MLB Projections: Top 10 First Basemen in 2020
#3 – Anthony Rizzo, Chicago Cubs
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Anthony Rizzo is one of those guys, like Goldschmidt, that is as consistent as they come. For his career, he slashes .267 / .373 / .488 all the while averaging 29 home runs and 98 RBI per season.
Rizzo has played for 9 years in MLB, and for the most part, he’s been the same players since his first full season 7 years ago. Since then, he’s hit 30 HR and driven in 100 RBI in a single season 4x.
What’s more, he’s a member of the 2016 World Series squad that ended the Cubs curse. He’s also one of the best defenders at first in the game. In fact, last season, he posted a 3 DRS, which ties him, CJ Cron, at 6th among qualified 1B.
#2 – Freddie Freeman, Atlanta Braves
Freddie Freeman rounds up the list of understated first basemen. If you’re a die-hard baseball fan through and through, you know who he is. Otherwise, he’s the type of American athlete that gets little hype on major sports networks, which is unfortunate.
Freeman is a 10-year veteran of the league. He has 4 All-Star selections, a Gold Glove, and Silver Slugger award to his name. What’s more, he hits .293 with a .883 OPS for his career, hitting close to 30 HR and 100 RBI with regularity.
Many fans of the game will find Freeman’s ranking offensive, especially when they find out who’s next…
#1 – Cody Bellinger, Los Angeles Dodgers
For his career, Cody Bellinger‘s time in the outfield vs. first base is pretty even. For next season, however, the “Steamer” MLB projections system has him rated at first base.
What can I say about Bellinger that we don’t already know?
He established himself as a top 10 player last season who will hit 40 home runs and drive in 100 RBI games. Last season, he secured his first NL MVP award, adding to his award shelf which already includes a Gold Glove award, a Rookie of the Year award, a Silver Slugger award, and two All-Star selections.
All that’s left is pull through a World Series victory.