Who are the best first basemen in MLB in 2024? Freeman, Olson, Diaz, Harper...

Assessing the top talents at each position in Major League Baseball is a challenging chore, especially when it comes to first basemen.

Nevertheless, we have taken on this challenge and compiled a list of the top 10 first basemen in the league. Our list recognizes their contributions, identifies their strengths, and highlights areas for improvement.

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10. Tristan Cuevas - Boston Red Sox

Tristan Cuevas has become a prominent player with the number 10, representing the Boston Red Sox. In 2023, Cuevas began his first entire season in the Big Leagues. Although he faced a slow start and struggled, particularly in April and May, his performance improved, particularly in the second half. Despite some defensive weaknesses against left-handed pitchers, Cuevas showed promising potential with an OPS of 857 and 24 home runs.

9. Josh Naylor - Cleveland Guardians

Up next is Josh Naylor, a player for the Cleveland Guardians who is often underrated in the league. During the 2023 season, he displayed prowess with a solid .308 batting average and an OPS plus of 133. Notably, he improved his performance against left-handed pitchers, earning recognition in MVP voting and affirming his vital role in the Guardians’ offensive lineup.

8. Christian Walker - Arizona Diamondbacks

Christian Walker is an underrated but consistent player who has secured the eighth spot on our list. He has achieved back-to-back 30-home-run seasons and proven himself an excellent defensive player. His contributions to the Arizona Diamondbacks are invaluable. Even though he is entering his age 33 season, Walker’s resilience and defensive skills continue to impress, earning him recognition as a Gold Glove winner.

7. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. - Toronto Blue Jays

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is currently ranked seventh, which confirms his remarkable talent despite a slightly underwhelming 2023 season. Although his numbers did not match the heights of his breakout 2021 campaign, Guerrero Jr. remains a formidable force at the plate. He has promising underlying metrics and a keen eye for the ball, so one can expect him to bounce back spectacularly.

6. Paul Goldschmidt - St. Louis Cardinals

Paul Goldschmidt’s career took a slight dip in 2023, a departure from his MVP-caliber performance. However, his consistency and outstanding defensive skills are still undeniable. As he enters his age of 36 this season, there are concerns about his future productivity, but his track record indicates that he still has much to offer the St. Louis Cardinals.

5. Pete Alonso - New York Mets

Pete Alonso is entering a contract year, and there have been rumors of him being traded. However, despite a modest batting average, his power-hitting skills have captivated fans. He has hit a total of 46 home runs, and his defensive abilities at first base confirm that he is a player to be reckoned with. There are high expectations for Alonso, and it is believed that he has the potential to achieve even greater offensive output in the upcoming seasons.

4. Yandy Diaz - Tampa Bay Rays

Yandy Diaz surprised many in 2023 when he transformed into a power hitter, with an impressive .330 batting average and an OPS plus of 152. Although his defensive abilities may not be as strong as his offensive prowess, Diaz’s ability to get on base and newfound power make him a valuable asset for the Tampa Bay Rays.

3. Bryce Harper - Philadelphia Phillies

In 2023, Bryce Harper successfully transitioned to playing first base full-time. He exhibited exceptional offensive skills through a slash line of .293/.401/.499. Although he had a sluggish start, Harper’s impressive performance in the second half of the season reaffirmed his status as one of the best hitters in baseball. With a potential Gold Glove award within his reach and his offensive capabilities still strong, Harper’s future looks very promising.

2. Matt Olson - Atlanta Braves

In 2022, when Matt Olson arrived in Atlanta, little did anyone know that he would be the catalyst for an offensive explosion in 2023. With his exceptional power-hitting ability, he led the National League in home runs and RBI, which helped him earn All-Star status and fourth place in the MVP voting. At just 30 years old, Olson is still in his prime, which promises continued dominance at the plate for years to come.

1. Freddie Freeman - Los Angeles Dodgers

Freddie Freeman has been consistently excellent in Major League Baseball and is currently ranked as the best first baseman. His batting average of .331 and OPS of .976 in 2023 are exceptional and unmatched by any other player. Freeman’s offensive skills, smart baserunning, and solid defensive contributions make him a future Hall of Famer without question. He is the clear choice for the number one first baseman position in baseball.