Introduction

The 2026 MLB preseason has officially begun, and with it comes the excitement of the position rankings that analysts and fans alike have eagerly awaited. This year, we delve into the rankings for third base, a position that has long been recognized for its depth and elite talent. Leading the pack are familiar names like Alex Bregman, Matt Chapman, Manny Machado, and José Ramírez, alongside newcomers like Bo Bichette. As teams gear up for the upcoming season, we will explore the top players at this crucial infield position, highlighting their performances, potential, and what to expect in 2026.

The Top Contenders

At the forefront of the third base rankings, we find an impressive lineup of talent. Each player listed brings unique strengths to their respective teams, and their rankings reflect expectations for the upcoming season.

1. José Ramírez (Cleveland Guardians)

With an impressive 137 OPS+, Ramírez is often viewed as the gold standard for third basemen. His ability to consistently hit for average and power is unmatched, exemplified by his 30 home runs and 85 RBIs in the 2025 season. Ramírez's defensive skills further solidify his place at the top of this list.

2. Bo Bichette (New York Mets)

A bold entry at second place, Bichette successfully transitioned from shortstop, where his defensive struggles were evident. With an OPS+ of 129 in 2025, he proved his worth with a stellar bat. While he may not have prior experience at third base, the Mets are banking on his offensive capabilities translating well to his new role.

3. Alex Bregman (Chicago Cubs)

Bregman’s well-rounded offensive abilities make him a cornerstone for the Cubs. Despite battling injuries in recent seasons, he posted an OPS+ of 128. His blend of power and plate discipline makes him a formidable threat at the plate, and his defensive prowess keeps him among the elite in the league.

4. Manny Machado (San Diego Padres)

Machado's durability and defensive skills make him highly valuable. Starting 145 games last season speaks to his reliability, and with an OPS+ of 118, he continues to drive in runs and contribute to the Padres' success. As he embarks on the next phase of his career, achieving milestones as a veteran player remains a focus.

5. Matt Chapman (San Francisco Giants)

Chapman, a five-time Gold Glove winner, is known for his exceptional defense and ability to impact the game on both ends. Though his WAR dropped to 4.1 in 2025, his standing in this year’s rankings shows confidence in his ability to return to form as a power bat in the Giants’ lineup.

Rising Stars

While established stars dominate the rankings, several up-and-coming players are making waves and pushing their way into the spotlight.

Junior Caminero (Tampa Bay Rays)

Caminero had a stellar 2025 season with 45 home runs, prompting his rise to the ranks of elite third basemen. However, his career numbers show a concerning home/road performance split that raises questions about consistency as the Rays move to Tropicana Field.

Maikel García (Kansas City Royals)

After a significant leap in performance, García's 123 OPS+ and Gold Glove defense make him one to watch. Sustaining success will be critical as he navigates expectations after an impressive 2025 campaign.

Potential Breakouts

The future holds promise as a new cohort of players looks to break into the top ranks.

Colt Keith (Detroit Tigers)

At just 24 years old, Keith showed his worth with a 107 OPS+ last season. He brings versatility on the field, with hopes for a stable role at third base in 2026.

Kazuma Okamoto (Toronto Blue Jays)

After a successful career in Japan, Okamoto is ready to take the MLB by storm. His impactful offensive record offers optimism for his upcoming season, although his defensive capabilities at third base remain in question.

Player Analyses and Expectations

Through rigorous analysis of each player’s skill set and previous performance metrics, their rankings reflect the expectation for contributions this season, both offensively and defensively. While offensive capabilities often grab headlines, defensive prowess is equally critical in determining a player's overall value.

Conclusion

The landscape of third base in the MLB is looking strong for 2026, showcasing a rich blend of seasoned veterans and passionate newcomers. As spring training approaches, teams will be scrutinizing their rosters, keen to identify potential star players from the current pool of talent. The season ahead promises to deliver excitement and showcase the depth at the third base position, hinting at thrilling competitions and remarkable individual milestones.