Shohei Ohtani, Jacob Misiorowski, and Paul Skenes have emerged as the primary contenders for the 2026 National League Cy Young Award.
The race represents a significant shift in pitching dominance within the league, pitting a historic two-way talent and a defending champion against a rising star.
Ohtani, playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is currently predicted to finish in the top three for the award [1]. His performance has sparked discussions regarding a rare historical achievement. The last player to win both the MVP and Cy Young awards in the same season was Clayton Kershaw in 2014, which occurred 12 years ago [3].
However, analysts are divided on Ohtani's chances. While some projections place him at the top, other reports said there are significant reasons why Ohtani will not win the award this season [4].
Joining the race is Jacob Misiorowski, also of the Los Angeles Dodgers. His presence alongside Ohtani creates a unique dynamic where two teammates are competing for the same individual honor.
Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates remains a central figure in the competition. Skenes enters the 2026 season as the defending champion, having won the NL Cy Young Award in 2025 [2]. His ability to maintain that level of dominance is a key factor in the current standings.
The competition is currently shaped by a mix of established excellence and new breakthroughs. With the season underway, the race has become a battle of attrition and efficiency across the National League.
“Shohei Ohtani is predicted to finish in the top three for the NL Cy Young award.”
The 2026 Cy Young race is an intersection of generational talent and statistical anomalies. If Ohtani secures both the MVP and the Cy Young, he would mirror a feat not seen in the National League for over a decade, further cementing his status as the most versatile player in baseball history. Meanwhile, the presence of two Dodgers in the top tier highlights the team's current pitching depth.
