The 2026 MLB Pipeline Top 10 Right-Handed Pitching Prospects: A Deep Dive
The Future of Baseball is Here
The MLB Pipeline is set to unveil its highly anticipated 2026 Top 100 Prospects list on January 23rd, with a special one-hour show on MLB Network and MLB.com. As a prelude, we bring you the top 10 right-handed pitching prospects, a group that promises to make waves in the baseball world.
Last Year's Legacy
Last year's list showcased Roki Sasaki, the Dodgers' right-hander, and his journey to the States. This year, the names at the top are more familiar, indicating a potential shift in the league's dynamics.
The Top 10 RHP Prospects
- Nolan McLean (Mets): McLean's 2.06 ERA and 57 strikeouts in his MLB debut showcase his potential as a current ace. His arsenal includes a curveball with 3,248 rpm and a mid-80s sweeper slider.
- Bubba Chandler (Pirates): Chandler's four-seamer averaged 97.8 mph in Triple-A, and his changeup had a 39.6% whiff rate in the Majors. His overall pitching prowess is evident.
- Trey Yesavage (Blue Jays): Yesavage's splitter is a game-changer, with a whiff rate of 58.4% and a sky-high release point. His three-pitch mix has already proven effective against MLB batters.
- Andrew Painter (Phillies): Painter's control is a concern post-Tommy John surgery, but his fastball command and consistent arm slot offer hope for future success.
- Seth Hernandez (Pirates): Hernandez's delivery repeats well, and his curveball has tons of spin. His changeup is also one of the best in the Draft, showcasing versatility.
- Ryan Sloan (Mariners): Sloan's walk rate was stellar in his first full season, and his changeup helps avoid splits issues against lefties.
- Jonah Tong (Mets): Tong's over-the-top delivery and massive extension make his four-seamer play above its velocity range.
- Travis Sykora (Nationals): Sykora's Tommy John surgery in 2025 will likely impact his season, but his previous dominance is a testament to his talent.
- Jaxon Wiggins (Cubs): Wiggins' fastball and cutter are key tools, and his ability to wedge in early strikes is impressive.
- Carlos Lagrange (Yankees): Lagrange's breakout 2025 season saw him strike out 168 in 120 innings, a significant improvement from his humble beginnings.
Tools of the Trade
- Fastball: Chandler, Painter, Hernandez, Tong, Wiggins, Lagrange
- Curveball: McLean, Hernandez
- Slider: McLean
- Changeup: Chandler, Hernandez, Sloan, Tong
- Splitter: Yesavage
- Cutter: McLean
Control and Superlatives
- Highest Ceiling: McLean
- Highest Floor: Yesavage
- Rookie of the Year Candidates: McLean and Yesavage
- Highest Risers: Lagrange
- Most to Prove: Painter
Keep an Eye On
Kyson Witherspoon (Red Sox) is a power pitcher with a mid-90s fastball and a diverse arsenal, making him an intriguing prospect for the Red Sox.
