With the 2023 MLB season approaching, let’s take a look at where every team stands heading into February and Spring Training.
In the list below, I ranked all 30 teams’ 40-man roster from best to worst. I did not consider playoff odds or division standings when ranking teams.
Let me know if you agree!
Top 5 Teams Heading into 2023
1. Houston Astros
The reigning World Series champions still have a lot going for them this season, with an incredibly strong lineup and one of the best rotations and bullpens in the game. Even though losing RHP Justin Verlander was a big blow, they not only have five above average starters set in their rotation, but they also have top prospect Hunter Brown ready to get more time in the Majors.
2. Los Angeles Dodgers
Not only is the Dodgers lineup filled with offensive stars like 1B Freddie Freeman and RF Mookie Betts, they also play defense well (especially in the outfield), and have what might be the best catching tandem in the league (Will Smith and Austin Barnes). They have an above average rotation, with RHP Dustin May slated to be their fifth starter, and a strong bullpen. And if all else fails, the Dodgers have some of the best depth in the game.
3. Seattle Mariners
Another strong team with good depth, the Mariners have a standout rotation led by RHP Luis Castillo and a deep bullpen that hitters will struggle to beat. They have a solid offense, especially in the outfield with Julio Rodriguez and Teoscar Hernanez. They also have a couple of players with potential upside if Jarred Kelenic and Taylor Trammell are able to match their minor league potential.
4. Atlanta Braves
The Braves have one of my favorite offenses in the game, led by Ronald Acuna Jr. and Matt Olson. Their rotation is also very strong, with newly extended RHP Spencer Strider ready to take on a more regular role after posting a 1.83 FIP across 131 IP in 2022. The top of their bullpen is strong, but the backend (Lucas Luetge, Kirby Yates, Dennis Santana) can be improved. I debated placing the Braves above the Mariners, but decided against it due to lack of position player depth.
5. Minnesota Twins
Despite losing Luis Arraez to the Marlins, I think the Twins are set to have a great year. The addition of RHP Pablo Lopez improves an already solid rotation. Their bullpen has some standout pitchers like RHP Griffin Jax, RHP Jhoan Duran, and RHP Jorge Lopez. If Carlos Correa and Byron Buxton can have healthy seasons, their offense is in good shape to help carry the Twins to the postseason.
Teams Ranked 6-30:
6. Cleveland Guardians
7. New York Yankees
8. San Diego Padres
9. New York Mets
10. Tampa Bay Rays
11. Toronto Blue Jays
12. St. Louis Cardinals
13. Milwaukee Brewers
14. Chicago White Sox
15. Boston Red Sox
16. Philadelphia Phillies
17. Los Angeles Angels
18. Baltimore Orioles
19. Miami Marlins
20. Texas Rangers
21. Chicago Cubs
22. San Francisco Giants
23. Arizona Diamondbacks
24. Kansas City Royals
25. Detroit Tigers
26. Cincinnati Reds
27. Washington Nationals
28. Colorado Rockies
29. Pittsburgh Pirates
30. Oakland Athletics
