It's out! ESPN MLB draft and prospect expert Kiley McDaniel ranked his top 100 MLB prospects for 2023 this week, and now, it's time to have some fun with it.

We asked our MLB experts to give us one bold 2023 prediction for the top-100 prospect they are most excited about going into the upcoming season -- and there were plenty of electrifying options to choose from.

From which players will win Rookie of the Year honors to who will be a breakout star this season, here's what our experts had to say about this year's top prospects.

MLB
Predicting Every MLB Team's 2023 Opening Day Lineup

 

Gunnar Henderson (3B): Will win American League Rookie of the Year

The easiest of any of the major award predictions to make is Henderson for AL Rookie of the Year, because when Baltimore Orioles leadership finally allowed him to be promoted to the big leagues, he demonstrated the impact he will have. A rival AL East staffer said this: "Yeah, he's going to be a problem." His athleticism, presence and confidence will make evaluators wonder in the years ahead how he lasted until the 42nd pick of the 2019 draft. 

 

Corbin Carroll (CF): Will lead the National League in stolen bases and triples

It's not exactly a bold prediction to say Carroll will win NL Rookie of the Year honors given that he's a top prospect. So let's go bolder: With his blazing speed, Carroll will lead the NL in stolen bases and triples and turn into one of the game's best leadoff hitters and most exciting players. And here's the kicker: He'll do it for an Arizona Diamondbacks team that wins a wild card. 

 

Anthony Volpe (SS): Will be the Yankees' starting shortstop in the second half

 

The New York Yankees should not rush their top prospect into the big leagues when they already have Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Oswald Peraza and Oswaldo Cabrera on the roster. Given that Volpe does not have much experience above Double-A, they should allow him to get some more looks at higher-level pitching and ease him into a contributing spot at the major league level. The expectations being placed on Volpe are enormous given the complaints from Yankees fans about shortstop. Easing him into the spotlight should allow for a smooth transition for a young player the franchise hopes can be a superstar.