2023 New York Yankees projected lineup and wRC+
2B Torres 118
RF Judge 167
1B Rizzo 125
DH Stanton 130
3B Donaldson 108
CF Bader 107
LF Hicks 99
SS Peraza 101
C Trevino 81
Team average — 115.1
Note: Take a hard look at that number, Yankees fans. It actually ranks fourth in the division, just behind Baltimore’s 115.6. The bottom of the order is certainly a concern, and Aaron Hicks and the left field position will likely be in the crosshairs for most New York fans all season. Judge’s 167 wRC+ is the highest in the entire division, but New York’s punch drops significantly from there.
It feels like last year all over again … for now. How much DJ LeMahieu can bounce back could make an impact in the Bronx and on these numbers for a team that is projected to finish 89-73 and win the division.
2023 Toronto Blue Jays projected lineup and wRC+
RF Springer 135
SS Bichette 128
1B Guerrero Jr. 154
C Kirk 133
LF Varsho 123
3B Chapman 119
DH Belt 122
2B Merrifield 95
CF Kiermaier 87
Team average — 121.8
Note: New faces in the lineup certainly have boosted the Blue Jays in the projections, with Toronto expected to have the most potent lineup of any AL East team. The trade for Daulton Varsho has drawn plenty of attention, but the signing of Brandon Belt could make just as big of an impact if these projections hold out. Toronto is projected to finish one game behind New York in the standings with an 88-74 mark.
Again, these are all projections and do not take into account anything pitching-related. However, it’s an interesting baseline to keep in mind as spring training begins next week.
Where do you see projections that are too high or too low? Do you agree or disagree with these rankings? Let us know in the comments section below.