The 2024 MLB season was full of highlight-reel performances, particularly by first basemen. From raw power to clutch plays, here's a look at the top 10 players in this critical position.
Rankings are strictly based on 2024 performance, leaving past records and future expectations out of the door.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – The Unstoppable Force
Stats: 166 OPS+,.323/.396/.544, 30 HR, 103 RBI, 6.2 WAR
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. dominated the 2024 season with awesome stats, taking the first position. He started off the season slowly but then exploded from May to September when he became the league's best first baseman. With free agency ahead, everyone is waiting to see if the Toronto Blue Jays can lock him up for good.
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Freddie Freeman – The Veteran's Consistency
Stats: 143 OPS+,.282/.378/.476, 22 HR, 89 RBI, 4.7 WAR
Freddie Freeman's postseason heroics, including a World Series MVP title, added another chapter to his Hall of Fame career. Despite an ankle injury, he proved his mettle, leading the Dodgers to glory.
Matt Olson – A Tale of Two Halves
Stats: 118 OPS+, .247/.333/.457, 29 HR, 98 RBI, 3.8 WAR
Matt Olson's season was split between struggles and redemption. A late-season surge showcased his elite potential, keeping him among the league's top performers.
Bryce Harper – A Role Change of Pace
Stats: 149 OPS+,.285/.373/.525, 30 HR, 87 RBI, 4.8 WAR
Bryce Harper adapted well to first base, both with the glove and bat. He batted.331 with runners in scoring position, showing clutch ability.
Pete Alonso – The Power Guy
Stats: 123 OPS+,.240/.329/.459, 34 HR, 88 RBI, 2.6 WAR
Pete Alonso remains among the top sluggers in MLB. Rejection of a major extension should not diminish his current standing. His consistent power numbers will draw considerable free-agent attention.
Luis Arraez – Contact Hitting Genius
Stats: 106 OPS+,.314/.346/.392, 4 HR, 46 RBI, 1.0 WAR
Luis Arraez becomes the third consecutive batting champion because of his elite contact ability. He puts the ball in play 90.9% of the time—a remarkable feat in today's analytically driven game.
Josh Naylor – Career Year Guy
Stats: 118 OPS+,.243/.320/.456, 31 HR, 108 RBI, 1.5 WAR
Josh Naylor's first-half success made him a career year for himself. At just 27 years of age, he has many better years ahead of him.
Christian Walker – Defense and Offense
Stats: 121 OPS+,.251/.335/.468, 26 HR, 84 RBI, 2.6 WAR
Christian Walker's three consecutive Gold Gloves speak to his elite defense. Paired with consistent offensive output, he's now a valuable asset entering free agency.
Michael Busch – Rookie Sensation
Stats: 118 OPS+,.248/.335/.440, 21 HR, 65 RBI, 2.8 WAR
Michael Busch was a consistent middle-of-the-order bat for the Cubs, showing he was one of the top rookies of the season.
Nathaniel Lowe – Strong Finisher
Stats: 120 OPS+,.265/.361/.401, 16 HR, 69 RBI, 2.7 WAR
Nathan Lowe made up for an early season oblique strain by finishing with a flourish. His closing month of the season stamped his authority as one of the elite first basemen in the league.
This past 2024 MLB season highlighted such great depth of talent in this position. From Guerrero Jr.'s dominance to Freeman's leadership, these players made up excellence on the diamond.
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