MLB Projections: Top 10 Outfielders for the 2020 Season
3. Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers
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In some ways, Mookie Betts has to be one of the most fortunate players in the league. He goes from one elite lineup to another in a recent blockbuster trade that has him going from Boston to the Los Angeles Dodgers. The move has the Dodgers being favored to go to the World Series for the third time in four years. This time, if they make it, Mookie might be able to get them over the hump.
In many circles, Betts is the best player not named Mike Trout. While I agree with this sentiment, the “Steamer” system has Betts slightly below the next player. Even so, Mookie is being projected to slash .280 / .371 / .516.
2. Cody Bellinger, Los Angeles Dodgers
Last season, after experiencing something of a sophomore slump in 2018, Cody Bellinger came out all guns blazing. After winning the 2017 Rookie of the Year award, two years later Bellinger was being crowned the NL MVP.
For the 2020 season, the “Steamer” system is projected Bellinger to slash .287 / .385 / .583 with 42 HR and 115 RBI. With Betts in the lineup, I wouldn’t be surprised if these projections increase slightly.
1. Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels
Finally, we have come to the most predictable outcome of this entire list: Mike Trout. In 9-years, 8-full seasons, Trout has more than established himself as the best player in the game. Each season except for one saw him place 1 or 2 in the MVP ballot; he’s secured 7 Silver Slugger awards; and was selected to 8 All-Star games.
The 2020 season looks to be similar. According to the “Steamer” system, Trout is set to slash .297 / .439 / .611. What’s more, he’s expected to continue to develop his power by hitting 44 home runs.
With a much improved Los Angeles Angels team, don’t be shocked if we get to experience Trout in the postseason for the first time since 2014. Is a World Series MVP in store for 2020? We shall see.