As the 2023 MLB season quickly approaches, fantasy baseball enthusiasts are already beginning to prepare for the upcoming draft. With the Yahoo Fantasy crew’s top 300 players for the 2023 season recently released, it’s time to start analyzing the top prospects and making decisions on who should be the No. 1 pick.
Two names that have been mentioned the most in the discussion for the top pick are Philadelphia Phillie, Trea Turner, and Atlanta Braves outfielder, Ronald Acuña Jr. After another 20-20 season, Turner has shown himself to be a reliable hitter and his OPS has been over .800 for five straight seasons. However, Acuña still has the potential for a 40-40 season, making him an enticing option as well.
Health is a major concern with Acuña, however, as he hasn’t played over 120 games since 2019. If he can stay healthy, he could be a fantasy star in 2023. Other names to consider for the top pick include the reigning AL MVP, Aaron Judge, and Seattle Mariners outfielder, Julio Rodriguez, who had an epic 2022 season.
While hitting is always a key factor in fantasy baseball, starting pitchers are just as important to consider when drafting. In the first round, look to draft reliable pitchers like Jacob deGrom, Shane Bieber, and Gerrit Cole. Stolen bases will also be a hot commodity this season, so snagging players like Turner, Acuña, and Mallex Smith early will give you an edge in the stolen base category.
Overall, 2023 promises to be an exciting season for fantasy baseball. With the Yahoo Fantasy crew’s top 300 players now released, it’s time to get to work and start building a championship-winning team.
