Five potential X factors in the NL East

More often than not, the secondary or tertiary players on a roster make the biggest difference in a team's fortunes. These players, whether through a breakout campaign or an unexpected rough season, could play a role in whether a team exceeds expectations. Let's look at three potential X factors around the National League East.

Atlanta Braves: pitcher Reynaldo Lopez

Lopez was a revelation when the Braves put him back in the rotation in 2024, posting a 1.99 ERA and a 1.106 WHiP over his 135.2 innings, striking out 148 batters with 42 walks. However, he made just one start in 2025 before missing the rest of the season after undergoing surgery on his right shoulder. As the Braves' rotation has already been hit hard by injuries, Lopez will be counted on to step up in 2026 as they look to return to the postseason.

Miami Marlins: pitcher Sandy Alcantara

The 2022 NL Cy Young Award winner, Alcantara, struggled in 2023 before missing all of 2024 due to Tommy John surgery. Although his overall numbers in 2025 were mediocre, Alcantara posted a 3.33 ERA and a 1.040 WHiP over 83.2 innings after the All-Star Break, striking out 71 batters with 20 walks. Fully healthy and armed with a new sweeper, Alcantara may be ready to return to his Cy Young form.

New York Mets: pitcher Kodai Senga

Senga had been one of the best pitchers in the game during the first half of the 2025 season before missing a month with a strained right hamstring. He was not the same when he returned and was eventually sent to Triple-A. His fastball velocity is up nearly three MPH over 2025 and, if that holds, could allow Senga to return to the form he showed in 2023.

Philadelphia Phillies: outfielder Justin Crawford

The Phillies need an infusion of youth in their veteran roster. Crawford will be part of the equation, a potentially dynamic center fielder with plus speed and an impressive ability to make contact. Although he is expected to begin the season at the bottom of the lineup, Crawford could quickly emerge as the Phillies' leadoff hitter, pairing with shortstop Trea Turner to give Philadelphia an impressive duo atop the lineup.

Washington Nationals: pitcher Cade Cavalli

A former top prospect, Cavalli missed all of 2023 and most of 2024 due to Tommy John surgery. He finally returned to the majors in 2025, posting a solid 4.25 ERA, albeit with a 1.479 WHiP over his 48.2 innings, striking out 40 batters with 15 walks. However, he could be primed for a breakout campaign if his infield defense improves, as he posted a 54.4% ground ball rate in 2025. Cavalli was named as the Nationals' Opening Day starter and could be a key part of their future.