Major League Baseball’s 2026 season is set to begin on March 25, with the Yankees and Giants opening the schedule, according to a Mar. 10 preview. As part of an annual series leading up to Opening Day, this installment highlights the most likely award winners in each division.
The focus on individual awards such as Most Valuable Player (MVP), Cy Young, Rookie of the Year, and Manager of the Year reflects their importance in shaping player legacies. While winning a World Series remains a primary goal for many athletes, earning one of these honors can secure a lasting place in baseball history.
In the American League East, Aaron Judge of the Yankees is named as a top MVP candidate due to his consistent performance and durability over recent seasons. Garrett Crochet from the Red Sox is identified as a strong contender for Cy Young after finishing second last year and leading in innings pitched and strikeouts. Trey Yesavage of the Blue Jays is highlighted as a favorite for Rookie of the Year following his postseason success, while Craig Albernaz, new manager of the Orioles, is seen as having an opportunity to win Manager of the Year by guiding a talented but underperforming team.
Other divisions feature notable names such as José RamÃrez (Guardians) for MVP in the American League Central and Tarik Skubal (Tigers) aiming for his third consecutive Cy Young Award. In the National League West, Shohei Ohtani (Dodgers) leads MVP predictions, with Logan Webb (Giants) positioned as a potential Cy Young winner based on recent voting results.
Rookies like JJ Wetherholt (Cardinals), Charlie Condon (Rockies), and Justin Crawford (Phillies) are expected to make significant impacts in their debut seasons. Managers including Derek Shelton (Twins), Mark Kotsay (Athletics), Clayton McCullough (Marlins), Craig Counsell (Cubs), and Torey Lovullo (Diamondbacks) are also mentioned as candidates who could be recognized if their teams exceed expectations.
As anticipation builds toward Opening Day, fans will be watching these players and managers closely throughout the season to see which predictions come true.
