The 2025 Major League Baseball season ended with a mix of remarkable breakthroughs and considerable letdowns, highlighting the unpredictable nature of professional baseball. Many MLB players experienced setbacks due to injuries or bad timing, but as the 2026 season approaches, several veterans and once-dominant performers are positioned for significant rebounds, fueled by recovery, coaching changes, and motivated mindsets.
Veteran Players on Track for Major 2026 Turnarounds
Josh Jung, once a key figure within the Texas Rangers’ roster, endured a stark drop in production last season compared to his breakout in 2023, despite remaining mostly healthy. His midseason demotion to Triple-A was a stark signal, but with fresh leadership holding him accountable, the third baseman is expected to regain form and become an offensive cornerstone in 2026.
Oneil Cruz faced a frustrating 2025, as his OPS sank nearly 100 points even after surpassing 130 games played. Nonetheless, Cruz continues to demonstrate some of the game’s highest exit velocities. The Pittsburgh Pirates are desperate for offensive spark, and Cruz’s offseason adjustments reveal a strong drive for an elite-level resurgence next year.
For Royce Lewis, the past eighteen months have been marred by repeated injuries that have hampered his confidence and batting mechanics. However, his durability improved in the latter half of 2025, and a revamped Minnesota coaching staff may provide the stability and guidance he needs to complete a full, healthy campaign and showcase his considerable athleticism on both sides of the ball.
Luis Robert Jr., known primarily for his exceptional defense, has struggled to hit consistently since 2023, with injuries limiting him in 2025. Despite this, his late-season performance, characterized by a 123 OPS+ over the final 31 games, pointed to encouraging adjustments. Now with the competitive New York Mets, Robert’s health and renewed focus position him well for a major breakout.
Devin Williams endured a difficult 2025 with the New York Yankees, blowing four saves and posting a 4.79 ERA. However, underlying statistics suggest he was one of the unluckiest pitchers, with a Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) significantly better than his ERA, and he closed the season with 13 scoreless appearances in a row. His past success and late-season form indicate a strong likelihood of returning as an elite reliever, now pitching for the Mets.
Mookie Betts experienced what many would still consider a strong year by typical standards, ranking 12th in the National League in bWAR. Yet for Betts, 2025 was a down season due to health problems and the intense physical demands of playing shortstop at age 32. A full offseason for recovery and a potential return to the outfield should aid in reviving his offensive performance in 2026.
Adley Rutschman faced a notable decline after two stellar seasons, sidelined by two oblique strains that limited him to just 90 games. At 27, Rutschman remains in his prime, and his excellent plate discipline has stayed intact despite the setbacks. With the Baltimore Orioles adding veteran power hitter Pete Alonso, there’s now less pressure on Rutschman to carry the offense alone, setting the stage for an All-Star caliber comeback.
When fully healthy, Yordan Alvarez is widely regarded as one of the top hitters in baseball. His 2025 was derailed early after only 48 games due to a hand injury followed by an unusual ankle injury. The Houston Astros are counting on a rejuvenated Alvarez in 2026, with plans from manager Joe Espada to employ him primarily as a designated hitter to preserve his health. Expect Alvarez to return to his 30-plus home run, .900+ OPS form.
Leading the list is Spencer Strider, whose dominant 2023 season earned him elite status before a Tommy John surgery sidelined him for most of 2024 and resulted in a difficult 2025. Although his velocity and strikeout ability dipped post-surgery, Strider’s work over a full offseason aims to restore his former power. He is poised to reemerge as a top-tier ace and Cy Young contender for the Atlanta Braves in 2026.
The Path Ahead for These Key Players
The 2026 season represents a critical opportunity for these nine MLB players to reverse recent struggles and reestablish themselves as vital contributors on their teams. Each athlete carries unique circumstances—be it injury recovery, coaching changes, or fresh roles—that could fuel remarkable rebounds. Their performances will not only shape the playoff aspirations of their respective clubs but also outline the narratives of resilience that define baseball’s competitive spirit.
