ESPN's Buster Olney has unveiled his annual positional rankings for the 2026 MLB season, starting with the top 10 starting pitchers. The rankings focus on who will be the best players for the upcoming season rather than career achievements or future potential. Olney surveyed industry insiders to compile these lists, which will roll out position by position over the next two weeks.

Among the most debated rankings is the top starting pitcher spot, with Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes emerging as the frontrunners for baseball's best arm. This debate has confounded evaluators across the league, highlighting the exceptional talent at the position. The rankings will cover all defensive positions plus designated hitters, with starting pitchers leading off the series on February 16.

Olney's approach provides valuable insight into the current state of baseball as spring training begins. By focusing on the 2026 season specifically, these rankings offer a snapshot of which players are expected to dominate in the immediate future. The series will help fans and analysts alike gauge the competitive landscape heading into the new season, with each position's top 10 players set to be revealed daily.