Looking ahead to the 2026 MLB season, shortstops could be set for a major shakeup. Buster Olney at ESPN just dropped his latest top 10 rankings, and there’s a mix of rising stars and familiar veterans.
It’s a position that keeps evolving. Honestly, it’s wild to see how much young talent is about to break through.
The Rising Stars
What’s especially thrilling about this year’s shortstop rankings? It’s the young guys taking over. These players have flashed real skill and potential, and it’s hard not to get a little excited about their future.
Bobby Witt Jr.
Bobby Witt Jr. leads the way. He’s already turned heads around the league with his blend of speed, power, and defense. Witt just seems to come up big in tight spots, which probably explains why Olney put him at the top.
Gunnar Henderson
Gunnar Henderson isn’t far behind. He’s climbed fast, thanks to his flexibility and strong bat. There’s a sense that Henderson could turn into one of the game’s best shortstops before long.
Geraldo Perdomo
Geraldo Perdomo rounds out this group of up-and-comers. His fielding stands out, and his bat’s getting better every year. Perdomo’s steady work ethic really jumps off the page.
The Established Veterans
Of course, it’s not just about the new faces. Some veterans are still holding it down at shortstop, bringing a steady hand and plenty of experience.
Mookie Betts
Mookie Betts is one of those names you just know. Sure, most folks think of him as an outfielder, but he’s looked right at home at shortstop too. That leadership and all-around talent? Pretty hard to ignore.
Trea Turner
Trea Turner keeps making a case for himself. His speed and offense have kept him near the top for a while now. Turner just seems to thrive when the pressure’s on.
Promising Prospects
There’s also a fresh batch of prospects starting to turn heads. They’re not stars yet, but you can see the potential.
Jordan Lawlar
Jordan Lawlar is one to keep an eye on. He’s put up great numbers in the minors, and it feels like he could make some noise in the majors soon. That mix of athleticism and skill is tough to find.
Marcelo Mayer
Marcelo Mayer is another name popping up more and more. His glove work impresses, and his bat keeps improving. If he keeps it up, Mayer could be a real difference-maker.
Conclusion
Buster Olney’s 2026 MLB shortstop rankings give us a pretty fascinating look at where the position might be headed. There’s this cool mix of rising stars, veterans who’ve still got it, and young prospects itching to break out.
It’s hard not to feel excited about what the next few seasons could bring. Shortstop seems poised to become one of the most competitive, unpredictable spots in the game.
If you’re curious and want to dig into the top 10 shortstops for 2026, check out Buster Olney’s full article on ESPN here.
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