2026 big unknowns for each MLB team
MLB.com • • general
Key Points:
- Blue Jays' Okamoto, a power hitter from Japan, showed defensive comfort at third base in Spring Training, potentially allowing lineup flexibility and impacting the team's 2026 trajectory.
- Orioles' bullpen depth and performance of new closer Ryan Helsley and other relievers will be crucial, with potential trade deadline moves if the unit underperforms.
- Rays' strong top lineup hitters include Yandy Díaz, Jonathan Aranda, and Junior Caminero, but middle lineup contributions against left-handed pitching remain uncertain.
- Red Sox focused on rotation upgrades and added solid corner bats but lack a true power hitter, relying on young core players and veterans to provide offensive impact.
- Yankees' outfielder Grisham rebounded offensively in 2025, earning a qualifying offer, but must prove his improved performance is sustainable.
- Guardians' middle infielders Arias and Rocchio excel defensively but need offensive improvement, with prospect Travis Bazzana waiting in Triple-A.
- Royals made lineup depth moves and adjusted Kauffman Stadium fences, relying on stars and new additions to improve scoring in 2026.
- Tigers have positional versatility with key center fielder Parker Meadows showing defensive strength and potential offensive growth.
- Twins possess strong left-handed relief but lack a clear right-handed closer, leaving bullpen roles uncertain.
- White Sox's Murakami is a significant addition with potential to influence the team's success if he adjusts well to MLB.
- Angels' Trout returns healthy with restored speed and moves back to center field, aiming to build on a strong late 2025 finish.
- Astros retain center fielder Jake Meyers and rely on young outfielders in corner spots, with questions about offensive consistency.
- Athletics plan to use a closer-by-committee approach, hoping for a reliever to emerge as a full-time closer during the season.
- Mariners face rotation health challenges but have depth to cover injuries, crucial for repeating as AL West champions.
- Rangers' Carter must overcome injury history and improve against lefties to maximize his 2026 opportunities.
- Braves' rotation faces uncertainty with injuries to key pitchers, including veterans and top prospects.
- Marlins expect Morel to rebound as primary first baseman to boost power after a low home run total in 2025.
- Mets' Senga showed promising Spring Training form but must prove durability and consistency over a full season.
- Nationals enter 2026
