So far, the 2026 MLB season has been more eventful than ever. Between Jose Soriano’s electric start, the introduction of ABS, and the “almost” no-hitters, this MLB season is not one to miss.
Angels pitcher, Jose Soriano, is off to one of the greatest starts to a season in MLB history. Through his first five starting appearances, Soriano’s ERA is 0.24 with a 5-0 record. (MLB News) This is the best start to a season in both the American and National League since 1913. If Soriano continues to dominate the mound, he will certainly win the Cy Young Award.
The other team in Los Angeles, the Dodgers, has not been off to a great start. After winning back-to-back World Series in 2024 and 2025, the Dodgers have started the season 31-19. (ESPN) This start may not have been as dominant as in past years for the Dodgers; however, they are still in first place in the National League West. The Dodgers look to continue their dynasty and win their third straight World Series.
The past MLB seasons have mostly been the same. This streak ended with the new ABS. The ABS (Automated Ball Strike) system allows batters, catchers, and pitchers to challenge the umpire’s call. This has proven to show that just one challenge can determine the outcome of a game. Dave Roberts, manager of the Dodgers says, “The ABS system is liked, and it is considered good. It might be too precise because a centimeter can change a call.” Each team gets two challenges per game. If the team gets the call correct, they keep their challenges. This was proven to benefit the hitters because they do not get any bad calls. Ask any hitter, and they will respond positively. Ask any pitcher or catcher, and they might respond either way. The only group of people who dislike the new ABS is the umpires.
Unfortunately for players and teams, injuries are making the season a devastating one. Atlanta Braves star Ronald Acuna Jr. is out for an undisclosed amount of time due to pain in his left thumb. Another star pitcher for the Detroit Tigers, Tarik Skubal, was put on the sixty-day injured reserve list as of late April. On May 6, Tarik was sent to undergo surgery due to pain in his left arm. Tarik Skubal is left-handed, so his left arm is the arm he throws with.
Lastly, many “almost” no-hitters have happened. A no-hitter is when a pitcher pitches the entire game, typically nine innings, without allowing the other team to get a hit. Although a no-hitter has not happened yet, many pitchers have gotten close. J.T. Ginn, a pitcher for the Sacramento Athletics, pitched eight no-hit innings against the Angels on May 18, 2026. The first batter of the ninth inning hit a base hit. The next batter, Zach Neto, hit a walk-off home run for the Angels to win 2-1. Cleveland Guardians pitcher Parker Messick also had a no-hitter through eight innings. His no-hitter was also broken up by the first batter of the ninth inning. Luckily for him, the Guardians ended up winning the game without allowing a run.
So far, for the players, coaches, and fans, the 2026 season has been a must-watch. Next time you see an epic game or an impressive stat line, show it to all your friends. Also, remember that the MLB season just started. Things will get better during the playoffs.