MLB 2026 season surprises

The 2026 MLB season has produced plenty of unexpected developments, and beat reporters highlighted the most surprising storyline for each club through mid-June.

American League East

  • Blue Jays: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has started slowly, with only three home runs after a strong postseason stretch.
  • Orioles: Brandon Young has become Baltimore’s most reliable starter after injuries opened a rotation spot.
  • Rays: Drew Rasmussen, Nick Martinez and Shane McClanahan have formed a high-level rotation trio.
  • Red Sox: Rookie left-hander Payton Tolle has moved quickly into an important role for Boston.
  • Yankees: José Caballero’s defense at shortstop has created a real lineup conversation.

American League Central

  • Guardians: Brayan Rocchio has made a notable offensive jump while also helping defensively at shortstop.
  • Royals: Daniel Lynch IV has become Kansas City’s most dependable reliever in a high-leverage role.
  • Tigers: Riley Greene has traded some strikeout-heavy power for better plate discipline and contact quality.
  • Twins: Yoendrys Gómez has stabilized the bullpen after arriving from Tampa Bay.
  • White Sox: The entire offense has taken a step forward, with several players contributing to a division-leading start.

American League West

  • Angels: Walbert Ureña has turned an unexpected opportunity into a strong rookie season.
  • Astros: Spencer Arrighetti has emerged as Houston’s best starter after injuries reshaped the rotation.
  • Athletics: Zack Gelof has revived his value with a long hitting streak and expanded defensive versatility.
  • Mariners: Emerson Hancock has become Seattle’s top All-Star candidate in a rotation full of bigger names.
  • Rangers: Ezequiel Duran has become Texas’ most valuable hitter while covering several positions.

National League East

  • Braves: Mauricio Dubón has delivered repeatedly in clutch situations since joining Atlanta.
  • Marlins: Liam Hicks has turned into an All-Star-level contributor after beginning the season as a bench option.
  • Mets: Jared Young has unexpectedly anchored a high-priced lineup after rebuilding his career overseas.
  • Nationals: Washington’s offense has been one of MLB’s most productive units through mid-June.
  • Phillies: Brandon Marsh has developed from a platoon outfielder into a possible batting-title contender.

National League Central

  • Brewers: Kyle Harrison has exceeded expectations with improved strikeout and walk numbers.
  • Cardinals: Jordan Walker has finally shown the offensive and defensive growth St. Louis had hoped for.
  • Cubs: Ben Brown has become an unexpected rotation success after beginning in a multi-inning relief role.
  • Pirates: Pittsburgh’s offense has climbed into the top 10 after finishing near the bottom in 2025.
  • Reds: JJ Bleday has become a major contributor after signing a one-year deal and earning a call-up in April.

National League West

  • D-backs: Michael Soroka has rebounded with a strong 3.11 ERA through 14 starts.
  • Dodgers: Roki Sasaki has adjusted quickly and improved over his past seven starts.
  • Giants: Casey Schmitt has become one of San Francisco’s steadiest hitters while adding defensive flexibility.
  • Padres: The collective struggles of Manny Machado, Jackson Merrill and Fernando Tatis Jr. have been one of the most surprising offensive stories.
  • Rockies: Troy Johnston has made himself difficult to remove from the lineup with strong production, including 20 doubles entering the weekend.