MLB All Underrated Team

The MLB is filled with breakout players and overlooked performers. Roughly 50 games into the season, we’re starting to get a clearer picture of who is emerging as a true impact player—and who is still flying under the radar. Here is the All-Underrated Team, highlighting players at each position who deserve more recognition for their production so far in 2026.

Baldwin has been one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 season. Through 47 games, he leads the league in runs scored (39) and owns a .928 OPS with 13 home runs and 38 RBIs. He’s quietly putting together an MVP-caliber campaign, yet hasn’t received nearly the national attention it deserves.

He’s a major reason the Braves are off to a strong start, and his 2.3 WAR already reflects his overall impact on both offense and winning baseball games.

Runner up: Shea Langeliers, Athletics

Another Braves standout, Olson continues to be one of the most consistent and underappreciated stars in baseball. Since taking over at first base after Freddie Freeman’s departure, Olson has quietly delivered elite production year after year.

He remains on track for another typical season: 30+ home runs, 95+ RBIs, and an OPS around .850. Through the early portion of 2026, he already has 14 home runs, 38 RBIs, 15 doubles (league-leading), and a 2.4 WAR.

On top of his offense, Olson provides elite defense and is regularly in the Platinum Glove conversation.

Runner up: Christian Walker, Houston Astros

Turang has developed into a complete, high-level player. While often labeled a contact hitter, he’s added surprising offensive value while maintaining elite on-base skills and strong defense at second base.

He currently leads the league in on-base percentage at .409, helping anchor a Brewers team that continues to compete in a tough NL Central.

Runner up: Xavier Edwards, Miami Marlins

The White Sox appear to have unlocked Vargas’s full potential. Once a highly regarded Dodgers prospect, he is finally producing at an All-Star level in Chicago.

Through 45 games, Vargas has posted an .880 OPS with 11 home runs, 29 RBIs, and a 2.1 WAR. His breakout has gone largely unnoticed due to the White Sox market, but his performance has been excellent.

Runner up: Max Muncy, Los Angeles Dodgers

Lopez is enjoying a true breakout season in 2026. In 46 games, he leads MLB in hits (63) and batting average (.344). While he doesn’t provide much power, his contact skills and consistency have made him one of the most productive hitters in the league.

His defensive reliability and 2.4 WAR further reinforce how valuable he has been—even if he doesn’t get much national attention playing in Miami.

Runner up: Kevin McGonigle, Detroit Tigers

Bellinger remains one of the most complete and quietly valuable players in baseball. He contributes elite defense, consistent offensive production, and veteran stability in the Yankees lineup.

He continues to be a key piece of New York’s success in both 2025 and 2026. His 2.4 WAR reflects just how impactful he has been on both sides of the ball.

Runner up: Ian Happ, Chicago Cubs

Pages has taken a major step forward in 2026. Despite being surrounded by superstar talent in Los Angeles, he has emerged as one of the Dodgers’ most productive players.

He currently holds a 3.1 WAR, leads MLB in RBIs (41), and has an .873 OPS. His offensive production, combined with strong defensive value, has made him one of the most underrated breakout players in baseball.

Runner up: Mike Trout

Walker has officially arrived. After years of anticipation, he is now producing at an MVP level at just 24 years old.

He leads MLB with a 173 OPS+, owns a .955 OPS, and has 13 home runs with 34 RBIs in the early going. His 3.0 WAR and strong defensive development point to a true five-tool star emerging in St. Louis.

Runner up: Wilyer Abreu, Boston Red Sox

In terms of pure hitting ability, Alvarez remains one of the most dangerous hitters in baseball. When healthy, he is a consistent force in the middle of Houston’s lineup.

Through 2026 so far, he already has a 1.9 WAR primarily as a DH, along with his usual elite power production. He is on pace for another season of 30+ home runs, 95+ RBIs, and an OPS well above .900.

Runner up: Brent Rooker, Athletics

What Ohtani is doing on the mound deserves its own spotlight. While his hitting is well known, his pitching dominance in 2026 has been just as impressive.

Through seven starts, he owns a 0.82 ERA, 50 strikeouts in 44 innings, and a 0.818 WHIP. He is firmly in Cy Young territory and remains the most unique two-way force in MLB history.

Runner up: Davis Martin, Chicago White Sox

Varland has been dominant since transitioning from starter to reliever after joining Toronto. In 23 innings, he has posted a 0.38 ERA with 34 strikeouts and a 1.4 WAR.

He has also taken over closing duties and already has five saves. Simply put, he has become one of the most dominant bullpen arms in baseball.

Runner up: Aaron Ashby, Milwaukee Brewers

Although it is still early in the 2026 season, it’s clear which players have taken major steps forward. While some may cool off as the season progresses, these players have earned recognition for their early-season production and impact on winning baseball.