The 2023 MLB season is just around the corner, and while some teams are expected to be contenders from the start, others have a lot of work to do if they want to make the postseason. However, there are a few teams that have the potential to surprise everyone and take a big leap forward, thanks in part to a few key additions. Here are five non-playoff teams to watch out for in the 2023 season.
1. Minnesota Twins
The Twins have been in a bit of a rut recently, but they have plenty of young talent that could help them turn things around quickly. One player to keep an eye on is shortstop Carlos Correa, who was signed to a big free-agent contract in the offseason. Correa is a five-time All-Star who brings a strong offensive and defensive presence to the team. If he can stay healthy and mesh well with the other players on the roster, the Twins could surprise people and make a run at the playoffs.
2. Miami Marlins
The Marlins have been stuck in the bottom of the NL East for years, but they have some exciting young players who could help them turn things around. One player to watch is outfielder JJ Bleday, who was the fourth overall pick in the 2019 draft. Bleday has shown flashes of his potential in the minors, and if he can translate that to the big leagues, he could provide a much-needed spark to the Marlins’ offense.
3. Seattle Mariners
The Mariners have been rebuilding for what feels like forever, but they could finally be ready to turn the corner in 2023. One player to keep an eye on is top prospect Jarred Kelenic, who is expected to make a big impact in the majors this season. Kelenic is a dynamic outfielder who has shown a great combination of power and speed in the minors, and if he can bring that to the big leagues, he could help the Mariners take a big step forward.
4. Baltimore Orioles
The Orioles have been stuck in the basement of the AL East for a while, but they could finally start to climb their way up the standings in 2023. One player to watch is catcher Adley Rutschman, who is widely considered one of the best prospects in all of baseball. Rutschman has shown excellent offensive and defensive skills in the minors, and if he can make a smooth transition to the majors, he could help the Orioles become competitive again.
5. Kansas City Royals
The Royals have been in a bit of a slump since winning the World Series in 2015, but they have some pieces in place that could help them contend again in 2023. One player to keep an eye on is shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who was the second overall pick in the 2019 draft. Witt Jr. has shown excellent power and speed in the minors, and if he can translate that to the majors, he could be a game-changer for the Royals.
In conclusion, the 2023 MLB season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with plenty of potential for surprising teams to make a run at the playoffs. Whether it’s the Twins and Carlos Correa, the Marlins and JJ Bleday, the Mariners and Jarred Kelenic, the Orioles and Adley Rutschman, or the Royals and Bobby Witt Jr., there are plenty of young players who could make a big impact next season. So keep an eye on these five teams, because they could be the ones to watch in 2023.
