Five MLB pitchers ready for breakout seasons

After highlighting five MLB hitters set for breakout 2026 seasons, let's spotlight five pitchers who could follow in their footsteps.

Ben Brown, Chicago Cubs

At first glance, Brown's numbers don't impress: 6-11 career record, 5.62 ERA in 40 games (23 starts) over two seasons.

However, Brown has 10.30 strikeouts per nine innings in his nascent career, so he misses bats. The 26-year-old has also impressed scouts in the Cactus League this spring by adding a sinker to his fastball and knuckle curve.

Chase Burns, Cincinnati Reds

Burns made his major league debut last June to great fanfare, less than a year after being selected second overall in the amateur draft out of Wake Forest. The right-hander struck out eight Yankees over five innings in his debut.

The Reds restricted Burns to 43 1/3 innings over 13 games, and he went 0-3 with a 4.57 ERA. However, his 67 strikeouts — an average of 13.9 per nine innings — signal significant potential for the 23-year-old.

Zebby Matthews, Minnesota Twins

Matthews has made 25 starts in two major league seasons and has struggled, posting a 6-10 record with a 5.92 ERA. However, he will open the season in the Twins’ rotation, and scouts believe he could develop with consistent opportunities.

The 25-year-old righty has a lot to like with a high-velocity fastball, good control, and the ability to neutralize left-handed hitters. All Matthews seems to need is a little success at the major-league level and the confidence that comes with it.

Eury Perez, Miami Marlins

Perez made 39 major league starts and missed a season for Tommy John surgery. Remarkably, the 6-foot-8 right-hander is still just 22.

In his comeback last season, Perez went 7-5 with a 4.25 ERA in 20 starts. His pitches sharpened late, setting up a big 202.6.

Cam Schlittler, New York Yankees

OK, it might be an overstatement to call Schlittler a breakout candidate. He posted a 4-3 record and 2.96 ERA in 14 starts as a rookie last season, then fanned 12 in eight shutout innings against the Boston Red Sox in an American League Wild Card Series game.

Many scouts feel the 25-year-old is just beginning to show his ability. By season’s end, Schlittler could be among MLB’s top 10 pitchers.