The MLB's 2026 Season: Can These Pitchers Make a Comeback? π
The MLB offseason has been a busy time for teams bolstering their rotations. Some went big, signing renowned free agents, while others played it safe, retaining starters and adding depth. But for some pitchers, the 2025 season was a tough one, plagued by injuries and underperformance. Now, they're gearing up for a comeback in 2026. Let's take a closer look at three pitchers with something to prove:
The Fallen Ace:
Zac Gallen, once a dominant force on the mound, is looking to reclaim his former glory. In 2022-23, he was a top-tier starter for the Diamondbacks, boasting a 3.04 ERA and ranking high in K-BB rate. But 2024 and 2025 saw a decline, with his ERA rising and strikeout rates dropping. Gallen's 2025 season was particularly rough, with a career-high 4.83 ERA. However, his expected stats suggest he might have been better than the numbers show. Gallen's offseason contract fell short of expectations, leading him back to Arizona on a one-year deal. The key to his resurgence may lie in refining his breaking pitches, which struggled last season.
The Unlucky Veteran:
Sean Manaea's 2025 season was a tale of bad luck and mechanical woes. After a strong 2024, he suffered an oblique injury and elbow issues, causing a delayed start. Despite impressive strikeout and walk rates, his ERA soared to 5.64. Interestingly, his expected stats paint a much rosier picture. Manaea's struggles with the long ball and a curious pitch selection shift, abandoning his effective sinker, may have contributed to his woes. Regaining his pre-injury mechanics and pitch differentiation could be crucial for his 2026 success.
The Comeback Kid:
Walker Buehler, once a Cy Young contender, has had a rough few years. After missing the 2023 season due to Tommy John surgery, he returned in 2024 but struggled. His 2025 campaign with the Red Sox was equally challenging, leading to his release. Now with the Padres, Buehler must reinvent himself. Adjusting his pitch mix, emphasizing his sinker, and focusing on soft contact could be his path to redemption. His hard-hit percentage and exit velocity suggest he has the tools to succeed.
And here's where it gets intriguing: Can these pitchers defy the odds and bounce back to their former glory? Will Gallen reclaim his ace status? Can Manaea overcome his injury setbacks? Will Buehler rediscover his Cy Young form? The 2026 season will be a fascinating test of resilience and skill. What do you think? Are these pitchers destined for a comeback, or will they face further challenges? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
