Squirtle

Squirtle follows close behind at 314 base stat total, its sturdy 65 base Defense and Water Gun providing reliable coverage against Brock and Misty. A concrete data point: Squirtle takes 20% less physical damage from Rock Tomb than Bulbasaur, yet its lack of Grass resistance leaves it vulnerable to Misty's Starmie, tying its utility narrowly behind the top pick.