Who is the favorite to win the AL West in 2026?
The Seattle Mariners are considered the favorites, but the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers are also strong contenders.
Sports / MLB
As the 2026 MLB season approaches, anticipation surrounds the Seattle Mariners, who are aiming to build on their recent success and compete for a World Series title. This article delves into the expectations for key players, analyzes the te...
### Expected Starting Lineup Each player in the expected starting lineup faces best-case and worst-case scenarios. For example, Cal Raleigh could win the AL MVP award with a dominant offensive season, or he could struggle with the wear and tear of a long season. Julio Rodríguez is also a potential MVP candidate, but a slow start could hinder his chances. Brendan Donovan is expected to thrive as a leadoff hitter, but he could also struggle to adjust to a new team and league.
### Pitching Rotation The Mariners' starting rotation is a major strength, with Logan Gilbert, Bryan Woo, George Kirby, Bryce Miller, and Luis Castillo forming a formidable group. Gilbert's splitter could become one of the best pitches in baseball, while Woo's efficiency and Kirby's strike-throwing ability make them reliable starters. Miller needs to overcome past injury issues to reach his potential, and Castillo will look to maintain his consistency as he enters his later years.
### Bullpen The bullpen features a mix of established arms and promising newcomers. Andrés Muñoz and Matt Brash are expected to be key contributors in high-leverage situations, while José A. Ferrer adds a left-handed presence. The bullpen's success will depend on the ability of these pitchers to stay healthy and perform consistently.
The Seattle Mariners are considered the favorites, but the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers are also strong contenders.
Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodríguez are both potential MVP candidates.
Donovan is expected to provide balance and versatility to the lineup, making the Mariners' offense more dangerous.
What are your predictions for the Seattle Mariners in 2026? Do you think they will win the AL West and make a deep playoff run? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below! Share this article with other baseball fans who want to stay informed about the Mariners!
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