Spring Training is a time of pure optimism and hope, a chance to leave the struggles of the past behind and embrace the potential for something wonderful. It's a time when every team starts on an equal footing, with players in peak condition and an entire season of infinite possibilities ahead.
As we eagerly await the arrival of pitchers and catchers for Spring Training, let's embrace this feeling of positivity and explore some exciting predictions for the upcoming season. These are the stories we hope to see unfold, the narratives that will keep us engaged and entertained.
Elly De La Cruz: The Monster Season We've Been Waiting For
When you think of a natural-born baseball player, Elly De La Cruz is a prime example. With his all-around skills, from ridiculous power to lightning speed and an incredible arm, he's a force to be reckoned with. And let's not forget his infectious smile, a reminder of the pure joy this game can bring.
There have been moments when De La Cruz has showcased his immense talent, leaving fans wondering if they've just witnessed the best player ever. However, his reluctance to draw walks, frequent strikeouts, and a surprising number of errors in the field have prevented him from reaching his full potential as an MVP-caliber player.
But there's reason to believe this could be the year De La Cruz truly shines. Despite a nagging quad injury last season, he played every game and improved his average slightly. With his young age (just turned 24) and continued growth, we could be on the cusp of witnessing a dominant force in the league.
Cy Young Encore: The Repeat Performance
In a sport filled with young pitching talent, Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes stand out as historical figures in the making. Their incredible performances in 2025 have set the bar high, and a repeat performance in '26 would be nothing short of extraordinary.
The only other duo to achieve back-to-back Cy Young wins was Randy Johnson and Pedro Martínez in 1999-2000, a feat that solidified their legacies. Skenes, with a career ERA under 2.00, has the potential to follow in Martínez's footsteps if he can maintain this dominance. Meanwhile, Skubal winning his third consecutive Cy Young would secure his place in Cooperstown, joining the elite company of Johnson and a few others who have achieved this rare feat.
These pitchers bring a level of brilliance to the field every night, and we're hoping for an encore performance that will leave us in awe.
The Return of the Rehabbing Pitchers
Three exceptional pitchers, including two former Cy Young winners and a two-time runner-up, are currently in various stages of rehabilitation. Their return to the mound is highly anticipated, with Gerrit Cole of the Yankees likely to be the first back after his Tommy John surgery last March. Manager Aaron Boone has stated that Cole won't be rushed, but his presence in the first half of the season is a strong possibility.
A Healthy Braves Squad: Ready to Dominate
The Braves have endured their fair share of injuries, especially over the past two seasons. With a talented roster, they were poised to dominate the National League East, but health woes have prevented them from reaching their full potential. From star players to role players, the injury report has mirrored the actual roster, leading to a disappointing 76-86 campaign in 2025 and missing out on the playoffs for the first time since 2017.
However, the Braves are optimistic that this year will be different. Key players like Spencer Schwellenbach, Ozzie Albies, Sean Murphy, Austin Riley, Reynaldo López, and most importantly, Ronald Acuña Jr., who has played a combined 144 games over the past two seasons, are expected to be fully fit. With a competitive division, a healthy Braves team could spark an exciting three-way race between the Mets, Phillies, and Braves, providing fans with an incredible gift.
An Out-of-Nowhere Playoff Contender
Baseball could use a surprise team to shake things up and capture the world's attention. There are a few candidates that could fit the bill: the Athletics with their formidable offense, the Nationals with their young talent, the Pirates aiming to get Skenes to the playoffs, or the quickly improving White Sox. Or perhaps it will be a team that hasn't crossed our minds yet. Either way, fresh contenders always bring excitement to the league.
The World Baseball Classic: Ohtani vs. Trout, Round 2?
The World Baseball Classic has the potential to deliver another iconic moment, akin to the Ohtani vs. Trout showdown. It could take a different form, perhaps Skenes facing off against Shohei, but the personal nature of the WBC makes it a unique and thrilling experience. Stars going head-to-head, desperate to win, is the essence of what makes baseball so captivating. Let's hope for several more moments like this.
A Postseason to Remember
The 2025 World Series and entire postseason were nothing short of spectacular. From the mind-blowing American League Championship Series between the Blue Jays and Mariners to the incredible late-night October moments, it was a season that will live long in the memory. Let's aim for a repeat performance, a postseason that leaves us with more unforgettable memories.
