As teams prepare for the 2026 Major League Baseball (MLB) season, several free agents are emerging as potential reclamation projects. These players, once promising stars, have experienced significant setbacks due to injuries or underperformance. Now, with new opportunities on the horizon, they strive to regain their previous form.
Each season presents a fresh chance for players to revive their careers. The 2025 season saw numerous athletes meeting the criteria for a successful comeback story, characterized by a history of performance followed by a significant drop-off. The criteria included being at least 27 years old, having recorded a 2-WAR season earlier in their careers or 3 WAR over three seasons, producing fewer than 2 WAR in the recent season, and changing teams.
The list of potential reclamation candidates from the previous season included notable names such as Jesus Luzardo, Matthew Boyd, and Harrison Bader. Each of these players has their own narrative of redemption, highlighting the resilience and unpredictability of professional sports.
Key Candidates for 2026 Comebacks
Looking ahead, several players stand out as prime candidates for reclamation in the upcoming season. Their potential for resurgence is based on their previous performances and the circumstances surrounding their recent struggles.
Ha-Seong Kim, a shortstop who previously thrived with the San Diego Padres, is one of the most intriguing prospects. After two seasons marred by injuries and team changes, Kim aims to recapture his form as a reliable infielder known for his contact skills and defensive prowess. Drawing inspiration from Ramon Laureano, who successfully rebounded after a challenging period, Kim hopes to re-establish his value within the league.
Another important name is Michael King, a right-handed pitcher who was limited to just 15 starts in 2025 due to shoulder and knee inflammation. Despite a drop in performance, King previously demonstrated significant potential, achieving a combined 6.3 WAR in 2023 and 2024. With interest from teams in need of rotation help, King could replicate the success seen by Merrill Kelly, who rebounded effectively after a similar setback.
Luis Arraez, an infielder with unparalleled bat-to-ball skills, is aiming to reinvent his game after a disappointing season. While there is no direct comparison for Arraez, his situation mirrors that of Gleyber Torres, who revitalized his career after a challenging stretch. Arraez’s unique hitting capabilities could see him thrive with a fresh start.
Pitcher Zac Gallen is also a candidate for reclamation status. After declining a qualifying offer from Arizona, Gallen faced a tough season marked by injury and performance struggles. Nonetheless, his solid track record suggests he could bounce back significantly in 2026, much like Jesus Luzardo did after his own challenges.
Additionally, Cedric Mullins faces a pivotal year after experiencing a downturn with the Baltimore Orioles and later the New York Mets. Known for his speed and offensive capabilities, Mullins has the potential to become a valuable asset again, drawing parallels to Harrison Bader, who successfully navigated his own comeback after a rocky period with the New York Yankees.
Finally, Willi Castro is another player to watch. After previously demonstrating promise, Castro’s performance declined significantly in 2025. His versatility and experience could position him well for a rebound, similar to Bader and Laureano.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
The upcoming MLB season is poised to showcase numerous stories of resilience and determination. The six players highlighted are just a few among many who are looking to restore their reputations and deliver strong performances on new teams.
As teams finalize their rosters and prepare for the season, the potential for these reclamation stories adds excitement to the baseball landscape. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see who can rise from the challenges of the past and reclaim their place among the league’s elite players.
With the 2026 season on the horizon, it is clear that the narratives of these athletes will be central to the unfolding drama of Major League Baseball, providing both inspiration and intrigue for fans.
