2026 MLB Core Rankings

Ranking 2026 MLB Core Talent: Which Teams Lead the League?

The author has ranked the core talent of all 30 MLB teams for the final weeks of the 2026 season. This ranking is based on which teams have players under contract for the next two full seasons. For this analysis, salaries are not a factor, age isn't a factor. I split players into three tiers: elite (5ish WAR talent), plus (3-5ish W types), solid (1.5-3ish WAR), and valuable role players. I included players with easy-to-hit vesting options or club/player options, but left out players with likely-to be-exercised opt-outs or mutual options. The Brewers have the deepest list by a good margin and are considered the best team in baseball for much cheaper. The Red Sox are listed in the plus category, with established big leaguers and one of the top three prospects in baseball.

Topics