2026 MLB superlatives: Most surprising team, biggest disappointment, stupidest storyline and more

Only three days remain in the 2026 MLB regular season and there is still so much to be decided. Postseason battles, awards races, and much more. What we don't have to wait to decide are our superlatives for the season.

Here, via our CBS Sports panel of MLB experts, are 10 superlatives for the year that was. Some serious, some whimsical. Come with us, won't you?

On a certain level, nothing's surprising about the Rays' success, but consider the context. Last season, Tampa Bay lost 85 games and finished in fourth place. This season, the Rays added roughly 20 wins to their 2025 total while playing in a pretty tough AL East. You can point to a number of pleasant surprises at the team level this year, but the Rays emerging as the best team in the American League is top among them. — Dayn Perry

This one's not a hard call. Seattle made it to Game 7 of the ALCS last year and, on paper, looked like a strong World Series contender coming into the current season. That, however, hasn't come close to happening. The Mariners will finish below .500 despite having played one of the easiest schedules in…

Original source: https://www.cbssports.com/