The AL Central and NL Central head into 2026 as two of baseball’s most wide-open divisions. There’s no clear powerhouse, which means individual player swings will decide everything. One breakout season or one unexpected regression could completely reshape the playoff picture.
Here’s one player from each team who could shock the league in 2026, whether it’s a career year or a step back.
AL Central Surprise Players
Chicago White Sox — Colson Montgomery (Positive)
The 2026 White Sox are leaning into youth, and Montgomery could be the face of that movement. With advanced plate discipline and emerging power, he has all the tools to break out in a big way. If he adjusts quickly at the MLB level, he could become one of the most exciting young players in the division.
Cleveland Guardians — Gavin Williams (Positive)
Williams has ace-level stuff, and 2026 could be the year it all clicks. His fastball plays at an elite level, and if his command sharpens, he could find himself firmly in the Cy Young conversation. A true breakout here would elevate Cleveland into serious contention.
Detroit Tigers — Spencer Torkelson (Positive)
Torkelson has long been viewed as a cornerstone bat, and this could be the year he proves it. A consistent approach could unlock 30+ home run power, making him one of the most dangerous hitters in the Tigers‘ lineup.
Kansas City Royals — Vinnie Pasquantino (Positive)
Pasquantino’s elite plate discipline and steady production make him one of the most underrated hitters in baseball. If he stays healthy, he could quietly put together an All-Star-caliber season for the Royals.
Minnesota Twins — Josh Bell (Positive)
Bell is a classic bounce-back candidate. If he rediscovers his rhythm, he still can deliver 25+ home runs and anchor the middle of the Twins’ lineup.
NL Central Surprise Players
Chicago Cubs — Michael Conforto (Positive)
Conforto’s smooth left-handed swing and power potential make him a strong comeback candidate. If he stays healthy, he could be a major contributor in Chicago’s lineup.
Milwaukee Brewers — Brice Turang (Positive)
Turang already brings elite defense and speed—but if his bat jumps to a .300+ average, he could become one of the most complete players in baseball. The upside here is enormous.
St. Louis Cardinals — Masyn Winn (Negative)
Winn has electric tools, especially defensively, but 2026 could test his offensive consistency. If his bat doesn’t take a step forward—particularly in terms of on-base ability and power—he could struggle to meet expectations. A step back offensively would put pressure on the rest of the Cardinals‘ lineup.
Cincinnati Reds — Elly De La Cruz (Negative)
Few players are as electrifying—or as volatile—as De La Cruz. If strikeouts remain a major issue and pitchers continue to adjust, he could endure a frustrating season despite his elite tools.
Pittsburgh Pirates — Brandon Lowe (Positive)
Lowe’s left-handed power makes him an intriguing fit in Pittsburgh. If he stays healthy, he has the potential to deliver 25+ home runs and provide much-needed thump in the lineup. He could easily outperform expectations.
Why These Picks Matter
The Central divisions thrive on unpredictability. A breakout from Gavin Williams or Brice Turang could swing a division race, while inconsistency from players like Masyn Winn or Elly De La Cruz could open the door for another contender.
In 2026, these divisions won’t be decided by stars alone—they’ll be decided by surprises.
