2024 Fantasy Baseball Rankings

Ronald Acuna Jr. is a top pick for all 2024 fantasy leagues. At 25, he showcased his prowess in 2023 by playing 159 games with a .337/.416/.596 slash line. His remarkable performance included 41 homers, 106 RBIs, and 149 runs. Impressively, he also stole 73 bases. Acuna excelled against nearly all pitch types and maintained a low strikeout rate of 11.4%. Despite a slightly lower walk percentage, he redefined a five-category fantasy player. If you have the top pick, don't overthink it.

At the end of June 2023, no one would have said Julio Rodriguez should be a first-round pick in 2024 fantasy drafts. The 22-year-old had a slash line of .238/.302/.407 through the first three months of the season. Yet, his post-July performance was remarkable, hitting .312/.364/.561, contributing 32 HRs, 37 SBs, and over 100 runs and RBIs. Despite a 24.5% strikeout rate, his overall .279 average and balanced stats make him a strong OF1 for fantasy managers.

Mookie Betts, at 30, continues to be an elite asset in fantasy baseball with a .307/.408/.579 slash line, 39 homers, 126 runs, and 107 RBIs in 2023. Though his 14 stolen bases are modest, Betts compensates with power and a superb eye, boasting a 13.9% walk rate and an elite 15.4% strikeout rate. He continued to be durable, playing in 152 games with 693 plate appearances. As Betts ages, expect a trade-off of speed for power, yet with a sustained high average. The Dodgers' strong lineup bolsters him, and his multi-position eligibility makes him a dependable, Top-6 fantasy asset.

Corbin Carroll arrived on the scene in 2023 and immediately showcased his power and speed, launching 25 homers and swiping 54 bases. He crossed the plate 116 times and notched 76 RBIs. With a solid .362 on-base percentage, Carroll stands out, especially given his top-tier speed, ranked in the 99th percentile. There is concern that his OBP was slightly inflated, which could slightly dampen his numbers, but he is still a solid first-round pick. Carroll's contact skills hint at sustained high-level performance into 2024 and beyond.

Kyle Tucker nearly achieved a 30/30 season and topped the American League with 112 RBIs last year. His walk rate hit a career-high of 11.9%, while his strikeout rate dropped to 13.6%. In 5x5 leagues, his .284/.369/.517 line was impressive. Tucker's consistent underlying metrics hint at sustained production, and he is poised for a 35/25 season in 2024. Don't forget about him in the first round on draft day.

In 2023, Fernando Tatis Jr. showed a deceiving decline, batting .257/.322/.449 post-suspension. Yet, a deeper look reveals a promising expected slash line of .282/.332/.511, with a low BABIP (.299) impacting his performance. Tatis achieved a career-low strikeout rate (22.2%), hitting 25 homers and swiping 29 bases. A weaker team offense hinders him, so his overall stats don't reflect his potential. Avoiding off-field mishaps, Tatis, at 25, is a strong candidate for a significant rebound. He's a steal in drafts if available at a reduced price.

Juan Soto delivered an impressive 2023 season, overcoming a sluggish start to finish with 35 homers, 109 RBIs, 97 runs, and 12 steals. His outstanding .410 OBP and .519 slugging, highlighted by a stellar 18.6% walk rate, underscore his advanced plate discipline. Despite a slightly higher strikeout rate at 18.2%, Soto remains a top pick, particularly in OBP leagues. Chances are good that the 25-year-old will be playing somewhere other than San Diego before hitting free agency in 2025; however, he is easily a Top-10 draft pick in all fantasy formats.

In 2023, Aaron Judge played 106 games, the least since 2019. Despite this, he delivered impressive stats: a .267/.406/.613 slash line with 37 homers. While remarkable, these figures probably disappointed those who expected more from a Top 5 pick. Statcast ranks Judge at the absolute top of several metrics, including xwOBA, xSLG, avgEV, Barrel%, HardHit%, and BB%. Judge remains an offensive powerhouse, but some health risks put him at a better value as a second-round pick in 12-team leagues.

Despite missing 68 games in 2023, Yordan Alvarez showcased his exceptional batting skills. He posted a .293/.407/.583 line with 31 home runs and 97 RBIs, mirroring his 2022 RBI count in fewer games. Statcast ranks him in the 99th percentile for batting run value, underscoring his undeniable value in four fantasy categories. While his 18.5% strikeout rate is notable, his 13.9% walk rate compensates well. Alvarez is an excellent second-round choice for fantasy teams, especially if you're flexible with stolen bases.

Michael Harris II finished with a .293/.331/.477 slash line, along with 18 homers, 76 runs, and 20 steals. Positioned as the starting center fielder for 2024 with minimal competition, Harris, despite potential bust predictions, offers valuable five-category contributions for fantasy teams. He's not an exciting OF1, but he'll fit the bill if you wait a few rounds.

In 2023, Luis Robert Jr. finally delivered on his potential, playing 145 games and hitting .264 with 38 homers, 20 steals, 90 runs, and 80 RBIs. Despite Chicago's weak lineup, Robert's performance was a bright spot, showcasing his power-speed blend vital for fantasy outfielders. His limited walks (5.0 BB%) and injury history remain concerns, but his healthy season boosts his draft appeal for 2024.

Randy Arozarena stands out for his reliable performance, appearing in over 140 games for three consecutive seasons and achieving a 20/20 in each. While he has a solid walk rate of 12.2%, his batting average and strikeout rate rank in the 35th percentile. While these stats limit his reach as a comprehensive fantasy contributor, his power at the plate is undeniable. Arozarena is a dependable choice, and fantasy managers can bank on another 20/20 season in 2024.

In 2023, Adolis Garcia smashed 39 home runs, notched 107 RBIs, and scored 106 runs, contributing significantly to his team's World Series victory. Although his stolen bases dipped to nine, his impressive stats in xSLG, AvgEV, Barrel%, and Hard Hit% show no signs of decline. Fantasy managers should be cautious during drafts, as his excellent postseason performance could inflate his value. Now a robust three-category player, Garcia is a complex but potentially rewarding pick.

Mike Trout's performance in 2023 showcased his exceptional hitting abilities, though injuries limited him to just 82 games. Averaging slightly over 100 games annually since 2016 (excluding the 2020 shortened season), Trout's recent playing time has been inconsistent, with 82, 119, and 36 games in the last three seasons. His .263/.367/.490 slash line last season reflected a dip that can likely be attributed to a wrist injury. At 32, Trout's base-stealing days are behind him, with only 17 steals in the past five years. Additionally, his lineup may no longer include Shohei Ohtani. While a fully healthy Trout could warrant a first or second-round fantasy pick, relying on his full-season availability is risky. Trout remains a viable OF1, but drafting him as an OF2 with a plan for potential absences might be more prudent.

Cody Bellinger notably outperformed expectations with a .307/.356/.525 slash line against his predicted .270/.331/.437. He is returning to the Cubs on a three-year, $80 million contract with opt-outs after each of the first two years. Wrigley Field is a great landing spot for him overall, but Bellinger presents a challenge for fantasy managers, with caution advised due to the typical decline following a standout season. While a 20/20 season is plausible, managers should temper expectations for a repeat of his 2023 performance.

Jazz Chisholm's 2022 season with the Miami Marlins was limited to 97 games due to injuries. Despite this, he showcased his talent with 19 home runs and 22 stolen bases. His advanced metrics indicated struggles, notably with a high strikeout rate over 30% and a drop in walk rate. Chisholm also experienced a decrease in sprint speed, ranking in the 78th percentile, likely impacted by a turf toe injury, which was surgically addressed in October. Looking ahead to 2024, if he stays healthy, Chisholm has the potential to achieve over 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases, along with 70-80 RBIs and runs. However, he will no longer be eligible as a second baseman, affecting his versatility in fantasy lineups.

Nolan Jones made a significant impact in the 2023 season, showcasing his power and speed as a 20/20 player in Colorado. With an impressive .297/.389/.542 slash line and a strong Barrel% of 15.7, Jones is a reliable source of power and on-base ability (xwOBACON .475). However, his high .401 BABIP suggests his batting average might decline. Despite a high strikeout rate around 30%, Jones's combination of power, walks, and 15-20 stolen bases, especially in Coors Field, makes him a valuable fantasy asset, albeit with a potential downside in batting average.

In 2023, Christian Yelich bounced back impressively, showcasing a potent mix of power and speed with 19 homers, 106 runs, 76 RBIs, and 28 steals. His .278 batting average matched his expected average, underlined by a top-tier Hard-Hit% in the 93rd percentile. Yelich's on-base skills shone, too, reaching a .370 OBP, partly thanks to the new shift rules. Despite a less-than-stellar Brewers lineup, he surpassed 100 runs, a trend likely to continue in 2024. While nagging back issues are a concern, a healthy Yelich offers strong outfield value, fitting comfortably as an OF3 with potential for more.

Kyle Schwarber is one of the most predictable players in fantasy baseball. He will hit bombs (40+). He will score runs (100+). He is going to drive in teammates (100+). And he will absolutely crater your batting average (.197 in 2023). These stats seem like a "The sun rises in the East" type of guarantee. Schwarber does get on base, thanks to a 17.5% walk rate, and he continued to hit atop a powerful Phillies batting order. You just need to decide if you're punting the average category before you take him because you don't get to be surprised by it later.

Bryan Reynolds, consistently selected in the 8th or 9th rounds, delivers reliable value in those slots. Though his batting average has dipped below .270 in recent seasons, he maintains steady on-base skills with a potential for over 20 homers annually. His 12 stolen bases last season reflect adaptability to new baserunning rules, offering a well-rounded fantasy profile. After signing an eight-year extension with the Pirates in 2023, Reynolds epitomizes a stable and dependable fantasy option.

In 2023, Seiya Suzuki found his groove with the Cubs, showcasing the skills fantasy managers anticipated in 2022. At 29, he presents a balanced offensive profile, combining a solid batting average with respectable power. His discerning eye at the plate (19.8% Chase rate) and solid walk rate (10.1%) add to his value. While Suzuki may not top the fantasy charts, he's a reliable option as an OF3/4 in most fantasy setups.

Nick Castellanos, with his consistent power, is a solid pick for an OF2/3 in 2024. Last year, he belted 29 homers, notched 106 RBIs, scored 79 runs, and swiped 11 bases, all while maintaining a .272 average. At 31, his low walk rate (5.4%) and high chase rate (41%) persist, but his spot in a potent lineup featuring Bryce Harper and a revitalized Trea Turner should help him maintain near 100 RBIs. Castellanos is a wise middle-round selection, especially for RBI contributions.

At age 33, George Springer played in 154 games, marking a high since 2016. While achieving his first 20/20 season, Springer's hitting showed notable dips with career lows in batting average (.258), OBP (.327), and SLG (.405). His Statcast data reveals an average performance, except in Chase% and K%. Springer remains a crucial player atop the potent Blue Jays lineup, expected to regain power but lose a few stolen bases. For 2024, he's ideally suited as an OF3/4.

Teoscar Hernandez appeared in 160 games in his season with Seattle, echoing his typical performance. He notched 26 home runs, tallied 93 RBIs, and scored 70 runs. Excelling in hard hits (90th percentile) and a 13.8% barrel rate, Hernandez is expected to maintain a batting average of around .250. Landing in Los Angeles to bat in the middle of that powerhouse lineup, Hernandez suddenly has extremely high upside in counting stats. Beware of the premium that many fantasy managers will put on all 2024 Dodgers, but at the right price, Hernandez can be a high-end OF3.

Evan Carter, at just 21, swiftly ascended through the Rangers' farm system, spending minimal time in Triple-A before his major league debut. In his brief 2023 stint with 75 plate appearances, he showed potential. Projected as the starting left fielder, Carter could hit around 15 homers and steal 20 bases, thanks to his solid on-base abilities. He's a promising pick in a strong lineup, but temper expectations as his impressive early stats may not sustain over a full season.

During the 2023 season, Lane Thomas surpassed expectations with 28 home runs, 20 stolen bases, and 101 runs, emerging as a surprise fantasy asset from the waiver wire. However, a high .325 BABIP inflated his .268 average, well above his career norm. Projections for 2024 suggest a respectable 20 homers and 15 steals, but a modest .310 OBP could limit his overall fantasy impact. Caution is advised in drafting him, as his inflated 2023 performance may lead to an overvalued pick in early rounds.

In his debut season, Jordan Walker showcased potential with a .276 average, .342 OBP, and .445 slugging. His performance included 16 home runs and seven steals. Despite a challenging year for the Cardinals, Walker's power was evident. Expectations for 2024 lean towards a 20-homer, 10-steal output, but his full potential is yet to be fully realized.

Spencer Steer is expected to be eligible for 1B/3B/OF, and possibly even 2B in some formats. With a solid 2023 season of 156 games, 23 homers, and 15 steals for the Reds, Steer is a promising fantasy pick. Batting in the middle of an exciting lineup with huge potential, he's on track to surpass his 86 RBI from last year. While not standing out in advanced metrics, Steer's consistent performance offers value in Round 9 and beyond, and the fact he plays half his games at Great American Ballpark is a plus for fantasy managers.

Emerging as a top contender for the 2024 AL Rookie of the Year, Wyatt Langford's rapid ascent through four minor league levels last year was impressive. He showcased his prowess in just 45 games and 200 at-bats with a .360/.480/.677 slash line, including 10 home runs, 36 runs, 30 RBIs, 12 steals, and 36 walks. Langford is poised to start as the designated hitter for the reigning World Series champions. Despite the expected adjustment to Major League pitching, Langford's offensive potential makes him a valuable asset for fantasy rosters this season.

In 2023, Josh Lowe emerged as a fantasy gem, especially for those lucky enough to snag him off waivers. Lowe significantly bolstered fantasy lineups by contributing a solid .273/.323/.457 slash line, 20 homers, and 32 steals. His metrics indicate this performance wasn't a fluke, with high percentile rankings in expected batting average, slugging, and sprint speed. Looking ahead, Lowe shows promise for another 20/20 season, making him a valuable second or third outfielder in fantasy leagues that you can get in the seventh round.

In 2023, Anthony Santander's performance was a blend of pros and cons. While his home run tally dipped and strikeout rate rose, he improved his batting average to .257 and saw an uptick in key statistics. Heading into 2024, the 29-year-old faces more potential risks than gains. With Baltimore's wealth of emerging prospects, Santander's role could be at risk if he doesn't start strong.

 

In 2023, Riley Greene showcased significant improvement, increasing his batting performance to .288/.349/.447 in just a few more games than the previous season. Statcast highlights his prowess with numerous red indicators. Expected to hit around 17 home runs this year, Greene is poised to become the key figure in the Tigers' youthful lineup. A reduction in strikeouts could further enhance his batting average and on-base percentage, potentially elevating him from a reliable OF3 to a promising OF2 in fantasy rankings.

In 2023, by April's end, Cedric Mullins kicked off the season with 11 stolen bases. However, persistent injuries hampered his performance, resulting in a modest .233/.305/.416 and only 19 steals. If healthy, Mullins has the potential for 30 steals in 2024, but his poor batting may relegate him lower in the lineup of the promising Orioles team. His position may not be as secure as it has been in the past because of the wealth of talent in the Baltimore pipeline.

In 2023, Jorge Soler demonstrated formidable power, blasting 36 homers while racking up 77 runs and 75 RBIs. With a .376 xwOBA, placing him in the top tier of hitters, the 31-year-old showcased his strength despite a high 24.3% strikeout rate. His standout ISO of .262 highlights his offensive prowess. Now a free agent, Soler's future lineup impact is uncertain, yet he's expected to maintain his 30+ home run potential and possibly surpass 90 runs and RBIs. Additionally, he retains outfield eligibility, avoiding fantasy limitations.

Ian Happ offers a reliable fantasy outfield option with a projected 20-25 home runs and a solid on-base percentage despite an average batting average. In the previous season, he added value with 14 stolen bases, 86 runs, and 84 RBIs, fitting the profile of a dependable third or fourth outfielder. Happ has an impressive walk rate (14.3%) and a strong health record. Remaining with the Cubs under a new three-year deal, he's poised to maintain his position high in the batting order.

In his early career, Chas McCormick has shown notable progress in key offensive areas. Last season, he achieved 22 home runs, 19 steals, 70 RBIs, and scored 59 runs. At 28, he's reduced his strikeout rate to 25.6% and enhanced his ability to get on base. Despite a likely dip in batting average (expected BA .248), McCormick presents a dual threat of power and speed, eyeing a 20/15 season. His ongoing development suggests potential as a valuable third outfielder in fantasy lineups.

 

Esteury Ruiz, known for his significant stolen base numbers, presents a challenge for fantasy players. Despite an impressive 67 steals last year and a projected 50 this season, his overall performance raises concerns. Ruiz's advanced metrics, including xwOBA, xSLG, and hard hit rate, are notably low. His strikeout rate is decent, but his inability to draw walks limits his value. While he'll have ample opportunities to play for a non-competitive team, relying on him primarily for steals in fantasy baseball might come at a steep cost, given his limited contributions in other areas.

Masataka Yoshida impressed in his MLB debut, posting a .289/.338/.445 average and contributing 15 home runs, 71 runs, 72 RBIs, along with eight steals. Known for his low strikeout rate, Yoshida is expected to reach base even more in 2024. Surrounded by talents like Rafael Devers, the rising Triston Casas, and a potentially fit Trevor Story, his statistical output is poised to grow. Yoshida makes a reliable outfielder option, ideally as OF3 or OF4 in fantasy lineups.

In his debut season, James Outman showed early promise before his performance dipped, with a high strikeout rate (31.9%) and modest xBA (.228). While his minor league track record indicates potential for a reduced strikeout rate and a solid OBP, expectations remain cautious for his second year. Outman carries a potential for 20 homers and 15 steals and benefits from playing in a lineup known for its offensive output.

Brandon Nimmo stands out as a valuable fantasy asset. Last year, he tallied 24 homers, scored 89 times, knocked in 68 runs, and swiped three bases. Boasting a .274/.363/.466 slash line, he emerges as a top choice in OBP leagues, especially in latter third of the draft. Although his strikeout rate saw a minor increase, his Statcast data confirms his robust capabilities. As an OF4/5, Nimmo is an excellent late-draft addition to strengthen fantasy lineups.

 

Steven Kwan's biggest strength is his refusal to strike out. He is projected to strike out fewer than 70 times in over 600 plate appearances. His ability to hit for average, steal around 20 bases, and his third-highest BB/K ratio in all of baseball will boost your counting stats, even in the underwhelming Guardians lineup. His ADP of 168 provides a stable floor as an OF4 in five-outfielder leagues.

 

 

Heading into 2024, Kerry Carpenter is a viable OF5 option, known for his power-hitting capabilities, evidenced by his 20 home runs. With a stronger lineup supporting him, expect an improvement in his previous tally of 57 runs and 64 RBIs. While his plate discipline could be better, given his low walk rate and considerable strikeouts, his draft value remains accessible, not requiring a high pick.

 

Lourdes Gurriel, Jr., joined Arizona through the Daulton Varsho deal and impressed in his free agency lead-up. He achieved personal highs with 24 homers and 65 runs. Known for his solid contact hitting, ranking in the top 77% for HardHit%, Gurriel faced a dip in BABIP, likely to rebound in 2024. As a valuable OF5 pick, he's a great late-round draft choice.

 

Jack Suwinski is an extremely late-round pick who offers power in the 25-homer range and can get on base at an above-average clip. He is a liability in batting average and any league in which strikeouts count against you. (He has a K% of 32.2.) There aren't many guys with this type of power near his current ADP of 292, which is where his value lies.

 

Lars Nootbaar's 2023 season was hindered by injuries, including issues with his thumb, back, and a painful foul ball incident to his groin. Despite these setbacks, his potential remains high for 2024. With his proven on-base prowess and solid contact skills, Nootbaar is a promising pick for fantasy teams. If he stays injury-free, expect around 20 homers and a chance for 10 steals. His role as the leadoff hitter against right-handers in the Cardinals' uncertain lineup secures his playing time. Nootbaar is a valuable late-round draft choice for fantasy managers, especially if he maintains good health.

 

In 2024, 24-year-old Jarred Kelenic could finally fulfill his long-discussed breakout potential. Although labeled as a "Quad-A" player, Kelenic's brief stint in Tacoma showcased his prowess. However, his return to Seattle saw a challenging 31.7% strikeout rate. Despite this, his expected stats outperform his actuals, with an impressive xwOBACON of .458, placing him among the elite. With the trade to Atlanta, he lands in a much better lineup, which is a double-edged sword. He should see plenty of right-handed pitching, and his RBI total should leap. However, he could find himself losing playing time if he struggles. The Braves certainly have a breadth of stud hitters to fill the spot. He is a last-round flier at best.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In 2023, TJ Friedl surpassed projections, but a decline is likely ahead. His actual stats were .255/.335/.429, higher than his predicted .240/.290/.321. With 18 home runs and over 20 steals, his potential remains if he keeps leading the batting order, possibly yielding 80 runs. His strong Whiff% and K% don't guarantee an improved OBP. Caution against valuing him based on his 2023 performance; expect lesser results in 2024.

 

 

 

 

 

Austin Hays, at 28, is a versatile yet unspectacular outfielder. He delivered 16 home runs, 67 RBIs, 76 runs, and five steals with a .275/.325/.444 batting line last season. Ideal as an OF5, Hays offers a reliable base for your roster without being a priority pick during the draft.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Projected as Arizona's starting left fielder, Jake McCarthy brings exceptional speed, ranking in the 98th percentile, making him a decent pick for NL-only fantasy leagues. However, his value is less pronounced in mixed leagues, so he's either your last pick or waiver wire fodder.