Rising Stars: Analyzing MLB's Top Prospects Poised to Shine in 2026

The Bright Future of Major League Baseball Prospects
As Major League Baseball gears up for another exciting season, attention shifts to the rising stars within each franchise. The 2025 season saw standout performances from various prospects, with Milwaukee Brewers shortstop Jesús Made emerging as the headline breakout player not just in the Brewers system but across MLB. With a lineup of notable talents, the future looks bright for baseball enthusiasts.
Making significant strides were players such as Payton Tolle (Red Sox), Gage Jump (Athletics), Mike Sirota (Dodgers), Carson Benge (Mets), Zyhir Hope (Dodgers), and Luis Peña (Brewers), each raising their profiles significantly over the past year. Here’s a closer look at prospects who might be outside the Top 100 lists now but have the potential to make a substantial leap this upcoming season.
Notable Prospects Across MLB Teams
- Baltimore Orioles: LHP Joseph Dzierwa (Age: 21) - A polished college arm from Michigan State, Dzierwa aims to dominate in his professional debut after an impressive junior season.
- Boston Red Sox: OF Justin Gonzales (Age: 18) - After a strong debut in the Dominican Summer League, Gonzales showcased his potential in Single-A with a solid offensive profile.
- New York Yankees: OF Dillon Lewis (Age: 22) - Known for his combination of power and speed, Lewis had a breakout season that built excitement for his future.
- Tampa Bay Rays: RHP Jose Urbina (Age: 20) - Urbina's performance in Single-A saw a dramatic improvement, making him a player to watch in 2026.
- Toronto Blue Jays: IF Cutter Coffey (Age: 21) - Acquired in a significant trade, Coffey’s strong showing in the Arizona Fall League positions him for advancement.
- Chicago White Sox: 2B Sam Antonacci (Age: 22) - Hitting consistently in pro ball, Antonacci's performance is turning heads.
- Cleveland Guardians: RHP Braylon Doughty (Age: 20) - Doughty has the skills to emerge as a consensus Top 100 prospect after a strong start to his career.
- Detroit Tigers: OF Cris Rodriguez (Age: 17) - Rodriguez's pro debut earned him comparisons to the likes of Aaron Judge, showcasing his promising power.
- Kansas City Royals: SS Daniel Vazquez (Age: 22) - With a successful 2025 season, Vazquez could re-establish his status as a top prospect.
- Minneapolis Twins: SS Brandon Winkour (Age: 21) - Winkour boasts a unique blend of power and speed, showing great potential as a positive contributor.
- San Diego Padres: SS Jhoan De La Cruz (Age: 18) - De La Cruz’s advanced batting eye and on-base skills hint at a bright future.
- San Francisco Giants: 1B/3B Parks Harber (Age: 24) - Harber finished strong in his debut season, adding enthusiasm for his potential contributions in 2026.
With a solid foundation laid by these young talents, MLB franchises are poised for a thrilling year ahead. Fans and scouts alike will be closely watching these players as they attempt to etch their names among the best in the game.
