MLB 2026: Struggling Teams Still Struggle, But Compete More
After years of heavy losses, MLB’s weakest teams in 2026 are showing more competitiveness and avoiding double-digit losses.
Trend Shift in MLB
In recent years, we've seen some brutal seasons for MLB's weakest teams, like the Colorado Rockies who finished with 119 losses last season, and the Chicago White Sox who set a record with 121 losses in 2024. However, this season brings a notable change — the league’s weakest teams are competing much more and managing to avoid double-digit losses.
The Weakest Teams in 2026: Relatively Competitive
In the 2026 season, the struggling teams are the Colorado Rockies (46 wins, 72 losses), Los Angeles Angels (45-73), Oakland Athletics (47-71), and Kansas City Royals (49-70). All four teams are reasonably close to avoiding triple-digit losses, a scenario unseen since 2017. These numbers suggest that full-on tanking may no longer be the preferred strategy it once was.
The History of Tanking in MLB
Tanking — a full rebuild strategy sacrificing winning seasons for a better future — was especially popular in the early 2010s. Teams like the Houston Astros endured painful stretches with over 106 losses in consecutive seasons but ultimately won the World Series in 2017 and 2022. However, not all teams benefit equally from this approach. For example, the Baltimore Orioles struggled through tough seasons from 2018 to 2021 despite high draft picks and have yet to win a playoff game since. Trades like sending Adley Rutschman to the Boston Red Sox indicate the Orioles may continue their rebuild phase.
Notable Events Before Games
Beyond the increased competitiveness, interesting events are happening off the field as well. For instance, Atlanta Braves ace pitcher Chris Sale was ejected by umpire Dan Merzel before throwing a single pitch in a game against the New York Yankees, following an incident the day before. Such pre-game ejections are rare in MLB but not unprecedented, adding extra drama to American baseball.
Summary
While MLB’s weakest teams still face challenges, this season shows higher competitiveness and a shift in tanking strategies. Teams are working to avoid extremely heavy losses and maintain a decent level of play, adding excitement to the evolving season.