As the curtain falls on 2025, it’s easy to feel like the baseball world is divided into two camps: the triumphant and the disappointed. But here’s the truth—one year can flip everything upside down. Just look at the Blue Jays. In 2024, they were at rock bottom, finishing last amid rumors of trading Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Fast forward to 2025, and they’re knocking on the World Series door. So, as we step into 2026, let’s shine a spotlight on six teams that had a rough 2025 but are poised for a dramatic turnaround. And this is the part most people miss: even in their struggles, these teams have laid the groundwork for something special.
Athletics
2025 Record: 76-86 (4th in AL West)
The Athletics’ first year in West Sacramento was a bumpy ride, but it wasn’t without its silver linings. Sure, they lost 86 games, but they emerged as the team with arguably the most electrifying young hitters in baseball. Tyler Soderstrom, Jacob Wilson, Lawrence Butler, Max Muncy, Denzel Clarke, and AL Rookie of the Year Nick Kurtz—all 25 or younger—form a core that’s locked in for years. Add Brent Rooker and Jeff McNeil to the mix, and you’ve got a lineup with sky-high potential. But here’s where it gets controversial: their pitching still needs work, but with an offense this potent, they only need to be good enough. Are the A’s a .500 team in 2026? Absolutely. Could they surprise everyone? Don’t bet against it.
Braves
2025 Record: 76-86 (4th in NL East)
After a 2024 plagued by injuries, the Braves hoped 2025 would be their redemption year. Instead, it was more of the same—injuries, a disastrous 0-7 start, and a season that never quite got on track. But here’s the twist: their pitching staff, minus AJ Smith-Shawver, should be healthy by Opening Day. The bigger question? Whether stars like Matt Olson, Michael Harris II, Austin Riley, and Ozzie Albies can rebound from their 2025 slumps. Controversial take: If they do, the Braves could go from afterthought to contender overnight. But if they don’t? It could be another long year.
Nationals
2025 Record: 66-96 (5th in NL East)
The Nationals haven’t had a winning season since their 2019 World Series triumph, but they’re betting big on youth—both on the field and in the front office. With a 33-year-old manager, a 35-year-old president of baseball operations, and a 31-year-old GM, they’re the youngest leadership team in baseball. Their roster is just as youthful, with only Keibert Ruiz (27) over 25. Players like James Wood, Dylan Crews, and Daylen Lile are on the cusp of breaking out. Here’s the question: Can all that potential finally translate into wins in 2026? Nats fans are hoping this is the year.
Orioles
2025 Record: 75-87 (5th in AL East)
After a disappointing 2025, the Orioles have been the most aggressive team this offseason, adding Pete Alonso, Ryan Helsley, Taylor Ward, and Shane Baz. Their young core needs to step up, but the front office has finally given them the support they need. And this is where it gets interesting: If they land another top-tier starting pitcher, 2026 could be the year it all clicks. But even without that, they’re a team on the rise. Will it be enough to contend in the AL East? Only time will tell.
Pirates
2025 Record: 71-91 (5th in NL Central)
The Pirates have Paul Skenes, arguably the best pitcher in baseball, and they’re finally building around him. After 10 straight playoff-less seasons, their recent moves—trading for Brandon Lowe and Jake Mangum, signing Ryan O’Hearn—are a step in the right direction. O’Hearn and Lowe bring much-needed offensive firepower, and with Skenes leading a promising rotation, they might not need to break the bank on free agents. Bold prediction: The Pirates could surprise a lot of people in 2026. But can they do enough to compete in a tough NL Central?
White Sox
2025 Record: 60-102 (5th in AL Central)
The White Sox’s signing of Munetaka Murakami raised eyebrows, but it shouldn’t have. Despite losing 102 games in 2025, they’re trending upward—improving by 19 games from 2024 and playing competitively down the stretch. Are they World Series contenders yet? No. But they’re not a 100-loss team anymore. Here’s the kicker: In the AL Central, they could be in the division race sooner than anyone expects. Is 2026 their year? Maybe not, but they’re on the right track.
So, which of these teams will defy the odds in 2026? And which ones will fall short? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
