Fantasy baseball outfielders #6: Juan Soto
Juan Soto had a down year in 2022, especially after getting traded to San Diego, but he’s still an elite talent in this game. Overall, he hit .242/.401/.452/.853, which was a 149 OPS+, which is crazy for a down year. He hit 27 homers, 25 doubles, drove in 62 runs, and scored 93. He led the league in walks in 2021 with 145, and he led the league once again in 2022 with 135. Both years he struck out less than 100 times (93 in 2021, 135 in 2022), which is ridiculous. Expect a “bounceback” from him this year.
Fantasy baseball outfielders #5: Julio Rodriguez
Julio Rodriguez has made a very quick transition from super-prospect to one of the most exciting players in baseball. As a rookie last year, he slashed .284/.345/.509/.853, good for a 147 OPS+. He hit 28 homers, 35 doubles, drove in 75 runs, and scored 84. He also stole 25 bases. He could benefit from walking a little more and striking out a little less, as he walked just 40 times and struck out 145 times in 132 games, but that’s really nitpicking. Remember, this kid just turned 22. He’s just getting started. He’s got all five tools, and he could be the next member of the 40-40 club at some point in his career.
Fantasy baseball outfielders #4: Mookie Betts
Mookie Betts returned to elite form last year. The righty slashed .269/.340/.533/.873, good for a 136 OPS+. He hit 35 homers, 40 doubles, drove in 82 runs, and led the NL with 117 runs scored. He finished fifth in the MVP voting while also claiming the Gold Glove and Silver Slugger for NL right fielders. He also might play second base more this year, which adds fantasy value at one of the weakest positions.