The 2026 MLB season is through four weeks. Numerous players are continuing their hot starts, while others are finding their timing and rhythm. The biggest stories are about the players who haven’t slowed down since the season started.
Here are the top 10 starting pitcher rankings heading into week five.MORE: MLB catcher power rankings in week 51. Jose Soriano, Los Angeles AngelsSoriano is off to the best start of his career. He’s solidified himself as the best pitcher in Los Angeles’ rotation.
Regression will occur, but he’s been the league’s best pitcher through four weeks.2. Cam Schlittler, New York YankeesApr 1, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Cam Schlittler (31) in the dugout after being pulled from the game during the seventh inning against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn ImagesSchlittler is securing himself as the second bona fide ace in New York’s rotation.
He’s started off where he left off at the end of last season. Entering the week, he has the second-best WHIP among qualified starting pitchers.3. Emerson Hancock, Seattle MarinersThe great story continues.
Hancock has taken his starting job to the next level. He continues to give Seattle a chance to win in each of his starts.4. Nolan McLean, New York MetsThe rookie is the real deal.
He’s been the bright spot in the Mets’ rotation. Freddy Peralta hasn’t been sharp, but McLean has picked up the slack.5. Shota Imanaga, Chicago CubsAug 21, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Shota Imanaga (18) delivers a pitch against the Milwaukee Brewers during the first inning at Wrigley Field.
Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn ImagesImanaga has been the Cubs’ best starting pitcher through four weeks. He’s off to the best start in his career. He’s making it difficult for the Cubs not to extend him during the season.6.
Parker Messick, Cleveland GuardiansThe rookie has taken the league by storm. He’s turned into a bright spot in Cleveland’s rotation. Regression will occur, but he’s been fantastic.7.
Max Fried, New York YankeesFried has been excellent in year two with the Yankees. He’s been the leader in the starting rotation. He’s headed for a second consecutive AL All-Star appearance.8.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Los Angeles DodgersApr 7, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto (18) delivers a pitch against the Toronto Blue Jays in the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn ImagesYamamoto continues to get better. During his first season, Yamamoto dealt with an injury.
Last season, he stayed healthy, and that has carried into 2026.9. Tyler Glasnow, Los Angeles DodgersGlasnow is off to another hot start. This isn’t anything new.
However, each season he starts off hot before injuries pile up.10. Bryan Woo, Seattle MarinersWoo is heading in the right direction. He has dealt with a few bumps in the road, but he’s settling in. The righty should be expected to lead Seattle’s rotation.— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —