Each MLB team’s biggest surprise so far in 2026

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.