Blue Jays: 3 AL teams that could make things difficult for Toronto in 2026

"The Blue Jays have a big target on their back after getting all the way to the World Series seemingly out of nowhere. Although they came a few outs short of winning the trophy, they're now the team to beat as other contenders in the AL will aim to take a shot at the AL champion title this season. Toronto almost lost its division title last year in a tight battle that lasted up"

"until the last day of the regular season, and its fight towards the playoffs may become even more challenging as more teams in the AL gear up to improve their chance at the playoff stage. There are plenty of teams to worry about, but the Blue Jays will have to keep their eyes on these three teams in the AL this year. The Baltimore Orioles experienced a major sophomore slump last year, and their injury woes among a few key players didn't help their case either."

"As the previous AL East division winner in 2024 and a team with robust young position players, the Orioles have enough ammunition to challenge their AL East rivals in 2026. The biggest advantage Baltimore has over other AL East contenders is its strong positional player depth. The team's lineup is potent with Colton Cowser, Gunnar Henderson, Jackson Holliday, Heston Kjerstad, Coby Mayo and Jordan Westburg."

"In fact, there is a surplus of young position player prospects, namely Samule Basallo, and The Athletic's Keith Law ranked the team's farm system ninth heading into the new year. The Orioles now have a good veteran presence, especially with Pete Alonso on a five-year, $155 million deal. Alonso has had a great reputation for bringing a positive and hardworking attitude to the clubhouse, and his qualities will certainly have an impact among Baltimore's young players."

The Toronto Blue Jays carry a large target after reaching the World Series and narrowly retaining their division last season. Several American League teams are positioning to challenge Toronto for the pennant and playoff spots. The Baltimore Orioles, despite a sophomore slump and injuries last year, possess deep young position-player talent and a highly ranked farm system. The Orioles added veteran presence with Pete Alonso's five-year deal and strengthened pitching depth via the Shane Baz trade and bullpen reinforcement with Ryan Helsley. Those moves enhance Baltimore's ability to challenge AL East rivals in 2026.

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