As the 2026 MLB season gets underway, teams are beginning to see which players and position groups are performing well.
Orioles’ Jeremiah Jackson Emerges
Jeremiah Jackson, who previously played in the Angels’ system, has become a standout player for the Orioles. After spending four seasons at Double-A across three organisations, Jackson benefited from the O’s 2025 Trade Deadline fire sale. He performed well in his initial MLB stint during the final two months of last season. The 26-year-old utility player leads the team with 17 RBIs and a .317 batting average. He also ranks second in hits (19) and home runs (five), with all five home runs occurring in his previous seven games. This breakout is certainly one to monitor.
Rays’ Offensive Versatility
The Rays may not be the highest-scoring team in the Majors, but their lineup has the ability to score in various ways. Junior Caminero, Jonathan Aranda, and Yandy Díaz form a formidable top of the order. The supporting cast, featuring Chandler Simpson and platoon hitters, contributes to keeping the line moving. The Rays are also limiting strikeouts. Only the Blue Jays (132) have fewer punchouts than Tampa Bay’s 136. Caminero, Aranda and Díaz will bring the thump, while the rest of the group should make the group deeper than anticipated.
Blue Jays’ Value in Andrés Giménez
Andrés Giménez is showing his true potential with the Blue Jays. Last year, injuries hampered his performance, and his offense struggled. Now that Giménez has taken over the shortstop job, his entire game seems to have improved. The confidence he gained from Team Venezuela’s World Baseball Classic win cannot be overstated. If Giménez can improve his performance at the plate while maintaining Gold Glove-calibre defence, he will be an extremely valuable player.
Red Sox: Abreu’s Potential
Wilyer Abreu is showing signs of having his best season yet. Abreu has been a standout defender in his first two seasons, earning two Gold Glove Awards. He now appears ready to be a more consistent run producer. Abreu got trimmer in the offseason, shortened his swing, and is hitting to all fields again. He is now an everyday player instead of someone who sits against most lefties. Abreu could potentially lead the Red Sox in home runs this season.
Yankees: Ben Rice’s Future
Ben Rice is considered a future All-Star for the Yankees.
With the season still in its early stages, these developments offer a glimpse into what each club can look forward to.