Rookie Chase DeLauter hit his first two career home runs as the Cleveland Guardians beat the Seattle Mariners 6-4 on Thursday night.

DeLauter hit a home run in the first regular-season at-bat of his major league career in the top of the first. He became the fifth player in Cleveland’s 126-year franchise history to hit a home run in his first career regular-season at-bat. DeLauter is the first to do so since Jhonkensy Noel on June 26, 2024.

Seattle responded in the bottom half of the first when third baseman Brendan Donovan hit a solo shot in his first at-bat with the franchise. The Mariners acquired the former All-Star from the St. Louis Cardinals in February. Donovan’s home run marked the first time a Mariners player hit a leadoff home run on opening day.

The Mariners took a 2-1 lead in the second on the first of two solo home runs by Dominic Canzone. But Cleveland went back in front 3-2 on a two-run double by Brayan Rocchio, and retook the lead for good on a two-run double by Jose Ramírez in the seventh.

The seven-time All-Star went well below the strike zone to hit a slider from Mariners left-hander Gabe Speier (0-1) into the left-center gap. Guardians reliever Connor Brogdon (1-0) replaced starter Tanner Bibee, who exited the game with right shoulder inflammation in the bottom of the sixth and set the stage for Cade Smith to lock down his first save of the season.

Luke Raley also hit a home run for Seattle in the fifth. The Mariners had two hits that weren’t home runs in their first loss of the season.

Jose Ramirez strikes again.

Tied with two outs in the seventh inning, Cleveland star third baseman stole Seattle’s Opening Day magic.

How did the seven-time All-Star and six-time Silver Slugger barrel that?

Mariners reliever Gabe Speier’s 1-1 slider missed well below the zone, but Ramirez found a way to golf a go-ahead, two-run double that one-hopped off the wall in left center. Cleveland’s Brayan Rocchio rounded third, waving his arms, and Chase DeLauter slid home right behind him. Guardians 5, M’s 3.

The Mariners hit four solo home runs and right-hander Logan Gilbert struck out seven, but Ramirez’s heroics were the difference in Thursday night’s 6-4 loss to the Guardians at T-Mobile Park.

Cleveland’s DeLauter hit two homers, becoming the sixth player in MLB history with a multi-homer game in his regular season debut. A first-inning blast provided an early, 1-0 lead and a ninth-inning solo shot was the insurance run that sent some fans heading for the exits.

New Mariners third baseman Brendan Donovan homered in his first Mariners at-bat, hoisting the gold trident in front of a sellout home crowd of 44,398 for the very first time. It marked Seattle’s first leadoff homer on Opening Day in franchise history.

Mariners designated hitter Dominic Canzone stung a pair of solo homers in the second and seventh innings. Right fielder Luke Raley added another, knotting Thursday’s opener in the fifth with a solo blast to right.

Gilbert allowed three runs on five hits, fanning seven without a walk across 5.1 innings. He surrendered a solo homer to DeLauter in the first inning before Rocchio added a two-run double in the fifth; Raley’s solo blast promptly knotted the score at three.

Guardians starter Tanner Bibee left the game in the sixth inning with right shoulder inflammation, allowing three runs on four hits with two walks and seven strikeouts.

Donovan finished 2-for-4 with a home run and double in his Mariners debut.

World Series aspirations surround the only MLB team that’s never been there. The Mariners’ magical 2025 postseason ended eight outs shy of the Fall Classic, cut short by Toronto Blue Jays hero George Springer’s three-run blast in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series.

Seattle knows they have the pieces to get back. The Mariners boast the sport’s best catcher in Cal Raleigh, feature homegrown star Julio Rodriguez in center field, and retain the entirety of last year’s starting rotation. They re-signed first baseman Josh Naylor to a five-year contract, a trade-deadline acquisition and integral piece of last year’s playoff run, and welcomed Donovan into the mix less than two months ago.

Thursday night began with the unveiling of a new banner suspended over the right-field view level: 2025 AL West Champions.

“It’s a reminder of what we did last year, and the type of season we had, and the way this team came together,” Wilson said Wednesday. “All of those things are wrapped up in that banner.

“But this is a brand-new year. It’s a new season. It’s a time where we start looking forward to what’s ahead of us. It starts (Thursday) night. The banners are great to remember what was, but we’re concentrating on what’s ahead.”

This story will be updated.

ROBO-UMPS DEBUT AT T-MOBILE PARK

When home plate umpire Lance Barksdale rang up Steven Kwan on a 1-2 cutter in the third inning, Cleveland’s left fielder disagreed.

Mariners right-hander Logan Gilbert knew it was strike three, casually strutting off the mound before the call. Catcher Cal Raleigh knew, too, tossing the baseball to third baseman Brendan Donovan for a traditional game of around the horn.

In years past, players may have barked at the official. Maybe the argument would have escalated into an ejection, or perhaps Guardians manager Steven Vogt would have exited the dugout to offer Barksdale his own thoughts.

Not in 2026.

The future is now, when the robots decide who’s right.

Kwan tapped his helmet, signaling for an Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) review. It was the first challenge in T-Mobile Park history.

MLB implemented the new system this season after several years of testing in the minor leagues, giving teams two challenges per game (challenges are retained if the umpire’s call is overturned). The process takes only 10-15 seconds, with the result shown on jumbotrons across the league.

In Kwan’s case? The All-Star would’ve been better off trotting back to the dugout. The video board confirmed what Gilbert and Raleigh knew all along — that the right-hander’s cutter had caught plenty of the strike zone.

“You’ve got to be smart (with challenges),” Raleigh said last month. “You’ve got to put the team first, obviously, and understand when to do it.”

CRAWFORD, MILLER PLACED ON IL

The Mariners begin their 50th season without their starting shortstop.

J.P. Crawford (right shoulder inflammation) was placed on the 10-day injured list ahead of the team’s 26-man roster cutdown, lifting utilityman Leo Rivas into the Opening Day lineup. Crawford began a throwing program at the team’s spring facility in Peoria, Ariz., and the injury is “progressing the way it should,” manager Dan Wilson said.

Right-handed starter Bryce Miller began the season on the 15-day injured list with a left oblique strain and remains in Arizona, Wilson said. Miller made one spring start on Feb. 26 and felt discomfort in warmups on March 11.

“The next step is getting some hitters in the box, and that ramps things up a little bit more,” Wilson said of Miller. “Once he passes that hurdle, then it’s getting a chance to get in games, whether that’s down there, whether that’s up here remains to be seen.

“He’s progressing… in a way that we were hopeful for. It shouldn’t take him too long.”

SHORT HOPS

– Only four MLB teams have won 85+ games in each of the last five seasons: The Seattle Mariners, Houston Astros, Milwaukee Brewers and Los Angeles Dodgers.

– Julio Rodriguez’s 112 career home runs rank second in MLB history among centerfielders through their first four seasons, trailing only Joe DiMaggio (137), per Mariners PR.

ON DECK

Right-hander George Kirby and the Mariners host Cleveland in the second of a four-game set on Friday night. First pitch is scheduled for 6:45 p.m.

Here’s a breakdown of the remainder of Seattle’s series with the Guardians at T-Mobile Park:

Friday: RHP George Kirby vs. RHP Gavin Williams (CLE), 6:45 p.m.

Saturday: RHP Bryan Woo vs. LHP Joey Cantillo (CLE), 6:40 p.m.

Sunday: RHP Emerson Hancock vs. RHP Slade Cecconi (CLE), 4:20 p.m.

“WORLD SERIES, baby!”

That’s what Chad Lackey from Puyallup was yelling through blue-and-green confetti falling all around him just inside the home-plate gate.

A young boy was on his knees at a landing to the steps a few feet away. The kid was scooping up as much of the confetti as he could press against his little body.

Lackey and wife Lauri — “I’m the Mariners fan” who converted her husband from his native San Diego Padres, she said — were walking off the escalator that took them from the street entrance of the gate up to the main concourse of T-Mobile Park. It was just after 5 p.m. Thursday.

They were among the first fans into the park for what the Lackeys said was their 15th Mariners Opening Day. It was more than two hours before Logan Gilbert’s first pitch of the 2026 season, to the Cleveland Guardians.

For their latest Mariners opener, the Lackeys brought their 1-year-old grandson. They let his parents, their kids, come, too.

“First time,” Lauri said, proudly of her new grandson. “We are starting a tradition. We are going to bring him to the first game every year.”

Just a hunch what the first baseball words Grandpa may be teaching his grandson this spring into summer of massive expectations around Seattle.

“WORLD SERIES, baby!” Chad Lackey yelled again, this time to the first stadium usher that greeted him. “WORLD SERIES, baby!” he yelled to fellow fans behind him, also in navy-blue M’s gear.

A group of 20-something fans walking up the steps behind them began a chant: “Let’s go MAR-IN-ERS!”

Rick Mendez of Port Orchard walked off the escalator with his wife Lana. He was saying to everyone who could hear him: “Yeah! World Series!”

“It’s been a long time,” Rick Mendez told The News Tribune. “It’s our time!”

This time, it’s different.

This opening day to the Mariners’ 50th season was unlike any of the team’s previous 49 in Seattle. The fans, the talk, the vibe across the Pacific Northwest — heck, inside the M’s clubhouse — has undeniably advanced in the 12 months since the 2025 opener.

This time a year ago it was: Make the playoffs. Just “cautious optimism” among fans at the Mariners’ 2025 opener against the Athletics about the M’s making their first postseason in 21 years.

This time, it is: Expect something that’s never happened to the Mariners. Something Seattle, the Pacific Northwest, has never experienced.

The World Series.

Such is the result of Seattle’s thrilling 2025 season that captivated the region. Those Mariners won the American League West for only the fourth time in franchise history. Last October, they beat the Detroit Tigers in a pulsating divisional-playoff series, including with a 15-inning thriller that rocked this park.

Then they reached Game 7 of the American League Championship Series. They were leading 3-1, just eight outs from finally advancing to The Fall Classic. But the Toronto Blue Jays rallied from two runs down to beat Seattle 4-3 to win the American League pennant, instead.

Thursday night back at packed, roaring T-Mobile Park, the Mariners unveiled a banner in their stadium for only the fifth time in franchise history. It was for the American League West title, the team’s fourth in 49 years.

Inside the clubhouse — and, indeed, starting at the very top of the franchise — these Mariners know what the expectation is for this season.

It’s to raise a banner that represents so much more than a division title. A banner like no other in baseball.

As in, never before in Seattle.

John Stanton was on KJR-FM radio about five hours before pitch Thursday. The team’s CEO went right to what everyone inside the park Thursday night watching his team was thinking.

“We have to stay healthy,” Stanton told KJR’s Dave “Softy” Mahler.

“But I believe if we stay healthy, this is a team that should be able to compete for a championship this year — and should be able to win a World Series this year.”

No championship windows. No “we’re on the rise.”

Now. World Series-worthy, if not bound. This year.

“The goal is still winning a World Series. I really think it’s just, over time, it’s grown,” starting pitcher Bryan Woo said in the clubhouse this week, as he and teammates unpacked from spring training in Arizona.

“We feel the support and the love, everything from the fans. We really do our best to use that as fuel, as energy, going into a game, the season.

“It’s something we don’t take for granted.”

Mariners expectations: “Warranted”

Manager Dan Wilson played for what, before last season, was the best Mariners team ever. He was the catcher on the 2001 M’s that won an American League-record 116 games in the regular season.

Yet even that team with Hall of Famers Ichiro Suzuki and Edgar Martinez did not go as far as the 2025 Mariners did. They lost in the 2001 ALCS to the Yankees in five games.

“I think it’s extra special today. Starting a season coming off the season we had last season is exciting, in its own right,” Wilson said Thursday, a couple hours before first pitch.

“The expectations are obviously going to be there. There’s no question. You can’t avoid it. And I think there is a lot of expectation on this club, for sure — and warranted.

“Because of what were able to do last year, and, you know, how we stack up this year.

“But I think the only expectation that matters is what exists in that clubhouse. And those guys are determined. And those guys have the expectation internally that they want to get to where all of us want to go.”

Wilson didn’t say the words “World Series.”

His owner, the team’s fans, his players had already done that.

Opening Day scene

The pregame festivities included acknowledging the 41st and final season Mariners broadcaster Rick Rizzs began Thursday night. Wilson did the same thing in a classy start to his pregame press conference hours earlier.

The crowd of more than 40,000 roared for Seahawks Super Bowl champion Leonard Williams, a new dad, pumped them up from behind home plate. He raised the team’s gold trident. The fans loved that.

When public-address announcer Tom Hutyler announced the Mariners starting lineup, the loudest cheers were for Cal Raleigh, Julio Rodriguez, Josh Naylor and, yes, Randy Arozarena.

Roars for Cal Raleigh (readying in the bullpen), Julio Rodriguez, Josh Naylor, Randy Arozarena as Mariners’ lineup announced for first time for the 2026 season.

New leadoff man Brendan Donovan hugs manager Dan Wilson next to home plate.
⁦@thenewstribune⁩ pic.twitter.com/QiuEKtjkWz

— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) March 27, 2026

Arozarena basked in the cheers for him. He stood under the flashing blue lights and flames that accompanied his introduction with his arms folded, and a cool look on his face.

The silly “controversy” people manufactured of Raleigh as Team USA’s catcher not shaking Arozarena of Mexico’s hand in a first at bat of their World Baseball Classic game this month was long gone.

The stadium broke out in “MVP!” chants so prevalent in his 60 home-run season of 2025 as Raleigh received his Silver Slugger award from Stanton and team president Jerry Dipoto on the field behind home plate.

Raleigh was his full catching gear. He looked impatient to begin the game. And season.

The first fans enter T-Mobile Park after the home-plate gates open 2 hours before first pitch of a Mariners 2026 #OpeningDay with World Series expectations like no previous one.

⁦@thenewstribune⁩ pic.twitter.com/zS6kuP0X83

— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) March 27, 2026

A deeper (better) Mariners

Wilson said he and his player acknowledge the expectations, but will compartmentalize them.

“These guys are ready to roll,” Wilson said.

“Our guys understand that expectations can be somewhat of a distraction. I think the thing for these guys to really focus on is night to night. We have an expectation for ourselves, and that is to compete and go out every night at game time and fight. That is what we do. That’s the expectation we have.

“That’s what we tried to do last year. And these guys did it.

“That’s what we intend to do this year.” This time last year it was: Do they have enough offense to help their World Series-caliber pitching. Or, as Ken Stewart, a 58-year-old union warehouseman from Puyallup, aptly put it to the TNT on this night in this stadium 12 months ago: “We’ve got the greatest rotation in baseball. And we need some F-in’ bats.”

For this season, the Mariners have added 29-year-old Brendon Donovan. The All-Star from the St. Louis Cardinals is their the new leadoff batter.

Donovan is a high-contact, low-strikeout veteran. He has an on-base percentage of .334 while batting leadoff, in 182 career games.

He was primarily a second baseman and outfielder from 2022 through last season for the Cardinals. He won a Gold Glove in 2022 as an elite utility defender in the National League.

Donovan has played only 46 of his 501 career games at third base. This spring since his arrival in a winter, three-team trade, he has worked extensively with infield coach supreme Perry Hill to be the Mariners’ new third baseman. The new guy immediate caught the vibe in the park, the Mariners clubhouse and across the PNW Thursday night.

Donovan hugged Wilson after he was announced to Seattle’s fans as a Mariner for the first time, after he had jogged down a pink carpet from right-center field to near home plate. Then Donovan caught a foul pop up on Gilbert’s third pitch of the season to Cleveland’s Steven Kwan for the first out of the opener.

In his first at bat as a Mariner, Donovan got ahead of Cleveland starter Tanner Bibee in the count 3-1. Then he lifted a drive that dropped just over the wall and inside the right-field foul pole. That wiped out a solo home run the Guardians’ Chase DeLauter hit in the top of the first off Gilbert, and tied the game at 1 early.

The fourth leadoff homer of Donovan’s career was the first leadoff home run to begin a Mariners season opener in franchise history.

The 29-year old got his first Mariners trident, handed to him by Rodriguez near the on-deck circle. He saluted his new Seattle fans with the team’s gold home-run prop. Then he planted it triumphantly into the floor of the dugout as his new teammates mobbed him.

Hello, Branden Donovan!

Mariners’ new leadoff batter from St. Louis lifts a 3-1 pitch in his first at bat over the RF wall for a home run off CLE’s Tanner Bibee in his first Seattle at bat. Tied at 1, bottom 1.

And a first trident for Donovan.1st leadoff HR in an M’s opener. pic.twitter.com/I2iZyswaZz

— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) March 27, 2026

Donovan will allow Julio Rodriguez and other more run-producing hitters the Mariners tried at leadoff last season to move down a couple spots in the batting order, to drive in Donovan this season. Rodriguez batted third Thursday night. Cal Raleigh, the 60-home-run superstar last season, batted second behind Donovan in the opener.

“I think our lineup is deep. I think we are just a different-looking team,” Wilson said.

“We have some areas that we set up very well in, in terms of our lineup. I think we’re in a good spot.

“That’s, obviously, what brings a lot of hope for us (with) what we’ve talked about on the mound, and then a deep lineup offensively that’s going to be able to score some runs.”

The national Anthem before the Mariners 2026 season opener—with a new banner just unveiled in the top right corner high above right field.

⁦@thenewstribune⁩ pic.twitter.com/Q9Pv6HVBjN

— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) March 27, 2026

Offense brings life to baseball. Big hits, long home runs, and constant scoring chances keep fans hooked. Every MLB season, teams try to build lineups that can do damage from top to bottom. Some rely on star power. Others focus on depth and balance.

The 2026 season has a mix of both. A few teams have stacked rosters with MVP-level talent. Others are built on young players who are still rising. Ballpark factors also matter. Some teams play in hitter-friendly parks, while others have to fight tough conditions. That changes how we view their numbers.

MORE: Red Sox suddenly cut two prospects, including $900,000 international signee: report

Let’s have a look at the overall potential. It is not about exact Opening Day lineups. It focuses on what teams could run out for most of the season. Injuries, age, and form will all play a role. Still, the talent is clear right now.

Here are the top 10 lineups heading into 2026.

10) Arizona Diamondbacks

Lineup: Geraldo Perdomo, Ketel Marte, Corbin Carroll, Gabriel Moreno, Pavin Smith, Nolan Arenado, Carlos Santana, Jordan Lawlar, Alek Thomas

Arizona has been one of the best scoring teams over the past two seasons. That consistency keeps them in the top 10.

The top of the order is strong. Geraldo Perdomo, Ketel Marte, and Corbin Carroll set the tone. They can hit and run well. Carroll’s injury is a concern. It could affect his power early.

Gabriel Moreno and Pavin Smith need to stay steady. Nolan Arenado is not in his prime anymore. Carlos Santana brings experience but not elite production.

Jordan Lawlar and Alek Thomas add some upside. Still, there are questions here. The top three carry most of the weight.

9) Chicago Cubs

Lineup: Michael Busch, Alex Bregman, Ian Happ, Seiya Suzuki, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Nico Hoerner, Dansby Swanson, Moisés Ballesteros, Carson Kelly

Chicago had strong numbers last year, but the season was uneven. The first half was great. The second half slowed down a lot.

Michael Busch, Seiya Suzuki, and Ian Happ form a solid core. Alex Bregman adds leadership and edge. Pete Crow-Armstrong brings speed and defense. Nico Hoerner and Dansby Swanson give stability in the middle. Moisés Ballesteros is a key young bat to watch. Carson Kelly rounds things out.

This lineup has a decent floor. The ceiling depends on young players stepping up.

MORE: Most valuable MLB franchises of 2026 ranked

8) Philadelphia Phillies

Lineup: Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Alec Bohm, Brandon Marsh, Adolis García, Bryson Stott, J.T. Realmuto, Justin Crawford

Philadelphia has star power at the top. Trea Turner, Bryce Harper, and Kyle Schwarber can change a game quickly.

Alec Bohm and Brandon Marsh add support. Adolis García is a big question after two down years. Bryson Stott is steady but not flashy. J.T. Realmuto is still reliable behind the plate. Justin Crawford is young and unproven.

This group is good. It just needs to find that elite level again.

7) Baltimore Orioles

Lineup: Gunnar Henderson, Jordan Westburg, Taylor Ward, Pete Alonso, Adley Rutschman, Samuel Basallo, Jackson Holliday, Tyler O’Neill, Colton Cowser

Baltimore has a lot of young talent. Injuries early in camp have slowed them a bit. Gunnar Henderson leads the way. Jordan Westburg and Jackson Holliday are key pieces if healthy.

Pete Alonso and Taylor Ward add power. Adley Rutschman is capable of a big bounce-back. Samuel Basallo could break out. Tyler O’Neill and Colton Cowser bring depth. This lineup has high upside if things go right.

6) New York Mets

Lineup: Francisco Lindor, Juan Soto, Bo Bichette, Jorge Polanco, Marcus Semien, Brett Baty, Francisco Alvarez, Luis Robert Jr., Carson Benge

This lineup could go either way. The talent is clear, but health is a concern. Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto form a strong top. Soto had a huge season last year. Bo Bichette adds pure hitting ability.

Jorge Polanco and Marcus Semien bring experience. Brett Baty still needs to prove himself. Francisco Alvarez’s health is key. Luis Robert Jr. adds power and speed. Carson Benge has upside.

If everything clicks, this group can be dangerous.

5) Oakland Athletics

Lineup: Nick Kurtz, Shea Langeliers, Tyler Soderstrom, Brent Rooker, Jeff McNeil, Jacob Wilson, Lawrence Butler, Max Muncy, Denzel Clarke

This is a young and exciting lineup. The ballpark helps, but the talent is real. Nick Kurtz leads the way after a strong rookie year. Shea Langeliers, Tyler Soderstrom, and Brent Rooker all bring power.

Jeff McNeil adds contact hitting. Jacob Wilson rarely strikes out. That is rare in today’s game. Lawrence Butler has breakout potential. Max Muncy and Denzel Clarke add depth.

This lineup is fun and could surprise people.

MORE: MLB: All-time highest career home runs in the World Series

4) Toronto Blue Jays

Lineup: George Springer, Daulton Varsho, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Addison Barger, Alejandro Kirk, Jesús Sánchez, Kazuma Okamoto, Andrés Giménez, Ernie Clement

Toronto built a strong offense last year. They mixed contact, power, and smart baserunning. George Springer looks to stay productive. Daulton Varsho brings defense and energy. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is the key bat.

Addison Barger and Alejandro Kirk add balance. Jesús Sánchez brings power. Kazuma Okamoto is a big unknown. Andrés Giménez and Ernie Clement round out the lineup. There is some risk, but also big upside.

3) Seattle Mariners

Lineup: Brendan Donovan, Cal Raleigh, Julio Rodríguez, Josh Naylor, Randy Arozarena, Victor Robles, Dominic Canzone, J.P. Crawford, Cole Young

Seattle’s offense is better than it looks. Their ballpark makes scoring harder.

Brendan Donovan sets the table. Cal Raleigh brings power. Julio Rodríguez is the star. He could have an MVP season. Josh Naylor adds strength in the middle. Randy Arozarena brings energy. Victor Robles needs to stay healthy.

Dominic Canzone, J.P. Crawford, and Cole Young give depth. This lineup is balanced and dangerous.

2) New York Yankees

Lineup: Trent Grisham, Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, Ben Rice, Giancarlo Stanton, Jazz Chisholm Jr., Ryan McMahon, Anthony Volpe, Austin Wells

The Yankees stay near the top because of Aaron Judge. He continues to dominate every year. Trent Grisham and Cody Bellinger support him at the top. Ben Rice is an emerging talent.

Giancarlo Stanton still has big power. Jazz Chisholm Jr. adds speed and energy. Ryan McMahon brings balance. Anthony Volpe keeps improving. Austin Wells adds depth at catcher.

This lineup is deep and full of power.

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1) Los Angeles Dodgers

Lineup: Shohei Ohtani, Kyle Tucker, Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, Will Smith, Max Muncy, Teoscar Hernández, Andy Pages, Hyeseong Kim

Los Angeles takes the top spot again. Even in a down year, they were elite. Shohei Ohtani leads the lineup. Kyle Tucker is a huge addition. Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman remain key pieces.

Will Smith and Max Muncy add power in the middle. Teoscar Hernández looks to bounce back. Andy Pages and Hyeseong Kim fill out the lineup. There are no easy outs here.

This group has the highest floor in baseball. It also has one of the highest ceilings.

Conclusion

Great lineups make a big difference over a full season. Some teams rely on stars. Others depend on depth. The best ones have both.

The Dodgers and Yankees lead the way again. Teams like the Mariners and Blue Jays are close behind.

Things will change once the season starts. For now, these are the strongest lineups heading into 2026.

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As another Major League Baseball season approaches, preseason power rankings offer a revealing snapshot of how the league’s competitive landscape is shaping up. The Athletic’s 2026 MLB preseason power rankings reflect not only last season’s results, but also a broader evaluation of roster construction, offseason moves, player development pipelines, and organizational stability. At the top, familiar contenders dominate the conversation—teams that combine financial muscle, star power, and depth continue to set the standard. However, what makes this year’s rankings particularly compelling is the growing presence of emerging teams that have successfully transitioned from rebuilding phases into legitimate playoff threats.

RELATED: Top 20 players in the MLB in 2026

The modern MLB ecosystem rewards adaptability, and these rankings highlight which franchises have best navigated that reality. Clubs with elite pitching infrastructures, versatile lineups, and strong farm systems tend to rise, while those struggling with inconsistency or roster imbalance fall toward the bottom. Injuries, aging cores, and unanswered questions in key areas—especially starting rotation depth—also play a major role in shaping expectations heading into Opening Day.

Equally notable is the stratification across the league. There’s a clear upper tier of championship-caliber teams, a crowded middle filled with volatile but dangerous rosters, and a handful of organizations still focused on long-term development. The rankings ultimately serve as both a forecast and a conversation starter—capturing where each team stands today, while leaving room for the unpredictability that defines baseball. As always, the gap between expectation and reality will begin to close once the games actually begin.

1. Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers are ranked first because they combine elite star power with unmatched organizational depth, making them the most complete roster in baseball. With Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtani, and Freddie Freeman anchoring the lineup, they can generate offense in virtually any way—power, contact, or plate discipline. Their pitching infrastructure, even when dealing with injuries, consistently produces high-end results thanks to both development and acquisition. What separates them is sustainability: even if something goes wrong, they have the depth to absorb it, which is why they enter 2026 as clear championship favorites.

T-2. New York Yankees

The Yankees earn a top-tier ranking because of their ability to combine elite power hitting with a potentially dominant rotation. Aaron Judge remains one of the most impactful hitters in the sport, capable of carrying the offense for extended stretches. Their ceiling hinges on pitching health—if Gerrit Cole and the supporting arms are available and effective, this becomes a team with few weaknesses. There’s also improved roster balance compared to previous years, suggesting they’re less reliant on home runs alone and better equipped for postseason-style baseball.

T-2. Seattle Mariners

Seattle’s placement reflects the reality that elite pitching can elevate a team into contender status even if the offense is inconsistent. Their rotation—featuring Luis Castillo, George Kirby, and Logan Gilbert—arguably rivals any in baseball in terms of both quality and durability. The lineup has shown flashes but remains somewhat volatile, which is the primary factor keeping them from the top spot. If hitters like Julio Rodríguez take another leap and provide more consistent production, this team has a legitimate path to being the best in the American League.

T-4. Chicago Cubs

The Cubs are ranked this high because they’ve quietly built one of the most balanced rosters in the National League. Their lineup blends emerging young hitters with disciplined veterans, giving them both upside and stability. The pitching staff, which had been a question mark in prior years, now looks more reliable with improved depth across both the rotation and bullpen. They may not have the overwhelming star power of the Dodgers, but their overall roster construction suggests a team capable of winning consistently over a full season.

T-4. New York Mets

The Mets’ ranking reflects optimism about a rapid turnaround driven by smart roster restructuring and player development. After pivoting away from an aging, expensive core, they now feature a mix of high-upside young talent and selectively acquired veterans. Their rotation has frontline potential if everything clicks, and the lineup has enough impact bats to compete with top teams. This is a projection-based ranking to some degree, but the ceiling is high enough that they belong among the league’s most dangerous teams entering 2026.

6. Philadelphia Phillies

The Phillies remain firmly in the contender tier due to their proven postseason core and ability to produce in high-leverage situations. Bryce Harper continues to anchor the offense, supported by a lineup that can generate power throughout. Their rotation, when healthy, is capable of shutting down elite opponents, which has been evident in recent playoff runs. The ranking reflects both their established floor as a playoff team and their ceiling as a legitimate World Series threat.

7. Toronto Blue Jays

Toronto’s placement reflects a roster that is solid across the board but still searching for a defining edge. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remains the centerpiece, and the lineup has enough depth to be productive against most pitching staffs. Their pitching has improved in consistency, giving them a more balanced profile than in previous seasons. However, in a loaded AL East, they need everything to click at once to separate themselves from similarly talented competitors.

8. Boston Red Sox

The Red Sox are trending upward thanks to improved roster construction and a better blend of youth and experience. Their offense has multiple players capable of taking over games, and their depth has improved significantly compared to recent seasons. Pitching remains the swing factor—if their rotation performs above expectations, they could outperform this ranking. Overall, this is a team with a higher ceiling than in recent years but still some volatility.

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9. Atlanta Braves

Atlanta’s ranking may seem low given their talent, but it reflects concerns about pitching depth and overall roster balance. Ronald Acuña Jr. leads one of the most explosive offenses in baseball, capable of producing runs in bunches. However, questions about the rotation and bullpen reliability introduce risk over a full season. They remain dangerous, but slightly less stable than teams ranked above them.

10. Milwaukee Brewers

The Brewers continue to rely on pitching as their identity, and that strength keeps them in the top 10. Their rotation and bullpen are capable of controlling games, particularly in playoff-style matchups. The offense has improved incrementally, providing just enough support to make them a consistent contender. Their formula may not be flashy, but it’s effective and sustainable.

11. Detroit Tigers

Detroit’s rise is a reflection of a rebuild finally yielding tangible results. Their young pitching core is beginning to establish itself as a legitimate strength, and the lineup has shown signs of growth. The key question is whether their hitters can take the next step toward consistency. If they do, this could quickly become one of the more dangerous up-and-coming teams in the league.

12. Baltimore Orioles

The Orioles remain one of the most intriguing teams due to their deep and talented young core. Players like Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman give them a strong foundation both offensively and defensively. Their continued success depends on pitching development catching up to their position-player talent. They’re close to breaking into the top tier but still have a few gaps to address.

13. Kansas City Royals

Kansas City’s ranking reflects steady improvement driven by young talent and better player development. Bobby Witt Jr. is emerging as one of the league’s most dynamic players, capable of impacting games in multiple ways. Their pitching staff has also taken steps forward, giving them a more balanced roster. They’re not quite contenders yet, but the trajectory is clearly positive.

14. San Francisco Giants

The Giants continue to operate as a high-floor, moderate-ceiling team built on depth and versatility. They lack a singular superstar but compensate with a well-rounded roster and strong organizational philosophy. Their success depends on getting consistent contributions from multiple players rather than relying on one or two stars. This approach keeps them competitive but limits their upside compared to elite teams.

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15. Texas Rangers

Texas still benefits from a strong core led by Corey Seager and Jacob deGrom. Their lineup is capable of producing at an elite level when healthy. However, concerns about pitching depth and durability prevent them from ranking higher. They remain a dangerous team but with more volatility than true contenders.

T-16. Houston Astros

The Astros are transitioning from a dynasty-era roster to a more retooled version of themselves. Veteran leadership and experience still give them a competitive edge in close games. However, they no longer have the overwhelming talent advantage they once did. This ranking reflects respect for their track record but acknowledges some decline.

T-16. San Diego Padres

The Padres remain one of the most volatile teams in baseball due to their top-heavy roster construction. With stars like Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado, their ceiling is extremely high. However, inconsistency and depth issues have prevented them from reaching that ceiling consistently. Their ranking reflects both their potential and their unpredictability.

18. Tampa Bay Rays

The Rays continue to maximize value through analytics, development, and strategic roster usage. Their pitching pipeline remains elite, allowing them to stay competitive despite budget constraints. Offensively, they tend to rely on matchup advantages rather than star power. This keeps them competitive but limits their ability to dominate.

19. Arizona Diamondbacks

A fast, athletic team led by Corbin Carroll, Arizona thrives on speed and pressure offense. However, regression concerns after recent success and pitching inconsistency keep them in the middle tier. They’re competitive but not yet fully stable.

20. Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates are building around a promising young core, with Oneil Cruz offering star-level upside. Their development pipeline is improving, but they’re still a year or two away from serious contention. Growth is the focus.

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21. Oakland Athletics

Oakland remains in rebuild mode but is beginning to show signs of life. Young players are gaining experience, and there’s cautious optimism about their future core. Immediate success is unlikely, but progress is visible.

22. Cincinnati Reds

The Reds are exciting but inconsistent, largely due to their young roster. Elly De La Cruz provides highlight-level impact, but the team lacks stability. Their ceiling is high, but so is their volatility.

23. Cleveland Guardians

Cleveland sticks to its formula of pitching and contact hitting, which keeps them competitive but limits their upside. Without more power, they struggle to keep pace with elite offenses. They’re solid but not threatening.

24. Miami Marlins

Miami’s strength lies in its pitching, particularly a solid rotation. However, offensive struggles continue to hold them back. They need more consistent run production to climb the rankings.

T-25. Minnesota Twins

The Twins have talent but face questions about durability and consistency. Byron Buxton’s health remains a key variable. Their ranking reflects uncertainty more than lack of ability.

T-25. St. Louis Cardinals

St. Louis is in a transitional phase after years of steady success. Their roster lacks the top-end talent of previous eras. They remain competitive but no longer project as contenders.

27. Los Angeles Angels

The Angels continue to struggle with roster construction and pitching depth. Even with star-level talent, they lack overall balance. Their ranking reflects ongoing organizational instability.

28. Chicago White Sox

Chicago is firmly in rebuild mode after underperforming in recent seasons. The roster lacks both depth and proven production. Their focus is clearly on long-term development.

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29. Washington Nationals

Washington is still early in its rebuild but has promising young pieces. Development remains the priority over immediate results. Their ranking reflects a team still finding its identity.

30. Colorado Rockies

The Rockies round out the list due to persistent struggles in both pitching and roster construction. Coors Field presents unique challenges that they have yet to solve. Until significant changes are made, they remain at the bottom tier.

Conclusion

The Athletic’s 2026 preseason rankings underscore a league defined by both elite stability and rapid change. While powerhouse teams remain firmly in control at the top, a wave of ascending clubs is closing the gap. As the season unfolds, these rankings will inevitably shift—but they provide a sharp, informed baseline for what to expect.

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