6. Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels
Projected fWAR — 5.6
Projected slash line — .256/.360/.520 with 39 home runs and 99 RBI
Entering his age-31 season, Trout continues to be in the prime of his career, one that will eventually lead to a spot in Cooperstown. But will it ever lead back to the postseason? This feels like potentially the best chance, knowing the uncertain future of Shohei Ohtani in an Angels uniform.
Trout put together a 40-homer, 80-RBI season in 2022, so these projections give him more RBI in 2023, meaning his teammates are giving him the chance to drive them home. It’s going to take a team effort to get the Angels out of a top-heavy AL West and into the playoffs, but Trout, provided he stays healthy, is projected once again to do everything he can to make that happen.
5. Adley Rutschman, Baltimore Orioles
Projected fWAR — 5.6
Projected slash line — .256/.357/.438 with 19 home runs and 66 RBI
Rutschman burst onto the MLB scene in 2022, and Steamer certainly doesn’t think he’s in line for a sophomore slump in 2023.
The Orioles and their youth movement leading to wins were one of the best stories in all of MLB in 2022, and Rutschman will once again be looked to for his skills behind the plate and his offensive performance in 2023 as Baltimore looks to compete in what will be another rough AL East.
Entering his second season, Rutschman is projected to be one of the top catchers in the game this season.