Does Anyone Surpass Ohtani? Buster Olney Ranks MLB's Top 10 Designated Hitters for 2026

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Does Anyone Surpass Ohtani? Buster Olney Ranks MLB's Top 10 Designated Hitters for 2026

As spring training camps officially kick off, signaling the imminent arrival of the 2026 Major League Baseball season, attention invariably turns to ESPN's Buster Olney's annual player evaluations. This year, his comprehensive series culminates with an in-depth analysis of the league's premier designated hitters (DH), a position demanding a unique blend of offensive firepower and game-changing presence. Unanimously at the apex of this discussion is the Los Angeles Dodgers' phenom, Shohei Ohtani.

Olney's rankings are not merely a compilation of names but a forward-looking assessment of the most impactful players at their respective positions for the 2026 season, prioritizing immediate performance over career legacy. Ohtani embodies this philosophy, continually solidifying his status as an unparalleled force in modern baseball. Following his record-breaking contract with the Dodgers, his role as a pivotal offensive weapon remains unchanged. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has affirmed Ohtani will once again serve as the leadoff hitter, whether he's in the DH slot or starting on the mound. This decision underscores the team's absolute confidence in his ability to ignite the offense, a trust built upon astounding statistics.

Over the past two seasons, Ohtani has scored an astonishing 280 runs, by far the most in the major leagues. Across his last three seasons—comprising his final year with the Los Angeles Angels and his initial two seasons with the Dodgers—he has blasted 153 home runs and maintained an adjusted OPS+ of 184, underscoring his offensive dominance. While he faced some struggles in recent postseasons, notably going 1-for-18 with nine strikeouts against the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League Division Series, his renowned ability to make adjustments remains a hallmark of his game. His 2025 regular-season splits demonstrate remarkable consistency across different innings, against various pitcher types, and in high-leverage situations, making him a perpetual threat regardless of the circumstances.

Moving down the list, Kyle Schwarber of the Philadelphia Phillies emerges as another deserving slugger, particularly after securing a substantial $150 million deal this winter. Turning 33 next month, Schwarber has proven that investing in a DH-only player can yield significant returns. His continuous improvements are attributed to his work ethic and commitment to his teammates, evolving into one of his generation's best fastball hitters. His 2025 statistics, featuring a .286 batting average and a .759 slugging percentage, reflect his growing capacity for offensive destruction.

In Houston, Yordan Alvarez of the Astros faces a different set of challenges. Despite his immense offensive talent, recurring injury issues sidelined him for 48 games in 2023 and 114 games last year, severely impacting his team's performance. His slugging percentage dipped to a career-low .430, and his adjusted OPS+ fell to 121. With a predominantly right-handed lineup, the Astros desperately need Alvarez, a left-handed hitter, to return to his elite form to bolster their championship aspirations.

Among other notable names, George Springer of the Toronto Blue Jays enters the final year of his six-year, $150 million contract. At 36, Springer delivered a spectacular performance last season, posting a 166 wRC+, a mark higher than many of the game's biggest stars. A more dedicated DH role could alleviate the physical demands on his legs, potentially extending his impactful career. Brent Rooker of the Oakland Athletics, following a 39-homer campaign in 2024 and a contract extension through 2029, displayed significant power in 2025 with 73 extra-base hits, including 30 homers. His effectiveness against left-handed pitchers makes him a crucial lineup piece.

Yandy Diaz of the Tampa Bay Rays, despite the team's penchant for roster turnover, has remained a fixture due to his team-friendly contract and consistent offensive impact, accumulating 13.4 WAR and a .379 OBP over the past four years. Christian Yelich of the Milwaukee Brewers appears to be transitioning away from an everyday outfield role, with manager Pat Murphy prioritizing keeping his potent bat in the lineup. Yelich, who posted a .795 OPS and 121 OPS+ in 2025, is nearing significant career milestones.

Giancarlo Stanton of the New York Yankees, despite chronic injury issues limiting his games played, remains a destructive offensive force when healthy, approaching 500 career home runs. Matt Carpenter of the Detroit Tigers, despite hamstring issues, still delivered significant damage at the plate with 18 doubles and 26 homers, proving particularly effective against right-handed pitching. Finally, ESPN colleague Paul Hembekides strongly advocates for Manny Herrera, who had a strong offensive season in 2025 with a .373 on-base percentage and 136 adjusted OPS, though he lacks the extensive track record of those ranked above him.

The honorable mentions include Salvador Perez of the Kansas City Royals, who hit 30 homers in 2025 and is expected to see an increased DH role. Eugenio Suarez, who hit 49 homers between the Diamondbacks and Mariners, signed a one-year deal with the Reds, likely due to his high strikeout rate and below-average defense. Jurickson Profar of the Atlanta Braves, despite his preference for the outfield, faces an uncertain future given a PED suspension and poor defensive metrics. Lastly, Ryan O'Hearn of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who had a solid 2025 season, rounds out this comprehensive look at MLB's top designated hitters.

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