6 Teams on the Rise for '26
As we bid farewell to 2025 and celebrate the teams that thrived, those who didn't should remember: One year can make a significant difference.
Consider the Blue Jays. In 2025, they reached the World Series, coming close to winning it all. But in 2024, they finished last after months of speculation about trading Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and starting over.
With 2026 just around the corner, let's explore six teams that didn't exactly celebrate 2025 but have reasons to be optimistic. Even after a challenging season, they've planted the seeds for a brighter future.
Athletics
2025 Record: 76-86 (4th in AL West)
The Athletics' inaugural year in West Sacramento wasn't their best, but they've assembled an exciting young lineup. Tyler Soderstrom, Jacob Wilson, Lawrence Butler, Max Muncy, Denzel Clarke, and Nick Kurtz (the AL Rookie of the Year) are all 25 or younger, with long-term team control. Add Brent Rooker (31, with a long-term deal) and Jeff McNeil, and you've got a promising lineup. While pitching remains a concern, the A's are on track for a .500 season or better.
Braves
2025 Record: 76-86 (4th in NL East)
After a snake-bitten 2024 due to injuries, the Braves hoped for a return to form in 2025. However, injuries persisted, and the team struggled to find its rhythm. The real question is whether the offensive decline from key players like Matt Olson, Michael Harris II, Austin Riley, and Ozzie Albies is permanent. The Braves are counting on a bounce-back year in 2026.
Nationals
2025 Record: 66-96 (5th in NL East)
With no winning seasons since before the pandemic, the Nationals needed fresh leadership. Their young front office, led by a 33-year-old manager, a 35-year-old president of baseball operations, and a 31-year-old general manager, is a breath of fresh air. The team's youthful foundation is promising, with only one player over 25 in the projected starting lineup. The next step is for young players like James Wood, Dylan Crews, and Daylen Lile to take significant strides.
Orioles
2025 Record: 75-87 (5th in AL East)
The Orioles have been the most active team this offseason, and for good reason. After a disappointing postseason and a miserable 2025, the 'Team of the Future' label needed a refresh. Pete Alonso, Ryan Helsley, Taylor Ward, and Shane Baz have joined the fold, with more additions expected. The Orioles need their young hitters to shine, but the front office has stepped up their support.
Pirates
2025 Record: 71-91 (5th in NL Central)
With Paul Skenes, perhaps the best pitcher in baseball, the Pirates must build around him aggressively after a decade of playoff misses. Recent trades and signings, including Brandon Lowe, Jake Mangum, and Ryan O'Hearn, have been encouraging. O'Hearn and Lowe are well-above-average hitters, a significant upgrade for the Pirates' offense. With Skenes and a promising rotation, the Pirates are on the rise.
White Sox
2025 Record: 60-102 (5th in AL Central)
The White Sox's signing of Munetaka Murakami was a surprise, but it fits their rebuilding trajectory. Despite losing 102 games in 2025, they improved by 19 games from 2024 and played competitively after the All-Star break. While they're not World Series contenders yet, the White Sox are on track to avoid another 100-loss season and may contend for the AL Central title sooner than expected.
