Jared Block and Joshua Riemer recorded a 6-part series dedicated to breaking down each MLB Division ahead of the 2026 season! They cover offseason acquisitions/departures, offseason report cards, prospects to keep an eye out for, divisional power rankings, and end each show with over/under win total stances + futures parlays. Please subscribe to “Don’t Fade This Podcast” on YouTube as well as Apple Podcasts / Spotify.
Trinity Analytics
Expert Analysis · Futures, Odds, & Win Totals · Picks & Predictions
2026 MLB Division Previews
Comprehensive previews for all 30 teams across six divisions — featuring 2025 season outcomes, projected lineups, starting rotations, complete offseason moves, and expert grades from the Trinity Analytics team. All World Series and division futures odds via DraftKings Sportsbook. Win totals via DraftKings Sportsbook.
ALAL East Preview
Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook
| # | Team | Division Winner | World Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New York Yankees | +185 | +400 |
| 2 | Toronto Blue Jays | +290 | +600 |
| 3 | Boston Red Sox | +290 | +650 |
| 4 | Baltimore Orioles | +2200 | +5000 |
| 5 | Tampa Bay Rays | +2200 | +5000 |
1
New York Yankees
Report Card: Jared B- Josh C Ariel B-
Win Total: 90.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Under · Ariel: Over
2025 Season
94-68 · Wild Card (Lost ALDS 1-3 vs. Toronto)
Judge’s legendary 58-homer season carried the offense, but Toronto outmatched New York in the ALDS.
Key Acquisitions
- OF Cody Bellinger (5-year deal)
- OF Trent Grisham (qualifying offer)
- SP Ryan Weathers (trade)
- SP Chad Yarbrough (1-year deal)
- 1B Paul Goldschmidt (1-year deal)
- OF Eddie Rosario (1-year deal)
- RP Paul Blackburn (1-year deal)
- INF Paul DeJong (MiLB deal)
- SP Angel Chivilli (trade)
- C Wilkin Montero (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- SP Devin Williams (Mets)
- SP Luke Weaver (Mets)
- RP Mark Leiter Jr. (Athletics)
- RP Ian Hamilton (Braves)
- RP Jonathan Loáisiga (D-backs)
- OF Austin Slater (Tigers)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Max Fried LHP
- 2 Cam Schlittler RHP
- 3 Will Warren RHP
- 4 Ryan Weathers LHP
4-man rotation to open year | Returns: Rodón (late April), Cole (May/June) | Gil not on roster to start
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Trent GrishamCFL
2Aaron JudgeRFR
3Cody BellingerLFL
4Ben Rice1BL
5Giancarlo StantonDHR
6Jazz Chisholm2BL
7Ryan McMahon3BL
8José CaballeroSSR
9Austin WellsCL
Judge is the early favorite for MVP (+185) — his O/U for homers sits at 49.5. The rotation is deep on paper, but Cole and Rodón both have question marks entering the spring. If both can stay healthy through May, this team is a legitimate WS threat.
2
Toronto Blue Jays
Report Card: Jared A- Josh B+ Ariel A-
Win Total: 88.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Over · Ariel: Over
2025 Season
94-68 · World Series Runner-Up (Lost to LAD 3-4)
Toronto’s magical 2025 run ended in seven games against the Dodgers — a season that validated the Dylan Cease trade and announced Vlad Jr. as a legitimate MVP-level presence.
Key Acquisitions
- SP Dylan Cease (7-year deal)
- INF Kazuma Okamoto (4-year deal)
- RP Taylor Rogers (3-year deal)
- SP Cody Ponce (3-year deal)
- SP Max Scherzer (1-year deal)
- INF Javier Sánchez (trade)
- RP Chase Lee (trade)
- SP Elieser Jiménez (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- SS Bo Bichette (Mets)
- SP Chris Bassitt (Orioles)
- OF Steward Domínguez (White Sox)
- OF Jake Loperfido (Astros)
- INF Isiah Kiner-Falefa (Red Sox)
- 1B Ty France (Padres)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Kevin Gausman RHP
- 2 Dylan Cease RHP
- 3 Eric Lauer LHP
- 4 Cody Ponce RHP
- 5 Max Scherzer RHP
IL: Berríos (stress fracture, elbow), Yesavage (shoulder impingement) | Depth: Jiménez (MiLB)
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1George SpringerDHR
2Daulton VarshoCFL
3Vladimir Guerrero Jr.1BR
4Addison BargerRFR
5Alejandro KirkCR
6Jesús SánchezLFL
7Kazuma Okamoto3BR
8Ernie Clement2BR
9Andrés GiménezSSS
Significant rotation injury news to start the year: Berríos (stress fracture, elbow) and Yesavage (shoulder impingement) are both on the IL for Opening Day, pushing Scherzer and Eric Lauer into the rotation. Cease will be the ace. Gausman earned the Opening Day start. Despite the injuries, this club has the depth to weather it — the real question is whether Vlad Jr. can finally win MVP (+1500).
3
Boston Red Sox
Report Card: Jared B+ Josh A- Ariel B+
Win Total: 87.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Over · Ariel: Over
2025 Season
89-73 · Wild Card (Lost to New York Yankees)
Boston’s young core — led by Roman Anthony’s breakout — paired with Garrett Crochet’s Cy Young-caliber season to push the Sox into October for the first time since 2021.
Key Acquisitions
- SP Ranger Suárez (5-year deal)
- C William Contreras (trade)
- SP Sonny Gray (trade)
- SP Johan Oviedo (trade)
- INF Nick Durbin (trade)
- INF Andruw Monasterio (trade)
- INF Isiah Kiner-Falefa (1-year deal)
- INF Brendan Rodgers (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- 3B Alex Bregman (Cubs)
- SP Richard Fitts (Cardinals)
- SP Brandon Clarke (Cardinals)
- SP Hunter Dobbins (Cardinals)
- RP Ian Hamilton (Brewers)
- INF David Hamilton (Brewers)
- SP Steve Matz (Rays)
- SP Dustin May (Cardinals)
- OF Ben Refsnyder (Mariners)
- OF Jhostynxon Garcia (Pirates)
- RP Liam Hendriks (Twins)
- 1B Nathaniel Lowe (Reds)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Garrett Crochet LHP
- 2 Ranger Suárez LHP
- 3 Sonny Gray RHP
- 4 Brayan Bello RHP
- 5 Johan Oviedo RHP
Bullpen: Connelly Early (made roster) | Depth: Crawford (RHP), Sandoval (LHP) | Tolle optioned to Triple-A
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Roman AnthonyDHL
2Trevor StorySSR
3Jarren DuranLFL
4Willson Contreras1BR
5Wilyer AbreuRFR
6Caleb Durbin3BR
7Marcelo Mayer2BL
8Ceddanne RafaelaCFR
9Carlos NarváezCR
Huge rotation upgrade — Suárez + Crochet + Gray is arguably the best 1-2-3 in the AL. Keeping Duran and adding Contreras creates a powerful middle of the order around breakout candidate Roman Anthony. This is a dark horse WS contender.
4
Baltimore Orioles
Report Card: Jared A- Josh A- Ariel B+
Win Total: 85.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Under · Ariel: Under
2025 Season
75-87 · Missed Playoffs
A wave of injuries — most notably Jackson Holliday’s hamate bone fracture — derailed what many expected to be Baltimore’s contention year. The young core remains intact.
Key Acquisitions
- 1B Pete Alonso (5-year deal)
- SP Chris Bassitt (1-year deal)
- RP Ryan Helsley (2-year deal)
- SP Spencer Baz (trade)
- OF Taylor Ward (trade)
- SP Zach Eflin (1-year deal)
- INF Blaze Alexander (trade)
- RP Andrew Kittredge (trade)
- OF Leury Taveras (1-year deal)
- SP Ranger Suárez (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- SP Grayson Rodriguez (trade — Angels)
- INF Jorge Mateo (Braves)
- SP Tomoyuki Sugano (Rockies)
- C Gary Sánchez (Brewers)
- RP Kade Strowd (D-backs)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Taylor Rogers LHP
- 2 Kyle Bradish RHP
- 3 Spencer Baz RHP
- 4 Chris Bassitt RHP
- 5 Zach Eflin RHP
Depth: Kremer (RHP), Povich (LHP), Wells (RHP) | Rogers earned Opening Day start
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Gunnar HendersonSSL
2Adley RutschmanCS
3Pete Alonso1BR
4Taylor WardLFR
5Samuel BasalloDHL
6Tyler O’NeillRFR
7Coby Mayo3BR
8Colton CowserCFL
9Blaze Alexander2BR
Rough injury news on both sides of the ball to open the year: Holliday (broken hamate, right hand) on the IL, and now Jordan Westburg (partial UCL tear) is out for all of April. Blaze Alexander figures to slide to 3B. Taylor Rogers earned the Opening Day start. Trading Grayson Rodriguez remains a sting, but the Alonso signing gives this lineup real thump — the +2200 division odds still look like value if they can stay healthy.
5
Tampa Bay Rays
Report Card: Jared D Josh D+ Ariel C+
Win Total: 77.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Over · Ariel: Under
2025 Season
77-85 · Missed Playoffs
Losing Josh Lowe and Brandon Lowe in the same offseason exposed the Rays’ lineup — Tampa’s pitching kept them competitive, but not enough to contend.
Key Acquisitions
- SP Steve Matz (2-year deal)
- SP/RP Nick Martinez (1-year deal)
- INF Gavin Lux (3-team trade)
- OF Cedric Mullins (1-year deal)
- OF Jake Fraley (1-year deal)
- INF Brandon Melton (3-team trade)
- OF Jake Mangum (3-team trade)
- RP Mason Montgomery (3-team trade)
- RP Dylan Houser (trade)
- INF Cristopher Morel (trade)
- OF Ben Misner (trade)
Key Departures
- 2B Brandon Lowe (3-team trade — Pirates/Astros)
- SP Spencer Baz (trade — Orioles)
- RP Pete Fairbanks (trade — Marlins)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Drew Rasmussen RHP
- 2 Nick Martinez RHP
- 3 Steven Matz LHP
- 4 Ryan Pepiot RHP
- 5 Shane McClanahan LHP
McClanahan easing back after missing 2+ seasons | Depth: Palacios, Fraley (matchup bats)
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Yandy DíazDHR
2Jonathan Aranda1BL
3Junior Caminero3BR
4Ben Williamson2BR
5Cedric MullinsCFS
6Jonny DeLucaRFR
7Nick FortesCR
8Chandler SimpsonLFL
9Carson WilliamsSSR
Losing Brandon Lowe and Josh Lowe really hurts the upside for this offense. Feels extremely top-heavy. They’ll have issues bringing right-handed hitters to the table at the bottom of the lineup. Still, Junior Caminero’s upside is the moon — and if McClanahan can finally stay healthy, this rotation has real upside.
ALAL Central Preview
Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook
| # | Team | Division Winner | World Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Detroit Tigers | +110 | +450 |
| 2 | Kansas City Royals | +225 | +800 |
| 3 | Cleveland Guardians | +425 | +1200 |
| 4 | Minnesota Twins | +900 | +3000 |
| 5 | Chicago White Sox | +3500 | +8000 |
1
Detroit Tigers
Report Card: Jared B+ Josh B-
Win Total: 85.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Over
2025 Season
87-75 · ALDS Loss (2-3 vs. Seattle)
Tarik Skubal’s Cy Young season and Riley Greene’s power breakout gave Detroit its best season in over a decade, falling just short of the ALCS.
Key Acquisitions
- SP Framber Valdez (3-year deal)
- SP Justin Verlander (1-year deal)
- INF Gleyber Torres (qualifying offer)
- RP Kenley Jansen (1-year deal)
- RP Kyle Finnegan (2-year deal)
- SP Drew Anderson (1-year deal)
- OF Austin Slater (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- RP Jason Foley (Giants)
- SP José Urquidy (Pirates)
- INF Chase Lee (Blue Jays)
- SP Chris Paddack (Marlins)
- RP Paul Sewald (D-backs)
- C Wilkin Montero (Yankees)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Tarik Skubal LHP
- 2 Framber Valdez LHP
- 3 Justin Verlander RHP
- 4 Jack Flaherty RHP
- 5 Casey Mize RHP
Depth: Drew Anderson, Olson (season-ending injury)
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Gleyber Torres2BR
2Matt VierlingRFR
3Riley GreeneLFL
4Spencer Torkelson1BR
5Kerry CarpenterDHL
6Dillon DinglerCR
7Colt Keith3BL
8Parker MeadowsCFL
9Kevin McGonigleSSL
Skubal/Framber is the best 1-2 combo in the AL Central. This team has a clear runway to win the division with +110 odds. Greene has legitimate 40-homer upside — fixing the lineup’s strikeout problem is the key to unlocking this offense’s ceiling.
2
Kansas City Royals
Report Card: Jared C Josh C
Win Total: 81.0 | Josh: Over · Jared: Under
2025 Season
82-80 · Missed Playoffs
Bobby Witt Jr. emerged as a top-5 player in baseball in 2025, but the Royals couldn’t get enough support from the bottom of their lineup to push into October.
Key Acquisitions
- RP Matt Strahm (trade)
- OF Starling Marte (1-year deal)
- OF Isaac Collins (trade)
- RP Nick Mears (trade)
- RP Mason Lange (1-year deal)
- SP Daniel Means (MiLB deal)
- OF Will Morgan (MiLB deal)
- C Luke Maile (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- OF Mike Yastrzemski (Braves)
- SP Michael Lorenzen (Rockies)
- RP Angel Zerpa (Brewers)
- C MJ Melendez (Mets)
- RP Hunter Harvey (Cubs)
- INF Taylor Clarke (D-backs)
- SP Colin Bowlan (Phillies)
- INF Zach Frazier (Angels)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Cole Ragans LHP
- 2 Michael Wacha RHP
- 3 Seth Lugo RHP
- 4 Kris Bubic LHP
- 5 Noah Cameron LHP
Cameron won 5th spot as a rookie | Depth: Falter (bullpen long), Bergert (Triple-A)
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Maikel Garcia3BR
2Bobby Witt Jr.SSR
3Vinnie Pasquantino1BL
4Salvador PerezCR
5Isaac CollinsLFS
6Jonathan India2BR
7Carter JensenDHL
8Starling MarteRFR
9Lane ThomasCFR
Bobby Witt for AL MVP? Carter Jensen (+600 ROTY) and Caglianone breakout seasons are real possibilities. The rotation is stable with Ragans and Lugo, but the bottom half of the lineup needs to produce for KC to take the next step over Detroit.
3
Cleveland Guardians
Report Card: Jared F Josh F
Win Total: 79.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Under
2025 Season
88-74 · Division Champs — WC Loss (1-2 vs. Detroit)
Cleveland won the AL Central but was ousted early by Detroit in a Wild Card upset. The Guardians’ pitching depth was real, but the offense couldn’t carry them through October.
Key Acquisitions
- RP Colin Holderman (1-year deal)
- RP Will Armstrong (1-year deal)
- 1B Rhys Hoskins (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- SP Zach Thomas (Royals)
- RP Sam Hentges (Giants)
- SP Cal Quantrill (Rangers)
- SP Triston McKenzie (Padres)
- SP Nick Brennan (Giants)
- INF Andrés Giménez (Blue Jays)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Tanner Bibee RHP
- 2 Gavin Williams RHP
- 3 Slade Cecconi RHP
- 4 Joey Cantillo LHP
- 5 Parker Messick LHP
Allen optioned to Triple-A Columbus to stay on regular turn
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Steven KwanCFL
2Chase DeLauterRFL
3José Ramírez3BS
4Kyle Manzardo1BL
5Rhys HoskinsDHR
6Angel MartínezLFS
7Bo NaylorCL
8Gabriel AriasSSR
9Brayan Rocchio2BS
J-Ram is a one-man wrecking crew, but how long can one player carry this much? Cleveland is going all-in on Chase DeLauter (No. 2 CLE prospect, 46th overall in MLB). The lineup is dangerously lefty-heavy again — this feels like a year KC could jump them for the division.
4
Minnesota Twins
Report Card: Jared D+ Josh C-
Win Total: 72.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Under
2025 Season
70-92 · Missed Playoffs
A brutal run of injuries to Buxton and Lewis, combined with a thin rotation, sent Minnesota spiraling to one of their worst records in recent memory.
Key Acquisitions
- C Victor Caratini (2-year deal)
- 1B Josh Bell (1-year deal)
- RP Taylor Rogers (1-year deal)
- RP Liam Hendriks (MiLB deal)
- SP Anthony Banda (trade)
- INF Orlando Arcia (MiLB deal)
- INF Giovanny Urshela (MiLB deal)
- RP Scott Chafin (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- 2B Edouard Julien (trade — Rockies)
- SP Pierson Ohl (trade — Rockies)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Joe Ryan RHP
- 2 Bailey Ober RHP
- 3 Taj Bradley RHP
- 4 Simeon Woods Richardson RHP
- 5 Mick Abel RHP
López (Tommy John — out for year) | Matthews optioned to Triple-A | Abel won 5th spot in camp
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Luke Keaschall2BR
2Byron BuxtonCFR
3Matt WallnerRFL
4Ryan JeffersCR
5Josh Bell1BS
6Royce Lewis3BR
7Trevor LarnachDHL
8Austin MartinLFR
9Brooks LeeSSS
This rotation is genuinely bad. Minnesota has a realistic path to finishing last in the division and is a bottom-three team in the AL. That said — if Buxton and Lewis stay healthy, the offensive ceiling is real. Luke Keaschall could have an excellent first full season.
5
Chicago White Sox
Report Card: Jared A- Josh A-
Win Total: 66.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Over
2025 Season
60-102 · Missed Playoffs
The Sox bottomed out in historic fashion, but the offseason haul of young talent signals a genuine rebuild is underway. The post-Luis Robert era begins.
Key Acquisitions
- INF Munetaka Murakami (2-year deal)
- OF Steward Domínguez (2-year deal)
- SP Anthony Kay (2-year deal)
- SP Matt Hicks (trade)
- OF Austin Hays (1-year deal)
- INF Luisangel Acuña (trade)
- SP/RP Sean Newcomb (1-year deal)
- OF Brennan Kelenic (MiLB deal)
- SP Erick Fedde (1-year deal)
Key Departures
- OF Luis Robert Jr. (Mets)
- OF Dante Taylor (retired)
- C Seby Zavala (Angels)
- OF Mike Tauchman (Mets)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Shane Smith RHP
- 2 Sean Burke RHP
- 3 Anthony Kay LHP
- 4 Davis Martin RHP
- 5 Erick Fedde RHP
IL: Teel (Grade 2 hamstring strain, 4-6 weeks)
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Chase Meidroth2BR
2Austin HaysRFR
3Colson MontgomerySSL
4Munetaka Murakami1BL
5Miguel Vargas3BR
6Andrew BenintendiLFL
7Lenyn SosaDHR
8Édgar QueroCS
9Luisangel AcuñaCFL
Interesting team to watch if you want to jump the Twins. Ceiling of 70 wins in a division where Cleveland got worse and Minnesota is still bad. Munetaka Murakami is the real headliner here — a Japanese slugging legend joining the young core. Not enough LHP depth in the rotation, so prospect call-ups are likely.
ALAL West Preview
Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook
| # | Team | Division Winner | World Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Mariners | +100 | +350 |
| 2 | Houston Astros | +250 | +700 |
| 3 | Texas Rangers | +340 | +900 |
| 4 | Oakland Athletics | +1300 | +4000 |
| 5 | Los Angeles Angels | +4000 | +10000 |
1
Seattle Mariners
Report Card: Jared B+ Josh B-
Win Total: 89.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Over
2025 Season
90-72 · Division Champs — ALCS Loss (G7 vs. Toronto)
Seattle’s loaded rotation carried them to the ALCS before falling to Toronto in seven — a heartbreaking finish that nonetheless validated this program’s rebuild.
Key Acquisitions
- 1B Josh Naylor (5-year deal)
- INF Brendan Donovan (3-team trade)
- OF Ramón Ferrer (trade)
- OF Ben Refsnyder (1-year deal)
- C Andrew Knizner (1-year deal)
- C Adam Garver (MiLB deal)
- SP Cole Criswell (trade)
Key Departures
- 3B Eugenio Suárez (Reds)
- 2B Jorge Polanco (Mets)
- RP Ray Ferguson (Reds)
- INF José Cijntje (3-team trade)
- INF Cole Williamson (3-team trade)
- C Harry Ford (trade — Nationals)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Logan Gilbert RHP
- 2 George Kirby RHP
- 3 Bryan Woo RHP
- 4 Luis Castillo RHP
- 5 Bryce Miller RHP
IL: Miller (left oblique inflammation) — Hancock likely injury fill-in to open season
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Brendan Donovan3BL
2Cal RaleighCS
3Julio RodríguezCFR
4Josh Naylor1BL
5Randy ArozarenaLFR
6Dominic CanzoneDHL
7Luke RaleyRFL
8Cole Young2BL
9J.P. CrawfordSSL
Seattle’s rotation — Gilbert, Woo, Kirby, Castillo, Miller — is one of the best top-5s in baseball. With Josh Naylor anchoring the lineup and J-Rod maturing as a star, the M’s are co-favorites in the AL West. Even money to win the division speaks volumes.
2
Houston Astros
Report Card: Jared C Josh B-
Win Total: 86.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Under
2025 Season
87-75 · Missed Playoffs (missed by fraction)
Houston’s dynasty window appears to be closing — they finished just outside the playoff picture in 2025 despite having a strong roster on paper.
Key Acquisitions
- SP Tatsuya Imai (3-year deal)
- SP Mike Burrows (3-team trade)
- OF Jake Loperfido (trade)
- RP Phil Weiss (1-year deal)
Key Departures
- SP Framber Valdez (Tigers)
- OF Mauricio Dubón (Braves)
- INF Brandon Melton (3-team trade)
- OF Julián Urbinas (Cardinals)
- C Victor Caratini (Twins)
- RP Craig Kimbrel (Mets)
- INF Brendan Rodgers (Red Sox)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Hunter Brown RHP
- 2 Mike Burrows RHP
- 3 Cristian Javier RHP
- 4 Tatsuya Imai RHP
- 5 Lance McCullers Jr. RHP
IL: Peña (fractured ring finger, WBC) — Correa slides to SS | Arrighetti optioned to Triple-A
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Jose Altuve2BR
2Isaac Paredes3BR
3Yordan AlvarezDHL
4Carlos CorreaSSR
5Yainer DiazCR
6Christian Walker1BR
7Cam SmithRFR
8Joey LoperfidoLFL
9Jake MeyersCFR
Houston’s dynasty years may be behind them, but the Astros are still dangerous. The loss of Framber Valdez is massive — Tatsuya Imai will need to step up immediately. Adding to the concern: Josh Hader (biceps tendinitis) opens the year on the IL, making Bryan Abreu the team’s closer. Hunter Brown earned the Opening Day start. Yordan and Altuve remain elite, but the bullpen takes a hit without Hader from day one.
3
Texas Rangers
Report Card: Jared C+ Josh B-
Win Total: 83.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Over
2025 Season
81-81 · Missed Playoffs
Texas went .500 and paid a heavy price for a disappointing 2024 World Series hangover. A healthy 2026 starting rotation is the key to a bounce-back season.
Key Acquisitions
- SP MacKenzie Gore (trade)
- OF Brandon Nimmo (trade)
- C Danny Jansen (2-year deal)
- SP Jordan Montgomery (1-year deal)
- SP Cal Quantrill (1-year deal)
- RP Alexis Díaz (1-year deal)
- SP Austin Gomber (MiLB deal)
- RP Evan Sborz (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- SS Marcus Semien (Mets)
- SP Nathaniel García (Phillies)
- RP Phil Maton (Cubs)
- RP Casey Milner (Cubs)
- RP Will Armstrong (Guardians)
- SP Jacob Webb (Cubs)
- SP Trevor Mahle (Giants)
- C Jonah Heim (Braves)
- INF Dylan Moore (Phillies)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Jacob deGrom RHP
- 2 Nathan Eovaldi RHP
- 3 MacKenzie Gore LHP
- 4 Jack Leiter RHP
- 5 Kumar Rocker RHP
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Brandon NimmoRFL
2Wyatt LangfordLFL
3Corey SeagerSSL
4Jake Burger1BR
5Joc PedersonDHL
6Josh Jung3BR
7Josh Smith2BL
8Danny JansenCR
9Evan CarterCFL
A healthy Jacob deGrom changes everything in Texas. The Rangers have championship DNA and a lineup built around Seager and Langford. If deGrom returns to form alongside Eovaldi and Gore, this rotation becomes one of the most feared in baseball. Leiter and Rocker are the prospects everyone in Texas has been waiting for.
4
Oakland Athletics
Report Card: Jared F Josh D+
Win Total: 75.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Under
2025 Season
76-86 · Missed Playoffs
The A’s played respectable baseball in their new Sacramento-area stadium but remain firmly in build mode as they develop the next wave of young talent.
Key Acquisitions
- 2B Jeff McNeil (trade)
- SP Austin Civale (1-year deal)
- RP Scott Barlow (1-year deal)
Key Departures
- SP/RP Sean Newcomb (White Sox)
- OF J.P. Bleday (Reds)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Luis Severino RHP
- 2 Jeffrey Springs LHP
- 3 Luis Morales RHP
- 4 Jacob Lopez LHP
- 5 Aaron Civale RHP
Depth: Ginn, Barnett, Hoglund, Perkins | Top prospect Gage Jump could debut mid-season
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Nick Kurtz1BL
2Shea LangeliersCR
3Tyler SoderstromLFL
4Brent RookerDHR
5Jacob WilsonSSR
6Lawrence ButlerRFL
7Max Muncy3BL
8Jeff McNeil2BL
9Denzel ClarkeCFR
Nick Kurtz is the real deal at first base — one of the top prospects in baseball. Luis Severino and Jeffrey Springs give the rotation some veteran stability, but Oakland is mostly playing for prospect development and 2027. The new stadium gives the franchise stability it desperately needed.
5
Los Angeles Angels
Report Card: Jared C- Josh B-
Win Total: 70.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Over
2025 Season
72-90 · Missed Playoffs
The Shohei Ohtani era officially ended when he departed for the Dodgers, and Los Angeles is still searching for its identity in the post-Ohtani world.
Key Acquisitions
- SP Grayson Rodriguez (trade — Orioles)
- OF Josh Lowe (3-team trade)
- RP Kirby Yates (1-year deal)
- SP Alek Manoah (1-year deal)
- INF Vaughn Grissom (trade)
- 3B Yoán Moncada (1-year deal)
- SP Drew Pomeranz (1-year deal)
- RP Jordan Romano (1-year deal)
- SP Brett Suter (1-year deal)
- RP Austin Strickland (MiLB deal)
- INF Robbie Frazier (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- OF Taylor Ward (Orioles)
- SP Grayson Rodriguez (traded from BAL, formerly SP Eduardo Rodriguez)
- SP Kyle Hendricks (retired)
- INF Luis Rengifo (Brewers)
- RP Nick Burke (3-team trade)
- C Seby Zavala (White Sox)
- RP Scott Chafin (Twins)
Starting Rotation
- 1 José Soriano RHP
- 2 Yusei Kikuchi LHP
- 3 Reid Detmers LHP
- 4 Ryan Johnson RHP
- 5 Jack Kochanowicz RHP
IL: Rodriguez (right arm soreness), Manoah (fingernail blister) | Urena in long relief
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Zach NetoSSR
2Mike TroutCFR
3Nolan Schanuel1BL
4Jorge SolerDHR
5Yoán Moncada3BS
6Jo AdellRFR
7Josh LoweLFL
8Logan O’HoppeCR
9Oswald Peraza2BR
The Grayson Rodriguez acquisition is a blockbuster — he’s a legit top-of-rotation arm. The franchise is leaning on Kikuchi, Soriano, and Rodriguez to front a rotation that could surprise at +4000 division odds. Mike Trout’s health is the wild card this whole franchise revolves around.
NLNL East Preview
Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook
| # | Team | Division Winner | World Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New York Mets | +210 | +800 |
| 2 | Philadelphia Phillies | +150 | +600 |
| 3 | Atlanta Braves | +290 | +1000 |
| 4 | Miami Marlins | +3500 | +15000 |
| 5 | Washington Nationals | +8000 | +30000 |
1
New York Mets
Report Card: Jared A- Josh B+
Win Total: 90.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Over
2025 Season
83-79 · Missed Playoffs
New York’s offense sputtered without a true middle-of-the-order anchor following Alonso’s departure — a lesson the front office answered with the most aggressive offseason in the NL.
Key Acquisitions
- SS Bo Bichette (3-year deal)
- SP Freddy Peralta (trade)
- OF Luis Robert Jr. (trade)
- 2B Marcus Semien (trade)
- RP Devin Williams (3-year deal)
- 2B Jorge Polanco (2-year deal)
- RP Luke Weaver (2-year deal)
- SP Tobias Myers (trade)
- OF MJ Melendez (1-year deal)
- RP Luis García (1-year deal)
- RP Craig Kimbrel (MiLB deal)
- OF Mike Tauchman (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- 1B Pete Alonso (Orioles)
- RP Edwin Díaz (Dodgers)
- OF Brandon Nimmo (trade — Rangers)
- 2B/OF Jeff McNeil (trade — Athletics)
- RP Tyler Rogers (Blue Jays)
- SS Jett Williams (trade — Brewers)
- SP Brandon Sproat (trade — Brewers)
- 2B Luisangel Acuña (trade — White Sox)
- OF Cedric Mullins (Rays)
- OF Starling Marte (Royals)
- RP Ryan Helsley (Orioles)
- RP Gregory Soto (Pirates)
- RP Ryne Stanek (Cardinals)
- RP Danny Young (Braves)
- SP Griffin Canning (Padres)
- RP Drew Smith (Nationals)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Freddy Peralta RHP
- 2 David Peterson LHP
- 3 Nolan McLean RHP
- 4 Clay Holmes RHP
- 5 Kodai Senga RHP
6-man rotation planned for April | Manaea starts in bullpen | Depth: Tong, Scott, Myers
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Francisco LindorSSS
2Juan SotoLFL
3Bo Bichette3BR
4Jorge Polanco1BS
5Luis Robert Jr.CFR
6Brett BatyDHL
7Marcus Semien2BR
8Carson BengeRFL
9Francisco AlvarezCR
The Mets went absolutely nuclear this offseason. Bichette, Robert Jr., Semien, Peralta — this is an elite roster on paper. Good news: Lindor (hamate surgery Feb. 11) is confirmed healthy and ready for Opening Day. Peralta earns the OD start — his third straight OD start, first as a Met. The real question is whether Soto and Robert Jr. can both thrive together, and if Senga can stay healthy in year two post-shoulder surgery.
2
Philadelphia Phillies
Report Card: Jared C Josh C-
Win Total: 89.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Over
2025 Season
96-66 · NLDS Loss (vs. LA Dodgers)
Philadelphia was the best team in the NL regular season, but ran into the Dodgers buzzsaw in the NLDS — leaving an offseason feeling unfinished despite an elite win total.
Key Acquisitions
- DH Kyle Schwarber (re-signed; 5-year deal)
- C J.T. Realmuto (re-signed; 3-year deal)
- RP Brad Keller (2-year deal)
- OF Adolis García (1-year deal)
- RP Jonathan Bowlan (trade)
- RP Kyle Backhus (trade)
- RP Zach Pop (1-year deal)
- UTIL Dylan Moore (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- SP Ranger Suárez (Red Sox)
- OF Harrison Bader (Giants)
- OF Nick Castellanos (Padres)
- RP Matt Strahm (trade — Royals)
- RP Jordan Romano (Angels)
- RP David Robertson (retired)
- SP Walker Buehler (Padres)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Christopher Sánchez LHP
- 2 Jesús Luzardo LHP
- 3 Aaron Nola RHP
- 4 Taijuan Walker RHP
- 5 Andrew Painter RHP
Depth: Zack Wheeler (thoracic surgery — on IL)
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Trea TurnerSSR
2Kyle SchwarberDHL
3Bryce Harper1BL
4Alec Bohm3BR
5Bryson Stott2BL
6Adolis GarcíaRFR
7Brandon MarshLFL
8J.T. RealmutoCR
9Justin CrawfordCFL
Locking up Schwarber (5 years) and Realmuto (3 years) cements the core. The rotation lost Suárez to Boston but Sánchez and Luzardo are an elite 1-2 punch. Zack Wheeler’s thoracic surgery is a significant concern. Andrew Painter’s health and emergence is the storyline to watch.
3
Atlanta Braves
Report Card: Jared C- Josh C
Win Total: 87.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Under
2025 Season
76-86 · Missed Playoffs
Atlanta’s injury-plagued 2025 season was a major disappointment — Spencer Strider only recently returned from Tommy John surgery, and Ronald Acuña Jr. missed time as well.
Key Acquisitions
- RP Robert Suarez (3-year deal)
- SS Ha-Seong Kim (re-signed; 1-year deal)
- OF Mike Yastrzemski (2-year deal)
- RP Raisel Iglesias (re-signed; 1-year deal)
- UTIL Mauricio Dubón (trade)
- SP Martín Pérez (MiLB deal)
- SS Jorge Mateo (1-year deal)
- C Jonah Heim (1-year deal)
- RP Tyler Kinley (re-signed; 1-year deal)
- RP Joel Payamps (re-signed; 1-year deal)
- RP Danny Young (1-year deal)
- RP Ian Hamilton (1-year deal)
- INF Kyle Farmer (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- DH Marcell Ozuna (Pirates)
- SP Alek Manoah (Angels)
- INF Nick Allen (trade — Astros)
- RP Pierce Johnson (Reds)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Chris Sale LHP
- 2 Reynaldo Lopez RHP
- 3 Grant Holmes RHP
- 4 Bryce Elder RHP
- 5 José Suárez LHP
IL: Strider (oblique strain), Schwellenbach (elbow surgery — late June), Waldrep (elbow surgery — late June)
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Ronald Acuña Jr.RFR
2Drake BaldwinCL
3Matt Olson1BL
4Austin Riley3BR
5Ozzie Albies2BS
6Kyle FarmerDHR
7Michael Harris IICFL
8Eli WhiteLFR
9Mauricio DubónSSR
Brutal rotation news for Atlanta heading into Opening Day: Strider (oblique strain) joins Schwellenbach and Waldrep (both elbow surgery, back late June) on the IL — three of their top five starters are out before the first pitch. Sale leads a rotation that now relies on Holmes, Elder, and a fill-in fifth. Acuña Jr. back healthy is enormous, but this team needs reinforcements fast or they’ll be treading water by Memorial Day.
4
Miami Marlins
Report Card: Jared C- Josh C
Win Total: 72.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Over
2025 Season
79-83 · Missed Playoffs
Miami was surprisingly competitive in 2025 despite expected rebuilding pains, largely on the strength of a young pitching staff headlined by the return of Sandy Alcantara.
Key Acquisitions
- OF Owen Caissie (trade)
- RP Pete Fairbanks (1-year deal)
- INF Christopher Morel (1-year deal)
- OF Esteury Ruiz (trade)
- SP Chris Paddack (1-year deal)
- RP John King (1-year deal)
Key Departures
- SP Edward Cabrera (trade — Cubs)
- SP Ryan Weathers (trade — Yankees)
- OF Joey Wiemer (trade — Giants)
- OF Dane Myers (trade — Reds)
- 1B Eric Wagaman (trade — Twins)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Sandy Alcantara RHP
- 2 Eury Pérez RHP
- 3 Max Meyer RHP
- 4 Chris Paddack RHP
- 5 Janson Junk RHP
Junk won final spot over Garrett (2nd elbow surgery) | Depth: Garrett, Mazur, Gusto, Blalock
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Jakob MarseeCFL
2Otto LopezSSR
3Christopher Morel1BR
4Agustín RamírezCR
5Heriberto HernándezDHR
6Xavier Edwards2BS
7Javier SanojaLFR
8Connor Norby3BR
9Owen CaissieRFL
The Marlins are quietly building around their young pitching arms. Sandy Alcantara’s return healthy is enormous — he’s a legitimate ace when right. Eury Perez and Max Meyer give Miami an exciting young rotation that could carry them further than their +3500 odds suggest.
5
Washington Nationals
Report Card: Jared D Josh D+
Win Total: 65.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Under
2025 Season
66-96 · Missed Playoffs
Washington continues to develop their historic crop of young talent — Wood, Crews, and Abrams form one of the most exciting young OF/SS cores in the game.
Key Acquisitions
- C Harry Ford (trade)
- SP Miles Mikolas (1-year deal)
- SP Foster Griffin (1-year deal)
- SS Gavin Fien (trade)
- RP Drew Smith (MiLB deal)
- RP Zack Littell (signed)
Key Departures
- SP MacKenzie Gore (trade — Rangers)
- RP Jose A. Ferrer (trade — Mariners)
- 1B Josh Bell (Twins)
- 3B Paul DeJong (Yankees)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Cade Cavalli RHP
- 2 Foster Griffin LHP
- 3 Zack Littell RHP
- 4 Miles Mikolas RHP
- 5 Jake Irvin RHP
Crews optioned to Triple-A Rochester | Gray (Tommy John rehab — Triple-A) | Lord in bullpen (long)
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1CJ AbramsSSL
2Jacob YoungCFR
3James WoodLFL
4Daylen LileRFL
5Andres ChaparroDHR
6Luis García Jr.1BL
7Keibert RuizCS
8Brady House3BR
9Nasim Nuñez2BS
The James Wood era is officially underway in Washington. Dylan Crews and Wood give the Nationals an exciting young OF duo that will be must-watch baseball. It’s still a rebuilding team — but the future is very bright, and 2027-28 could be a serious contention window.
NLNL Central Preview
Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook
| # | Team | Division Winner | World Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chicago Cubs | +115 | +700 |
| 2 | Milwaukee Brewers | +275 | +1400 |
| 3 | Cincinnati Reds | +425 | +2000 |
| 4 | Pittsburgh Pirates | +600 | +3000 |
| 5 | St. Louis Cardinals | +2500 | +12000 |
1
Chicago Cubs
Report Card: Jared B Josh C+
Win Total: 88.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Over
2025 Season
92-70 · NLDS Loss (2-3 vs. Milwaukee)
Chicago won 92 games and made the playoffs, but got knocked out by their division rival Brewers in a five-game NLDS — a frustrating result that motivated a significant offseason.
Key Acquisitions
- 3B Alex Bregman (5-year deal)
- SP Edward Cabrera (trade)
- SP Shota Imanaga (re-signed; qualifying offer)
- RP Hunter Harvey (1-year deal)
- RP Phil Maton (2-year deal)
- RP Caleb Thielbar (re-signed; 1-year deal)
- RP Shelby Miller (2-year deal)
- RP Hoby Milner (1-year deal)
- RP Jacob Webb (1-year deal)
- 1B Tyler Austin (1-year deal)
- OF Michael Conforto (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- OF Kyle Tucker (Dodgers)
- RP Andrew Kittredge (trade — Orioles)
- RP Brad Keller (Phillies)
- UTIL Willi Castro (Rockies)
- SP Michael Soroka (D-backs)
- SP Drew Pomeranz (Angels)
- RP Taylor Rogers (Twins)
- RP Eli Morgan (Royals)
- OF Owen Caissie (trade — Marlins)
- 1B Carlos Santana (D-backs)
- SP Aaron Civale (Athletics)
- RP Ryan Brasier (Rangers)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Matthew Boyd LHP
- 2 Cade Horton RHP
- 3 Edward Cabrera RHP
- 4 Shota Imanaga LHP
- 5 Jameson Taillon RHP
IL: Suzuki (right knee) | Depth: Rea, Brown, Assad | Steele (left elbow) targeting first half return
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Michael Busch1BL
2Nico Hoerner2BR
3Ian HappLFS
4Alex Bregman3BR
5Pete Crow-ArmstrongCFL
6Carson KellyCR
7Moisés BallesterosDHL
8Dansby SwansonSSR
9Michael ConfortoRFL
The sky is the limit for the Cubs. Bregman’s 5-year deal fills the biggest gap left by the Bregman era in Houston. The Horton/Boyd/Cabrera/Imanaga rotation is electric. Losing Kyle Tucker to LA hurts, but PCA’s ceiling makes up for some of that loss. Chicago and Milwaukee are on a collision course again.
2
Milwaukee Brewers
Report Card: Jared B- Josh B
Win Total: 84.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Over
2025 Season
97-65 · NLCS Loss (0-4 vs. LA Dodgers)
Milwaukee won the NL Central going away, swept the Cubs in the NLDS, and fell to the Dodgers in the NLCS sweep — a franchise-defining season that proved the Brewers’ formula works.
Key Acquisitions
- SP Brandon Woodruff (re-signed; qualifying offer)
- SS Jett Williams (trade)
- SP Brandon Sproat (trade)
- SP Kyle Harrison (trade)
- INF David Hamilton (trade)
- RP Angel Zerpa (trade)
- INF Luis Rengifo (1-year deal)
- OF Akil Baddoo (1-year deal)
- C Gary Sánchez (1-year deal)
Key Departures
- SP Freddy Peralta (trade — Mets)
- C Danny Jansen (Rangers)
- INF Caleb Durbin (trade — Red Sox)
- 1B Rhys Hoskins (Guardians)
- INF Andruw Monasterio (trade — Red Sox)
- SP Jose Quintana (Rockies)
- RP Shelby Miller (Cubs)
- OF Isaac Collins (trade — Royals)
- SP Tobias Myers (trade — Mets)
- RP Nick Mears (trade — Royals)
- SP/RP Erick Fedde (White Sox)
- SP Jordan Montgomery (Rangers)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Jacob Misiorowski RHP
- 2 Chad Patrick RHP
- 3 Brandon Sproat RHP
- 4 Kyle Harrison LHP
- 5 Brandon Woodruff RHP
IL: Priester (nerve/TOS) | Woodruff building up cautiously | Depth: Gasser, Henderson, Drohan
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Jackson ChourioLFR
2Brice Turang2BL
3William ContrerasCR
4Christian YelichDHL
5Luis Rengifo3BS
6Sal FrelickRFL
7Jake Bauers1BL
8Garrett MitchellCFL
9Joey OrtizSSR
Hard to believe the Brewers moved on from Freddy Peralta — but Milwaukee always finds a way. This team has a formula that just wins ballgames and trusts new arms throughout the summer. Chicago has the higher payroll and better roster on paper, but the Brewers’ coaching and development advantage is real.
3
Cincinnati Reds
Report Card: Jared C Josh C
Win Total: 81.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Under
2025 Season
83-79 · Missed Playoffs
Cincinnati was one of the most exciting teams in the NL, but couldn’t squeeze into the Wild Card picture despite a strong second half. EDLC’s superstar emergence was the story.
Key Acquisitions
- 3B Eugenio Suárez (1-year deal)
- OF JJ Bleday (1-year deal)
- RP Emilio Pagán (re-signed; 2-year deal)
- RP Pierce Johnson (1-year deal)
- RP Caleb Ferguson (1-year deal)
- RP Brock Burke (3-team trade)
- OF Dane Myers (trade)
- 1B Nathaniel Lowe (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- INF Gavin Lux (3-team trade — Rays)
- OF Austin Hays (White Sox)
- 3B/OF Miguel Andújar (Padres)
- RP Brent Suter (Angels)
- RP Scott Barlow (Athletics)
- SP/RP Nick Martinez (Rays)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Andrew Abbott LHP
- 2 Nick Lodolo LHP
- 3 Brady Singer RHP
- 4 Rhett Lowder RHP
- 5 Chase Burns RHP
- 6 Brandon Williamson LHP
IL: Greene (right elbow) | 6-man rotation — Lowder/Burns/Williamson share 5 spots, one comes from bullpen by matchup
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1TJ FriedlCFL
2Matt McLain2BR
3Elly De La CruzSSS
4Sal Stewart1BR
5Eugenio SuárezDHR
6Spencer SteerLFR
7Tyler StephensonCR
8Noelvi MarteRFR
9Ke’Bryan Hayes3BR
Nick Lodolo exited his last spring start with a finger blister on his left index finger — he has a significant history with this injury (missed 23 days last August). Day-to-day heading into Opening Day, but could land on the IL. The rotation around Greene and Abbott stays elite regardless. Suárez is a HUGE addition for EDLC — Chase Burns could be the most dominant reliever in the NL.
4
Pittsburgh Pirates
Report Card: Jared B+ Josh B+
Win Total: 78.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Under
2025 Season
71-91 · Missed Playoffs
Paul Skenes was everything advertised — and more. His debut season was one of the greatest by a rookie pitcher in modern history, but Pittsburgh’s lineup wasn’t good enough to support him.
Key Acquisitions
- 2B Brandon Lowe (3-team trade)
- 1B/OF Ryan O’Hearn (2-year deal)
- DH Marcell Ozuna (1-year deal)
- SP José Urquidy (1-year deal)
- RP Gregory Soto (1-year deal)
- OF Jake Mangum (3-team trade)
- RP Mason Montgomery (3-team trade)
- OF Jhostynxon Garcia (trade)
Key Departures
- SP Johan Oviedo (trade — Red Sox)
- SP Mike Burrows (3-team trade — Astros/Rays)
- RP Colin Holderman (Guardians)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Paul Skenes RHP
- 2 Mitch Keller RHP
- 3 Bubba Chandler RHP
- 4 Braxton Ashcraft RHP
- 5 José Urquidy RHP
Depth: Jared Jones (return expected mid-summer)
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Oneil CruzCFL
2Spencer Horwitz1BL
3Bryan ReynoldsLFS
4Marcell OzunaDHR
5Ryan O’HearnRFL
6Brandon Lowe2BL
7Joey BartCR
8Jared Triolo3BR
9Nick GonzalezSSR
Paul Skenes — reigning NL Cy Young winner — makes his second Opening Day start with a jaw-dropping 1.96 career ERA through 55 starts. He is the real deal. Mitch Keller complements him beautifully. Ozuna and Lowe give the lineup real upgrades. Pittsburgh is righty-heavy but this electric rotation gives them a legitimate shot at .500 and perhaps a Wild Card chase.
5
St. Louis Cardinals
Report Card: Jared F Josh C-
Win Total: 69.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Under
2025 Season
78-84 · Missed Playoffs
St. Louis officially pivoted to a rebuild, trading Arenado and moving on from Goldschmidt and Contreras — the franchise is banking on a 2027-28 window.
Key Acquisitions
- SP Dustin May (1-year deal)
- INF Ramón Urías (1-year deal)
- SP Brandon Clarke (trade)
- SP Richard Fitts (trade)
- SP Hunter Dobbins (trade)
- SP Jurrangelo Cijntje (3-team trade)
- RP Ryne Stanek (1-year deal)
- C Yohel Pozo (re-signed; 1-year deal)
Key Departures
- 1B Willson Contreras (trade — Red Sox)
- SP Sonny Gray (trade — Red Sox)
- 3B Nolan Arenado (trade — D-backs)
- INF Brendan Donovan (3-team trade — Mariners/Rays)
- SP Miles Mikolas (Nationals)
- RP John King (Marlins)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Matthew Liberatore LHP
- 2 Michael McGreevy RHP
- 3 Dustin May RHP
- 4 Kyle Leahy RHP
- 5 Andre Pallante RHP
IL: Nootbaar (offseason surgery) | Wetherholt (MLB No.5 prospect) made team | Fitts optioned to Triple-A
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1JJ Wetherholt2BR
2Masyn WinnSSR
3Iván HerreraDHR
4Alec Burleson1BL
5Nolan Gorman3BL
6Jordan WalkerRFR
7Nathan ChurchLFL
8Pedro PagésCR
9Victor Scott IICFL
MLB No. 5 overall prospect JJ Wetherholt will be the team’s primary 2B following the Donovan trade — and that transition is exactly where this team is at. The Cardinals have moved on from Arenado, Goldschmidt, and Contreras. The rotation is a right-handed mess. 2026 is a development year; 2027 is when this team’s future takes shape.
NLNL West Preview
Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook
| # | Team | Division Winner | World Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Los Angeles Dodgers | -650 | +230 |
| 2 | San Diego Padres | +900 | +3500 |
| 3 | San Francisco Giants | +1700 | +6000 |
| 4 | Arizona Diamondbacks | +2200 | +7000 |
| 5 | Colorado Rockies | +30000 | +50000 |
1
Los Angeles Dodgers
Report Card: Jared A Josh A+
Win Total: 102.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Over
2025 Season
93-69 · World Series Champions (Won 4-3 vs. Toronto)
Los Angeles won their second World Series in five seasons — Ohtani’s 2-way dominance and Yamamoto’s postseason brilliance were the story. The dynasty rolls on.
Key Acquisitions
- OF Kyle Tucker (4-year deal)
- RP Edwin Díaz (3-year deal)
- SS Miguel Rojas (re-signed; 1-year deal)
- UTIL Kiké Hernández (re-signed; 1-year deal)
- RP Evan Phillips (re-signed; 1-year deal)
Key Departures
- RP Kirby Yates (Angels)
- RP Anthony Banda (trade)
- OF Michael Conforto (Cubs)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Yoshinobu Yamamoto RHP
- 2 Tyler Glasnow RHP
- 3 Shohei Ohtani RHP
- 4 Emmet Sheehan RHP
- 5 Roki Sasaki RHP
IL: Snell (shoulder), Stone (shoulder) | Depth: Justin Wrobleski, River Ryan
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Shohei OhtaniDHL
2Kyle TuckerRFL
3Mookie BettsSSR
4Freddie Freeman1BL
5Will SmithCR
6Teoscar HernándezLFR
7Max Muncy3BL
8Andy PagesCFR
9Miguel Rojas2BR
The defending World Series champions add Kyle Tucker to an already cartoonish roster. Yamamoto leads a confirmed Opening Day rotation of Glasnow, Sasaki, Sheehan, and Ohtani (starting Game 5). Two notable IL absences: Blake Snell (shoulder) and Gavin Stone (shoulder) both begin the year out. Still — even with Snell and Stone shelved, this is the most talented rotation in baseball by a wide margin.
2
San Diego Padres
Report Card: Jared C+ Josh B-
Win Total: 83.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Over
2025 Season
90-72 · Wild Card Loss (1-2 vs. Chicago Cubs)
San Diego won 90 games and had a dominant regular season, only to fall to a hot Cubs team in the Wild Card round — a gut punch for a franchise with World Series expectations.
Key Acquisitions
- SP Michael King (re-signed; 3-year deal)
- INF Sung-Mun Song (4-year deal)
- 3B/OF Miguel Andújar (1-year deal)
- SP Kyle Hart (re-signed; 1-year deal)
- RP Ty Adcock (1-year deal)
- RP Daison Acosta (1-year deal)
- SP Triston McKenzie (MiLB deal)
- SP Griffin Canning (1-year deal)
- OF Nick Castellanos (1-year deal)
- 1B Ty France (MiLB deal)
- SP Germán Márquez (1-year deal)
- SP Walker Buehler (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- SP Dylan Cease (Blue Jays)
- 1B/2B Luis Arraez (Giants)
- RP Robert Suarez (Braves)
- 1B/OF Ryan O’Hearn (Pirates)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Nick Pivetta RHP
- 2 Michael King RHP
- 3 Randy Vásquez RHP
- 4 Germán Márquez RHP
- 5 Walker Buehler RHP
IL: Musgrove (Tommy John — return likely mid-season), Darvish (out for year) | Canning (torn Achilles — return TBD)
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Xander BogaertsSSR
2Jackson MerrillCFL
3Manny Machado3BR
4Fernando Tatis Jr.RFR
5Ramón LaureanoLFR
6Nick CastellanosDHR
7Jake Cronenworth2BL
8Miguel Andújar1BR
9Freddy FerminCR
After falling in the Wild Card to Chicago in 2025, the Padres reload around Tatis Jr., Machado, and Bogaerts. Musgrove’s Tommy John recovery hit a setback and he opens the year on the IL — Walker Buehler steps into the rotation as the #5. Pivetta leads a four-man core of King, Vasquez, and Márquez. Michael King’s extension remains the most important move of their offseason.
3
San Francisco Giants
Report Card: Jared B Josh B
Win Total: 80.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Over
2025 Season
81-81 · Missed Playoffs
San Francisco played .500 ball behind Logan Webb’s brilliance and a new-look lineup featuring Rafael Devers — but couldn’t break through to the playoffs in a crowded NL field.
Key Acquisitions
- OF Harrison Bader (2-year deal)
- 1B/2B Luis Arraez (1-year deal)
- SP Tyler Mahle (1-year deal)
- SP Adrian Houser (2-year deal)
- RP Sam Hentges (1-year deal)
- RP Jason Foley (1-year deal)
- OF Will Brennan (1-year deal)
- RP Joey Lucchesi (re-signed; MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- SP Justin Verlander (Tigers)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Logan Webb RHP
- 2 Robbie Ray LHP
- 3 Tyler Mahle RHP
- 4 Adrian Houser RHP
- 5 Landen Roupp RHP
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Heliot RamosLFR
2Rafael Devers1BL
3Matt Chapman3BR
4Willy AdamesSSR
5Luis Arraez2BL
6Jerar EncarnacionDHR
7Jung Hoo LeeRFL
8Harrison BaderCFR
9Patrick BaileyCS
The Giants made significant moves around a great core. Devers at 1B, Adames at SS, Chapman at 3B — this lineup has real teeth, and Logan Webb is one of the most underrated aces in baseball. A healthy Robbie Ray could be the X-factor that pushes San Francisco into October.
4
Arizona Diamondbacks
Report Card: Jared C- Josh C-
Win Total: 79.5 | Josh: Under · Jared: Under
2025 Season
80-82 · Missed Playoffs
Arizona bounced back from their 2023 WS appearance hangover, playing near .500 ball in a tough NL West — the young core of Carroll, Lawlar, and Perdomo continues to develop.
Key Acquisitions
- 3B Nolan Arenado (trade)
- SP Zac Gallen (re-signed; 1-year deal)
- SP Merrill Kelly (2-year deal)
- SP Michael Soroka (1-year deal)
- 1B Carlos Santana (1-year deal)
- C James McCann (re-signed; 1-year deal)
- RP Paul Sewald (1-year deal)
- RP Taylor Clarke (1-year deal)
- RP Kade Strowd (trade)
- SP Josh Grosz (trade)
- RP Joe Ross (MiLB deal)
Key Departures
- OF Jake McCarthy (trade — Rockies)
- SS Blaze Alexander (trade — Orioles)
- RP Kyle Backhus (trade — Phillies)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Zac Gallen RHP
- 2 Ryne Nelson RHP
- 3 Brandon Pfaadt RHP
- 4 Eduardo Rodríguez LHP
- 5 Michael Soroka RHP
Depth: Corbin Burnes (All-Star Break return), Merrill Kelly (IL)
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Geraldo PerdomoSSS
2Ketel Marte2BS
3Corbin CarrollRFL
4Gabriel MorenoCR
5Nolan Arenado3BR
6Carlos Santana1BS
7Pavin SmithDHL
8Jordan LawlarLFR
9Alek ThomasCFL
Corbin Carroll (broken right hamate) is questionable for Opening Day and could start the season on the IL — a significant blow to an already thin lineup. The Diamondbacks were counting on Carroll as their catalyst at the top of the order. Adding Arenado gives them veteran depth, and Gallen’s re-signing stabilizes the rotation — but losing Carroll early would set back an already uphill climb in the NL West.
5
Colorado Rockies
Report Card: Jared D Josh D
Win Total: 54.5 | Josh: Over · Jared: Under
2025 Season
43-119 · Missed Playoffs
Colorado’s 43-119 record was one of the worst in modern MLB history — a franchise at absolute rock bottom, leaning entirely on prospect development to find its way forward.
Key Acquisitions
- UTIL Willi Castro (2-year deal)
- SP Michael Lorenzen (1-year deal)
- SP Jose Quintana (1-year deal)
- SP Tomoyuki Sugano (1-year deal)
- OF Jake McCarthy (trade)
- 2B Edouard Julien (trade)
- RP Pierson Ohl (trade)
Key Departures
- SS Orlando Arcia (Twins)
- 1B Michael Toglia (Reds)
- INF Kyle Farmer (Braves)
- RP Angel Chivilli (trade — Yankees)
- SP Germán Márquez (Padres)
Starting Rotation
- 1 Kyle Freeland LHP
- 2 Michael Lorenzen RHP
- 3 Jose Quintana LHP
- 4 Tomoyuki Sugano RHP
- 5 Ryan Feltner RHP
Depth: Dollander, Gordon, McCade Brown, Pierson Ohl
Starting Lineup
#PlayerPosB
1Jake McCarthyLFL
2Willi Castro2BS
3Hunter GoodmanCR
4Mickey MoniakDHL
5Ezequiel TovarSSR
6Jordan BeckRFR
7Brenton DoyleCFR
8TJ Rumfield1BL
9Kyle Karros3BR
Colorado went 43-119 in 2025 — one of the worst records in MLB history. The rebuild is ongoing and painful. Chase Dollander is the prized prospect the organization hopes can anchor a future rotation. Survival mode until at least 2028. The +30000 division odds say it all.
