MLB.com writer Anthony Castrovince has released his way-too-early predictions for the 2026 Baseball Writers’ Association of America awards, avoiding repeats and obvious favorites. Among the picks, Detroit Tigers prospect Kevin McGonigle is tabbed for American League Rookie of the Year, while former Tiger Don Kelly earns a nod for National League Manager of the Year with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Anthony Castrovince, an MLB.com writer, published his predictions for the 2026 MLB awards on January 3, 2026, embracing bold choices to steer clear of repeats from 2025 winners like Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, and Tarik Skubal. 'At the risk of being rendered dumb again -- especially in an MVP realm currently dominated by all-time talents -- I’m sticking with my usual formula,' Castrovince wrote, acknowledging the uncertainties of the offseason and spring training.
In the American League, Castrovince selects Mariners outfielder Julio Rodríguez for MVP, citing his reduced strikeout rate, elite bat speed, and potential to lead Seattle in the AL West. For the National League, Mets slugger Juan Soto is the pick, highlighting his rare 40-homer, 100-RBI, 100-walk, 100-run, and 30-steal season in 2025 despite defensive concerns.
Pitching honors go to Red Sox starter Garrett Crochet for AL Cy Young, who threw more innings than Skubal in 2025 and struck out about one-third of batters faced. In the NL, Dodgers ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto is chosen over preseason favorite Paul Skenes, based on his strong expected ERA and preparation.
Relief pitching sees Guardians' Cade Smith and Padres' Mason Miller as the respective AL and NL picks, both excelling in opponent OPS allowed. For rookies, Tigers shortstop Kevin McGonigle tops the AL list. The 21-year-old, MLB's No. 2 prospect per MLB Pipeline and Baseball America, slashed .305/.408/.583 across three minor league levels in 2025, with 19 home runs, 80 RBIs, and 10 stolen bases in 88 games, drawing 59 walks against 46 strikeouts. He also won MVP in the Arizona Fall League. 'McGonigle’s approach and bat speed are impressive,' Castrovince noted. 'He might not crack the Tigers’ Opening Day squad at shortstop like some fans will hope, but I think there will be ample opportunity for him in 2026.'
In the NL, Cardinals infielder JJ Wetherholt is selected. Managerial awards favor Orioles' Craig Albernaz in the AL for turning around Baltimore, and a 'wild' NL pick of Pirates manager Don Kelly. The former Tigers player (2009-14) went 59-65 in his 2025 debut after replacing Derek Shelton. Castrovince envisions Kelly, a Pittsburgh native, leading Pittsburgh to a Wild Card spot with improved hitting behind Paul Skenes. 'Kelly is a native Pittsburghian who will emerge as one of the great stories of the 2026 season,' he wrote.
These predictions highlight emerging talents amid roster flux, setting the stage for an unpredictable season.
