2025 was an interesting year for the American League West. The Houston Astros failed to win the division for the first time in a full season since 2016. The Athletics moved to Sacramento and played all their home games at a minor league ballpark. The Seattle Mariners, who had made two postseason appearances between 2000 and 2022, came one game away from making the World Series. Simply put, it was the season of the unexpected out west. What you can expect, however, is for the following AL West breakout candidates to enjoy breakout campaigns in 2026.
Athletics – Outfielder Denzel Clarke
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Few players are more exciting to watch than Denzel Clarke, especially in the outfield. Last season, he posted a ridiculous 13 outs above average in 47 games, a number that ranked in the 98th percentile. At the plate, however, it was a different story.
In those 47 games, Clarke struck out 61 times. He also drew only six walks, while posting an OPS of .646. Thankfully, he swings the bat well, evidenced by his average bat speed of 74.3 MPH. If his offense improves, Clarke could be in for a big season in 2026.
Houston Astros – Outfielder Cam Smith
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2025 was a tale of two halves for Cam Smith. After being acquired from the Chicago Cubs in the Kyle Tucker trade, Smith made his major league debut on opening day and looked like a Rookie of the Year candidate. On July 4th, Smith was hitting .292 with an OPS of .805. By season’s end, though, his average had dropped to .236, with his OPS sitting at .671.
On the positive side, his defense in right field was above average, even though he never played the position before 2025. Smith is only 22 years old, but he showed last season that he can be one of baseball’s best young players. Now, it’s time to put it all together for a full season.
Los Angeles Angels – First Baseman Nolan Schanuel
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Having not been to the playoffs in over a decade, bright spots are few and far between for the Los Angeles Angels, especially as Mike Trout gets older. Nolan Schanuel, however, is one of them.
One of the game’s most patient hitters, Schanuel struck out 12.6% of the time in 2025, a number that ranked in the 93rd percentile. He also whiffed only 15.0% of the time, which ranked in the 92nd percentile. But while he makes good contact, he doesn’t hit for power. If that changes in 2026, Schanuel will become one of the most complete hitters in baseball.
Seattle Mariners – Third Baseman Ben Williamson
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Unless Eugenio Suarez returns to the Mariners, third base is Ben Williamson’s job for 2026. He played all 85 of his games last season at the position, showcasing his defensive value. Offensively, however, it was a struggle.
Williamson delivered a measly .604 OPS last season, despite posting a .253 batting average. He also struck out a lot more than he walked and showcased little power with his bat. The Mariner lineup is strong, so Williamson’s weaknesses will only be exemplified by his teammates. However, as a former second-round pick, the team knows he has what it takes to contribute in 2026.
Texas Rangers – Pitcher Kumar Rocker
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It’s hard to believe Kumar Rocker was drafted five years ago. Of course, health hasn’t been his friend so far, but there’s reason to believe he can produce in 2025. After all, he pitched in a career-high 14 games last season and generated a 49% ground ball rate.
The Texas Rangers’ rotation is open, as Merrill Kelly and Tyler Mahle left in free agency, and Patrick Corbin hasn’t been brought back. Rocker has the potential and the physique, as he’s 6-foot-5 and throws a 95 MPH sinker. The physique has always been there, but now it’s time to tap into the potential for 2026.
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