Buster Olney's 2026 top 10 at every MLB position: Corner outfielders - ESPN

ESPN

by Buster Olney

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Buster Olney's 2026 MLB season preview includes his annual positional ranking series, with a focus on the top corner outfielders. This exercise aims to identify the best players for the upcoming season, not future potential or career trajectories. The rankings highlight established stars and rising talents, with Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees and Juan Soto of the New York Mets leading the list. Both have demonstrated elite performance over recent seasons, showcasing power, consistency, and advanced skills. Roman Anthony of the Boston Red Sox has emerged as a standout young player, earning high praise from scouts, Hall of Fame players like Chipper Jones, and former general managers. Despite his youth, Anthony's strike-zone awareness, plate discipline, and raw power have drawn comparisons to future All-Stars and franchise icons. His potential to become one of the greatest Red Sox ever is already being discussed, though he faces the challenge of balancing strikeouts with learning the league. The article also touches on the difficulty of ranking such a talented group, particularly when considering Anthony's youth and inexperience compared to more established players. Evaluators emphasize his advanced approach at the plate, likening him to a 10-year veteran, but note areas for improvement, such as utilizing his legs more effectively for power. This analysis matters to readers interested in sports because it provides insight into both proven stars and rising prospects. The focus on Anthony highlights the importance of identifying and developing young talent, which is crucial for teams building for sustained success. Olney's rankings offer a comprehensive look at the current state of MLB's corner outfielders, ensuring fans stay informed about emerging stars and established legends shaping the game. The series underscores the blend of veteran excellence and youthful promise in baseball, making it essential reading for anyone following the sport. By highlighting Anthony alongside Judge and Soto, the article emphasizes the depth of talent at the position and the competitive landscape ahead of the 2026 season.

Verticals

sports

Originally published on ESPN on 2/25/2026