The future of baseball has never looked brighter! For the fourth consecutive year, MLB Pipeline has gathered insights from the sport's sharpest minds—general managers, scouting directors, farm directors, and analysts—to identify the rising stars who will captivate fans in the 2026 season.

This annual tradition has already proven remarkably prescient. In 2023, the survey correctly predicted both Rookie of the Year winners: Gunnar Henderson and Corbin Carroll. While 2024 and 2025 brought some surprises, the exercise highlights the incredible depth of talent flowing through baseball's farm systems.

This year's results showcase an exciting array of young talent across both leagues, with more than 40 front office officials weighing in on over 24 different prospects—a testament to just how many future stars are on the horizon!

In the American League, two exceptional talents share the spotlight. Trey Yesavage of the Blue Jays has captured imaginations after a spectacular playoff performance at just 22 years old. His journey from Single-A to becoming a reliable World Series arm in a single season exemplifies the rapid development possible in today's game. His devastating splitter has scouts and fans alike eager to see what he'll accomplish with a full season ahead.

Equally impressive is Kevin McGonigle, the Tigers' phenom who won't turn 21 until midway through the 2026 season. Despite limited experience above A-ball, McGonigle has posted an outstanding .922 career OPS in the minors. His Arizona Fall League MVP performance—including a .362/.500/.710 slash line—demonstrates why many consider him the best pure hitter in the minor leagues. The versatile infielder's advanced approach and defensive flexibility make him a fascinating player to watch this spring.

The Orioles' Samuel Basallo represents another exciting story, having debuted at just 21 and already shown his power potential with four home runs. Similarly, the Royals' Carter Jensen impressed immediately with a .941 OPS in September action, earning a likely spot on the Opening Day roster.

Over in the National League, Cardinals prospect JJ Wetherholt leads the way after an outstanding first full professional season. The seventh overall pick from 2024 showcased both power and speed with 17 home runs and 23 steals while maintaining a .306 average across Double-A and Triple-A. His versatility across three infield positions adds even more intrigue to his promising future.

The Mets' Nolan McLean has already given fans a preview of his brilliance, posting a stellar 2.06 ERA down the stretch while helping his team's playoff push. His dominant performance—including holding opponents to a .200 average—suggests he's ready to anchor a rotation for years to come.

What makes this year's survey particularly exciting is the diversity of talent recognized. From the Athletics and Red Sox, who each have multiple promising prospects, to teams across both leagues developing future stars, baseball's competitive balance looks stronger than ever.

These young players represent more than just statistics—they embody the dreams, dedication, and development systems that make baseball such a compelling sport. As spring training approaches, fans have every reason to feel optimistic about the game's future. The next generation of baseball excellence is ready to take center stage!