Tarik Skubal to the Mets? Mariners to the World Series? 26 predictions for the 2026 MLB season

Key Points:

• The 2026 MLB season kicks off with the Yankees visiting the Giants, followed by the other 28 teams starting their seasons over the next two days.
• Key player moves predicted include the Athletics extending contracts of Nick Kurtz and Shea Langeliers, multiple trades at the deadline involving Nathan Eovaldi, Sandy Alcantara, and Byron Buxton, and high-profile free agent signings like Freddy Peralta to the Giants and Tarik Skubal to the Mets.
• Division standings forecasts highlight tight races, especially in the AL East, with the Yankees, Blue Jays, Red Sox, and Orioles separated by just five games, and playoff appearances for teams like the Phillies and Mets in the NL East.
• The postseason is predicted to feature the Dodgers winning the NL pennant over the Cubs and the Mariners capturing the AL pennant after defeating the Yankees in seven games.
• Individual honors are expected to go to Bobby Witt Jr. (AL MVP), Shohei Ohtani (NL MVP), Paul Skenes (NL Cy Young), Garrett Crochet (AL Cy Young), and rookies Kevin McGonigle and JJ Wetherholt, among others.