Predicting the 2026 MLB season, from the playoffs and World Series to MVP and Cy Young
Why it matters: Expert predictions set the stage for a thrilling MLB season, highlighting key contenders and potential breakout stars.
- New York Yankees are the overwhelming favorite to win the AL East with 16 votes, despite the Toronto Blue Jays being the reigning AL champions and having a busy offseason, per Jorge Castillo.
- Los Angeles Dodgers are poised to potentially achieve a historic three-peat as World Series champions, a feat not seen since the 1998-2000 Yankees.
- Shohei Ohtani is anticipated to have a significant impact in his first full season as a two-way player for the Dodgers, adding to the team's formidable lineup.
- Freddy Peralta (Mets) and Alex Bregman (Cubs) are among the star players in new places whose performances will be closely watched, potentially shifting the dynamics in their respective leagues.
- Boston Red Sox received 6 votes for the AL East, with their 89-win season last year suggesting they could be a dark horse contender despite earlier controversies.
As the 2026 MLB season kicks off, ESPN's 30 experts are divided on key predictions, with the New York Yankees heavily favored to win the AL East despite the Toronto Blue Jays being reigning AL champs. The Los Angeles Dodgers are a strong contender for a historic three-peat, while star players like Shohei Ohtani and new acquisitions like Freddy Peralta and Alex Bregman are expected to significantly impact their new teams.
