The Best Current MLB First Basemen

Inarguably one of the elite first basemen in the game today, Freddie Freeman's uncanny ability to hit for both power and average sets him apart from his peers. Excelling at pitch selection, Freeman consistently demonstrates a keen eye at the plate, allowing him to capitalize on pitchers' mistakes and make stellar contact with the ball time and time again. As a cornerstone of both his team's offense and defense, Freeman's presence is undeniable, making him a vital asset to his team and a nightmare for opposing pitchers.

As the son of a Hall of Famer, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has baseball in his blood, and it shows in his phenomenal skills at the plate. Boasting prodigious raw power emanating from his compact yet explosive swing, Guerrero has a seemingly limitless potential to crank out home runs and extra-base hits, all while showing great discipline for such a young talent. On the defensive side of the ball, Vlad Jr. continues to improve his footwork and range, solidifying himself as one of the brightest young stars in the sport today.

Pete Alonso's meteoric rise to stardom as one of the premier first basemen in the league was not just a testament to his sheer power and strength, but also to his remarkable resilience and determination. Known for obliterating baseballs with a ferocity few can rival, Alonso couples his prodigious power with an adaptability at the plate that keeps opposing pitchers constantly guessing. While not as flashy as some of his contemporaries in the field, Alonso's reliable glove work and steady improvement on defense are vital components of his ever-growing skill set.

When discussing the best first basemen in the game today, one cannot overlook the exceptional skill and consistency of Paul Goldschmidt. With a smooth, easy swing that generates impressive power, Goldschmidt is a perennial threat to send balls deep into the night. In addition to his prowess with the bat, Goldy's superior defensive skills, including his outstanding range and deft glove work, have made him a mainstay at the top of the list of elite first basemen.

Matt Olson has quickly emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the baseball world, showcasing immense power at the plate and a nearly impenetrable defense at first base. His balanced approach to hitting, adeptly blending power and discipline, has enabled him to become a consistent source of extra-base hits. Furthermore, Olson's extraordinary defensive skills, characterized by his soft hands and impressive reach, have solidified his status as one of the game's best overall first basemen.

An undeniable leader on and off the field, Anthony Rizzo's presence is felt all throughout the game, with his strong bat and exceptional defensive play. A master at working counts and driving in runs, Rizzo showcases great discipline at the plate, making him a formidable opponent for any pitcher. Defensively, Rizzo's quick reflexes and well-rounded skill set allow him to make challenging plays appear routine, further cementing his status as one of the best first basemen in the league.