Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of baseball! We're about to dive into a hotly debated topic: ranking the top relievers in the MLB for the 2026 season. This is a controversial exercise, as opinions can vary greatly, but we're here to explore and uncover the best of the best.
Buster Olney's 2026 MLB Reliever Rankings: Unveiling the Elite
Spring training is in full swing, and it's time to analyze the state of baseball. ESPN's renowned analyst, Buster Olney, has taken on the task of ranking the top 10 players at each position, and today, we focus on the relievers. But here's the catch: this ranking is all about the present, not future potential or career longevity. We're talking about the cream of the crop for the upcoming 2026 season.
Over the next two weeks, we'll be unveiling a new position ranking each day, so stay tuned! Here's the schedule: starting pitchers (Monday), catchers (Wednesday), first basemen (Thursday), and so on, leading up to designated hitters on February 27th.
Now, let's get into the heart of the matter. The debate over the best starting pitcher is intense, but when it comes to relievers, one name stands out above the rest.
The Top 10 Relievers for 2026
Mason Miller, San Diego Padres: Miller's dominance on the mound is undeniable. With an average fastball velocity of 101.2 mph, he struck out 45 batters in just 83 regular-season appearances. His impact was felt immediately after joining the Padres, as opponents struggled to hit him.
Edwin Diaz, Los Angeles Dodgers: Diaz had a stellar season, allowing only 37 hits and striking out 98 batters in 66⅓ innings. His ability to keep opposing hitters at bay is a key reason for the Dodgers' success.
Jhoan Duran, Philadelphia Phillies: Duran's entrance onto the field is as dramatic as his pitching. With an average fastball speed of 100.6 mph, he's a force to be reckoned with. His control is impressive, walking only one batter in 20 innings with the Phillies.
Aroldis Chapman, Boston Red Sox: At 37 years old, Chapman is still a force, commanding his fastball better than ever. His walk rate is the lowest of his career, and his OPS+ is an astonishing 351.
Cade Smith, Cleveland Guardians: Smith is a stoic presence on the mound, reminiscent of the legendary Mariano Rivera. His composure is unmatched, and he's a reliable strikeout machine with 207 strikeouts in just 149 innings.
Andres Munoz, Seattle Mariners: Munoz has consistently performed at a high level, with an ERA+ of at least 135 for four straight years. Last season, he held opposing hitters to a .493 OPS.
Abner Uribe, Milwaukee Brewers: Uribe's funky delivery and breaking stuff make him a tough opponent for hitters. He dominated right-handed batters, allowing only one homer and a .171 average in 132 plate appearances.
Robert Suarez, Atlanta Braves: Suarez's consistency over his first four seasons earned him a three-year, $45 million deal from the Braves, who needed help in their bullpen.
Devin Williams, New York Mets: Williams' legendary changeup is now a weapon for the Mets. Despite some inconsistency, he finished strong, allowing earned runs in only two of his last 19 regular-season appearances.
Josh Hader, Houston Astros: Hader's dominance is undeniable, but he's currently dealing with biceps inflammation, which has pushed him down this list. Still, his career numbers are impressive, with an Adjusted OPS over 300 in two seasons.
Honorable Mentions
- Garrett Whitlock, Red Sox: Whitlock's playoff performance was a bright spot for Boston, and his self-criticism shows his dedication.
- Adrian Morejon, Padres: Morejon's control is impressive, allowing only 49 hits and two homers in 73⅔ innings.
- David Bednar, New York Yankees: Bednar's temperament seems perfectly suited for the high-pressure environment of New York.
- Bryan Abreu, Astros: Abreu could be a key piece for Houston in the closer's role this season.
- Tyler Rogers, Toronto Blue Jays: Rogers' command is exceptional, walking only seven hitters in 81 appearances last season.
- Ronny Henriquez, Miami Marlins: Henriquez had a spectacular season with the Marlins, posting an ERA+ of 199.
- Brad Keller, Phillies: Keller's success with the Cubs led to a two-year, $22 million deal with the Phillies.
- Gabe Speier, Mariners: Speier will have some pressure off with the addition of Jose Ferrer, allowing him to focus on his own game.
- Jeremiah Estrada, Padres: Estrada is another Padre making waves, and Stammen's bullpen looks promising.
- Griffin Jax, Tampa Bay Rays: Jax's strikeout rate is impressive, averaging 13.50 per nine innings.
- Randy Rodriguez, San Francisco Giants: Rodriguez is expected to miss the entire '26 season due to elbow reconstruction, but his performance last year deserves recognition.
So, there you have it! A comprehensive look at the top relievers in the MLB for the 2026 season. But here's the part most people miss: these rankings are just the beginning. The beauty of baseball lies in its unpredictability, and these players will undoubtedly surprise and delight us throughout the season.
What do you think of these rankings? Do you agree with the top spot? Who do you think will be the breakout reliever of the season? Let's discuss in the comments and share our predictions!
