Can Anyone Dethrone Ohtani? Buster Olney Ranks the Top 10 Designated Hitters for 2026

United States - Ekhbary News Agency

Can Anyone Dethrone Ohtani? Buster Olney Ranks the Top 10 Designated Hitters for 2026

With spring training camps in full swing, the state of Major League Baseball is once again under the microscope. As part of its comprehensive 2026 MLB season preview, ESPN's esteemed analyst Buster Olney has canvassed industry professionals to compile his annual positional rankings. This year, the series culminates with a deep dive into the designated hitter position, identifying the elite talent that will shape the upcoming season. The objective is clear: to pinpoint the best players for the 2026 season, focusing on immediate impact rather than long-term career projections or future potential.

The designated hitter role has evolved significantly in modern baseball, becoming a crucial position for teams seeking offensive firepower without compromising defensive capabilities. Olney's methodology involved surveying individuals across the league, gathering insights to create a definitive top 10 list. This ranking series, released position by position over two weeks, aims to provide fans and analysts with a clear picture of the league's hierarchy heading into the new year.

Ohtani Reigns Supreme, But Challenges Loom

The Los Angeles Dodgers, managed by Dave Roberts, boast a formidable lineup featuring stars like Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts. The recent acquisition of Kyle Tucker, on a record-setting four-year deal averaging $57.1 million annually, further solidifies their offensive might. However, Roberts' lineup card has a consistent anchor: Shohei Ohtani. Whether serving as the designated hitter or taking the mound as a starting pitcher, Ohtani is slated to lead off. His manager highlighted Ohtani's preference for initiating the offense, a strategy validated by his extraordinary results. Over the past two seasons, Ohtani has amassed an MLB-leading 280 runs scored. His combined performance across his final year with the Angels and his first two with the Dodgers showcases his immense power, with 153 home runs and an exceptional adjusted OPS+ of 184. It comes as no surprise, then, that Ohtani occupies the top spot on Olney's list of the premier designated hitters for the upcoming 2026 season.

Despite experiencing some postseason struggles last year, particularly against the Philadelphia Phillies in the NLDS where he went 1-for-18 with nine strikeouts, Ohtani's capacity for adjustment is legendary. His regular-season splits from 2025 paint a picture of consistent dominance. He demonstrated elite OPS figures (.1.019 in innings 1-3, .979 in innings 4-6, and .1.041 in innings 7-9) and excelled against both starting pitchers (.977 OPS) and relievers (.1.071 OPS). His performance in high-leverage situations, where he posted a .1.123 OPS, further underscores his clutch hitting ability, making him a truly formidable force at the plate regardless of the game's context.

A Strong Field of Contenders

While Ohtani stands at the pinnacle, the race for the top designated hitters is fiercely competitive. Kyle Schwarber, despite turning 33 next month, secured a significant $150 million deal this offseason, a testament to his enduring power and strategic approach at the plate. His commitment to improvement, particularly against fastballs, has transformed him into one of the era's premier fastball hitters. Schwarber's statistical progression, from a .548 SLG in 2023 to a remarkable .759 SLG in 2025, highlights his development. His clubhouse presence and unwavering work ethic are invaluable assets that made him indispensable to the Phillies.

Yordan Alvarez of the Houston Astros is another critical figure, albeit one battling injury concerns. Having missed significant time in recent seasons (48 games in 2023, 114 in 2025), his slugging percentage dipped to a career-low .430 last season. With a predominantly right-handed lineup, the Astros desperately need Alvarez's potent left-handed bat to re-establish their offensive dominance.

George Springer, entering the final year of his six-year, $150 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, remains a potent offensive threat at 36. His 166 wRC+ last season ranked third in MLB, trailing only Aaron Judge and Ohtani. Coupled with a .309/.399/.560 slash line, Springer demonstrated remarkable consistency. Given the Blue Jays' outfield depth issues, transitioning Springer to a primary DH role could preserve his legs and maximize his offensive output.

Ryan Mountcastle of the Baltimore Orioles, known for his power, also features prominently. His ability to drive in runs and hit for extra bases makes him a valuable asset. The Oakland Athletics' Ryan Noda earned an extension through 2029 after a 39-homer campaign in 2024, followed by 73 extra-base hits, including 30 homers, last season. His success against left-handed pitching (.293/.385/.500) makes him a strategic matchup advantage.

Other notable inclusions highlight the depth of talent at the DH position. Yandy Díaz of the Tampa Bay Rays continues to be a valuable offensive contributor, boasting a .379 OBP and a 138 OPS+ over the past four years. Christian Yelich of the Milwaukee Brewers, now primarily a DH, aims to reach career milestones while maintaining his offensive production. Giancarlo Stanton of the New York Yankees, despite his injury history, remains a significant power threat, nearing 500 career home runs. Nate Carpenter of the Detroit Tigers has shown prowess against right-handed pitching, and his role is expected to expand. Adolis García of the Texas Rangers, a key offensive piece, provides consistent power. Finally, the list includes players like Nick Castellanos, who offers a proven track record, and potentially emerging talents who could surprise in the upcoming season.

Buster Olney's rankings provide a compelling snapshot of the designated hitter landscape for 2026. While Shohei Ohtani stands as the undisputed leader, the depth of talent and the emergence of new stars ensure that the battle for offensive supremacy will be a captivating storyline throughout the season.

Ekhbary News Agency