Who is the NL’s biggest threat aside from the Dodgers?

FLUSHING, NY - AUGUST 08: Chicago Cubs Shortstop Dansby Swanson (7) turns a double play with New York Mets Shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) sliding into second base during the ninth inning of the Major League Baseball game between the Chicago Cubs and the New York Mets on August 8, 2023, at Citi Fiel

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The Yankees begin their 2026 season in just over 60 hours from post time. Before they face the Giants in San Francisco for Opening Night on Wednesday though, they’ll stop by Arizona for a couple exhibition tune-ups at the Cubs’ spring training complex in Mesa. We also have a Brewers team preview coming up today, so we’re in a Senior Circuit state of mind this morning.

So for our question today, we want you to know who you think is the NL’s best team outside of the Dodgers? There’s no getting around

the fact that the two-time defending champions are the favorites, but if someone were to seriously challenge LA this year, who would it be? Shooting from the hip, I’d say that the Cubs, Mets, Brewers, and Phillies are in the clubhouse, though if someone wanted to argue Braves or Giants, I would at least hear them out.

But it’s cheating to just name a whole bunch of intriguing contendersteams. To name one, I’ll go with the Phils. When that starting rotation is humming along at maximum power, it has multiple Cy Young contenders to throw at you between Zack Wheeler, Cris Sánchez, and Jesús Luzardo (plus Aaron Nola). Losing Ranger Suarez hurts, but they’re in good shape. And though there are reasonable age-related concerns with the lineup, it’s hard to turn up your nose at the Kyle Schwarber party.

Today on the site, John will present the final edition of our Making the Team Meter for 2026 spring training, and Sam will check out one of the relievers expected to land a spot in middle relief: Rule 5 pick Cade Winquest. Later, Kevin will wish old pal Dellin Betances a happy birthday, Jeff will preview the Brewers, Jonathan will offer some Yankees-themed fantasy baseball tips for 2026, and Madison will put out the call for your mailbag questions.