The second installment of El-Balad’s MLB Power Rankings for the 2026 season reveals significant trends and surprises across the league. Teams have experienced considerable shifts in performance since the previous rankings on Opening Day, with standout players making an impact. The next rankings will be released on May 4, 2026.
2026 MLB Power Rankings: Early Team Surprises
- 1. Los Angeles Dodgers
Record: 15-6 (6-4 last 10 games)
Notable Players: Daulton Rushing (5 home runs), Andy Pages (1.061 OPS) - 2. Atlanta Braves
Record: 15-7 (8-2 last 10 games)
Key Player: Bryce Elder (0.77 ERA) - 3. San Diego Padres
Record: 15-7 (9-1 last 10 games)
Star Pitcher: Mason Miller (11.1 innings, 27 strikeouts) - 4. New York Yankees
Record: 13-9 (5-5 last 10 games)
Standout: Cam Schlitter (1.95 ERA) - 5. Chicago Cubs
Record: 12-9 (7-3 last 10 games)
Highlight Player: Shota Imanaga (2.45 ERA)
Additional Noteworthy Teams
- 6. Detroit Tigers
Record: 12-10 (8-2 last 10 games) - 7. Pittsburgh Pirates
Record: 13-9 (6-4 last 10 games)
New Additions: Brandon Lowe, Ryan O’Hearn - 8. Seattle Mariners
Record: 10-13 (6-4 last 10 games)
Struggling Stars: Julio Rodríguez, Cal Raleigh - 9. Milwaukee Brewers
Record: 12-9 (4-6 last 10 games) - 10. Tampa Bay Rays
Record: 12-9 (7-3 last 10 games)
Struggles and Surprises
- 27. New York Mets
Record: 7-15 (0-10 last 10 games)
Disappointing Player: Bo Bichette (.217 average) - 30. Kansas City Royals
Record: 7-15 (2-8 last 10 games)
Key Player: Bobby Witt Jr. (no home runs)
This edition of the MLB Power Rankings highlights young talent, pitching performances, and team dynamics. With substantial improvements from several teams and others facing challenges, the landscape of baseball is evolving rapidly this season. Stay tuned for the next rankings to see who makes the biggest moves in the coming weeks.
