What Positions to Draft First in Fantasy Baseball 2023
As the 2023 fantasy baseball season approaches, it’s time to start thinking about your draft strategy. Deciding which positions to draft first is a crucial decision that can set the tone for your season.
In this article, we’ll dive into the latest trends and expert advice to help you determine the best positions to target early in your draft.
What’s Changed in Fantasy Baseball Draft Strategy?
The landscape of fantasy baseball has evolved in recent years, with certain positions becoming more valuable while others have declined. Here are a few key changes to consider:
1. The rise of the three-catcher strategy: With more and more teams employing a platoon system at catcher, it has become increasingly important to roster multiple catchers to ensure consistent production.
2. The decline of the middle infield: The value of second basemen and shortstops has diminished due to the proliferation of shifts and the emphasis on power in fantasy baseball.
3. The emergence of the utility player: Players who can play multiple positions offer flexibility and roster depth, making them valuable assets in fantasy baseball.
The Best Positions to Draft First in 2023
Based on these changes, here are the positions that you should consider drafting first in 2023:
1. Catcher: With the rise of the three-catcher strategy, it’s crucial to target a top catcher early in your draft. Look for players with high batting averages, power potential, and the ability to contribute in other categories like stolen bases.
2. Outfield: Outfielders remain one of the most valuable positions in fantasy baseball, providing a combination of power, speed, and batting average. Focus on drafting outfielders with high on-base percentages and the potential for multiple stolen bases.
3. First Base: First basemen are another valuable position to target early, as they typically provide power and RBI production. Look for players with high slugging percentages and the ability to hit for a high batting average.
Tips and Expert Advice from Fantasy Baseball Experts
Here are some tips and expert advice to help you optimize your draft strategy:
- Don’t be afraid to reach for a top catcher or outfielder in the early rounds.
- Target players with multi-position eligibility to gain roster flexibility.
- Don’t overdraft middle infielders, as their value has declined in recent years.
- Consider drafting a utility player late in the draft to fill in gaps in your lineup.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest injury news and roster moves to adjust your draft strategy accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best draft strategy for a points league?
A: In a points league, you should focus on drafting players who provide consistent production in all categories. Look for players with high batting averages, power potential, and the ability to contribute in other categories like steals and runs scored.
Q: What is the best draft strategy for a roto league?
A: In a roto league, you should focus on drafting players who have a high upside in specific categories. Look for players with the potential to lead the league in home runs, stolen bases, or batting average.
Q: How many catchers should I draft?
A: It’s recommended to draft at least two catchers, especially in leagues with daily lineups. This will ensure that you have a starting catcher most days of the week, even if one of your catchers is injured or has a day off.
Conclusion
Drafting the right positions first in fantasy baseball can give you a significant advantage over your opponents. By targeting high-value positions like catcher, outfield, and first base, and following the tips and expert advice outlined in this article, you can set yourself up for a successful 2023 fantasy baseball season.
Are you ready to draft a winning fantasy baseball team?
