Top 5 MLB teams outperforming preseason projections

With just 14 percent of the 2023 MLB season’s 2,430 games played, it could be considered early to consider teams and their win/loss records against preseason projections. It could also be fun, so let’s delve into the top five teams who are outperforming their projections so far.

In order to do this, Fangraphs’ ZiPS projections, for both American League and National League, are being used as the comparator. Both projections, based on estimates, and current position, with 86% of the season to play, are presented illustratively only. There is a long way to go!

Milwaukee Brewers (15-8) .652 vs .512 +.140

The record for the Milwaukee Brewers could have been even better, but dropping the last two games, including a disappointing loss to the Tigers, has stunted a hot start to 2023.

With sweeps against the Mets and the Mariners, the Brewers were leading NL Central at 14-5. Perennial performer Christian Yelich has led the way with 20 runs, but Brian Anderson (15), Willy Adames (14), and Rowdy Tellez (12) have contributed.

On the mound, it’s been the lefty combination of Eric Lauer and Wade Miley who have had the most success. Miley, in particular (1.96 ERA), has looked sharp.