These 11 Pitchers Are Off To Hot Starts

Digging into strong pitching performances is often one of the most valuable activities this time of the year, as checking data and watching video can often provide clues for future success based on improved pitch mixes, mechanics and execution. And, unlike with hitting, pitching data can standardize in terms of stuff and locations fairly quickly, so early-season looks can be particularly useful.

To that end, Geoff Pontes and Ian Cundall have compiled lists of notable pitchers early in the season. Whether potential breakouts or young arms tossing their first professional innings, these are names to know for 2026:

• 6 Pitchers Whose Early-Season Data Has Our Attention

• 5 Under-The-Radar 2025 Draftees Off To Impressive Starts

Want even more updates on early prospect standouts? Subscribe below to the Baseball America Prospect Report newsletter for the latest news, analysis and statistics delivered straight to your inbox every weekday morning.

A FOND FAREWELL

Jesús Cano’s 25 ‘Picks To Click’ In 2026

This week marked the final go-round at Baseball America for Jesús Cano before he moves onto to exciting new career opportunities. But before he goes, our resident Arizona backfields stalwart checked in with a rundown of 25 prospects he’s expecting big things from this year.

Check out the complete list of standouts from Jesús’ time for BA covering up-and-coming prospects out in the desert.

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COACHING NAMES TO WATCH

NCAA Coaching Hot Seat: Midseason Update

Back in December, we identified 10 college baseball coaches who were set to enter the 2026 season with something to prove. Some were tasked with validating a hire, while others faced mounting pressure to solidify their job status.

With more than half the regular season complete, we’re revisiting that group to assess where things stand for coaches on the hot seat.

BA PODCASTS

Get Caught Up On The Latest BA Podcasts

Looking for something to listen to this weekend? Baseball America has you covered with a rundown of new podcast episodes:

• Future Projection: When Scout Opinions Differ From Our Own

• Prospect Podcast: Drafting All-Rookie & All-Prospect Teams

• Draft Podcast: 2026 Prospects We Love

• College Podcast: Teams We Love & Teams That Scare Us

Want even more BA podcasts? Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Player FM to make sure you never miss an episode.

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Angels LHP Johnny Slawinski in his first extended spring training start 👀 #fyp #angels #pitching

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