NL All-Star Outfield Race: Top Contenders to Watch in Arlington’s Open Field

Jurickson Profar, San Diego Padres

The former No. 1 overall prospect has finally had his breakout season at age 31, after 11 years of development, and the results are impressive.

Jurickson Profar ranks in the top five in nearly every key statistic among NL outfielders and leads many of these categories. He's posting remarkable numbers with a .316 batting average, .408 on-base percentage, and .484 slugging percentage through 83 games. These figures are all career highs for Profar, and he is on track to set new personal bests in nearly every statistical category.

Additionally, Profar has achieved career highs in barrel rate and hard-hit rate and ranks in the top 10% of MLB players in walk rate.

Profar's statistics are already compelling, but to further solidify his case, he leads all NL outfielders in fWAR at 2.8. His 160 wRC+ stands 21 points higher than the next closest player.

Given these achievements, it's clear why he is the frontrunner to be an NL outfield starter. His dominance is also reflected in the All-Star voting, where he leads NL outfielders after the first phase.

Fernando Tatis Jr., San Diego Padres

It's hardly surprising that Fernando Tatis Jr. is a contender to start in the All-Star game. His impact on baseball has been significant since his debut, with ups and downs along the way, and this season is no exception.

This year, Tatis boasts an impressive .279 batting average, .354 on-base percentage, and .468 slugging percentage, with 14 home runs and 36 RBIs. These numbers make a strong case for his second All-Star selection and his first as an outfielder, especially considering he's a two-time Silver Slugger.

Tatis's performance this year marks a significant improvement over his lackluster 2023. His metrics such as barrel rate, hard-hit rate, and average exit velocity have all improved, alongside a reduction in his strikeout rate. His weighted runs created plus (wRC+) has jumped from 113 to 139.

Therefore, Tatis's consideration for the All-Star spot is well-deserved, even if his renown might boost his vote count.

Christian Yelich, Milwaukee Brewers

The 2018 MVP, Christian Yelich, is showcasing his finest form since 2019.

Yelich is excelling with an impressive .325 batting average and an .892 OPS, leading a youthful Milwaukee squad that is taking advantage of a struggling NL Central to maintain a division lead of 6.5 games.

Despite a shorter season, having played only 48 games due to missing 23 games early in the year with an injury, his performance remains too compelling to overlook, even with fewer games under his belt.

While his performance this year at age 32, especially playing outfield every day, is astonishing, the limited number of games he's played makes it tough to rank him alongside others who have nearly twice his at-bats. However, given his status as a former MVP and MVP runner-up, his reputation and career accomplishments likely secure him a spot, just like Tatis.

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Teoscar Hernández, Los Angeles Dodgers

If one were told that Teoscar Hernández ranks in the top five in RBIs, home runs, slugging percentage, and OPS among NL outfielders, it might come as a surprise.

However, for those following Dodgers baseball, Teoscar's performance is no secret. Despite a challenging stint in Seattle, Hernández has dramatically improved his standings, making a notable comeback this season. He is now among the top five in several key statistical categories among NL outfielders and leads with 18 home runs and 55 RBIs.

This season represents a significant career resurgence for Teoscar, who took a prove-it deal and has indeed proven his worth. His barrel rate is at its highest since 2020, and his walk rate has increased to levels not seen since 2019.

As one of six finalists vying for three NL outfield spots, Hernández stands out. His power stats surpass those of Christian Yelich and Fernando Tatis Jr., and he contributes to the league's top team.

Although lacking the star power and extensive resume of Tatis and Yelich, Hernández's performance this season could arguably earn him a starting position over them.

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Jurickson Profar, San Diego Padres

The former No. 1 overall prospect has finally had his breakout season at age 31, after 11 years of development, and the results are impressive.

Jurickson Profar ranks in the top five in nearly every key statistic among NL outfielders and leads many of these categories. He's posting remarkable numbers with a .316 batting average, .408 on-base percentage, and .484 slugging percentage through 83 games. These figures are all career highs for Profar, and he is on track to set new personal bests in nearly every statistical category.

Additionally, Profar has achieved career highs in barrel rate and hard-hit rate and ranks in the top 10% of MLB players in walk rate.

Profar's statistics are already compelling, but to further solidify his case, he leads all NL outfielders in fWAR at 2.8. His 160 wRC+ stands 21 points higher than the next closest player.

Given these achievements, it's clear why he is the frontrunner to be an NL outfield starter. His dominance is also reflected in the All-Star voting, where he leads NL outfielders after the first phase.