There is just over one month to go until the 2026 Major League Baseball season kicks off.
One of the most intriguing divisions in baseball surely will be the National League East. The Philadelphia Phillies won the division at 96-66 in 2025 followed by the New York Mets, Miami Marlins, Atlanta Braves and the Washington Nationals in last place.
Here are breakout candidates to watch from each team in the division.
Philadelphia Phillies — Bryson Stott
New York Mets — Nolan McLean
Miami Marlins — Connor Norby
Atlanta Braves — Mauricio Dubón
Washington Nationals — Dylan Crews
There's a lot of young and exciting talent in the National League East. Of this group, Dubón is a bit out of the box. He's actually a seven-year big league veteran, in comparison to the young guys mentioned alongside him. But with Dubón, he could be lined up for more of a consistent opportunity in Atlanta than he had in Houston. Dubón played all over the field in Houston and won a Gold Glove. Early on in the season, he's going to get a chance to be the team's starting shortstop with Ha-Seong Kim hurt.