Here are some bold 2026 MLB predictions, including World Series picks, trades, and other notable events. These predictions are based on current trends and expert opinions, offering a glimpse into the future of baseball.
Breakthrough Teams
- Baltimore Orioles: Expected to win the 2026 World Series. The team added veterans to complement their young talent, with players like Pete Alonso, Taylor Ward, and Gunnar Henderson returning to form. Jackson Holliday is projected to become an All-Star.
- Seattle Mariners: Predicted to win their first World Series title. Julio Rodriguez and Cal Raleigh are expected to excel, and Colt Emerson is tipped to win the AL Rookie of the Year Award.
World Baseball Classic
- The Dominican Republic is expected to win the 2026 World Baseball Classic, featuring a powerful lineup and a strong pitching staff.
Pittsburgh Pirates
- The Pirates are projected to reach the postseason for the first time since 2015. They've made significant improvements to their lineup with additions like Ryan O'Hearn and Brandon Lowe, and Konnor Griffin is tipped to win the NL Rookie of the Year Award.
Blockbuster Trades
- Tarik Skubal: Expected to be traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers in July.
- Kyle Tucker: Predicted to sign a 'pillow contract', with a shorter deal than initially projected.
Themes for 2026
- Small-Market Clubs: Expected to have a breakthrough year, with at least half of the playoff teams in the bottom half of the payroll rankings.
- Worst-to-First Turnarounds: Teams like the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angels, Washington Nationals, and Colorado Rockies are predicted to make significant improvements and reach the postseason.
- 50-Home Run Season: Candidates like James Wood, Riley Greene, and Nick Kurtz are tipped to hit 50 home runs, despite hitting fewer than 40 in 2025.
- Shohei Ohtani: Expected to win the NL Cy Young Award, asserting his dominance as a pitcher.
