MLB Network releases their top 10 SP right now

It’s that magical time of the year for MLB fans. Pitchers and catchers report in less than a month, and this is the final month of the year without baseball until possibly November. MLB Network has an annual tradition where either their analysts or their “shredder” ranks the top 10 players at every position, and last night, the Shredder dropped its top 10 SP right now.

This is how The Shredder lined up the #Top10RightNow starting pitchers! pic.twitter.com/xGog4Hn3qL

— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) January 29, 2026

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10. Hunter Greene, Cincinnati RedsGreene is coming off a career season in which he saw his strikeout numbers improve thanks to his elite slider, and he is expected to lead a young Reds pitching staff.9. Max Fried, New York YankeesFried was the Yankees ace a season ago and is going to have to be again, for at least the first 4-6 weeks of the season, with both Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon expected to be out.8. Hunter Brown, Houston AstrosSep 24, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Houston Astros pitcher Hunter Brown (58) delivers a pitch against the Athletics in the first inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn ImagesBrown had a breakout season a year ago as the Astros ace and will be expected to lead the staff once again.7. Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Los Angeles DodgersHe was great during the regular season, but his postseason success, specifically the work he did in the World Series, is why he is so high on this list.6. Garrett Crochet, Boston Red SoxHis first season in Boston was a huge success, and he will look to continue that success this season, with a solid rotation behind him.5. Christopher Sanchez, Philadelphia PhilliesIt was a true breakout season from Sanchez in 2025, and he could be asked to lead the Phillies staff for a while with Zack Wheeler injured and Ranger Suarez signing in Boston.4. Chris Sale, Atlanta BravesSep 28, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves pitcher Chris Sale (51) pitches the ball against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the second inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn ImagesSale took a step back last season after an incredible 2024, but was still dominant and one of the top pitchers in the National League. The Braves will need him to stay healthy this season.3. Zack Wheeler, Philadelphia PhilliesIt is surprising to see Wheeler on this list, considering there is no specific timetable for his return from injury. When he’s been healthy though, he has been one of the best pitchers in baseball since joining the Phillies.2. Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh PiratesHe is the reigning NL Cy Young award winner and is entering just his third season in MLB (second full season). He really could be number one on any list; it just depends on who is making the list.1. Tarik Skubal, Detroit TigersHe has won the AL Cy Young award for two straight seasons now, with just completely and utterly dominant seasons. Anyone’s list should have him number one, or maybe 1B behind Skenes.