Each new year arrives with renewed optimism that progress will be made, though often such hope fades quickly. For MLB teams that fell short in 2025, the start of a new year offers a chance to envision a brighter 2026. While sometimes this optimism is well-founded, other times it’s a stretch to find solid reasons for it.
This guide aims to inspire those feeling hopeless by highlighting 13 teams that missed the playoffs in 2025, listed by their final standings, and showcasing reasons why 2026 could be a better season. It’s not just wishful thinking—even if it once felt that way. For now, let hope lead the way.
– The Colorado Rockies narrowly escaped setting a loss record, but under new leader Paul DePodesta, the team’s front office is finally modernizing. Though it will take time for these efforts to show results, this shift is a positive change for a historically closed-off franchise.
– The Chicago White Sox are nearing the end of a rebuild, with promising young talent brought in by GM Chris Getz. The highlight is expected to be the team’s top MLB draft pick in 2026, UCLA shortstop Roch Choroksi, who could become a future All-Star.
– Washington Nationals enter a new phase after the exit of veteran GM Mike Rizzo and manager Dave Martinez. Their new leadership trio, including President Paul Toboni (35), GM Aniru Kirambi (31), and manager Blake Butera (33), brings youthful energy the team desperately needs.
– Minnesota Twins predicted offseason changes after a disappointing drop but have kept key players like Byron Buxton and Joe Ryan. Health remains pivotal, but competing within the AL Central feels achievable under new coach Derek Shelton.
– Despite previous missteps, Pittsburgh Pirates owner Bob Nutting made moves to support young ace Paul Skeens by adding Brandon Lowe and Ryan O’Hearn. Though not strong enough to dominate the NL Central, these changes mark progress by Pirates’ standards.
– The Los Angeles Angels are nearing the end of the unproductive Anthony Rendon contract era, one of the worst in team history. Rendon’s declining performance and contract termination talks signal a potential fresh start.
– The Baltimore Orioles, despite a disappointing 2025, opted not for a rebuild but instead added key players like Taylor Ward, Shane Baz, Pete Alonso, and Ryan Helsley. They’re focused on bouncing back in the AL East with a mission-driven approach.
– The Oakland Athletics face challenges in rotation and franchise uncertainty but strengthened the lineup with young talents such as Jacob Wilson, Nick Kurtz, Lawrence Butler, and Tyler Soderstrom. Veteran presence supports hopes for competitiveness in 2026.
– The Atlanta Braves aim to rebound from a poor 2025 by improving their rotation’s health. With veterans and star Ronald Acuña Jr. recovering fully, bolstered by Robert Suarez in the bullpen, they’ll be strong NL East contenders.
– The Tampa Bay Rays had a tough year but underlying metrics suggest their performance outpaced their record. The return of ace Shane McClanahan from surgery bodes well for a competitive 2026.
– The St. Louis Cardinals start fresh under new President of Baseball Operations Chaim Bloom, beginning a rebuild after trading key veterans. This overhaul aims for long-term payoff, with hopeful MLB debuts like J.J. Weatherholt within reach.
– The Miami Marlins gained 17 games in 2025 and seek continued growth in 2026, powered by emerging center hitter Kyle Stowers. Addressing pitching depth could further strengthen their bid for significance in the NL East.
– The Arizona Diamondbacks, despite a disappointing year, expect to bounce back with returning pitchers Merrill Kelly and Michael Soroka. Trade rumors swirl around second baseman Ketel Marte, but Arizona looks poised to contend again next season.
Fan Take: This outlook highlights the cyclical nature of baseball, where even struggling teams have reasons for optimism that fuel hope and fan engagement. These developments could herald a more competitive and exciting 2026 season, enriching the sport’s narrative and growth.
