FIRST IMPRESSIONS: Second looks for 2023

For the previous two seasons, we've tried something different for the final First Impressions column of the year. Rather than taking a first look at five new members of that year's rookie class, we took a second look at a dozen players who we had already covered earlier in the season, players who had a notable change in surface stats or skills in the time since they were first written up.

This format started because the loss of minor league games in 2020 made analyzing rookies even more challenging that year, and while it has been great to once again have actual minor league MLEs to work with, taking a second look is helpful because young players taking on the challenge of the majors rarely develop in a straight line, so what we see in...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From Facts & Flukes

Abrams has gotten off to great starts over the last couple of years, only to see them undone by dreadful second halves. Will this year be different? Also, we'll check up on Kyle Harrison, Manny Machado, Michael King, and JJ Bleday.
Aug 27 2026 3:05am
After blasting 29 HR per season in 2024-25, Matt Olson has ramped up the power in 2026. How are the skills? Plus, Raisel Iglesias, Mickey Moniak, Brandon Marsh, and Kyle Leahy.
Aug 26 2026 3:06am
Francisco Lindor returns with a lower BA. Also: Mason Miller, Ozzie Albies, Brandon Pfaadt, Francisco Alvarez.
Aug 25 2026 3:06am
Coming off a huge 2025 season, George Springer has struggled in 2026. Plus, Jackson Holliday, Colt Keith, Josh Hader, and Grayson Rodriguez.
Aug 24 2026 3:08am
Bobby Witt Jr. hasn't quite had a vintage season; is he still an elite cornerstone? Plus Hunter Brown, Cedric Mullins, Zebby Matthews, and Dominic Canzone
Aug 20 2026 3:06am

Tools