The Biggest MLB Hot Takes for the 2026 Season

In this special edition of Wake and Jake, the hosts revisit their annual 'hot takes' segment for the 2026 MLB season, reflecting on last year's predictions and evaluating new bold assertions. The episode begins with a nostalgic nod to ESPN’s hot take tradition, comparing last year’s mild takes—like Nick Kurtz’s Rookie of the Year win—to the more extreme predictions for 2026. The hosts dive into several high-impact predictions, including Emerson Hancock and Kyle Harrison emerging as breakout pitchers, Jordan Alvarez winning AL MVP, and Ben Rice making a top-10 MVP case. They express cautious optimism about the Pirates’ resurgence in the NL Central, though remain skeptical about their long-term potential. The hottest takes revolve around Chase Burns winning the NL Cy Young, Shea Langoliers hitting 50+ homers, and the Miami Marlins winning the NL East with Sandy Alcantara taking home Cy Young. The hosts also discuss broader league trends, including rising walk rates due to the new strike zone and the impact of ABS (Automated Ball-Strike system), expressing concern that walks may become too prevalent. The episode closes with a brief but enthusiastic recap of a thrilling NBA play-in game between the Hornets and Heat, highlighting the NBA’s playoff product despite ongoing criticism of the regular season.