2026 MLB Preview: Ranking the Top 10 Second Basemen Entering the Season

Spring Training is officially underway, and that means one thing — it’s time to break down the landscape of Major League Baseball ahead of the 2026 season.

Today, we take a closer look at one of the most dynamic positions on the field: second base. From elite power-speed threats to defensive specialists, this year’s group features established stars and players entering pivotal contract seasons.

Here are the Top 10 Second Basemen entering 2026, ranked based on projected impact this season.

1. Ketel Marte – Arizona Diamondbacks

Marte remains the gold standard at the position. Over the past three seasons, he has consistently delivered elite offensive production while providing steady defense.

In 2025, he launched 28 home runs with a 145 OPS+ across 126 games.

Even amid off-field adversity, Marte proved why Arizona refused to move him in trade talks. His bat alone makes him the most complete second baseman in baseball entering 2026.

2. Nico Hoerner – Chicago Cubs

Defense wins games — and Hoerner proves it. The two-time Gold Glove winner led all second basemen in WAR last season while hitting .297 and striking out at one of the lowest rates in the league (7.6%).

Add in 29 stolen bases and 89 runs scored, and Hoerner continues to be one of the most reliable all-around players in MLB.

3. Jazz Chisholm Jr. – New York Yankees

Few players bring the electricity Chisholm does. A 30-30 player last season (31 HR, 31 SB), he blends elite speed and raw power.

The question isn’t talent — it’s consistency.

Chisholm’s production fluctuated throughout 2025, finishing with a .242/.332/.481 slash line and .813 OPS. Entering a contract year, his ability to sustain high-level performance over a full season could determine whether he lands a massive long-term deal.

If he finds consistency, he could vault even higher on this list.

4. Brice Turang – Milwaukee Brewers

Turang emerged as one of 2025’s breakout stars. He scored 97 runs, hit 18 homers, stole 24 bases, and posted a 121 OPS+.

His jump in exit velocity suggests more power may be coming. While his defensive metrics dipped slightly, he remains one of the most exciting young second basemen in the game.

5. Brendan Donovan – Seattle Mariners

Versatility is Donovan’s calling card. Whether at second, third, or in the outfield, he finds ways to impact games.

He posted a 119 OPS+ last season and hit .315 against right-handed pitching. Expect him to be a key table-setter in Seattle’s lineup in 2026.

6. Gleyber Torres – Detroit Tigers

Torres accepted a one-year deal, signaling he’s betting on himself.

He recorded a career-high 85 walks last season while lowering his strikeout rate. If his offensive rebound continues, he could be one of the biggest value plays at the position this year.

7. Xavier Edwards – Miami Marlins

The move to second base unlocked Edwards’ defensive upside. In just 96 games at the position, he recorded 12 defensive runs saved.

With 159 hits and a .343 OBP last season, Edwards is quietly becoming one of the most efficient contact hitters in baseball.

8. Marcus Semien – New York Mets

Now 35, Semien remains a strong defender, but his offensive numbers have declined over the past two seasons.

If he stabilizes at the plate, he could outperform this ranking. For now, he remains a dependable veteran presence.

9. Bryson Stott – Philadelphia Phillies

Stott provides power-speed balance, stealing 24 bases last year. However, his struggles against left-handed pitching limited his overall production.

If he improves in those matchups, he could take a significant step forward.

10. Ernie Clement – Toronto Blue Jays

Clement surged in the postseason, hitting .411 over 18 playoff games. With defensive reliability and strong contact skills, he enters 2026 with momentum and a clear opportunity.

Players to Watch

• Jose Altuve – Still dangerous offensively despite defensive concerns.

• Luis Arraez – Elite contact hitter working to solidify himself at second.

• Jackson Holliday – Young talent with upside, recovering from injury.

• Ozzie Albies – Looking to rebound after a down offensive year.

  
  

Final Take

Second base in 2026 is loaded with diversity — from elite contact hitters to explosive 30-30 threats. Ketel Marte holds the crown for now, but with players like Chisholm entering pivotal seasons, the hierarchy could shift quickly.

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