With just three days left in the 2026 MLB regular season, there’s still a lot at stake—including playoff positioning and award contests. However, one thing we don’t need to wait on is naming the standout moments and most notable stories of the season.
Our CBS Sports panel of MLB experts has put together a list of 10 superlatives from the year—ranging from serious to lighthearted. Let’s dive in!
Most surprising team: Rays
While the Rays’ success isn’t entirely shocking given their talent, the context is striking. After losing 85 games and finishing fourth last season, Tampa Bay added around 20 wins in 2026 despite competing in a tough AL East. Their rise to being the top team in the American League tops the list of surprises. – Dayn Perry
Most disappointing team: Mariners
This one’s clear-cut. The Mariners, who reached Game 7 of the ALCS last year and were considered World Series contenders, are now destined to finish below .500. They struggled despite having one of the easiest schedules in MLB, a season likely to trigger changes in the dugout and front office. – Dayn Perry
Most improved player: Jordan Walker, Cardinals
Though a competitive category, Walker earns the honor for his breakout year. After two tough seasons in 2024 and 2025, he made huge strides in 2026 by improving his ball elevation and plate discipline. He transformed from a disappointment into an All-Star in just half a season and now looks like a core piece for the Cardinals moving forward. – Dayn Perry
Most disappointing player: Cal Raleigh, Mariners
Among various candidates, Raleigh stands out as the biggest letdown. Coming off a 60-home run season and nearly winning AL MVP last year, his power production more than halved this season, along with significant drops in offensive efficiency, defense, and durability. It’s been a really rough year for Seattle’s catcher. – Dayn Perry
Best offseason move: Alex Bregman, Cubs
Even though the Cubs rank last in pitcher WAR, their stellar position players have kept them playoff-bound, with Bregman ranking second-best with 5.4 WAR. Beyond his solid second-half hitting surge, Bregman also played a key mentorship role, especially helping players improve their approach at the plate. Other notable offseason moves include the Red Sox acquiring Sonny Gray and Willson Contreras, plus the White Sox signing Munetaka Murakami. – Matt Snyder
Best trade deadline move: Tarik Skubal,
The ’ acquisition of two-time AL Cy Young winner Skubal from the Tigers after he was placed on the trade block proved crucial. With Shohei Ohtani out for the season as a pitcher, Skubal filled a vital rotation spot. Plus, s move kept him away from teams like the Brewers and Rays, who could have used him. For a quieter but impactful pick, the Braves’ addition of Tyler Mahle, who posted a 1.28 ERA in eight starts after a rough stint with the Giants, deserves mention. – Matt Snyder
Best individual game: Jo Adell, Angels
There were many fantastic performances this season, including Dansby Swanson’s 11-RBI doubleheader, Ryan O’Hearn’s three-homer game with 10 RBIs, and Pete Crow-Armstrong’s four-hit game. Still, Jo Adell’s spectacular defensive feat stealing three home runs in a game against the Mariners stands above all. Not only did the Angels win 1-0, but Adell’s three “legitimate” home run robberies made it unforgettable. – Mike Axisa
Most ridiculous walk-off: Angels vs. Orioles
Logan O’Hoppe’s walk-off single on June 24 was a textbook “line drive,” traveling just 15 feet at a slow exit velocity of 18.9 mph. Despite the soft hit, it sealed a dramatic comeback for the Angels, who rallied from a 5-2 deficit and triumphed in extra innings. Home plate umpire James Hoye’s casual safe call only adds to the moment’s charm. – Mike Axisa
Most wholesome trend: Tarps off
Inspired by the Stephen F. Austin baseball team’s shirtless cheering at a Cardinals game in St. Louis, this trend quickly spread across MLB stadiums. Fans enthusiastically joined in from the upper decks, creating a fun, pressure-free, and family-friendly atmosphere throughout the season. – Mike Axisa
Stupidest storyline: Early ABS (Automated Ball-Strike) system backlash
New major innovations often face skepticism, but the negative reactions to the ABS system were especially baffling. Critics including high-profile players and former umpires lamented the “humiliation” of human officials, dismissing how ABS helps reduce game-altering errors and protects umpires from public embarrassment. The overwhelming success of ABS—as a way to improve accuracy and preserve the integrity of calls—makes the backlash seem absurd. – Matt Snyder
Fan Take:
This season’s narratives—from astonishing team turnarounds to breakthrough individual performances—highlight how dynamic and unpredictable baseball can be. Innovations like the ABS system and growing fan engagement trends show the sport’s willingness to evolve while honoring its roots, promising an exciting future for players and supporters alike.
Source: www.cbssports.com
