Expect the Unexpected
The start of the 2026 MLB season has been anything but predictable. As we transition into May, fans and analysts alike are left speculating about what ridiculous twists and turns the league might have in store. Is it plausible that we could see trends taking wild trajectories this month? In this article, we explore eight bold predictions—four focused on individuals and four centered around teams—that could potentially come true this May.
No-Hitters on the Horizon?
Historically, the MLB has seen numerous individual no-hitters strutting across the diamond. Yet, entering May 2026, the trend appears to have cooled. In the previous seasons, from 2021 to 2024, multiple no-hitters were almost a foregone conclusion each year, highlighted by Blake Snell's standout performance against the Reds on August 2, 2024. Despite a significant downturn, it's important to remember that averages tend to bounce back eventually.
The current pitching environment supports the possibility of a no-hitter. The league's batting average has plummeted to .243, and with an average start length of just 5.1 innings, there remains a possibility for some pitcher to rise to the occasion. Look out for young talents like Paul Skenes, Tyler Glasnow, and Cam Schlittler; each possesses the necessary skill set to achieve this prestigious feat and bring back the elusive no-hitter.
Fernando Tatis Jr.’s Power Resurrection
Fernando Tatis Jr. has experienced an alarming slump, still without a home run to his name this season despite being a hot prospect known for his slugging abilities. Currently, Tatis has the dubious distinction of appearing in the highest number of plate appearances without a home run. His average launch angle has consistently declined, landing at an abysmal 3.2 degrees.
However, statistics indicate that Tatis is putting in the hard work, boasting an impressive average exit velocity of 93.2 mph, placing him within the 93rd percentile. He also crushes 61.5% of his batted balls over the hard-hit threshold of 95 mph. While it may seem challenging, if Tatis can shift his launch angle just marginally, he is bound to unleash a barrage of home runs. Given his impressive career tally of 152 homers in 703 games, it’s only a matter of time before the power-hitting returns.
Julio Rodríguez: The Late Bloomer
Seattle Mariners fans have learned to temper their expectations for star player Julio Rodríguez, particularly during the earlier months of the season. Statistically, he consistently performs better in the latter half, holding a .902 OPS from mid-June through the end of the year compared to his .738 OPS from April to May. Given that he is currently hovering around his typical early season numbers with a .741 OPS, many believe the best is yet to come.
Despite the skepticism, Rodríguez is demonstrating signs of improvement and comfort at the plate earlier in the season. He has posted a .336 on-base percentage, marking his best performance through the first 35 games. Although the explosive power is still emerging, he has accumulated four doubles and two home runs across his last five matches. Should he sustain this momentum, expect to see ‘Second-Half Julio’ making an appearance sooner than later.
Mets Management Dilemma
The situation in New York is becoming increasingly tense as the Mets languish with a 12-22 record. Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns expressed confidence in manager Carlos Mendoza, indicating they do not perceive the managerial position as the issue. Yet, with the team's postseason probabilities shrinking from 88.6% to just 27.7% as per FanGraphs, the organization's stance may soon shift.
Questions linger about whether it’s time to reconsider managerial leadership, given the significant losses the team has suffered, second only to the Rockies since July 2025. Even with a wealth of talent on the roster, the Mets’ struggles have cast shadows on Mendoza's future. The urgent need for a turnaround may leave little choice but to consider drastic adjustments.
The Phillies Surprising Comeback?
Currently, the Phillies are in a precarious position as they sit at 14-20, a mere two games ahead of the Mets yet plagued with the worst run differential in the league at -43. With a solid core of hitters, including Trea Turner, who has begun to find his stride, Philadelphia’s potential for an upward trajectory should not be overlooked.
The recent improvements in their performance, with six wins in eight outings while their pitching lineup leads the league in fWAR, presents the notion that the Phillies might be on the verge of a turnaround. If they can maintain this momentum, a jump in the competitive NL East standings is entirely plausible.
The Blue Jays’ Revival?
Things are looking grim for the Blue Jays, current AL East champions, with a mere 16-18 record and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. appearing isolated within an unproductive lineup. However, recent trends indicate a shift in fortune, as the team triumphed in nine of their last 14 games, buoyed by an average of five runs per game attributed largely to Kazuma Okamoto's rising performance.
As key players return to health—including Trey Yesavage and others—the Blue Jays' prospects seem brighter. Given their recent gust of victories, it may be time to invest in their potential resurgence, particularly as they seek to climb the standings amidst a fiercely competitive environment.
Padres Maintain Excellence Amid Struggles
The San Diego Padres find themselves in a convoluted position at 20-13, sitting second in the NL West with a run differential that suggests they are underperforming despite winning games. They rely on a thriving pitching staff led by Michael King and Randy Vásquez, alongside the industrious Mason Miller. However, several of their bats—most notably Fernando Tatis, Manny Machado, Jackson Merrill, and Xander Bogaerts—have yet to reach their full potential.
With daunting series on the horizon against winning clubs, the Padres' resilience is set to be put to the test. A turnaround is paramount for their sustainable success this season, especially if they aim to keep pace within a tightly contested division.
Reds Defying Expectations
Despite being 20-14 and wrestling with a negative run differential, the Cincinnati Reds have managed an impressive record bolstered by star players Elly De La Cruz and Sal Stewart. Both have showcased offensive prowess, totaling 19 home runs, while Chase Burns has entered the spotlight as a burgeoning pitching standout.
However, with a propensity to win close games (12-1 in one- or two-run contests), maintaining this performance level could be unsustainable. As Teams like the Pirates continue to close in, the Reds will need to enhance both their offense and defense if they wish to maintain their playoff positioning in a competitive NL Central.
