Welcome to my Bold Predictions article for the 2026 MLB Season! This issue will differ from my previous versions as I have expanded from my typical 10 predictions to one for each MLB team. To capture the confidence behind each prediction, I have introduced a Boldness scale ranging from Mild (1) to Extreme (4). This change gave me more flexibility to present realistic outcomes while still sprinkling in a handful of extremely bold predictions.
Arizona Diamondbacks
Prediction: Gabriel Moreno leads MLB catchers in fWAR
C, Age: 26, B/T: R/R, 5′ 9″/195 lbs
DOB: 2000-02-14, Barquisimeto, Venezuela
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
83
309
9
2
17.2%
9.4%
117
2.7
2026 Proj
112
443
11
4
17.0%
9.5%
115
3.8
This prediction was initially “Gabriel Moreno leads NL catchers in fWAR”, but after consulting various projection systems, I discovered that Moreno is expected to be a Top 3 catcher in the National League and within earshot of the most projected fWAR. Adjusting the prediction to include American League catchers adds in the two best backstops in the league in Cal Raleigh and Alejandro Kirk. This expanded pool of opponents makes this prediction substantially more bold, but still one that I think could happen. Moreno has an advanced hit tool and started to tap into more power last season — a perfect blend to complement his elite defensive capabilities. My biggest concern regarding this prediction is that Moreno will not play enough to accrue the required fWAR. A full season of Moreno could be special and I hope we see that in 2026.
Boldness: Medium — Projections love him. Limited playing time and Cal Raleigh are his biggest roadblocks.
Athletics
Prediction: Denzel Clarke leads all Athletics batters in fWAR
CF, Age: 25, B/T: R/R, 6′ 3″/220 lbs
DOB: 2000-05-01, Toronto, Canada
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
47
159
3
6
38.4%
3.8%
75
1.3
2026 Proj
97
420
9
14
33.2%
7.8%
85
1.3
The Athletics hitters have been on the upswing in recent years. From Brent Rooker and Lawrence Butler’s strong 2024 seasons to a pair of exceptional rookie campaigns from Jacob Wilson and Nick Kurtz, this is one of the most exciting offenses in baseball. One player who I believe could be the most valuable to this team is none other than Denzel Clarke. You may remember Clarke as a magician in center field, ranking as one of the best defenders in MLB within weeks of his debut. but you may also remember him as one of the worst hitters in the league as he posted a 75 wRC+ with a putrid 38.4 K%. While I am concerned that his bat may never hold up in the Majors, his minor league track record indicates he has the talent to push his offensive production closer to league average. Clarke wields both 70 grade power and speed and has posted elite walk rates throughout his pro career. This foundation makes me optimistic that he can substantially improve his walk rate while tapping into more slug via his strength and legs. A full season of Clarke could mirror that of Ceddanne Rafaela, a center fielder who posted a near 4 fWAR season in 2025 despite below average offensive results, thanks to an exceptional glove. Production like that would squarely put him in the conversation as the most “valuable” position player on the Athletics.
Boldness: Extreme — His bat is such a massive question mark.
Atlanta Braves
Prediction: Didier Fuentes wins NL Rookie of the Year
P, Age: 20, Throws: R, 6′ 0″/170 lbs
DOB: 2005-06-17, Tolu, Colombia
2026 MLB Pitching Projections
SeasonIPERAWHIPK%BB%FIPWAR
2025
13.0
13.85
2.23
17.4%
8.7%
9.14
-0.5
2026 Proj
60.0
4.38
1.30
21.9%
7.8%
4.27
0.3
Not only is Fuentes not expected to open the season in the Braves rotation, he would be going up against a gauntlet of rookies in the National League, including Konnor Griffin, Nolan McLean, and Sal Stewart. I completely abandoned the logical side of my brain with this selection because I absolutely love his profile. The 20-year-old righty wields one of the most dominant fastballs in MiLB thanks to its extremely flat approach which he supplements with a splitter and a brand-new gyro slider. He is too talented to stick in the bullpen with the Braves competing for the NL East title and, in my opinion, is one of the Braves best rotation options right now.
Boldness: Extreme — He is pitching out of the bullpen to start the season.
Baltimore Orioles
Prediction: Kyle Bradish wins AL Cy Young Award
P, Age: 29, Throws: R, 6′ 3″/215 lbs
DOB: 1996-09-12, Peoria, USA
2026 MLB Pitching Projections
SeasonIPERAWHIPK%BB%FIPWAR
2025
32.0
2.53
1.03
37.3%
7.9%
2.45
1.1
2026 Proj
146.0
3.62
1.20
25.4%
7.6%
3.54
3.1
This is the prediction I am most excited about. When he is on the mound, Kyle Bradish has performed like a Top 10 starter since his breakout in 2023. He melds a polished 4-pitch mix with solid command to sustain his excellent results. The key to his success is his otherworldly slider which is squarely in the conversation for one of the best pitches in baseball thanks to its combination of immense sweeping action and velocity. I expect Bradish to continue his success, but the boldness of this prediction stems from his ability to rack up innings. It has been reported that Bradish will be on an unspecified innings limit — a restriction that sounds more sinister without a concrete figure — so he would seriously need to dominate to outpace AL Cy Young favourites Tarik Skubal and Garrett Crochet.
Boldness: Bold — A potential innings limit puts a damper on his prediction.
Boston Red Sox
Prediction: Roman Anthony leads MLB in doubles
RF, Age: 21, B/T: L/R, 6′ 3″/200 lbs
DOB: 2004-05-13, West Palm Beach, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
71
303
8
4
27.7%
13.2%
139
2.7
2026 Proj
146
630
19
9
24.7%
13.2%
124
3.5
Roman Anthony was everything the Red Sox hoped he would be during his rookie season in 2025. He was an immediate spark plug to their lineup and looked like a natural in the Fenway Park outfield. The biggest knock against Anthony during his minor league career was his tendency to spray his hardest hits rather than pull them. This trait may prevent Anthony from being a massive home run hitter right now, but this same characteristic could make him a doubles machine in Fenway Park. His ability to lace opposite field line drives off the Green Monster will lead to plenty of extra base hits, making me confident that he can be in the running for the most doubles in his first full MLB season.
Boldness: Medium — I already consider Anthony one of the best hitters in the league, but it is still a very specific prediction.
Chicago Cubs
Prediction: Daniel Palencia leads MLB in saves
P, Age: 26, Throws: R, 5′ 11″/160 lbs
DOB: 2000-02-05, San Carlos, Venezuela
2026 MLB Pitching Projections
SeasonIPERAWHIPK%BB%FIPWAR
2025
52.2
2.91
1.14
28.4%
7.4%
3.08
1.0
2026 Proj
67.0
3.68
1.23
26.4%
9.8%
3.73
0.7
Carlos Estevez and Ryan Helsley each led MLB in saves during 2024 and 2023, respectively, with one very startling shared aspect — neither of their teams made the playoffs, but still had a winning record. While I do not think missing the playoffs is a prerequisite for grabbing the saves crown, it makes sense that a reliever on a good, but not overwhelmingly great, team would be a perfect candidate. This is where Daniel Palencia comes into play. Not only is he a dynamic closer with triple digit heat and a concrete role, the Cubs are also projected to have a winning record and be in a tight race for the NL Central title. I expect the Cubs to play in a lot of close games this season and rely on Palencia to close out any games whenever it is required.
Boldness: Medium — Palencia is projected to be Top 10 in saves.
Chicago White Sox
Prediction: Grant Taylor leads MLB relievers in fWAR
P, Age: 23, Throws: R, 6′ 3″/230 lbs
DOB: 2002-05-20, Florence, USA
2026 MLB Pitching Projections
SeasonIPERAWHIPK%BB%FIPWAR
2025
36.2
4.91
1.42
34.4%
9.6%
1.42
1.7
2026 Proj
91.0
3.47
1.21
26.8%
8.6%
3.28
1.6
Grant Taylor was on pace to lead all relievers in fWAR last season was ultimately stopped because he was simply called up too late in the season. The White Sox flamethrower is expected to transition to starting pitching in the near-future, but it looks like he will operate mostly in a long-relief role this season. The expected higher volume supports this prediction, and this is not even considering how incredible Taylor looks on the mound. His arsenal is headlined by a high-riding fastball from an extreme over-the-top release which is further supported by a trio of wicked breaking balls. He had no issues attacking batters last season and is lined up for a dominant sophomore season with the White Sox.
Boldness: Mild — He is already one of the best relievers in MLB.
Cincinnati Reds
Prediction: Elly De La Cruz posts a 40-40 season
SS, Age: 24, B/T: S/R, 6′ 6″/200 lbs
DOB: 2002-01-11, Sabana Grande de Boya, Dominican Republic
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
162
699
22
37
25.9%
9.6%
108
4.3
2026 Proj
156
672
25
41
25.8%
9.8%
115
4.7
With 18 home runs in his first 97 games, Elly De La Cruz was pacing for his first 30 home run season. Unfortunately, he had a second half to forget after a quad injury sapped his power and turned him into a shell of himself. With a full offseason to recover, the Reds superstar has all the tools to be baseball’s next 40-40 player. His explosiveness on the basepaths makes the stolen base mark trivial, and I am confident he can set a career high in home runs this season. 40 home runs is a lot, but he has both the power and the home park to aid in his quest.
Boldness: Bold — Elly would need to break his career high in home runs by 15.
Cleveland Guardians
Prediction: Joey Cantillo leads Guardians pitchers in fWAR
P, Age: 26, Throws: L, 6′ 4″/225 lbs
DOB: 1999-12-18, Honolulu, USA
2026 MLB Pitching Projections
SeasonIPERAWHIPK%BB%FIPWAR
2025
95.1
3.21
1.26
26.9%
10.5%
3.55
1.5
2026 Proj
144.0
3.80
1.32
25.0%
10.3%
4.02
1.5
After being one of the Guardians most valuable relievers in 2025, Joey Cantillo is set to open 2026 in the starting rotation — a role where I believe he will excel. The key to Cantillo’s success is a devastating changeup that returned a staggering 49.4 Whiff% and served as a reliable put-away pitch. He pairs it with two breaking balls that are effective at generating weak contact. The primary concern surrounding Cantillo’s long-term viability as a starter is his pedestrian fastball, which lacks both velocity and ideal shape. While this aspect may cap his upside, I still believe he has the talent to be the Guardians most valuable pitcher this season.
Boldness: Medium — His biggest competition is Gavin Williams, Tanner Bibee, and Cade Smith (actually).
Colorado Rockies
Prediction: Mickey Moniak finishes Top 10 in NL HR
RF, Age: 27, B/T: L/R, 6′ 1″/195 lbs
DOB: 1998-05-13, Encinitas, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
135
461
24
9
23.9%
4.8%
110
0.6
2026 Proj
112
483
21
9
24.6%
5.0%
102
0.9
Mickey Moniak enjoyed his first year in Colorado, smacking 24 home runs across 135 games while posting substantial improvements in his batted ball quality and contact metrics. Projections are not nearly as optimistic regarding the former 1st overall pick as they expect his playing time to be trimmed significantly — likely due to his poor defensive results and struggles against LHP. While I am not ignoring those concerns, I believe he will have a near everyday role for a Rockies team without much offensive depth. He has the power, aggressiveness, and perfect environment to utilize his pull-air approach to rack up home runs — and I think 30+ HR is well within his realistic outcomes.
Boldness: Bold — This one feels moderate. Coors Field bump helps.
Detroit Tigers
Prediction: Kevin McGonigle leads the AL in hits
SS, Age: 21, B/T: L/R, 5′ 9″/187 lbs
DOB: 2004-08-18, Media, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
————————
2026 Proj
122
525
15
10
13.7%
10.5%
114
3.3
Kevin McGonigle feels like the perfect prospect. He pairs a flawless hit tool with an exceptional eye, budding power, and solid defense up the middle. He has left little doubt this spring that he belongs in the Majors, and most likely as the Tigers lead-off hitter. He has all the tools you want from the top-of-the-order bat and the skills to make this prediction come to fruition — aside from walking too much!
Boldness: Extreme — McGonigle will likely be an everyday player, but expecting a rookie to lead his league in hits is very bold.
Houston Astros
Prediction: Yordan Alvarez leads the AL in home runs
LF, Age: 28, B/T: L/R, 6′ 4″/237 lbs
DOB: 1997-06-27, Las Tunas, Cuba
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
48
199
6
1
16.6%
14.1%
117
0.5
2026 Proj
130
560
30
3
17.3%
12.7%
156
4.4
A serious hand and ankle injury limited Yordan Alvarez to just 48 games in 2025, but all signs point to him being a main fixture in the Astros lineup this season. His quality of contact metrics were still fantastic and he is expected to spend most of his time at DH, giving him a sole focus on hitting for the first time in his career. He will be up against some tough competition in the AL with superstar sluggers like Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh, but I think he has the tools to be the most prolific home run hitter in the league.
Boldness: Medium — Alvarez is one of the best hitters in baseball, but will still have to surpass Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh, among others.
Kansas City Royals
Prediction: Carter Jensen wins AL Rookie of the Year Award
C, Age: 22, B/T: L/R, 6′ 0″/210 lbs
DOB: 2003-07-03, Kansas City, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
20
69
3
0
17.4%
13.0%
158
0.7
2026 Proj
99
401
12
4
25.9%
9.9%
102
1.8
I sang Carter Jensen’s praises throughout the winter and heralded him as my AL ROTY pick before the calendar flipped to 2026. When I first drafted this article at the start of Spring Training, Jensen was clearly an underdog for AL Rookie of the Year — a distinction that I felt was mispriced. In the following weeks the market seems to have corrected itself and now considers Jensen as a contender for the award. This change makes my prediction seem less bold, but I am going to stick with it given my stout support of the Royals catcher. The batted ball quality he flexed in AAA and MLB last season rivalled that of the best young sluggers in the game and I am confident that he can stick at catcher long-term. I have the utmost confidence in his bat and cannot wait to see what Jensen has in store for us in his rookie year.
Boldness: Mild — This prediction used to be bold.
Los Angeles Angels
Prediction: Jose Soriano receives AL Cy Young Award votes
P, Age: 27, Throws: R, 6′ 3″/220 lbs
DOB: 1998-10-20, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
2026 MLB Pitching Projections
SeasonIPERAWHIPK%BB%FIPWAR
2025
169.0
4.26
1.40
21.0%
10.8%
3.73
3.0
2026 Proj
176.0
3.86
1.36
21.7%
10.1%
3.84
2.9
Jose Soriano is going to break out as an ace one of these days! The Angels righty wields one of the most electric arms in the league which helps him readily crack triple digits on his fastballs and toss an absolute doozy of a curveball. The biggest hindrance for Soriano has been his ability translate his stuff into strikeouts and reduce his walks — two of the most pivotal aspects of being an MLB pitcher. His saving grace is how proficient he is at generating ground balls. If he can find a way to improve his K-BB% to even MLB average, we could be looking at clear-cut front of the rotation starter thanks to his incredible arm talent.
Boldness: Extreme — This would require Jose Soriano to perform like a Top 10 pitcher in the American League. It is within reason, but still unlikely.
Los Angeles Dodgers
Prediction: Shohei Ohtani leads NL in wRC+ and ERA
TWP, Age: 31, B/T: L/R, 6′ 4″/210 lbs
DOB: 1994-07-05, Oshu, Japan
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
158
727
55
20
25.7%
15.0%
172
7.5
2026 Proj
157
679
48
26
24.1%
13.8%
165
6.1
Expecting Shohei Ohtani to lead the NL in wRC+ is not even a mild prediction — he has done so since joining the Dodgers in 2024. Expecting him to also lead the NL in ERA is what makes this prediction bold. The two-way superstar is making his way back to pitching full-time since undergoing TJS at the end of the 2023 season. Leading both metrics would be an incredible feat, and if there is one player that can do it, it is Ohtani — literally, he is the only two-way player. Since these are ratios, I will add in the condition that Ohtani must exceed both 502 PA (Qualified) and 120.0 IP for this prediction to be valid.
Boldness: Extreme — Ohtani leading in either metrics would not surprise me. Doing both at the same time makes this extremely bold.
Miami Marlins
Prediction: Eury Perez wins the NL Cy Young Award
P, Age: 22, Throws: R, 6′ 8″/220 lbs
DOB: 2003-04-15, Santiago, Dominican Republic
2026 MLB Pitching Projections
SeasonIPERAWHIPK%BB%FIPWAR
2025
95.1
4.25
1.05
27.3%
8.3%
3.67
1.9
2026 Proj
135.0
4.04
1.21
25.9%
8.3%
3.93
2.3
Eury Perez is my favourite pitcher. From his time as a prospect in the DSL to debuting at just 20-years-old, I have been rooting for him the whole way. Perez is finally starting his first full MLB season four years into career, and I could not be more ecstatic. One glimpse at his pitch data supports this prediction — elite fastballs, a medley of breaking balls, and an unhittable (although inconsistent) changeup. He looked effective following his return from TJS last season which involved a brand-new sweeper and improved peripherals from his strong rookie campaign. I believe that Perez has the talent to be the best pitcher in the world and can stake his claim as the most valuable pitcher in the National League this season.
Boldness: Bold — Eury Perez lacks the durability, consistency, and experience of the best arms in the NL, but I still believe he is as talented as them.
Milwaukee Brewers
Prediction: Jackson Chourio posts a 30-30 season
CF, Age: 22, B/T: R/R, 6′ 1″/199 lbs
DOB: 2004-03-11, Maracaibo, Venezuela
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
131
589
21
21
20.5%
5.1%
111
2.9
2026 Proj
151
651
25
24
20.1%
6.0%
117
2.9
Jackson Chourio is a budding superstar. His performance in MLB at his age is nearly unprecedented and he likely would have registered a 30-30 season if it was not for an injury that hurt his production and restricted him to just 131 games last season. With a full offseason to recover, I expect Chourio to hit the ground running (literally) and return with his best season yet. He has the offensive skillset to be a dynamic force at the top of the Brewers lineup and solidify himself as one of the best young players in the league.
Boldness: Medium — Chourio’s eventually recording a 30-30 season feels inevitable.
Minnesota Twins
Prediction: Matt Wallner finishes Top 10 in AL HR
RF, Age: 28, B/T: L/R, 6′ 4″/220 lbs
DOB: 1997-12-12, Forest Lake, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
104
392
22
4
29.1%
11.7%
114
1.4
2026 Proj
110
476
22
4
30.8%
10.7%
120
2.1
Matt Wallner has always intrigued me thanks to his immense raw power and tendency to pull fly balls. I even went as far as making a bold prediction that he would lead MLB in home runs last season. While that was foolish — both in the moment and in hindsight — I still have confidence that Wallner has the talent to be a premier slugger. Situated in the heart of the Twins order and in a home park that leans slightly positive for LHH, Wallner should have plenty of opportunity to let his power shine through.
Boldness: Bold — I have no doubt if he has the power to do this, but will he hit well enough against LHP for him to maximize his chances.
New York Mets
Prediction: Bo Bichette leads MLB in RBI
SS, Age: 28, B/T: R/R, 5′ 11″/190 lbs
DOB: 1998-03-05, Orlando, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
139
628
18
4
14.5%
6.4%
133
3.8
2026 Proj
152
658
19
6
16.3%
6.4%
121
4.4
A handful of factors need to be considered when predicting a player leading MLB in RBI, with the most important being team context. If your teammates are not getting on base before you are up to bat, you will not have many opportunities to drive in runners. Thankfully for Bo Bichette, he has two of the best hitters in the league directly ahead of him in the lineup — Lindor and Soto. Not only should his teammates provide him a plethora of situations to produce runs, Bichette is one of the best hitters in the league when it comes to putting the ball in play. His aggressive and contact-oriented approach has helped him lead MLB in hits multiple seasons in his career — yet another reason why this prediction feels realistic despite bearish projections.
Boldness: Medium — Projections don’t see it — likely due to lack of context — but this seems realistic.
New York Yankees
Prediction: Ben Rice leads MLB first basemen in HR
1B, Age: 27, B/T: L/R, 6′ 2″/228 lbs
DOB: 1999-02-22, Cohasset, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
138
530
26
3
18.9%
9.4%
132
3.0
2026 Proj
128
546
27
4
21.0%
10.3%
123
2.6
One quick look at Ben Rice’s underlying metrics from 2025 is all you need to understand this prediction. He registered an elite 57.7 HardHit% in conjunction with a 14.9 Barrel% en route to being one of the best hitters in baseball. Not only did Rice produce at a high clip, he was arguably the unluckiest player in the league with a cavernous gap between his actual and expected results. The Yankees are set on Rice playing nearly everyday which should hopefully allow him to translate his impressive power metrics to surpass his contemporaries in home runs at first base.
Boldness: Bold — First base is top loaded with big-time sluggers, and I expect Rice to be part of that group. Will he play enough against LHP to keep up?
Philadelphia Phillies
Prediction: Justin Crawford leads MLB in steals
CF, Age: 22, B/T: L/R, 6′ 2″/188 lbs
DOB: 2004-01-13, Phoenix, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
————————
2026 Proj
123
532
8
28
20.7%
7.3%
99
1.9
Do you know who led MLB in stolen bases last season? No, it was not Jose Ramirez or Bobby Witt. Not Elly nor Trea Turner. It was Jose Caballero. Yes, the partially backup middle infielder for the Rays and the Yankees registered a league leading 49 stolen bases last season. So why not the Phillies new CF in Justin Crawford? The 22-year-old’s pro career has been defined by his blistering speed and extremely high ground ball rate — two traits that should work hand-in-hand to rack up steals. I do not expect Crawford to be a prolific slugger, but he should put enough balls in play — mostly ground balls — that he will find himself at first base very often. From there, he can be a nuisance on the basepaths when the Phillies lineup turns over. Batting at the bottom of the order puts a damper on this prediction, however, he definitely has the tools to make it happen.
Boldness: Extreme — My biggest concern is if Crawford hits well enough to stick in the Majors.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Prediction: Braxton Ashcraft receives NL Cy Young Award votes
P, Age: 26, Throws: R, 6′ 5″/218 lbs
DOB: 1999-10-05, Waco, USA
2026 MLB Pitching Projections
SeasonIPERAWHIPK%BB%FIPWAR
2025
69.2
2.71
1.25
24.3%
8.2%
2.78
1.6
2026 Proj
149.0
3.84
1.28
20.7%
7.1%
3.82
2.0
Everything about Braxton Ashcraft’s profile screams future middle-of-the-rotation arm: sturdy frame, deep pitch mix, high velocity, and solid command. Given that he was one of the more unheralded arms in the Pirates loaded farm system, it would be poetic if he ended up as the first to receive Cy Young votes. The key to his success will be sustaining his otherworldly slider which dices up batters of either handedness. He gracefully locates it on the edges of the zone in all counts, leading to awkward swings and plenty of whiffs. After a handful of trades this winter, Ashcraft is firmly entrenched in the Pirates rotation and all signs point to a breakout in his first full season.
Boldness: Extreme — This would require Braxton Ashcraft to perform like a Top 10 pitcher in the National League. It is within reason, but still unlikely.
San Diego Padres
Prediction: Jackson Merrill is an NL MVP finalist
CF, Age: 22, B/T: L/R, 6′ 2″/195 lbs
DOB: 2003-04-19, Baltimore, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
115
483
16
1
22.4%
6.8%
116
3.0
2026 Proj
146
630
24
7
19.2%
6.6%
119
4.3
Jackson Merrill had a season to forget after he landed on the IL three different times in 2025. Despite the multitude of injuries, Merrill posted a 3-win season while sustaining solid batted ball metrics and positive results in center field. This prediction, however, is rooted in Merrill’s exceptional rookie season — what I believe to be more indicative of his true talent. With a full offseason of rest, I expect Merrill to post his best season yet and compete for the most valuable player in the National League. He has the contact skills, power, aggression, glove, and speed to be a superstar!
Boldness: Bold — He definitely has the talent, but the competition is fierce.
San Francisco Giants
Prediction: Jung Hoo Lee leads NL in hits
CF, Age: 27, B/T: L/R, 6′ 0″/196 lbs
DOB: 1998-08-20, Seoul, Republic of Korea
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
150
617
8
10
11.5%
7.6%
107
2.4
2026 Proj
141
609
10
9
10.7%
7.7%
109
2.2
Jung Hoo Lee has all the traits required to rack up a ton of hits, except one — a spot at the top of the order. This prediction is based on the notion that Lee deserves to be the Giants leadoff hitter. He has the patience and contact skills to set the table for the Giants’ slew of sluggers in the heart of the order in addition to strong running instincts to cause havoc on the bases. The acquisition of Luis Arraez may limit Lee’s exposure to the #1 spot in the lineup, but I believe his talent will shine through and force the Giants to have him bat at the top of the order.
Boldness: Extreme — No matter how much I like him, Lee is already fighting an uphill battle given his expected lineup placement.
Seattle Mariners
Prediction: Brendan Donovan leads AL in runs scored
2B, Age: 29, B/T: L/R, 5′ 11″/210 lbs
DOB: 1997-01-16, Wurzberg, Germany
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
118
515
10
3
13.0%
8.2%
118
2.9
2026 Proj
130
560
12
5
13.7%
8.9%
119
3.0
Brendan Donovan is nowhere near projected to even lead his own team in runs, with Steamer expecting him to land 20 runs shy of Cal Raleigh. This is understandable as Donovan has never eclipsed 65 runs scored in his career, however, that was St. Louis Donovan — Seattle Donovan is in a perfect situation to be one of the more prolific run scorers in the league as the Mariners lead-off batter. His innate ability to get on base thanks to his balanced approach and excellent contact skills line him up perfectly for the plethora of Mariners sluggers that follow him in the lineup. As an above average bat at the top of one of the most dangerous offenses in the American League, this prediction feels well within the reasonable outcomes for the new Mariners third baseman.
Boldness: Bold — Projections don’t see it — likely due to lack of context — but this seems realistic.
St. Louis Cardinals
Prediction: Kyle Leahy leads Cardinals pitchers in fWAR
P, Age: 28, Throws: R, 6′ 5″/225 lbs
DOB: 1997-06-04, Boulder, USA
2026 MLB Pitching Projections
SeasonIPERAWHIPK%BB%FIPWAR
2025
88.0
3.07
1.23
22.0%
7.7%
3.04
1.4
2026 Proj
123.0
4.16
1.35
19.2%
8.4%
4.16
1.0
Kyle Leahy ranked 3rd in Cardinals fWAR in 2025, behind Sonny Gray and Matthew Liberatore. The impressive part — Leahy did this as a reliever. Transitioning into a starter after 4 years of relief work is no simple task, but I believe that Leahy has the skillset perfectly geared to being a starter. His 6-pitch mix gives him the versatility to tackle any batter and he has the command to keep his pitch count in check. I would be remiss to not mention that he also wields one of the best breaking balls in the league with his sweeper. I am very excited to see how he does this season.
Boldness: Medium — The Cardinals rotation is not particularly imposing. My biggest concern is if Leahy can sustain a starter’s workload.
Tampa Bay Rays
Prediction: Ben Williamson wins the AL Utility Gold Glove
3B, Age: 25, B/T: R/R, 6′ 0″/210 lbs
DOB: 2000-11-05, Fairfax, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
85
295
1
5
21.7%
5.1%
76
0.4
2026 Proj
62
266
3
5
20.8%
6.9%
84
0.6
The Rays landed Ben Williamson is the 3-team deal that sent Brendan Donovan to the Mariners. Although an innocuous add at the time, Williamson may end up being an integral aspect of the Rays roster this season. His carrying aspect is an outstanding glove that garnered praise throughout his college and pro career. Williamson, who has played an overwhelming majority of his time at third, has been starting games at both SS and 2B during Spring Training. This is a very encouraging sign as it exhibits the trust that the Rays have in his glove, and is the main catalyst for this prediction. I do not expect Williamson to be even an average bat, but if he is good enough at the dish, a utility gold glove feels well within reach.
Boldness: Extreme — Even though the glove is great, Williamson might be limited given his poor offensive upside.
Texas Rangers
Prediction: Wyatt Langford is an AL MVP finalist
LF, Age: 24, B/T: R/R, 6′ 0″/225 lbs
DOB: 2001-11-15, Trenton, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
134
573
22
22
26.4%
12.9%
118
4.1
2026 Proj
149
644
25
22
22.6%
11.7%
125
4.5
Wyatt Langford is a budding superstar; there is no denying that. The 2023 4th overall pick has been everything and more that the Rangers hoped for, and I believe there is another gear to his game. The young righty was superb in 2025, amassing 4.1 fWAR and posting a 118 wRC+ with excellent defense in both center and left field. His offensive profile is well rounded, highlighted by his innate ability to barrel the ball and to lay off bad pitches. These talents were on full display in the second half of 2025 where he posted a 16.6 BB% and 14.9 Barrel% — two metrics that would squarely place him in the upper echelon of batters in terms of patience and power. Projections expect Langford to progress steadily with a 125 wRC+ and 4.5 fWAR season. I have no question that the bat can outpace that projection — he has already set a new max EV of 115.8 MPH this spring — and if he can carve out a more meaningful role in CF, we could be looking at a 6-win player!
Boldness: Mild — Langford is already amazing. This does not feel very bold.
Toronto Blue Jays
Prediction: Daulton Varsho receives AL MVP votes
CF, Age: 29, B/T: L/R, 5′ 8″/207 lbs
DOB: 1996-07-02, Marshfield, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
71
271
20
2
28.4%
6.3%
122
2.2
2026 Proj
138
595
29
9
25.6%
7.7%
102
2.7
Daulton Varsho leaned as much as he ever has on his pull-air approach in 2025 and it paid dividends. With a 123 wRC+ across 71 games, Varsho was one of the most valuable hitters on a very strong Blue Jays offense while still grading out excellently with the glove. This change was spearheaded by a +2 MPH increase in bat speed and a much more aggressive approach — both at the expense of contact. The shift proved beneficial as it allowed Varsho to pounce on pitchers early and utilize his steep uppercut swing to deposit pulled fly balls over the right field wall. The increase in strikeouts is more of a feature rather than a defect. Projections have Varsho tabbed as a league average hitter with a solid glove — two descriptions that I think sell the center fielder short. The changes he made with his approach last season feel sustainable and I have learned to not doubt his glove until proven otherwise. A healthy Varsho heading into his contract year has all the tools to put up his best season yet!
Boldness: Bold — Varsho has dealt with his fair share of injuries, which makes me bearish both on his playing time and offensive upside.
Washington Nationals
Prediction: James Wood leads NL in home runs
LF, Age: 23, B/T: L/R, 6′ 6″/234 lbs
DOB: 2002-09-17, Rockville, USA
2026 MLB Batting Projections
SeasonGPAHRSBK%BB%wRC+WAR
2025
157
689
31
15
32.1%
12.3%
127
3.3
2026 Proj
149
644
27
16
29.0%
12.1%
128
3.2
James Wood is a behemoth. The budding star launched 31 home runs last season, which was unfortunately accompanied by the most strikeouts in MLB — 20 more than Riley Greene. While I do not expect those strikeout numbers to meaningfully fall, I do expect the now 23-year-old slugger to take another step toward being one of the most dangerous power hitters in the league. There are few players that rival Wood’s power upside, and even fewer that are as young as he is. Projections have him tabbed him nearly half of Shohei Ohtani’s projected home run total (48), which I believe is far too bearish.
Boldness: Extreme — Projections have Wood well behind his competitors, and we have seen how volatile his profile is.
