Predictions for the 2026 MLB Season: Teams and Players to Watch

As the 2026 MLB season approaches, the Baltimore Orioles are positioned as strong contenders for the World Series title. Despite finishing last in the American League East in 2025 with 75 wins, the Orioles have made significant roster improvements. Key additions include first baseman Pete Alonso, outfielder Taylor Ward, and pitchers Shane Baz and Zach Eflin, alongside closer Ryan Helsley. Experts predict that top prospect Samuel Basallo will emerge as a breakout star, while Jackson Holliday is expected to become an All-Star, potentially achieving a 30/30 season.

Sports Illustrated

Zach Eflin, who recently signed a one-year contract with a mutual option for 2027, expressed optimism about the upcoming season, stating, “I think everybody’s pumped for the season... It’s a win-now thing. We want to win the World Series.” The Orioles' front office has been proactive, aiming to build a competitive team capable of making a deep postseason run.

Sports Illustrated

The Seattle Mariners are also forecasted to make history by winning their first World Series title in 2026. Analysts highlight the emergence of Julio Rodriguez as a premier player and predict that Cal Raleigh will continue to excel as a top catcher. The Mariners are seen as entering a period of dominance reminiscent of the Houston Astros' success from 2015 to 2024.

ESPN

The Pittsburgh Pirates are anticipated to reach the postseason for the first time since 2015. The team has focused on enhancing its offense, which ranked last in runs scored last season. New acquisitions, including Ryan O'Hearn and Brandon Lowe, are expected to significantly improve the lineup. The Pirates' pitching staff, led by Paul Skenes, who won the NL Cy Young Award, is also projected to perform well. Analysts suggest that Konnor Griffin, the top prospect, could win the NL Rookie of the Year and help propel the Pirates to success in the NL Central.

ESPN

In international play, the Dominican Republic is favored to win the 2026 World Baseball Classic, potentially spoiling a rematch between Japan and the United States. The Dominican roster boasts a formidable lineup, including stars like Juan Soto and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The team aims to improve upon its previous performances in the tournament, where it faced early exits in 2017 and 2023.

ESPN

Experts predict that 2026 will be a breakthrough year for small-market teams, with at least half of the playoff field expected to consist of clubs with lower payrolls. This trend could reshape the competitive landscape of MLB, as teams that have historically struggled may find themselves in contention for postseason spots.

ESPN

Zach Eflin emphasized the Orioles' commitment to winning, stating, “It’s a win-now thing. We want to win the World Series.” Meanwhile, analysts have highlighted the potential for the Pirates to make significant strides, with one noting, “If the pitching staff continues where it left off... the Pirates could make real noise.”

ESPN

As the 2026 season unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if these predictions come to fruition.

ESPN