MLB Breakout Players to Watch in 2026

1. Samuel Basallo C/DH

The Orioles’ former No. 1 prospect experienced a modest introduction to the majors in 2025, but the organization’s belief in him has never wavered. At just 21 years old, Basallo’s advanced hit tool and power upside earned him an eight-year, $67 million extension in August — a clear indication of Baltimore’s long-term vision. With a full offseason behind him, expect Basallo to settle in as a middle-of-the-order presence and a foundational piece of this lineup in 2026.

2. Jackson Holliday 2B

The 2022 No. 1 overall pick completed his first full MLB season, and while the production didn’t fully match expectations, the talent remains undeniable. Holliday’s athleticism, bat speed, and baseball IQ suggest far more than a one-WAR player. At just 22 years old, a significant statistical jump in 2026 feels not only possible — but likely.

1. Roman Anthony OF

The top prospect in baseball enters his second big league season with legitimate MVP upside. Anthony possesses true five-tool ability and plays with maturity beyond his years. Whether the breakout fully materializes in 2026 or shortly thereafter, Boston has a franchise cornerstone. Don’t be surprised if he enters early MVP conversations.

2. Wilyer Abreu OF

Abreu is set to take over a full-time role in the outfield and establish himself as a key piece of the lineup. He pairs legitimate power with elite defense, earning back-to-back Gold Glove Awards in 2024 and 2025. After battling injuries last season, a healthy 2026 could be a breakout year. If he stays on the field, Abreu has 30-home run potential and projects as a major run producer in the middle of the Red Sox order, with the ability to impact games against both right- and left-handed pitching.

1. Cam Schlittler SP

Schlittler introduced himself on the postseason stage, showcasing an electric fastball and swing-and-miss ability. Command consistency and further development of his secondary offerings will determine his ceiling, but the raw tools are undeniable. With rotation injuries impacting the Yankees, 2026 presents a prime opportunity for him to emerge as a key contributor.

2. Ryan Weathers SP

Acquired from Miami, Weathers represents a high-upside addition to New York’s rotation depth. Injuries have slowed his development, but his underlying metrics — particularly his velocity and sinker profile — are encouraging. Under the guidance of the Yankees’ pitching development staff, Weathers could quietly become one of the more impactful arms in the division.

1. Joe Boyle SP

Boyle has the tools to become a highly effective starting pitcher in the major leagues. His electric fastball sits comfortably in the 97–98 mph range, complemented by a sharp slider and a sweeping breaking ball. Control has been his main challenge throughout the minors, but with improved command this spring, Boyle could secure a spot in the rotation and emerge as a key contributor for the Rays moving forward.

2. Carson Williams SS

Williams endured some struggles during his brief major league stint in 2025, but his body of work in the minors has been encouraging. Over five seasons, he posted a solid .816 OPS, showcasing his offensive upside. While his batting average and swing-and-miss tendencies remain areas for improvement, his power and athleticism provide a strong foundation. If he makes the necessary adjustments this offseason, a productive spring could position him to emerge as a reliable contributor in 2026.

1. Trey Yesavage SP

If his postseason performance is any indication, Yesavage is ready for the spotlight. Tossing 5.1 hitless innings with 11 strikeouts against the Yankees in the ALDS showcased his electric splitter and composure under pressure. Toronto may have found a long-term rotation anchor.

2. Kazuma Okamoto 3B

Landing one of Japan’s premier power hitters signals Toronto’s aggressive intent. Okamoto brings right-handed power and middle-of-the-order presence to a team seeking offensive stability. Replacing a bat like Bo Bichette’s is no small task, but Okamoto has the talent to make an immediate impact — and potentially enter Rookie of the Year discussions.

1. Colson Montgomery SS

Montgomery’s abbreviated rookie campaign in 2025 was quietly impressive. In less than half a season, he launched 21 home runs, posted an .840 OPS, and accumulated 3.3 WAR — production that projects extremely well over a full year. The former top prospect has the size, power, and defensive profile to become a cornerstone player. If he builds on that sample size, Montgomery could emerge as one of the American League’s breakout stars in 2026.

2. Munetaka Murakami 1B

Chicago made an unexpected splash by signing Murakami, one of Japan’s most accomplished sluggers. Baseball fans saw flashes of his ability during the World Baseball Classic, where his power was on full display. Murakami brings legitimate middle-of-the-order thunder from the left side. For a young White Sox club seeking identity and star power, this could prove to be a transformative addition.

1. Travis Bazzana 2B

The 2024 No. 1 overall pick continues to surge through the minor leagues and appears close to making his major league debut. Bazzana’s advanced bat-to-ball skills and offensive polish fit Cleveland’s developmental model perfectly. If he cracks the roster in 2026, his impact could be immediate for a lineup in need of consistent production.

2. Gavin Williams SP

Williams quietly put together an outstanding 2025 campaign, posting a 3.06 ERA with 173 strikeouts across 167 innings. While his walk rate — which led the league — remains a concern, improved command in 2026 could elevate him into another tier. Armed with electric stuff, plus velocity, and sharp movement on his pitches, Williams has the tools to emerge as a dark horse Cy Young candidate. Expect him to take another significant step forward this season.

1. Kerry Carpenter DH

Carpenter’s 2025 regular season was uneven, largely due to missed time, but his postseason performance was a reminder of his offensive upside. When healthy and in rhythm, he remains one of the purest hitters in the league. Durability will be the key. If he stays on the field, Carpenter could reemerge as a central force in Detroit’s lineup.

2. Kevin McGonigle SS

Though likely to begin 2026 in the upper minors, McGonigle’s ascension feels inevitable. Ranked among the top prospects in baseball, he blends power, speed, and advanced offensive instincts. It may only be a matter of time before he injects serious energy into the Tigers’ roster.

1. Carter Jensen DH

Jensen’s 2025 Triple-A numbers were eye-opening, including an OPS north of 1.000 in a limited sample. The Royals view him as a long-term successor behind the plate, and his offensive upside may allow him to impact the lineup immediately. Kansas City appears to have another foundational bat developing internally.

2. Jac Caglianone OF

The former first-round pick and top-10 prospect didn’t post strong numbers in his first major league stint, but the surface stats don’t tell the full story. Caglianone produces loud contact, generates elite exit velocities, and consistently barrels the baseball. The results may have lagged behind the tools, but the underlying metrics are highly encouraging. He has the potential to become a middle-of-the-order bat, and 2026 could be the start of a long, productive career.

1. Luke Keaschall 2B

Keaschall impressed during his 49-game rookie stint, hitting .302 with an .827 OPS. His balanced offensive profile and competitive approach suggest sustainable production rather than a small-sample surge. The Twins may have uncovered a long-term infield fixture.

2. Walker Jenkins OF

One of baseball’s top prospects, Jenkins brings a well-rounded skill set that includes power, on-base ability, and speed. His rapid development suggests his debut could arrive sooner rather than later. If he breaks camp or earns an early-season promotion, Jenkins has the talent to make immediate noise.

1. Nick Kurz 1B

The reigning Rookie of the Year has already broken out — but his ceiling suggests even more is coming. A 5.4 WAR season paired with a 1.002 OPS as a rookie signals superstar potential. At just 23 years old, Kurtz could elevate from emerging star to legitimate MVP dark horse in 2026.

2. Jacob Lopez SP

Lopez quietly impressed with 113 strikeouts in 92.2 innings last season. The swing-and-miss ability is real. If he improves efficiency and durability, he could solidify himself as a dependable mid-rotation arm for an Athletics team searching for stability.

1. Tatsuya Imai SP

With Framber Valdez departing in free agency, Imai steps into a high-leverage role. The former Japanese standout brings a deep arsenal and advanced pitchability. If his stuff translates seamlessly, Houston may have uncovered another international pitching success story.

2. Mike Burrows SP

Acquired from Pittsburgh, Burrows profiles as a versatile arm capable of filling multiple roles. While some project him as a reliever long-term, Houston’s development track record suggests he could exceed expectations in a back-end rotation role.

1. Nolan Schanuel 1B

Schanuel’s development path has been unconventional, reaching the majors almost immediately after being drafted. Now with time to refine his approach, 2026 could be the year his power numbers catch up with his on-base skills. A full breakout feels overdue.

2. Grayson Rodriguez SP

Rodriguez still possesses a frontline starter upside. If he stays healthy, he immediately becomes the Angels’ most talented arm. A reset season in a new environment could unlock the consistency that has eluded him.

1. Dominic Canzone DH

In just 82 games last season, Canzone made a strong impression at the plate. The left-handed hitter excelled against right-handed pitching, posting a .300 average with an .840 OPS — impressive production for a platoon role. If he builds on that performance, Canzone could be a
key X-factor for the Mariners in 2026, providing balance and added depth to the lineup.

2. Colt Emerson SS

The No. 9 prospect in baseball appears on track for a 2026 call-up. Emerson has surged through the minor leagues, posting an .841 OPS and finishing strong in Triple-A, where he hit .364 in a brief stint. If he carries that momentum into a strong spring, it will be difficult to keep him off the roster. Whether at shortstop, second, or third base, Emerson has the talent to force his way into the lineup.

1. Wyatt Langford OF

Despite battling injury, Langford still posted a 5.6 WAR season — an impressive feat considering he was not fully healthy. With a clean bill of health, his five-tool profile gives him legitimate MVP upside.

2. Evan Carter OF

Injuries have slowed Carter’s early career, but the talent remains evident. At just 23 years old, he still projects as a dynamic everyday center fielder capable of impacting the game on both sides of the ball.

1. Spencer Strider SP

Strider’s 2025 season was understandably uneven as he worked back from Tommy John surgery. Fully healthy, he remains one of the most dominant strikeout pitchers in the sport. A return to Cy Young form would dramatically elevate Atlanta’s rotation.

2. JR Ritchie SP

Ritchie impressed across multiple minor league levels last season. With a fastball that touches 97 mph and a refined secondary mix, he appears poised to contribute when called upon — possibly sooner rather than later.

1. Eury Perez SP

After a rehab-focused 2025, Pérez is positioned for a statement season. His upper-90s velocity and advanced secondary pitches give him ace potential. Improved command could elevate him into one of the National League’s premier young starters.

2. Thomas White SP

Between Robby Snelling and Thomas White, they are both going to be great pitchers for this Miami team. White has the edge just because his fastball is more consistent, touching 99 mph, and he has better armside run and carry on his pitches. White should be up in the majors in 2026 as he is a highly touted prospect and has shown out the last three years in the minors.

1. Nolan McLean SP

McLean’s pitch movement and raw stuff generate elite swing-and-miss rates. Command refinement remains the final step, but if he takes it, he could anchor the Mets’ rotation and contend for Rookie of the Year honors.

2. Luis Robert Jr. OF

A change of scenery may unlock Robert’s full potential. When healthy and engaged, he is a dynamic center fielder with 30–40 home run capability. Surrounded by stronger roster support, 2026 could be a career year.

1. Andrew Painter SP

After battling injuries, Painter finally enters a season with stability. His fastball and advanced command give him ace potential, even if workload management remains a factor. With a guaranteed rotation spot, Painter will thrive and show Philly fans what they have been missing, while giving them a glimpse of the future.

2. Justin Crawford OF

Crawford’s speed and defensive ability make him a natural fit in center field. While power may still develop, his on-base skills and athleticism could make him a valuable everyday contributor. This feels like an energy shifting player in Philadelphia that could take this team to the next level with his speed and defensive ability.

1. Dylan Crews OF

Crews endured a difficult 2025 campaign, but his pedigree and athletic profile remain elite. A reset year could restore him as a cornerstone piece for Washington’s rebuild. It is too early in his career to write him off as a player. The former number two overall pick will be just fine and he will show Washington fans his untapped potential in 2026.

2. Daylen Lile OF

Lile’s rookie performance was quietly impressive. With strong underlying metrics and defensive value, a full season could solidify him as one of the Nationals’ most dependable young players. The 23 year-old will be one of the more exciting players in this Washington lineup alongside James Wood and Dylan Crews.

1. Moises Ballesteros DH

Ballesteros’ bat is ready. His compact swing and ability to drive the ball to all fields give him legitimate middle-of-the-order upside. In limited MLB action, he showed he can handle velocity and advanced sequencing. If Chicago commits to consistent at-bats, 25+ home runs is realistic in 2026.

2. Edward Cabrera SP

Cabrera’s stuff has never been the issue — an upper-90s fastball and swing-and-miss breaking ball give him frontline upside. The key is command and durability. If the Cubs help him cut down the walks, he has the arsenal to evolve from volatile arm to impact starter.

1. Sal Stewart 1B

One of the better hitters on this Reds team, Stewart is going to produce for this Cincinnati team. He is a 22 year old power hitting first baseman and will get his shot at being an everyday player. 1.023 OPS in 38 AAA games suggests he is going to be a prolific hitter for quite some time.

2. Chase Burns SP

Burns’ high-90s fastball and wipeout slider translate immediately at the major league level. He already has the swing-and-miss profile of a frontline arm. If health cooperates and command sharpens, he could take a major step forward in 2026.

1. Jacob Misiorowoski SP

Triple-digit velocity and improving secondary pitches give Misiorowski one of the highest ceilings in the division. When his command is locked in, he’s nearly unhittable. If he trims the free passes, ace-level production isn’t far-fetched.

2. Angel Zerpa RP

Zerpa fits Milwaukee’s bullpen blueprint perfectly — mid-to-upper 90s from the left side with improving strike-throwing. In an organization known for maximizing pitching talent, he could quietly become a key late-inning arm.

1. Bubba Chandler SP

If Paul Skenes were not a part of this Pirates team, Chandler would be far and away the best, and most exciting pitcher in this rotation. Chandler is an outstanding prospect with a high 90s fastball and great command and is going to blow up in 2026. The Pirates are going to be an exciting and underrated team in 2026.

2. Konnor Griffin SS/OF

The top-ranked prospect in the majors, Griffin is on track to become an outstanding MLB player. At just 19 years old, he has excelled at every level of the minors. In 2025, over 122 games, Griffin posted a .333 batting average with 21 home runs, 65 stolen bases, and a .941 OPS. A true five-tool talent with an undeniable hit tool, he projects as a future MVP and cornerstone for the Pirates. While he will likely begin the season in Triple-A, a standout spring training could earn him a spot in the major league lineup, and it would come as no surprise if he makes an immediate impact whenever he reaches the big leagues.

1. JJ Wetherholt 2B

One of the best prospects in the entire major leagues, Wetherholt is astonishing. He added power in 2025 launching 17 home runs with 10 of them coming in AAA. He is likely going to start his season in the majors if he has a good spring, and he is a bright promising second baseman.

2. Masyn Winn SS

Winn is a fantastic baseball player. He has been an unlucky player to start his career off at the plate, and his numbers are going to improve drastically in 2026. He does not whiff a lot, and his bat speed is decent, he just is not squaring and barreling up the baseball. He is tremendous in the field, and will be good at the dish as well.

1. Pavin Smith DH
Smith has quietly developed into one of the more efficient platoon bats in the National League. His underlying contact quality metrics — particularly hard-hit rate and barrel percentage — suggest his production could climb with consistent at-bats. While he may never be a headline name, Arizona does not need him to be.

2. Jordan Lawlar SS/3B

Lawlar’s development has been interrupted by injuries and roster congestion, but the talent has never been in question. With plus athleticism, above-average bat speed, and defensive versatility, he still projects as an everyday impact player. The acquisition of Nolan Arenado complicates the infield picture, yet elite prospects tend to force their way into opportunity. 2026 feels like a defining season — either as a breakout in Arizona or as a centerpiece elsewhere.

1. Troy Johnston 1B

Claimed off waivers, Johnston now enters a situation tailor-made for offensive opportunity. Coors Field remains the most hitter-friendly environment in baseball, but success there still requires disciplined swing decisions and quality contact — both of which Johnston has shown flashes of in the minors. If he earns everyday at-bats, he could quietly exceed expectations and provide Colorado with much-needed offensive stability.

2. Chase Dollander SP

Dollander’s rookie struggles underscored a harsh reality: velocity alone does not guarantee success, especially in Denver. However, the raw ingredients remain compelling — mid-to-upper 90s fastball, developing breaking ball, and competitive makeup. The next step is sequencing and command refinement. If he improves pitch efficiency and limits damage in high-leverage counts, Dollander could begin reversing the narrative around young Rockies pitchers.

1. Emmet Sheehan SP

Sheehan’s surface-level numbers have not always matched his expected metrics. His strikeout rate, whiff percentage, and extension profile suggest there is another level available. In a rotation loaded with star power, he does not need to be dominant — only dependable. With health and rhythm, Sheehan could quietly become one of the more valuable depth starters in baseball.

2. Roki Sasaki SP

Few pitchers in the league possess Sasaki’s raw arm talent. Upper-90s velocity paired with elite movement gives him ace-caliber upside. His 2025 season was uneven, including a temporary bullpen role during the postseason, but development is rarely linear. If he settles back into a starter’s routine and sharpens command consistency, 2026 could be the year he reminds the league why he was one of the most coveted international arms in recent memory.

1. Jackson Merrill OF

Injuries disrupted Merrill’s momentum in 2025, but the tools remain intact. His combination of bat speed, defensive instincts, and offensive versatility gives him one of the higher ceilings among young outfielders. A fully healthy season should allow his production to normalize — and potentially surge. The Padres need him to be a stabilizing presence, not just a complementary piece.

2. Mason Miller RP

Miller’s breakout has already begun, but dominance can still scale. Triple-digit velocity, elite extension, and late movement make him nearly unhittable when in command. San Diego’s decision to invest heavily in acquiring him signals long-term confidence. If he sustains command improvements, Miller could separate himself as the premier closer in the sport — not just an electric arm.

1. Bryce Eldridge DH/1B

Eldridge’s power is not projection-based — it’s already present. His leverage, bat speed, and ability to drive the ball to all fields suggest 30-home-run potential sooner rather than later. The next phase of his development will revolve around adjusting to advanced sequencing and reducing chase rate. If those improvements come quickly, he could anchor the middle of San Francisco’s lineup for years.

2. Carson Whisenhunt SP/RP

Whisenhunt appears vastly improved after putting in significant work this offseason. He struggled with pitch execution during his first stint with the Giants, but now looks poised to stick in the majors. Whether he settles in as a dominant left-handed reliever or earns a spot in the starting rotation, his upper-90s fastball—already lighting up radar guns—has the potential to play at the highest level.

Every season introduces new stars — and 2026 will be no different. Some of these names will become household players, some will exceed even optimistic projections, and a few will completely shock the league. That’s the nature of breakout seasons: they redefine expectations. By the end of the year, at least a handful of these players won’t just be “breakout candidates” — they’ll be cornerstones.