MLB starting pitcher power rankings entering week 8

[ASFN Admin]

The 2026 MLB season is through seven weeks. While numerous players are off to hot starts, the Atlanta Braves have proven to be the best team in the league. There is a lot of baseball left, and player statistics and team performances will see a lot of movement. As the league enters week eight, here are the top ten starting pitcher rankings in MLB.

MORE: MLB first base power rankings entering week 8

1. Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers​

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Mar 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers two-way player Shohei Ohtani (17) reacts after throwing an inside pitch to Los Angeles Angels center fielder Jo Adell (7) in the fourth at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Ohtani has been sensational on the mound. Entering the week, he has one of the league’s best ERAs and WHIPs. Shohei Ohtani has been Los Angeles’ best starting pitcher.

2. Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh Pirates​

Entering the week, Skenes has MLB’s best WHIP among qualified starters. He’s been a contributor to Pittsburgh’s early-season success. He’s aiming for a second consecutive NL Cy Young.

3. Cam Schlittler, New York Yankees​

Schlittler has been one of MLB’s most dominant starting pitchers. He’s the early favorite to win the AL Cy Young. Entering the week, he’s second in WHIP among MLB starting pitchers.

4. Jacob Misiorowski, Milwaukee Brewers​

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Apr 25, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Jacob Misiorowski (32) throws a pitch during the second inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

Misiorowski is becoming an elite strikeout pitcher. Entering the week, he leads MLB in strikeouts. After the season, his name will be mentioned among the league’s top starting pitchers.

5. Nolan McLean, New York Mets​

The Mets have struggled, but have an ace in Nolan McLean. He’s given the team a chance to win in each of his eight starts. In his rookie season, he’s blossoming into one of the game’s brightest starting pitchers.

6. Jacob deGrom, Texas Rangers​

The veteran has battled injuries but is staying healthy this season. The future Hall of Famer is one of the league leaders in WHIP and K/9. He’s been the Rangers best starting pitcher through seven weeks.

7. Max Fried, New York Yankees​

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Oct 5, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Yankees pitcher Max Fried (54) throws in the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays during game two of the ALDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Paired with Cam Schlittler, Max Fried gives the New York Yankees two of the best starting pitchers in MLB. The lefty has been electric through nine starts. Fried can be expected to help lead the Yankees atop the AL East.

8. Parker Messick, Cleveland Guardians​

The rookie has been electric in Cleveland’s starting rotation. He’s faced adversity through a handful of starts but has shown the ability to rebound quickly. He will be among the finalists for AL Rookie of the Year.

9. Chris Sale, Atlanta Braves​

Sale is locked in. He’s dominating opposing hitters. He’s back in contention to earn a National League Cy Young award.

10. ***** Imanaga, Chicago Cubs​

Imanaga has been Chicago’s best starting pitcher. The Cubs’ rotation has been obliterated by injuries, but ***** Imanaga has been the team’s most dependable arm. He’s having the best start in his career.

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