Introduction

As Major League Baseball gears up for the 2026 season, the preseason position rankings by Bleacher Report have provided a detailed look at the catchers expected to make an impact. Leading the pack is Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners, who captured headlines with a record-breaking 60 home runs and 125 RBIs last season, culminating in a runner-up finish for the AL MVP award. This article delves into the comprehensive rankings of catchers for the upcoming season, analyzing rising stars, seasoned veterans, and their respective potential for impact on the field.

Cal Raleigh: Setting the Standard

Cal Raleigh's impressive performance in 2025 has set the benchmark for catchers as we enter 2026. With an astounding .247/.359/.589 slash line and a whopping 169 OPS+, Raleigh demonstrated his ability to not only perform offensively but also handle catching duties effectively. Across 1,072 innings behind the plate, he contributed significantly to Seattle’s success. His achievement of 60 home runs places him among the elite in catcher history, as it represents an extraordinary offensive output that is rarely seen at the position. However, with such a high level of performance, a degree of regression is expected, yet Raleigh’s combination of durability and productivity gives him an edge over his competitors. His Platinum Glove also underscores his defensive capabilities, affirming his status as the best catcher in the game today.

Established Veterans: The Second Tier

Trailing Raleigh is a solid group of established veterans that includes William Contreras (Milwaukee Brewers), Alejandro Kirk (Toronto Blue Jays), Will Smith (Los Angeles Dodgers), and Salvador Perez (Kansas City Royals).

William Contreras has been a key player for Milwaukee, maintaining a 111 OPS+ and consistently contributing to the team’s playoff runs in recent seasons. His power numbers are significant, and he remains a reliable player in the heart of the lineup.

Alejandro Kirk, often underrated, brings elite defensive skills and outstanding contact ability to Toronto. He had a .282 batting average with strong production in clutch moments, making him a top catchers' prospect as he enters the new season.

Will Smith, serving as the Dodgers' primary catcher, has been exemplary with a 152 OPS+, showcasing both power and consistency. Meanwhile, Salvador Perez continues to prove that experience and veteran leadership are invaluable, despite entering his age-36 season. His balance of power and defensive prowess still makes him a formidable backstop.

Up-and-Coming Talents

Several young talents are making their mark in the catcher rankings, such as Francisco Alvarez (New York Mets), Dillon Dingler (Detroit Tigers), and last year's NL Rookie of the Year, Drake Baldwin (Atlanta Braves).

Francisco Alvarez is showing signs of a potential breakout after a solid offensive showing post-All-Star break, where he boasted a .921 OPS. Dingler enjoyed a surprising leap into the forefront of AL catchers following an injury to the incumbent, earning Gold Glove honors while showcasing elite defensive skills and improved offensive numbers.

Drake Baldwin not only secured the Rookie of the Year title but also showcased his offensive potential throughout the 2025 season. With strong reports on his batted-ball data, he is expected to maintain a spot among the top catchers heading into 2026.

Challenges for Other Catchers

Catchers around the league face unique challenges that could affect their standings. For instance, Keibert Ruiz (Washington Nationals), despite being locked in with a long-term contract, faces increased competition with the arrival of Harry Ford from Seattle, who is regarded as one of the top catching prospects following a strong minor league campaign.

Aside from Ruiz, players like Nick Fortes (Tampa Bay Rays) and Pedro Pagés (St. Louis Cardinals) have excelled defensively but struggled offensively, illustrating the delicate balance required for success at the catcher position. Pagés has established himself as a reliable receiver, yet his offensive output remains a concern.

Conclusion

The 2026 MLB season promises to be an exciting one for the catcher position. With established stars like Cal Raleigh setting lofty benchmarks, combined with a wave of emerging talent, the landscape of catching in baseball is vibrant and full of potential. Teams and fans alike are eager to see how these catchers will perform in the upcoming season and whether they can live up to the lofty expectations set before them.