By Daniel Richardson
Editor-in-Chief, Archysport
Can Anyone Dethrone Ohtani? Buster Olney Ranks the Top 10 Designated Hitters for 2026
As spring training camps get underway, the state of Major League Baseball is once again under the microscope. As part of his comprehensive 2026 MLB season preview, ESPN’s Buster Olney surveyed industry professionals to compile his annual positional rankings. This year’s series culminates with an in-depth analysis of the Designated Hitter (DH) position, identifying the elite talent poised to shape the upcoming season. The objective, as Olney outlined, is to pinpoint the best players for the 2026 season based on immediate impact, rather than long-term career projections or future potential.
The Designated Hitter role has evolved significantly in modern baseball, becoming a crucial position for teams seeking offensive power without compromising defensive capabilities. Olney’s methodology involved querying individuals throughout the league, gathering insights to create a definitive top 10 list. This series of rankings, released position by position over two weeks, aims to provide fans and analysts with a clear picture of the league hierarchy as the new year approaches.
Ohtani Reigns Supreme, But Challenges Loom
The Los Angeles Dodgers, managed by Dave Roberts, boast a formidable lineup featuring stars like Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts. The recent acquisition of Kyle Tucker, on a record-breaking four-year contract averaging $57.1 million annually, further solidifies their offensive firepower. Though, Roberts’ lineup consistently features one anchor: Shohei Ohtani. Whether serving as the designated hitter or taking the mound as a starting pitcher, Ohtani is slated to lead off. His manager has emphasized Ohtani’s preference to initiate the offense, a strategy validated by his extraordinary results. Over the past two seasons, Ohtani has accumulated 280 runs scored, the most in MLB. His combined performance over his final year with the Los Angeles Angels and his first two seasons with the Dodgers highlights his immense power, with 153 home runs and an adjusted OPS+ of 184. It’s therefore no surprise that Ohtani tops Olney’s list of the best designated hitters for the upcoming 2026 season.
Despite some struggles in the postseason last year – notably against the Philadelphia Phillies in the NLDS where he managed just 1 hit in 18 at-bats and struck out 9 times – Ohtani’s adaptability is legendary. His 2025 regular season statistics paint a picture of consistent dominance. He demonstrated elite OPS numbers (1.019 in innings 1-3, .979 in innings 4-6, and 1.041 in innings 7-9) and excelled against both starting pitchers (.977 OPS) and relievers (1.071 OPS). His performance in high-leverage situations, where he posted a 1.123 OPS, further underscores his ability to deliver decisively, making him a truly formidable force at the plate, regardless of the game context.
A Strong Contingent of Contenders
While Ohtani sits atop the rankings, the race for the best designated hitters is fierce. Kyle Schwarber, despite turning 33 next month, secured a significant $150 million contract this offseason, a testament to his enduring power and strategic approach at the plate. His commitment to improvement, particularly against fastballs, has made him one of the premier fastball hitters of this era. Schwarber’s statistical progression, from a .235 SLG in 2023 to a remarkable .759 in 2025, highlights his development. His presence in the clubhouse and unwavering work ethic are invaluable assets that have made him indispensable to the Phillies.
Yordan Alvarez of the Houston Astros is another critical figure, though he’s battled injury issues. Having missed significant time in recent seasons (48 games in 2023, 114 in 2025), his power percentage dipped to a career-low of .430 last season. With a predominantly right-handed lineup, the Astros desperately need Alvarez’s powerful left-handed bat to restore their offensive dominance.
George Springer, entering the final year of his six-year, $150 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, remains a formidable offensive threat at age 36. His wRC+ of 166 last season ranked third in MLB, behind only Aaron Judge and Ohtani. Coupled with a .309/.399/.560 slash line, Springer has demonstrated remarkable consistency. Given the Blue Jays’ depth issues in the outfield, Springer’s transition to a primary DH role could preserve his legs and maximize his offensive production.
Ryan Mountcastle of the Baltimore Orioles, known for his power, also features prominently. His ability to drive in runs and deliver clutch hits makes him a valuable asset. Ryan Noda of the Oakland Athletics received an extension through 2029 after a 39-homer campaign in 2024, followed by 73 additional hits, including 30 home runs, last season. His success against left-handed pitchers (.293/.385/.500) provides a strategic advantage in terms of matchups.
Other notable inclusions highlight the depth of talent at the DH position. Yandy Díaz of the Tampa Bay Rays continues to be a valuable offensive contributor, posting an OBP of .379 and an OPS+ of 138 over the past four years. Christian Yelich of the Milwaukee Brewers, now primarily a DH, aims to reach career milestones while maintaining his offensive production. Giancarlo Stanton of the New York Yankees, despite his injury history, remains a significant power threat, approaching 500 career home runs. Nate Carpenter of the Detroit Tigers has shown mastery against right-handed pitchers, and his role is expected to expand. Adolis García of the Texas Rangers, a key offensive piece, provides consistent power. Finally, the list includes players like Nick Castellanos, who offers proven experience, and emerging potential talents who could surprise during the upcoming season.
Buster Olney’s rankings offer a compelling snapshot of the designated hitter landscape for 2026. While Shohei Ohtani is positioned as the undisputed leader, the depth of talent and the emergence of new stars ensure that the battle for offensive supremacy will be a captivating story throughout the season.
The Dodgers begin their 2026 campaign on March 27th against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium (3:10 PM PDT / 10:10 PM UTC). All eyes will be on Ohtani as he continues to redefine the possibilities of the designated hitter role.
What do you think? Will anyone challenge Ohtani’s dominance at the DH position this year? Share your predictions in the comments below!
