English
Indian
العربية
Español
Deutsch
Türkçe
Français (Afrique)
The MLB is through the first two weeks of the 2026 season. The season has seen hot starts from veterans and players entering the first few seasons of their careers. In the opening month of the season, it’s common for players to work their way into becoming locked in. However, as the months become warmer, players begin to perform at a higher level. Here are the top 10 starting pitcher rankings heading into week three.
MORE: MLB catcher power rankings in week 3
1. Kevin Gausman, Toronto Blue Jays
Gausman has been unhittable in his first starts to the season. He’s limited hitters to a batting average below .100. His strikeout rate is nearly two strikeouts per inning pitched.
2. Cam Schlittler, New York Yankees
In two starts, Schlittler has yet to surrender a run. He has hit the ground running following his strong rookie campaign. He’s the starting pitcher New York needs as they wait for the return of Carlos Rodon and Gerrit Cole.
3. Bryan Woo, Seattle Mariners
Woo finished 2025 with big numbers. He’s started off strong in 2026. He has become the ace in Seattle’s starting rotation.
4. Emerson Hancock, Seattle Mariners
Hancock won the final spot in Seattle’s rotation. He’s provided great production in his two starts. There will be regression, but Hancock is locked in.
5. Sandy Alcantara, Miami Marlins
Last season, Alcantara had a rough return following Tommy John surgery. Two seasons removed from surgery, Alcantara looks like the version of himself that won the National League Cy Young. Miami can thrive with its ace back to full form.
6. Chris Sale, Atlanta Braves
Sale has been as good as it gets when healthy. He is coming off a monster 2025 season. He is looking to lead Atlanta back to the postseason.
7. Edward Cabrera, Chicago Cubs
The offseason acquisition is already paying dividends for Chicago. He’s been lights out in his first two starts of the season. Cabrera is destined to have the best season of his young career.
8. Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers
The back-to-back Cy Young winner is ready for a three-peat. He’s been solid in his first two starts of the season. He can once again be among the league’s starting pitcher leaders in 2026.
9. Chase Burns, Cincinnati Reds
The rookie has been fantastic in his two starts. He’s striking out over a batter per inning. Opposing hitters are struggling to make consistent contact against the flame-throwing righty.
10. Jesus Luzardo, Philadelphia Phillies
Luzardo had great success in his first season with the Phillies. He has started off 2026 right where he left off a season ago. He will be among the league leaders in strikeouts.
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —