Catching the Wind: 2023 Fantasy Baseball Catchers Rankings
Hello, fantasy baseball enthusiasts! Welcome back to another season of strategizing, drafting, and cheering for our virtual teams. Today, we're diving into the murky waters of the catching position to bring you the ultimate catcher fantasy rankings for 2023. Buckle up, grab your waders, and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and catcher fantasy rankings.
The Elite Catching Corps
1. J.T. Realmuto - Philadelphia Phillies
Kicking off our catcher fantasy rankings is the reigning king of the position, J.T. Realmuto. The Phillies' backstop has been the gold standard for fantasy catchers for the past few seasons, and there's no reason to believe 2023 will be any different. Realmuto is a true five-tool player, offering a perfect blend of power, average, and speed. He's also an elite defender, which only adds to his value in fantasy leagues that count defensive stats.
2. Will Smith - Los Angeles Dodgers
Will Smith has quickly become one of the most valuable fantasy catchers in the game. The Dodgers' backstop has shown a knack for hitting for both power and average, making him an excellent option in any fantasy format. Smith's 2022 season was a bit of a disappointment, but he's still young and has plenty of room to grow. Don't sleep on him in your catcher fantasy rankings.
3. Gary Sánchez - Los Angeles Angels
Gary Sánchez is a bit of a wild card in this year's catcher fantasy rankings. After a disappointing 2021 season, Sánchez was traded to the Angels and seemed to find his power stroke again in 2022. If he can continue to mash like he did last year, Sánchez has the potential to be a top-five fantasy catcher. Keep an eye on him in spring training to see if he can build on his 2022 resurgence.
The Middle Tier
4. Sean Murphy - Atlanta Braves
Sean Murphy was one of the most valuable fantasy catchers in 2022, and he's only going to get better now that he's joined the Braves. Murphy is a power-hitting catcher with a great eye at the plate. He's also an excellent defender, which only adds to his value. Don't be surprised if Murphy makes a run at the top spot in next year's catcher fantasy rankings.
5. Adley Rutschman - Baltimore Orioles
Adley Rutschman made a splash in his rookie season, hitting .254 with 13 home runs and 41 RBIs. The O's young catcher has a bright future ahead of him, and he's already one of the most valuable fantasy catchers in the game. With a full season under his belt, Rutschman should be even better in 2023. Keep an eye on him as he continues to develop.
6. Joey Gallo - New York Yankees
Joey Gallo is a classic boom-or-bust fantasy catcher. When he's hot, he can carry your team to victory. But when he's cold, he can be a real drag. Gallo has plenty of power, but his contact issues make him a risky fantasy option. If you're looking for a high-upside catcher to take a chance on in your catcher fantasy rankings, Gallo is your man.
The Late-Round Gems
7. Tucker Barnhart - Detroit Tigers
Tucker Barnhart is a sneaky-good fantasy catcher. He may not have the same upside as some of the other catchers on this list, but he's a reliable source of average and power. Barnhart is also an excellent defender, which makes him a valuable asset in fantasy leagues that count defensive stats. Don't sleep on Barnhart in your catcher fantasy rankings.
8. Mitch Garver - Miami Marlins
Mitch Garver is another catcher who flew under the radar in 2022. The Marlins' backstop hit .244 with 20 home runs and 57 RBIs. Garver has always had plenty of power, but he's finally starting to tap into it on a consistent basis. He's a great late-round value in catcher fantasy rankings.
9. Robbie Grossman - Washington Nationals
Robbie Grossman is a bit of a tweener in fantasy catcher rankings. He's not a power hitter, but he's also not a speedster. Instead, Grossman is a solid contact hitter with a good eye. He's not going to win you any weeks, but he's a reliable option in deeper leagues. Keep an eye on him in spring training to see if he can build on his 2022 season.
The Streamers
10. Christian Vazquez - Houston Astros
Christian Vazquez is a classic streamer in fantasy catcher rankings. He's not going to set the world on fire with his bat, but he's a solid defender who can provide some value in two-catcher leagues. Vazquez is also a member of the Astros, which means he'll have plenty of opportunities to score runs and drive in runs. Keep an eye on him in spring training to see if he can carve out a more significant role in Houston's lineup.
11. Willians Astudillo - Free Agent
Willians Astudillo is a unique fantasy catcher. He's not a power hitter, and he's not a speedster. Instead, Astudillo is a contact hitter who makes a living by putting the ball in play. He's not going to win you any weeks, but he's a reliable option in deeper leagues. Keep an eye on where Astudillo signs in the offseason to see if he can carve out a more significant role in 2023.
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks! Our comprehensive catcher fantasy rankings for the 2023 season. Whether you're looking for an elite option like Realmuto or a late-round gem like Barnhart, we've got you covered. Don't forget to keep an eye on spring training to see if any sleepers emerge, and good luck in your drafts!
Until next time, fantasy fans.