2026 MLB awards predictions include a pair of Red Sox in the running for top honors

From potential MVP showdowns to the rise of new pitching stars, the 2026 baseball season promises compelling storylines.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 8:12pm by Ben Kaplan

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The baseball landscape is constantly evolving, and 2026 promises to be a year of compelling storylines. From potential MVP showdowns to the rise of new pitching stars, and even concerns about the integrity of the game, this article provides a look at what to expect this season, including predictions for the major awards and the emergence of new stars.

Why it matters

The 2026 MLB season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with several players and teams poised to make a big impact. The predictions and storylines highlighted in this article provide insight into the key narratives and potential outcomes that will captivate baseball fans throughout the year.

The details

The article predicts that Shohei Ohtani will be a unanimous NL MVP winner, potentially securing his fifth such award. In the AL, Garrett Crochet is emerging as a Cy Young favorite, while in the NL, Paul Skenes, Cristopher Sanchez, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto are expected to contend for the Cy Young. On the rookie front, Trey Yesavage is the frontrunner for AL Rookie of the Year, while Konnor Griffin is the NL favorite. The article also discusses managerial excellence, with Stephen Vogt and Pat Murphy as potential award winners, as well as the transition of Tony Vitello from college to the professional level. Finally, the article addresses concerns about gambling scandals and their potential impact on the integrity of the game.

  • The 2026 MLB season is set to begin in April 2026.

The players

Shohei Ohtani

A dominant two-way player who is projected to be a unanimous NL MVP winner, potentially securing his fifth such award.

Garrett Crochet

An emerging Cy Young favorite in the AL, gaining ground on back-to-back winner Tarik Skubal.

Paul Skenes

A pitching prospect generating significant buzz in the NL, with a dominant ERA and impressive strikeout numbers.

Trey Yesavage

The frontrunner for AL Rookie of the Year, though a shoulder impingement could alter those plans.

Konnor Griffin

The NL Rookie of the Year favorite, though his playing time remains a question mark.

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What’s next

The 2026 MLB season is set to begin in April 2026, with the first games scheduled for April 1st. Fans and analysts will be closely watching the development of the key storylines and predictions outlined in this article as the season unfolds.

The takeaway

The 2026 MLB season promises to be an exciting one, with a mix of established superstars and rising young talent poised to make a significant impact. While concerns about gambling scandals loom, the potential for compelling on-field narratives and the emergence of new stars will be the primary focus for baseball fans throughout the year.