2024 MLB Position Player Tiers: Ranking the Top 100 Players
Introduction:
Each year, MLB experts compile a list of the top 100 position players in the majors. The list is based on a player’s expected all-around value in 2024 and is separated into five tiers. The rankings are determined by blending projections, scouting, expert opinion, and the eye test. This year’s list has been audited by more than 20 baseball people, including executives, evaluators, coaches, players, and analysts. Let’s take a closer look at the players that made it to the top tiers.
Tier 1: Best of the Best
Tier 1A:
The debate surrounding first baseman Freddie Freeman’s placement in Tier 1 has finally been settled. After consistently being placed in Tier 1B in previous years, evaluators felt he belonged higher. Freeman’s impressive performance in the 2023 season, where he hit .331/.410/.567 and finished third in NL MVP voting, solidified his spot in Tier 1A.
Soto Shuffling to Gobs of Cash:
Juan Soto, the 25-year-old star outfielder, has recently been traded to Yankee Stadium. Many believe Soto is destined for greatness and predict a monster year for him. With his ability to go to all fields and put pitchers through long at-bats, Soto is expected to have a significant impact on the game. His impending free agency next year is also generating a lot of buzz.
The NL MVP Race:
Ronald Acuña Jr., Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman, the top three players in Tier 1A, were also the top three NL MVP candidates in 2023. Baseball fans are excited to see if these players will continue their dominance and provide another thrilling MVP race.
Tier 1B:
Corbin Carroll, an outfielder, initially found himself in Tier 2 but quickly received the most upvotes from experts. Many believe Carroll has the potential to be one of the best players in the game. Not only does he possess excellent offensive skills, but he also shows leadership qualities and understands the value of being a good teammate.
Ohtani’s Drop:
Shohei Ohtani, the two-way player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has been the subject of much debate. While his marketing value and attention have skyrocketed, his projected WAR falls behind his teammates Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts. However, Ohtani remains a significant asset to his team, despite being unable to pitch this year and currently being involved in a MLB investigation.
Tier 2: MVP Caliber
Tier 2A:
Bobby Witt Jr., who initially found himself in Tier 1, was moved to Tier 2 after audits from experts. Witt had an impressive season in 2023, hitting 30 home runs, stealing 49 bases, and leading the majors with 11 triples. However, experts felt it was too soon to place him among the best of the best.
Slides and Snubs:
Several players, including Trea Turner, Francisco Lindor, and Jose Ramirez, dropped to Tier 2 this year. While their performances are still noteworthy, age and long-term trends played a role in their rankings. Bryce Harper, who missed last year’s tiers due to injury, narrowly missed Tier 1 but is expected to return to MVP form.
Tier 2B:
The placement of Adley Rutschman, a catcher for the Baltimore Orioles, sparked some debate among experts. While some felt he should be moved to Tier 3, others believe Rutschman has the potential to be a low-tier 1 player by the end of the season. Despite his preference for a quiet leadership style, Rutschman is considered an integral part of the Orioles’ success.
Tier 3: All-Star
Tier 3A:
Alex Bregman, the Houston Astros third baseman, has missed parts of seasons due to injuries, which affected his play. However, his production over the past two years has been All-Star caliber, earning him a spot in Tier 3A. Catchers are also a topic of discussion in this sub-tier, as their defensive skills often outweigh their offensive stats.
Upside and Questions:
Several players in this tier, including Ozzie Albies, Luis Robert, and Kyle Lewis, have the potential to move up the tiers if they can address certain flaws in their game. While each player has different areas for improvement, positive answers to these questions could propel them to higher tiers.
Tier 3B:
One evaluator argued that the list should be trimmed further, leaving only three true tiers. However, the inclusion of players like Cody Bellinger and Manny Machado in this tier speaks to their track records and strong plate skills. These players may not receive personal accolades, but their contributions to their teams are valuable.
Tier 4: Top Starter
Tier 4A:
Trevor Story, the Boston Red Sox infielder, faced some uncertainty due to his performance last year. However, reports from spring training indicate positive signs for a potential comeback season. Story’s success will be crucial for the Red Sox’s chances of surprising people this year.
Star on the Way:
Triston Casas, another Red Sox player, is highly regarded by experts and is expected to have a breakout season. The 24-year-old first baseman has shown impressive power at the plate and is projected to hit around 30-35 home runs this year. Casas is considered a future star and a key player for the Red Sox.
Tier 5: Above-Average Starter
Tier 5A:
Ke’Bryan Hayes, the Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman, is a player with immense potential. While his late-season surge in 2023 showed promise, experts remain cautious until he can sustain success over an entire season. Nonetheless, there is a lot to like about Hayes, and many believe he has a bright future ahead.
Gelof’s Debut:
Tyler Gelof, the Oakland Athletics second baseman, has made a strong impression in his limited time in the majors. With a .267/.337/.504 slash line, 14 home runs, and 14 steals, Gelof has shown great potential. He is also praised for his defensive abilities and versatility in the field.
Notable Quotable:
Throughout the rankings, experts shared their opinions on various players. From praising the leadership qualities of certain catchers to expressing concerns about the decline of others, these quotes provide insights into the value and potential of each player.
Conclusion:
The 2024 MLB Position Player Tiers provide a comprehensive ranking of the top 100 position players in the majors. The inclusion of players in different tiers reflects their expected all-around value in the upcoming season. While some rankings may be subject to debate, the list serves as a guide to understanding the current landscape of MLB position players. As the season unfolds, it will be interesting to see how these players perform and whether they can live up to their respective tiers.