As Major League Baseball (MLB) gears up for the 2026 season, several players are primed for a comeback after facing challenges in recent years. Each season, a select group of athletes who once showcased exceptional talent experience setbacks, often due to injuries or underperformance, prompting them to seek new opportunities with different clubs. The upcoming season promises to feature a mix of reclamation candidates who could rediscover their former prowess.
Strong candidates for a successful transition include those who are at least 27 years old, have recorded a significant performance in the past, and are looking to bounce back after a disappointing season. The criteria for identifying these players include a prior season with at least a 2-WAR (Wins Above Replacement) rating, or a total of 3 WAR over the three seasons leading up to their decline. Additionally, they must have produced fewer than 2 WAR in the previous season and switched teams, setting the stage for a potential resurgence.
Among the 15 players fitting this “reclamation project” mold from the 2025 season are notable names such as Ha-Seong Kim, Michael King, and Luis Arraez. The 2026 season could introduce a new wave of success stories, and here are six individuals projected to make significant strides.
Ha-Seong Kim: Seeking Stability
Once a standout with a 5-WAR performance in 2022 and 2023 for the San Diego Padres, Ha-Seong Kim has faced challenges due to injuries and team changes. After a difficult stint with the Atlanta Braves and Tampa Bay Rays, Kim is aiming to reestablish himself as a reliable middle infielder. His journey mirrors that of Ramon Laureano, who successfully revitalized his career after a series of setbacks, highlighting the possibility of a promising rebound.
Michael King: Aiming for Recovery
Michael King had a strong showing in previous seasons, combining for 6.3 WAR with the New York Yankees and San Diego Padres. Unfortunately, King was limited to just 15 starts in 2025 due to shoulder and knee issues. Despite an elevated 4.42 FIP, experts believe he has the potential to return to form, drawing interest from contenders looking for pitching depth. His path resembles that of Merrill Kelly, who overcame similar challenges to bounce back effectively.
Luis Arraez: Unique Skills on Display
With unparalleled bat-to-ball skills, Luis Arraez stands out as a unique player in the league. However, his performance has fluctuated, reminiscent of Gleyber Torres, who faced a decline before finding success after signing with the Detroit Tigers. Arraez, who struggled in 2025, is expected to leverage his batting capabilities to regain form in 2026.
Zac Gallen: A Steady Presence
After declining a qualifying offer from the Arizona Diamondbacks, Zac Gallen is another potent reclamation candidate. Though he faced difficulties in 2025, posting a 4.83 ERA and 1.2 WAR, his historical performance suggests he can recover. Gallen’s durability and consistency over the years could play a crucial role in his comeback, setting him apart from other pitchers.
Cedric Mullins: Speed and Versatility
The Baltimore Orioles faced significant challenges in 2025, and Cedric Mullins was unable to alter the team’s trajectory despite decent individual numbers. Following a trade to the New York Mets, Mullins struggled in the latter part of the season. Yet, his speed and experience in the outfield could make him a valuable asset for a new team in 2026, echoing the journey of Harrison Bader, who found success after bouncing back from a lackluster performance.
Willi Castro: Versatile Potential
Having previously shown promise with an average of nearly 3 WAR during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Willi Castro is now looking to reclaim his value after a disappointing 2025. His versatility on the field enhances his appeal, though his recent performance raises concerns. Castro’s potential for a rebound mirrors the paths of both Bader and Laureano, showing that he too can rise again.
As the 2026 MLB season approaches, these players exemplify the spirit of resilience in sports. Their journeys serve as reminders of the unpredictable nature of athletic performance and the potential for remarkable comebacks. With the right circumstances and support, each has the opportunity to reinvigorate their careers and provide fans with the compelling narratives they cherish.
