Five MLB Teams Primed for Second-Half Surge into 2026 Playoffs
The All-Star Break is over, and the race for playoff spots is heating up. Here's a look at five teams that could make a strong push in the second half of the season.
Boston Red Sox
The Red Sox are on a 12-game winning streak and are now above .500. With a strong lineup and a few key additions, they could be buyers before the trade deadline. Willson Contreras and Sonny Gray have no-trade clauses, and their strong performances could keep Aroldis Chapman in Boston. The addition of another high-leverage reliever could further boost their chances. This 12-game stretch has not only turned the season around but also potentially changed the organization's long-term trajectory.
Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates have a plus-50 run differential and are second in MLB in runs scored. General manager Ben Cherington's offseason additions of Brandon Lowe and Ryan O'Hearn have helped take pressure off. The starting rotation has its strengths, with Paul Skenes and Braxton Ashcraft showing promise. If Don Kelly's squad can improve their starting rotation and Cherington makes a major addition to the bullpen, the Pirates could return to the postseason for the first time since 2015.
Seattle Mariners
The Mariners are within striking distance of the AL West-leading Rangers. With a positive run differential and an .829 OPS, Randy Arozarena is having a tremendous contract season. The team has a slew of All-Star-caliber players, and it's not difficult to imagine them playing well enough in the second half to enter the postseason as a real threat.
Atlanta Braves
The Braves had a strong start to the season but struggled in June. With a strong lineup and some potential internal improvements, they could still win the division or secure a wild-card spot. Ronald Acuña Jr. and Sean Murphy are expected to return, and Spencer Schwellenbach is set to rejoin the starting rotation. President of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos could look to add a right-handed hitting outfielder and a major rotation upgrade.
Baltimore Orioles
The Orioles have shown some promise, but their starting pitching could be an issue. Pete Alonso and Taylor Ward have been performing well, and Kyle Bradish has rebounded from a poor start. However, some key players like Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman have not reached their potential. With a weak AL, the Orioles could still crack the playoff picture, but their chances depend on their ability to improve their starting pitching and maintain their current momentum.
