Fact check: Who is currently considered the best first baseman in MLB by analysts and how on earth do they justify it being anyone other than Freddie Freeman?

1. Summary of the results

The question of MLB's best first baseman has multiple perspectives based on different analyses and time periods. According to recent rankings, Bryce Harper is currently considered the top first baseman in 2025, followed by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Freddie Freeman ^{[1] [2]}. Harper's position is supported by impressive metrics including a 5.2 fWAR, 145 wRC+, and strong defensive statistics (+7 OAA, +5 DRS) ^[3]. However, looking at slightly earlier data from 2024, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was ranked as the top first baseman, with remarkable career statistics including 160 home runs, 507 RBI, and 21.5 WAR over six seasons ^[4].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several important contextual factors should be considered:

• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is in his contract year in 2025, which could potentially influence his performance and rankings ^[1]
• There are questions about Guerrero's consistency, with analysts debating which version of "Vladdy" is the real one ^[2]
• In 2024, Guerrero led all MLB first basemen in multiple categories including fWAR, wRC+, OPS, SLG, OBP, and doubles ^[2]
• The competition between the "big three" (Harper, Guerrero, Freeman) appears to be very close, with small margins separating their rankings ^[2]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The question shows clear bias in assuming Freddie Freeman should be the undisputed best first baseman. This overlooks:

• The emergence of Bryce Harper as a dominant force at the position, backed by comprehensive metrics ^[3]
• Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s impressive statistical achievements and potential future value ^{[4] [1]}
• The fact that rankings are fluid and can change based on recent performance, as evidenced by the shift between 2024 and 2025 rankings ^{[1] [4]}

The question's phrasing suggests a fan's emotional attachment to Freeman rather than an objective analysis of current performance metrics and statistics that analysts use to make these determinations.