Overview
- MLB.com polled a 32-member expert panel that ranked rookies on a 5-4-3-2-1 scale to produce its second 2026 ROY snapshot.
- Kevin McGonigle has surged to the top of the American League ballot after a recent hitting run that pushed his average and on-base marks ahead of other qualified AL rookies.
- Kenta Murakami remains a top statistical rookie with the most homers and a leading OPS, but he has been on the injured list with a right hamstring strain and is expected to miss significant time.
- Rising AL contenders include starter Parker Messick, who led AL rookies in wins, innings and strikeouts, and Travis Bazzana, who has hit well since his late-April debut.
- In the National League JJ Wetherholt holds the lead with Sal Stewart close behind and Carson Benge entering the conversation after a 10-game surge that included a 5-for-5 game; early-season performance swings and health will shape the race as the year continues.