Early Power Rankings: MLB's Starting Rotations

As the 2026 MLB season unfolds, the Atlanta Braves have established themselves as the team to beat in the league, bolstered by their ace, Chris Sale. With an impressive 28-13 record, the Braves lead the league in multiple categories, but their starting rotation's quality has come to the forefront. Sale, the reigning 2024 NL Cy Young winner, has been a formidable force on the mound, contributing seven quality starts on his own. In a stark contrast, teams like the Washington Nationals and Colorado Rockies have managed just six quality starts each, raising questions about their pitching depth.

This article will delve into the current state of all 30 MLB rotations through May 11, while also examining the individual performances that define these teams.

30. Colorado Rockies

Opening the rankings are the Colorado Rockies with a record of 9-16. Their rotation has achieved a dismal 5.27 ERA and a 5.46 FIP. Their six quality starts are overshadowed by the fact that none of the primary starters boasts a FIP lower than 5.25. The lack of depth is concerning, but the effective veteran presence of Tomoyuki Sugano and José Quintana has kept them afloat compared to last year's disastrous starts.

29. Washington Nationals

Similarly struggling are the Washington Nationals, sporting a 4.84 ERA and a 4.90 FIP across 180.1 innings pitched. This team is lacking reliable arms, with Foster Griffin providing a bright spot with his 2.12 ERA. However, the disappointments of Miles Mikolas and Zack Littell have necessitated the use of openers to stretch their fragility beyond the early innings.

28. Baltimore Orioles

The Baltimore Orioles find themselves next with a 5.07 ERA. High hopes surrounding the acquisitions of Chris Bassitt and Shane Baz have fizzled as the duo struggles with a combined 5.66 ERA. With lackluster performances from key players, the pitching staff is underwhelming, showing no one with a respectable sub-4.00 ERA.

27. Houston Astros

The Houston Astros have been hindered by injuries, particularly to ace Hunter Brown, who is on the 60-day IL after just two starts. Despite the unfortunate circumstances, the combined ERAs for Cristian Javier, Tatsuya Imai, and Lance McCullers Jr. hover above 7.00, painting a grim picture for a team accustomed to postseason success.

26. Arizona Diamondbacks

In Arizona, the Diamondbacks are struggling at a 4.68 ERA. While Merrill Kelly has recently found his footing, the rest of the rotation remains in disarray, with Zac Gallen and Ryne Nelson failing to perform to expectations. Only Eduardo Rodriguez's positive performance minimizes their early concerns.

Strong Performers Rise

As we climb the rankings, some teams have enjoyed solid moments. For instance, the Chicago White Sox's Davis Martin has emerged as a surprising standout, carrying a 1.62 ERA through the season. However, the lack of depth remains an issue as the league approaches its mid-point.

Top Contenders

As of mid-May, the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers are among the top contenders. The Yankees boast a robust 3.07 ERA, aided by stellar performances from Max Fried and Will Warren. Meanwhile, the Dodgers have achieved a league-high 23 quality starts, ensuring their positioning among the league's elite.

In conclusion, with Chris Sale leading the way for the Braves, it seems Atlanta has put together a rotation capable of sustaining success. Teams like the Rockies and Nationals have much to work on to ascend from the lower end of the rankings. As the season progresses, the dynamics of these rotations will be crucial to watch, as they can significantly impact playoff aspirations.