The 2026 MLB season is just around the corner, and the anticipation is palpable. As we gear up for another thrilling season, the question on everyone's mind is: Who will emerge as the award winners in each division? This year's preview series aims to provide some much-needed clarity, with a focus on the players most likely to etch their names in baseball history.
In the AL East, Aaron Judge of the Yankees is the clear MVP candidate. His size, age, and recent health have been a concern, but if he stays healthy, he's a shoo-in for the award. Garrett Crochet of the Red Sox is the Cy Young favorite, with his impressive performance last year and the incentive of being a two-time defending winner.
The AL Central sees José Ramírez of the Guardians as a potential MVP contender, despite not having won the award yet. Tarik Skubal of the Tigers is the Cy Young favorite, with a chance to win three straight awards. The Royals' Carter Jensen is the Rookie of the Year pick, with his impressive performance last year.
In the AL West, Julio Rodríguez of the Mariners is the MVP favorite, with his superstar status and potential for a monster season. Jacob deGrom of the Rangers is the Cy Young favorite, provided he stays healthy. The Astros' Tatsuya Imai is the Rookie of the Year pick, with his potential to transition from Japan's NPB to MLB.
The NL East features Juan Soto of the Mets as the MVP candidate, with his prime position and potential for a peak season. Chris Sale of the Braves is the Cy Young favorite, with his inspiring comeback. The Phillies' Justin Crawford is the Rookie of the Year pick, with his game-changing speed.
The NL Central sees Elly De La Cruz of the Reds as the MVP candidate, with his physical gifts and potential for a dominant season. Paul Skenes of the Pirates is the Cy Young favorite, with his impressive career ERA and continuous improvement. The Cardinals' JJ Wetherholt is the Rookie of the Year pick, with his potential as the leadoff man.
Finally, the NL West has Shohei Ohtani of the Dodgers as the MVP candidate, despite the author's initial hesitation. Logan Webb of the Giants is the Cy Young favorite, with his impressive performance and path to the award. The Rockies' Charlie Condon is the Rookie of the Year pick, with his potential as a first baseman.
In conclusion, the 2026 MLB season promises to be an exciting one, with these players and teams vying for the top awards. As the season unfolds, we'll be counting down to the big day, with the hope that these players will etch their names in baseball history.
