload increased last year as he closed in on the 200 IP mark. Yeah, we’d like to see an uptick in the strikeout rate, but it was quietly an excellent breakthrough campaign for the young Giants’ #2 starter.
27. Luis Severino, NYY – When he pitched last year, he looked like the Severino of old. Unfortunately, he simply didn’t pitch enough, missing two months with a lat strain. Would I be surprised if he returns to his Top-20 form? Not one bit.
28. Framber Valdez, HOU – Sinker, curveball, and cutter. Wash, rinse, and repeat because it is necessary and highly effective. 
29. Logan Gilbert, SEA – A #3/4 SP investment could yield #2 rewards.
30. George Kirby, SEA – The 22 walks in 130 IP were some impressive. Better days are ahead, and the current days we witnessed last year were pretty darn good.
31. Clayton Kershaw, LAD – There’s nothing wrong with planning for 20 starts, especially when you know they will be 20 very good starts.  
32. Hunter Greene, CIN – Let’s hope that a stellar September is a harbinger of future things.
33. Tyler Glasnow, TBR – Tyler Glasnow is heading into his age-30 season. Tyler Glasnow has surpassed the 100 IP mark in a season once. Need I say more?
34. Kyle Wright, ATL – It took a bit longer than expected, but Wright finally delivered on that potential as the #5 overall pick out of Vanderbilt in 2017. He exploded in 2022, posting a 21-5 won/loss record and a 3.19 ERA. Run support is a good thing; there will be no shortage in Atlanta.
35. Robbie Ray, SEA – A safe bet to contribute 200+ strikeouts with a high-3 ERA.
36. Nestor Cortes, NYY – Hitters couldn’t sort through the deception, and that won’t change moving forward.
37. Nick Lodolo, CIN – It was an impressive debut by the 25-year-old southpaw. Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo give the Reds an exciting one-two punch to build around.
38. Tony Gonsolin, LAD – The right forearm strain that cost Gonsolin the last five weeks of the regular season has to be a concern. You won’t have to overpay for that great 2022 season, so don’t.  
39. Kodai Senga, NYM – The “ghost” forkball will torment hitters, and the fastball has some serious giddy up. First-time, through the League, Senga should dominate.
40. Blake Snell, SDP – The 2022 and 2021 seasons were virtually identical. The difference being Snell walked 18 fewer hitters, and five fewer balls left the yard last year. The resulting difference in ERA was almost a full run, 4.20 vs. 3.38. I won’t slap money down on Snell, keeping the walk rates for 2022 low, but it can’t be ruled out.
41. Luis Garcia, HOU – The 2021 and 2022 numbers were virtually identical. There’s no reason to expect 2023 to differ.
42. Jesus Luzardo, MIA – Luzardo pitched in a career-high 18 starts in 2022. The 3.32 ERA was outstanding, and he struck out 120 hitters in 100 1/3 innings, another career high. Will 2023 be when he stays fully healthy and works 150+ innings?
43. Lucas Giolito, CWS – Giolito took a step backward last year as his old bugaboo resurfaced, the free pass. You can count on 170 innings and close to 200 strikeouts, but the ERA will continue to soar until he gets the walks under control.
44. Chris Sale, BOS – Chris Sale has had 11 starts in the past three years. Nothing further needs to be said.
45. Brady Singer, KCR – Singer was one of the most improved starters in baseball last year. No explanation is required when you toss 25 more innings than 2021 with 18 fewer free passes.
46. Jordan Montgomery, STL – He’d sure look good in pinstripes. 
47. Chris Bassitt, TOR – He has been an under-rated starter the past three seasons and should flourish as the #3 starter for the Jays.
48. Freddy Peralta, MIL – Will the 27 starts amassed in 2021 proves to be an outlier?
49. Jeffrey Springs, TBR – Raise your hand if you predicted Springs would start 25 games last year and post a 2.46 ERA. The Rays pulled another “rabbit” out of the hat.
50. Dustin May, LAD – The Dodgers have stated that workload limitations will be in place for May in 2023. The potential is still sky-high for the 25-year-old righty; know your parameters.
51. Pablo Lopez, MIN
52. Drew Rasmussen, TBR
53. Joe Ryan, MIN
54. Reid Detmers, LAA
55. Merrill Kelly, ARZ
56. Lance Lynn, CWS
57. Miles Mikolas, STL
58. Charlie Morton, ATL
59. Sonny Gray, MIN
60. Grayson Rodriguez, BAL
61. Hunter Brown, HOU
62. Martin Perez, TEX
63. Jose Berrios, TOR
64. Andrew Heaney, TEX
65. Nathan Eovaldi, TEX
66. Tyler Anderson, LAA
67. Jameson Taillon, CHC
68. Edward Cabrera, MIA
69. Jon Gray, TEX
70. Patrick Sandoval, LAA
71. Jack Flaherty, STL
72. Trevor Rogers, MIA
73. Michael Kopech, CWS
74. Taijuan Walker, PHI
75. Cal Quantrill, CLE
76. Ranger Suarez, PHI
77. Tyler Mahle, MIN
78. Andrew Painter, PHI
79. Jose Urquidy, HOU
80. Roansy Contreras, PIT
81. Noah Syndergaard, LAD
82. Ross Stripling, SFG
83. Eric Lauer, MIL
84. Eduardo Rodriguez, DET
85. Marcus Stroman, CHC
86. Zach Eflin, TBR
87. Jose Quintana, NYM
88. Kenta Maeda, MIN
89. Alex Wood, SFG
90. Kyle Harrison, SFG
91. Bailey Ober, MIN
92. Lance McCullers Jr., HOU
93. Adam Wainwright, STL
94. Carlos Carrasco, NYM
95. Justin Steele, CHC
96. Michael Wacha, SDP
97. Johnny Cueto, MIA
98. Alex Cobb, SFG
99. Hayden Wesneski, CHC
100. Sean Manaea, SFG
101. Kyle Bradish, BAL
102. Nick Pivetta, BOS
103. Aaron Civale, CLE
104. Nick Martinez, SDP
105. Steven Matz, STL
106. Drew Rucinski, OAK
107. Jose Suarez, LAA
108. Matt Manning, DET
109. Garrett Whitlock, BOS
110. David Peterson, NYM
111. Spencer Turnbull, DET
112. Ken Waldichuk, OAK
113. Domingo German, NYY
114. Mike Soroka, ATL
115. Mitch Keller, PIT
116. Shintaro Fujinami, OAK
117. Corey Kluber, BOS
118. James Paxton, BOS
119. MacKenzie Gore, WAS
120. Luis Ortiz, PIT
121. Drew Smyly, CHC
122. Josiah Gray, WAS
123. Zack Greinke, KCR
124. Michael Lorenzen, DET
125. Dean Kremer, BAL
126. Braxton Garrett, MIA
127. Cole Irvin, BAL
128. Tylor Megill, NYM
129. Bailey Falter, PHI
130. James Kaprielian, OAK
131. Frankie Montas, NYY
132. German Marquez, COL
133. Kyle Gibson, BAL 
134. Mike Clevinger, CWS
135. Marco Gonzales, SEA
136. Matthew Boyd, DET
137. Zach Plesac, CLE
138. Drey Jameson, ARZ
139. Clarke Schmidt, NYY
140. Ian Anderson, ATL
141. Kyle Muller, OAK
142. Gavin Williams, CLE
143. Yusei Kikuchi, TOR
144. Brayan Bello, BOS
145. Cade Cavalli, WAS
146. Aaron Ashby, MIL
147. Seth Lugo, SDP 
148. Brandon Pfaadt, ARZ
149. Tarik Skubal, DET
150. Hyun-jJin Ryu, TOR
151. John Means, BAL
152. Taj Bradley, TBR
153. Luis Patino, TBR
154. Gavin Stone, LAD
155. Tanner Bibee, CLE
156. Ryan Pepiot, LAD
157. Chase Silseth, LAA
158. Cole Winn, TEX
159. Yosvery Zulueta, TOR
160. Jordan Lyles, KCR
161. Adrian Sampson, CHC
162. Eury Perez, MIA
163. Zach Davies, ARZ
164. Brandon Williamson, CIN
165. Daniel Lynch, KCR
166. Brad Keller, KCR
167. Ricky Tiedmann, TOR
168. Paul Blackburn, OAK
169. Kyle Freeland, COL
170. Bryce Miller, SEA
171. Bryce Elder, ATL
172. Ryan Yarbrough, KCR
173. Jake Odorizzi, TEX
174. Wade Miley, MIL
175. Bobby Miller, LAD
176. Graham Ashcraft, CIN
177. Vince Velasquez, PIT
178. Matthew Liberatore, STL
179. Gordon Graceffo, STL
180. Ryne Nelson, ARZ
181. Madison Bumgarner, ARZ
182. Robert Gasser, MIL
183. Emerson Hancock, SEA
184. Joey Wentz, DET
185. Kyle Hendricks, CHC
186. Sixto Sanchez, MIA
187. Rich Hill, PIT
188. JT Brubaker, PIT
189. Luis Cessa, CIN
190. Walker Buehler, LAD
191. DL Hall, BAL
192. Griff McGarry, PHI
193. Patrick Corbin, WAS
194. Trevor Bauer, FA
195. Ryan Weathers, SDP
196. Anthony DeSclafani, SFG
197. Jonathan Stiever, CWS
198. Trevor Williams, WAS
199. Luke Weaver, CIN
200. Stephen Strasburg, WAS

Our podcast, in which we discuss the ADPs in First Year Player Drafts is now available from Spreaker or iTunes.

First Year Player Draft Podcast

Our podcast, in which we discuss outfielders is now available from Spreaker or iTunes.

Outfielder – Part 1

Outfielder – Part 2

Our first Closer Report of the 2023 season is now available for your review. It can be found here.

The outfield gives you elite options at the top, with seven going off-the-board in the First Round and another three in the Second Round. After the first twenty or so outfielders come off the board, the available talent begins to thin quickly and is cause for a lot more questions than seemingly there are answers. Remember that you need 75 outfielders in a 15-team format and 60 in a 12-team. Don’t wait too long when constructing your outfield this year. You won’t enjoy the results. Three players that didn’t make the list are Bryce Harper, Matt Carpenter, and Kerry Carpenter, all of whom are limited to DH-only status.

1. Ronald Acuna Jr., ATL – 15 homers, 29 stolen bases, and 71 runs scored is a fine season. Considering that he didn’t make his first appearance last year until April 28 due to rehabbing the torn UCL that cost him most of the 2021 season, those numbers look even more impressive. A healthy Acuna has the potential to hit 25 home runs with 40 stolen bases. The power/speed combination is as good as it gets.
2. Aaron Judge, NYY – Even 75% of what we saw from Judge in 2022 would make for an outstanding season.
3. Kyle Tucker, HOU – In 2021, he slugged 30 homers, drove in 92 runs, and swiped 14 bases. Last year, he duplicated the home run total of 30 and upped both the RBI and SB totals to 107 and 25. Tucker is one of the elite outfielders in the game and still just heading into his age-27 season. Pencil him in for 30-20.   
4. Julio Rodriguez, SEA – JRod got off to a slow start, but when May rolled around, he took his game to an entirely new level, finishing the season with 28 home runs, 25 stolen bases, and a .854 OPS laying claim to the first of what could prove to be many Awards, the 2022 AL ROY.
5. Juan Soto, SDP – The transition to his new home in San Diego wasn’t as smooth as was expected, but he remains one of the best players in the game and should bounce back to his elite production level this year. Even in a “down year,” he walked 39 times more than he struck out.
6. Yordan Alvarez, HOU – One of a handful of players with 40 home run potential. Will 2023 be the year? I’m leaning on “yes” being the correct answer.
7. Fernando Tatis Jr., SDP – 2022 was a nightmare of biblical proportions. A PED suspension followed up the unreported broken wrist in a motorcycle accident. He didn’t make it on the field last year and still has three weeks remaining on his suspension that is to be served to start the 2023 campaign. The talent from the neck down is undeniable. From the neck up, the jury is still out. SS-102
8. Mookie Betts, LAD – The stolen bases aren’t what they once were, but Betts found a way to slug 35 homers (a career-high) and score 117 runs. Expect more of the same in 2023.
9. Mike Trout, LAA – He missed a month after being diagnosed with a rare chronic back condition, costovertebral dysfunction, but finished strong, recording his third 40 home run season and a .999 OPS. He’s likely to miss time on occasion moving forward, but when on the field remains a force to be reckoned with.  
10. Randy Arozarena, TBR – Only three baseball players have gone 20-20 in the past two seasons, and Randy Arozarena is one of those three players.
11. Daulton Varsho, ARZ – The potential that many saw heading into the 2022 season was fulfilled as Varsho went 27-74 with 15 thefts. In his new home in Toronto, there’s an outside chance that he could join Pudge Rodriguez and J.T. Realmuto, becoming the third catcher-eligible player to produce a 20-20 season. That’s the good news. Unfortunately, it comes with bad news, as this will likely be Varsho’s last year attaining catcher eligibility. C-31
12. Michael Harris II, ATL – Harris exploded onto the scene as a 21-year-old rookie, coming up one home run short of a 20-20 season. The fact that he didn’t get his first at-bat last year until May 28 makes his accomplishment even more impressive. He’ll get that 20-20 season in 2023 with plenty of room to spare.
13. Cedric Mullins, BAL – That amazing 2021 season wasn’t duplicated, but mid-teen power and 30 thefts are still more than worthy of our attention.
14. Luis Robert Jr., CWS – The potential to witness a 30-20 season is at hand if he can stay healthy and get in 500+ plate appearances, something he hasn’t managed to do over the past two seasons.
15. Kyle Schwarber, PH – There’s no doubt that Schwarber can hit the ball a mile. Just remember that 40 home run potential comes with a BA price.
16. Corbin Carroll, ARZ – The pre-season favorite to win the 2023 NL ROY, and his current 74 ADP reflects that. Pay the price. He’ll earn it.
17. Adolis Garcia, TEX – Ignore the BA and smile every time you look at the morning box scores as Garcia fills the other four categories.
18. Eloy Jimenez, CWS – There’s 30+ home run potential in the bat. All we need to see is 500 at-bats, something we haven’t seen since he arrived in 2019. As a full-time DH, the odds of a full season have improved significantly.
19. George Springer, TOR – 25 homers, ten thefts, and 100 runs scored with a .340+ OBP make Springer one of the best leadoff bats in the game.  
20. Teoscar Hernandez, SEA – Hernandez is off to the west coast, and there’s no reason not to expect another 25-to-30 HR season with solid RBI production.
21. Starling Marte, NYM – Marte is heading into his age-35 season and coming off a year in which he stole only 18 bases. This would be only the second time since his rookie season back in 2013 that he failed to reach the 20 stolen base mark. Has a new bar been established?
22. Byron Buxton, MIN – One of these years, he’ll stay healthy and produce a monster season. Who am I kidding? Take the 300-to-400 at-bats and have a replacement player ready, and you’ll be happy with the results.
23. Tyler O’Neill, STL – Last year saw O’Neill serve two stints on the IL with his left hamstring and another with a shoulder impingement, reducing his playing time to roughly a half-season. He still hit 14 homers and 14 stolen bases through all those struggles.
24. MJ Melendez, KCR – He’s not a typical leadoff bat, but don’t let that sway you in your decision to roster him. At some point in his career, Melendez will break through the 30-home run barrier, possibly as soon as 2023. C-78
25. Bryan Reynolds, PIT – He doesn’t want to be in Pittsburgh, and the reality of the situation is such that who can blame him? A change of scenery is needed badly for the 28-year-old Reynolds.
26. Seiya Suzuki, CHC – I still saw enough last year, albeit in short bursts, to believe. He gets a mulligan for the mediocre debut in 2022.
27. Steven Kwan, CLE – Kwan does exactly what the Guardians want and expect from a leadoff bat. Last year he walked more than he struck out on his way to posting an excellent .373 OBP. In addition to the great hit tool, you can add 100 runs scored, a handful of home runs, and 10-15 stolen bases. It’s hard to want much more from a #3 outfielder.
28. Whit Merrifield, TOR – Lourdes Gurriel, and Teoscar Hernandez have found new homes for 2023, so even though Merrifield struggled badly after the trade last year, the Jays believe and have him slotted into full-time at-bats in 2023. He could prove to be a huge bargain at his current 193 ADP. 2B-83
29. Nick Castellanos, PHI – Castellanos might not be 34-100 good, but his second season in Philly should be better than 13-62.  
30. Anthony Santander, BAL – We finally saw a full season from Santander, and he responded in fine form, slugging 33 homers and driving in 89 runs. 
31. Jake McCarthy, ARZ – 8 homers to go along with 23 stolen bases in a pinch more than half a season. Who saw that coming? Is a 15-30 season right around the corner for the late-blooming McCarthy?
32. Christian Yelich, MIL – The power we witnessed in his first two years in Milwaukee has vanished, but hitting at the top-of-the-order, he will get you 90+ runs scored and 15+ thefts. He’d move up this list if he can ever rebound and hit even 20 home runs.
33. Giancarlo Stanton, NYY – There are few, if any, players that have the pure power of Giancarlo Stanton. Don’t forget about him when making your plans for 2023.
34. Kris Bryant, COL – The move to Coors Field last year was supposed to fuel a renaissance. Back and plantar fasciitis shattered that dream, as he only managed to stay healthy for 42 games. The talent is there; let’s hope the same for the health.
35. Andrew Vaughn, CWS – 2022 was a solid step in the right direction. 2023 will be even better. 1B-23
36. Hunter Renfroe, LAA – The 30-home run power potential seems far more appealing now that he is no longer proving to be a BA liability.
37. Harrison Bader, NYY – If you’re looking for cheap speed after the 10th Round, Bader stole 17 bases last year in only 292 at-bats. A 25-stolen-base season should be in the cards for the former Card. 
38. Mitch Haniger, SFG – If Haniger can stay healthy, pencil him in for a 30-90 season in his new home in San Francisco.
39. Mike Conforto, SFG – Conforto missed all last season, dealing with contract and shoulder issues, but recently inked a two-year deal with the Giants. In the mid-teen rounds, it’s worth seeing if he can rebound and demonstrate the talent that saw him best 25 homers three times in his career. 
40. Brandon Nimmo, NYM – It’s tough not to score 100 runs hitting in the leadoff slot for the Mets with that strong supporting cast. Bump him up in Leagues that use OBP instead of BA.
41. Oscar Gonzalez, CLE
42. Ian Happ, CHC
43. Masataka Yoshida, BOS
44. Cody Bellinger, CHC
45. Joc Pederson, SFG
46. Taylor Ward, LAA
47. Jeff McNeil, NYM 2B-106
48. Riley Greene, DET
49. Seth Brown, OAK 1B-84
50. Lars Nootbaar, STL
51. Randal Grichuk, COL
52. Austin Meadows, DET
53. Bryan De La Cruz, MIA
54. Andrew Benintendi, CWS 
55. Alex Verdugo, BOS
56. Joey Meneses, WAS 1B-40
57. Christopher Morel, CHC 2B-33
58. Jorge Soler, MIA
59. Lane Thomas WAS
60. Gavin Lux, LAD 2B-102
61. Lourdes Gurriel Jr., ARZ
62. Joey Gallo, MIN
63. Jesse Winker, MIL
64. Trey Mancini, CHC 1B- 39
65. Austin Hayes, BAL
66. Edward Olivares, KCR
67. Esteury Ruiz, OAK
68. Brandon Marsh, PHI
69. Jarred Kelenic, SEA
70. Avisail Garcia, MIA
71. Adam Duvall, BOS
72. Jake Fraley, CIN
73. Ramon Laureano, OAK
74. Chris Taylor, LAD 2B-22
75. Dylan Carlson, STL
76. Jurickson Profar, FA
77. Manuel Margot, TBR
78. Brendan Donovan, STL 2B-38, 3B-31
79. Juan Yepez, STL
80. Michael Brantley, HOU
81. Marcell Ozuna, ATL
82. Jose Siri, TBR
83. Nick Gordon, MIN 2B-36
84. Kyle Stowers, BAL
85. AJ Pollock, SEA
86. Akil Baddoo, DET
87. Oswaldo Cabrera, NYY
88. Oscar Colas, CWS
89. Mike Yastrzemski, SFG
90. Wil Myers, CIN 1B-25
91. Dylan Moore, SEA SS-26
92. Leody Taveras, TEX
93. Mark Canha, NYM
94. Drew Waters, KCR
95. Trent Grisham, SDP
96. Sal Frelick, MIL
97. Jack Suwinski, PIT
98. Harold Ramirez, TBR 1B-32
99. Alex Kirilloff, MIN
100. Charlie Blackmon, COL
101. Eddie Rosario, ATL
102. Victor Robles, WAS
103. Enrique Hernandez, BOS
104. Tommy Pham, NYM
105. TJ Friedl, CIN
106. Michael A. Taylor, MIN
107. Chas McCormick, HOU
108. Max Kepler, MIN
109. Myles Straw, CLE
110. Nick Senzel, CIN
111. Aledmys Diaz, OAK 2B-22
112. Corey Dickerson, WAS
113. Garrett Mitchell, MIL
114. Gavin Sheets, CWS
115. Andrew McCutchen, PIT
116. Hunter Dozier, KCR 1B-42, 3B-27
117. David Peralta, LAD
118. Trayce Thompson, LAD
119. Bubba Thompson, TEX
120. Josh Smith, TEX 3B-36
121. Tyrone Taylor, MIL
122. Kevin Kiermaier, TOR
123. Will Brennan, CIN
124. Yonathan Daza, COL
125. Kyle Isbel, KCR
126. Matt Vierling, DET
127. James Outman, LAD
128. Brian Anderson, MIL 3B-48
129. Tony Kemp, OAK 2B-89
130. Aaron Hicks, NYY
131. Brad Miller, TEX 3B-27
132. Darin Ruf, NYM 1B-45
133. Kyle Lewis, ARZ
134. Mauricio Dubon, HOU SS-21
135. Ji-Hwan Bae, PIT
136. Alek Thomas, ARZ
137. Colton Cowser, BAL
138. Jesus Sanchez, MIA
139. Nelson Velazquez, CHC
140. Nolan Jones, COL
141. Garrett Hampson, MIA SS-32
142. Stone Garrett, WAS
143. Adam Frazier, BAL 2B-124
144. Dustin Harris, TEX
145. Pedro Leon, HOU
146. Andy Pages, LAD
147. Jarren Duran, BOS
148. Jo Adell, LAA
149. George Valera, CLE
150. LaMonte Wade, SFG 1B-22
151. Connor Joe, PIT 1B-24
152. Alex Call WAS
153. Leury Garcia, CWS 2B-47
154. Jose Azocar, SDP 
155. Brennen Davis, CHC 
156. Nate Eaton, KCR
157. Trevor Larnach, MIN
158. Austin Slater, SFG
159. Josh Lowe, TBR
160. Cal Mitchell, PIT
161. Mickey Moniak, LAA
162. Johan Rojas, PHI
163. Vidal Brujan, TBR 2B-31
164. Taylor Trammell, SEA
165. Diego Castillo, ARZ 2B-28, SS-32
166. Austin Martin, MIN
167. Sean Bouchard, COL

1. Gunnar Henderson (Bal, SS) – He took it to the next level in 2022, showing power and speed with an advanced approach to the plate.

2. Corbin Carroll (Ari, OF) – Power and speed with a patient approach could make him a superstar.

3. Jordan Walker (Stl, OF) – Quietly becoming one of the best prospects in the game with 20-20 upside and a lot more power in the tank.

4. Anthony Volpe (NYY, SS) – Traded ground balls for line drives, and the stat line suffered.  There’s too much to like here to project anything but star potential.

5. Jackson Chourio (Mil, OF) – Exploded onto the scene in 2022, showing exciting, fantasy-friendly skills.

6. Jordan Lawlar (Ari, SS) – His power-speed potential with a solid approach gives him star potential.

7. Marcelo Mayer (Bos, SS) – Solid all-around skills with a ceiling of a Corey Seager-type player.

8. Diego Cartaya (LAD, C) – He has plus power potential with high on-base skills that could make him an elite catcher

9. Eury Perez (Mia, RHP) – He has the size, current arsenal, and projection to become one of the best pitchers in baseball.

10. Elly De La Cruz (Cin, SS) – Jazz Chisholm level tools, maybe more.  However, there’s plenty of swing-and-miss in his game…kind of like…

11. Francisco Alvarez (NYM, C) – All-star upside with plus power and a feel to hit.

12. Druw Jones (Ari, OF) – He has all the tools to be a Superstar.  The only question centers around how much he will hit.  He did not post a stat line in 2022.

13. Andrew Painter (Phi, RHP) – Size, stuff, and athleticism to be an ace.

14. Grayson Rodriguez (Bal, RHP) – All the tools to pitch at the top-of-the-rotation.

15. Jackson Holliday (Bal, SS) – Plus speed and plenty of bat speed to project a 20-20 performer at the highest level.

16. George Valera (Cle, OF) – Exciting package of tools should translate into an All-Star performer.

17. Robert Hassell (Was, OF) – Built upon an impressive 2021 season and just kept on hitting in 2022.

18. Jasson Dominguez (NYY, OF) – Over-hyped players often don’t live up to expectations.  While time will tell with Dominguez, the tools continue to project him to be an impact player at the highest level.

19. James Wood (Was, OF) – He’s 6-foot-7 with tremendous raw power and current plus speed.  In 2022, he showed plate patience and excellent contact skills.

20. Bobby Miller (LAD, RHP) – Four-pitch mix with a fastball that will touch the upper 90’s.  While his control was inconsistent, the total package gives him a number two starter ceiling.

21. Kodai Senga (NYM, RHP) – I usually don’t target Japanese players, but Senga is an exception.  He’s big-league-ready with a number-three starter ceiling.

28. Pete Crow-Armstrong (CHC, OF) – Solid all-around tools with a ceiling of a 15-15 player

23. Taj Bradley (TB, RHP) – Quickly becoming one of the best pitching prospects in the game with a plus arsenal with control.

24. Zac Veen (Col, OF) – Double-plus speed with enough pop to be a 20-20 performer.  He also showed improvement in his contact rate, and if that continues, the ceiling could be a first-round draft pick.

25. Miguel Vargas (LAD, 3B) – Power with a feel to hit and a little bit of speed thrown in for good measure.

26. Curtis Mead (TB, 2B) – Plus hit tool with emerging power that could grow to 20 home run pop with a little bit of speed.

27. Triston Casas (Bos, 1B) – Solid production at first base with 25-100 type of production.

28. Kevin Alcantara (CHC, OF) – Toolsy with 30+ home run potential. His length will give him contact issues, but he has a solid approach with a good feel to hit.

29. Masyn Winn (Stl, SS) – Crazy tools with a newfound approach in 2022 makes for an exciting overall package.

30. Daniel Espino (Cle, RHP) – He has a premium arsenal with a fastball that will touch triple-digits and improving control.  Unfortunately, he spent most of the season on the IL with knee and shoulder problems.

31. Brayan Rocchio (Cle, SS) – He started the season slowly, but once the weather warmed, so did he.  He has the tools to be an impact fantasy performer.

32. Brett Baty (NYM, 3B) – Plus raw power with solid OBP skills, strikeouts could put pressure on his batting average.

33. Marco Luciano (SF, SS) – He has the upside to be one of the better power hitters in the Major Leagues.

34. Colson Montgomery (CHW, SS) – He’s showing the ability to control the strike zone, and when you combine that with his power potential, there is a lot to get excited about.

35. Tanner Bibee (Cle, RHP) – One of the 2022 pop-up pitchers.  He has plus stuff with elite control.

36. Noelvi Marte (Cin, SS) – After a slow start, he got his sea legs around mid-season and played well the rest of the season.  His star has dimmed as he’s matured and started to fill out (in a not-so-great way).

37. Brooks Lee (Min, SS) – He has an advanced approach with good contact and solid power potential.

38. Ezequiel Tovar (Col, SS) – Received a surprise promotion to the Major Leagues.  He’s gotten stronger with solid speed and excellent defense.

39. Brandon Pfaadt (Ari, RHP) – He’s a strike-thrower with size and a solid arsenal

40. Sal Frelick (Mil, OF) – Plus-speed with a solid hit tool provides a path for an elite leadoff hitter.

41. Kyle Harrison (SF, LHP) – He has a good arsenal with high spin rates on his fastball and slider.  He’s still young and working on throwing strikes.

42. Bo Naylor (Cle, C) – The speed is real.  The on-base skills are real.  This dude is for real.

43. Elijah Green (Was, OF) – Uber-athletic with significant raw power and 70-grade speed.  The questions surround his ability to make enough contact to get to the power and speed.

44. Gavin Williams (Cle, RHP) – He has the size and arsenal to pitch at the top of the rotation.  The command is not there yet, but I think it will be over time.

45. Termarr Johnson (Pit, SS) – He has a plus hit tool with modest speed and power potential that gives him a high floor but not the highest ceiling.

46. Ricky Tiedemann (Tor, LHP) – Continued to improve as the season progressed with a solid-average arsenal, including a double-plus change-up.

47. Colton Cowser (Bal, OF) – He’s always shown an advanced approach at the plate. If the power he showed in Double-A is real, he has a chance to be a significant Big Leaguer.

48. Josh Jung (Tex, 3B) – Another missed season due to injury – this time, it was shoulder surgery.  Once he played, he showed a feel to hit with power.

49. Endy Rodriguez (Pit, C) – He made noticeable improvements in his offensive game in 2022, where he showed power and the ability to control the strike zone.

50. Cam Collier (Cin, 3B) – He has plus future power potential with a feel to hit.

51. Gavin Stone (LAD, RHP) – Swing-and-miss stuff with control gives him at least a mid-rotation ceiling.

52. Evan Carter (Tex, OF) – Plus speed with plenty of bat speed to suggest a 20-20 player.

53. Tyler Soderstrom (Oak, 1B) – He has plus power and should hit enough to produce 25+ home runs yearly.

54. Emmanuel Rodriguez (Min, OF) – Double-plus raw power should translate into future 30+ home run pop.  His improving strikeout rate, in conjunction with his ability to work a walk, gives him an all-star ceiling.

55. Esteury Ruiz (Oak, OF) – Significant power uptick with improved plate patience.  When you add this to elite speed and adequate contact skills, there could be something special brewing.

56. Edwin Arroyo (Cin, SS) – Intriguing speed-power upside with a feel to hit.

57. Gavin Cross (KC, OF) – He has speed and power with a feel to hit.

58. Harry Ford (Sea, C) – If he can stay at catcher, there are 20+ stolen bases with a .260 batting average and a .360+ OBP upside.

59. Kevin Parada (NYM, C) – All-star upside with power and a feel to hit

60. Logan O’Hoppe (LAA, C) – First, there was the contact improvement in 2021, and then in 2022, he put it all together.

61. Hunter Brown (Hou, RHP) – He has a plus arsenal, but his current lack of control is tamping down his ceiling.

62. Brennen Davis (CHC, OF) – Solid approach and a feel to hit with 20 to 25 home run power potential.

63. Quinn Priester (Pit, RHP) – Continues solid progress with a number two starter ceiling.

64. Jackson Merrill (SD, SS) – He’s a high-floor player that lacks the secondary skills fantasy players desire.

65. Henry Davis (Pit, C) – Wrist injuries cost him time and production.  Assuming he’s healthy, he should hit for average and power.

66. Ceddanne Rafaela (Bos, OF) – One of the 2022 pop-up players with speed and emerging power.  He has an aggressive approach, which could tamp down his ceiling.

67. Dustin Harris (Tex, OF) – Double-plus raw power with enough foot speed to steal double-digit bases annually.

68. Miguel Bleis (Bos, OF) – He’s athletic with fantastic bat speed and is currently a plus runner.

69. Oswald Peraza (NYY, SS) – He’s a plus defender who could go 20-20.  He seems like the ideal prospect, but he’s not the chosen one…

70. Tink Hence (Stl, RHP) – He has top-of-the-rotation stuff and can repeat his delivery.

71. Masataka Yoshida (Bos, OF) – High-floor player with average power.  He should hit the ground running with lots of runs scored.

72. Carson Williams (TB, SS) – Athletic and toolsy but with significant swing and miss in his game.

73. Kumar Rocker (Tex, RHP) – He’s athletic with a big arsenal but was rusty in the Fall.  The big question remains: why didn’t the Mets sign him in 2021?

74. Gordan Graceffo (Stl, RHP) – One of the breakout pitchers in 2022 who showed an improved arsenal with elite control.

75. Alex Ramirez (NYM, OF) – He took a significant step-up in 2022 by making harder contact and showing an improved hit tool.

76. Benny Montgomery (Col, OF) – Power and speed but the swing needs work.

77. Emmerson Hancock (Sea, RHP) – Shoulder problems returned to start the season, but he pitched healthy after May.  He has a quality arsenal, and assuming he continues to throw strikes and is healthy; the ceiling is a number two starter.

78. Kyle Manzardo (TB, 1B) – Solid hit tool but needs to add more power to be a full-time regular.

79. Andy Pages (LAD, OF) – 70-grade raw power with a solid approach and enough contact to project 30+ home runs at the highest level.

80. Mick Abel (Phi, RHP) – He’s showing his premium arsenal but has had trouble throwing strikes.

81. Jordan Westburg (Bal, SS) – Toolsy with plus power potential and enough foot speed to steal double-digit bases. The bat has a lot of swing and miss, which could ultimately limit his upside.

82. Zach Neto (LAA, SS) – He’s a hit-first prospect with above-average speed and enough power to hit 10 to 15 home runs annually.

83. Adael Amador (Col, SS) – He’s emerging as one of the bright stars in the minor leagues with the ability to make excellent contact with speed and power.

84. Michael Busch (LAD, 2B) – Plus power potential with a high OBP but potentially pressure on his batting average as he’ll strike out more than you would like.

85. Jace Jung (Det, 2B) – He has a plus hit tool with a chance to hit 15 to 20 home runs.  The stolen bases will be limited.

86. Warming Bernabel (Col, 3B) – Plus hit-tool with emerging power give him a high floor that could make him a Top 100 prospect.

87. Everson Pereira (NYY, OF) – Plus, bat speed is starting to translate into 20+ home run pop.  He does chase too many pitches out of the strike zone, and that will need attention for him to reach his potential.

88. Jett Williams (NYM, OF) – Toolsy with a feel to hit.  He’s not a big guy, standing 5-foot-8.

89. Jack Leiter (Tex, RHP) – A rough debut from the number two overall pick of the 2021 Draft has many fantasy managers concerned.  While understandable, it’s time to show patience in hopes he sorts out his control issues.

90. Oscar Colas (CHW, OF) – Plus raw power points to 20 home runs, and assuming he continues to make solid contact, he projects to be a full-time regular.

91. Justin Foscue (Tex, 2B) – He showed a meaningful improvement in his contact rate, and when you combine that with plus power potential, the ceiling is a full-time regular.

92. James Outman (LAD, OF) – A late bloomer.  Had one of the most impressive seasons in the minor leagues in 2022.

93. Cole Young (Sea, SS) – He’s showing a feel to hit with speed and enough bat speed to project average future power.

94. Ryan Pepiot (LAD, RHP) – He has a top-of-the-rotation arsenal, but his inability to throw strikes is holding him back.

95. DL Hall (Bal, LHP) – Premium athlete with premium stuff.  However, his health and inability to throw strikes are holding him back.

96. Connor Norby (Bal, 2B) – Plus hit tool with mostly doubles power that could turn into 20 home run pop with a handful of stolen bases yearly.

97. Ryne Nelson (Ari, RHP) – He has a plus arsenal and could pitch at the top-of-the-rotation with some improvements in his control.

98. Bryce Miller (Sea, RHP) – He made excellent adjustments in 2022 and, despite some limitations, could develop into a back-of-the-rotation starter, maybe a little more.

99. Jarlin Susana (Was, RHP) – He has the size and big fastball to pitch at the top of the rotation, or as a fallback, he could pitch at the back of the bullpen.

100. Edouard Julien (Min, 2B) – He understands the strike zone with intriguing speed and power upside.

There’s no doubting the top-tier caliber at the “hot corner” this year, but after that top group comes off the board, the drop-off is fast and furious. Secure the services of one of those top-tier options, especially in 15-team Leagues, and leave the challenges of filling the slot to the rest of your league mates.

After the Top-10, there are more questions than answers. Miguel Vargas doesn’t qualify at 3B to start the year but will early in the 2023 season.

1. Jose Ramirez, CLE – Ramirez has gone 20-20 in the last four full seasons. I’m not going to bet against him making it 5-for-5.
2. Bobby Witt Jr., KCR – A Fantasy monster, Witt brought it in his rookie campaign, slugging 20 homers and swiping thirty bases. His free-swinging ways are the only thing holding him back from being a Top-3 overall pick. SS-98
3. Austin Riley, ATL – Riley broke out in 2021, mashing 33 homers. He bested that total by five last year, hitting 38 out of the park in his second full season. In a very deep and talented Braves lineup, he’s one of the best and will be for a long time.
4. Manny Machado, SDP – 2022 saw Machado produce another outstanding season, slugging 32 homers, driving in 102 runs with an OPS of .897, and tossing in nine stolen bases for good measure. It also doesn’t hurt to be surrounded by Juan Soto and now Xavier Bogaerts in the batting order. Expect more of the same stellar play moving forward.
5. Rafael Devers, BOS – In two of the past three seasons, Devers has bested 100 RBI and Runs Scored. Last year was down, and he still drilled 27 HR with 88 RBI. Many would yearn for a down season of that caliber.
6. Nolan Arenado, STL – I can give you 50,000,000 reasons to like Nolan Arenado. The Rockies did just that.  
7. Alex Bregman, HOU – Was the last year, 2018/2019, good? No, it wasn’t, but 23 homers and 93 RBI is a great bounce-back campaign after two disappointing seasons.
8. Gunnar Henderson, BAL – A move to shortstop could be in the cards for Gunnar Henderson, but you’ll want to use him at third in 2023. The sky’s the limit for the budding star.
9. Eugenio Suarez, SEA – Suarez has bested 30 home runs in the past four full seasons. 2023 will make it five. Just temper the average batting expectations.
10. Matt Chapman, TOR – See Eugenio Suarez with a downgrade on the power to 25-to-30 homers.
11. Jose Miranda, MIN – Miranda is currently penciled in at the hot corner, and a solid 2022 debut should be improved upon in 2023. Long-term, a move to First Basse could be in the cards. 1B-77
12. Josh Jung, TEX – Please, let Jung stay off the IL in 2023!
13. Max Muncy, LAD – 35, 35, 36, 21? One of these numbers is very unlike the other three. Is this a blip in the radar, or are we looking at a new norm? 2B-31
14. Ke’Bryan Hayes, PIT – A hip injury suffered early in the 2022 campaign led to back issues and a disappointing 2022 campaign. The 20 stolen bases were impressive, but the lack of power (7 HR in 505 AB) is a concern.
15. Alec Bohm, PHI – A strong lineup in Philly will provide him with plenty of RBI opportunities, but the 13 homers Bohm hit last year are light by traditional Third Base standards. Will he improve upon those numbers in his second season?
16. Ryan McMahon, COL – The return of Kris Bryant will help and should lead to a 20 HR, 80 RBI season. We were hoping for so much more.
17. Anthony Rendon, LAA – How many at-bats has Rendon recorded since inking that 7-year $245 million contract with the Angels after the 2019 season? The correct answer is 572. Betting on a healthy Rendon at this stage in his career seems like a longshot, but should it occur, he could prove to be a massive bargain in 2023.
18. Brandon Drury, LAA – Drury went 28-87 with 87 runs scored and a solid .263 BA in 518 at-bats, split between the Padres and Reds. Can the 30-year-old duplicate those breakout numbers in 2023 as a member of the Angels? 1B-30, 2B-27
19. Wilmer Flores, SFG – The Giants’ loss could, in fact also prove to be their gain. Full-time at-bats for Wilmer Flores at the hot corner is much better than him fighting for playing time in a super-sub role. 1B-45, 2B-61
20. Yandy Diaz, TBR – Diaz has produced a .400+ OBP in two-of-the-past-three seasons. The power is limited, and there is virtually no running game, but he should score a pile of runs hitting at the top-of-the-order in Tampa Bay.
21. Ha-Seong Kim, SDP – We witnessed a much better effort in Kim’s second year with the Padres. How much better? It was good enough that he played 131 games at shortstop in the absence of Fernando Tatis Jr., and it is cause for his current placement at the top-of-the-order in San Diego heading into 2023. SS-131
22. Jordan Walker, STL – He’s listed at Third Base, but it’s the outfield that Walker will be calling home, which will occur in 2023. The question to be answered is when in 2023 will that occurs.
23. Josh Rojas, ARZ 2B-26 – The rumor mill has the DBacks not happy with the defense from Josh Rojas, so they went out and inked Evan Longoria to a one-year deal. The 23 stolen bases amassed last year are intriguing, assuming he can find a steady diet of at-bats.
24. Brendan Donovan, STL – The NL ROY finalist plied his trade at every position except Catcher last year and Is currently penciled in at 2B. In a weak 3B class, don’t forget about Donovan. 2B-38, OF-37
25. Eduardo Escobar, NYM – He has settled in as a bottom-of-the-order 20 HR-65 RBI type bat, a far cry from the player we saw back in 2019. How long can he hold off the surging Brett Baty?
26. Justin Turner, BOS – After nine seasons wearing Dodger blue, it’s going to seem very odd seeing him in a Red Sox uniform to wind down his career.
27. Luis Rengifo, LAA – 17 homers to go along with six stolen bases makes for an intriguing late-round corner-infield option. His Minor League history suggests there could be an uptick in the stolen base numbers moving forward. 2B-99
28. Ramon Urias, BAL – The Orioles are shuffling their middle-infield, and it appears that Urias is heading to 3B. This should allow him to close in on a 20-homer season. 2B-21
29. Yoan Moncada, CWS – Oh, how the mighty have fallen, or is it simply a case that other than that blip in 2019, Moncada hasn’t shown any improvement since entering the League? Limited power, no speed, and a batting average hovering around the Mendoza line makes rostering Moncada an option in only the deepest of formats.
30. Hunter Dozier, KCR – The trade of Adalberto Mondesi to the Red Sox opens the door for Dozier to play at third. Mid-teens power and 50-60 RBI work fine as an injury replacement type player but not as a full-time regular. 1B-42, OF-40
31. DJ LeMahieu, NYY 1B-35, 2B-41
32. Luis Urias, MIL 2B-46, SS-24
33. Rodolfo Castro, PIT 2B-32
34. Josh Donaldson, NYY
35. Jeimer Candelario, WAS
36. Brett Baty, NYM
37. Curtis Mead, TBR
38. Isaac Paredes, TBR 1B-29, 2B-43
39. Evan Longoria, ARZ
40. Brian Anderson, MIL OF-44
41. Gio Urshela, LAA
42. Jace Peterson, OAK
43. Bryan Ramos, CWS
44. Jon Berti, MIA 2B-37
45. Patrick Wisdom, CHC
46. Brad Miller, TEX OF-29
47. J.D. Davis, SFG
48. Joey Wendle, MIA 2B-33, SS-34
49. Bobby Dalbec, BOS 1B- 89
50. Harold Castro, COL 1B-50
51. Jake Alu, WAS
52. Nicky Lopez, KCR 2B-68, SS-52 
53. Abraham Toro, MIL 2B-55
54. Kyle Farmer, MIN SS-98
55. Ezequiel Duran, TEX
56. Eguy Rosario, SDP
57. Taylor Walls, TBR 2B-35, SS-92
58. Elehuris Montero, COL 
59. Zach McKinstry, CHC 2B-21
60. Jake Burger, CWS
61. Edmundo Sosa, PHI SS-42
62. Josh Smith, TEX OF-24
63. Ryan Kreidler, DET SS-13
64. David Villar, SFG
65. Ildemaro Vargas, WAS
66. Luis Guillorme, NYM 2B-67
67. Josh Harrison, PHI 2B-90
68. Andre Lipcius, DET
69. Mike Moustakas, CIN 1B-24
70. Tyler Nevin, DET
71. Emmanuel Rivera, ARZ
72. Jonathan Villar, FA 2B-29
73. Kevin Smith, OAK