The Atlanta Braves' 2026 season couldn't be going any better, with the roster far exceeding even the most optimistic expectations. A big part of this has been unexpected players offering incredible production. As we near the summer, this offers clear reason to speculate which among these players could receive an All-Star berth.
We aren't talking about Matt Olson, Chris Sale, or Ronald Acuna Jr., but players not expected to be putting up such elite numbers. Starting with a reliever, who very quietly is dominating the league and appearing to be a bargain.
1. Raisel Iglesias
There were questions surrounding the job security of Iglesias heading into the 2026 season after the addition or Robert Suarez. The closer responded by not giving up a single run deep into May and offering 19 strikeouts in 15.2 innings pitched to go along with eight saves. The veteran has been the league's most reliable closer when healthy and has more than earned a spot on this year's All-Star roster.
Coming into a year when there were questions about the right-hander's job security, this is an undeniably huge turnaround. One that should be rewarded with an honor that Iglesias has yet to receive in his career, despite having 261 saves, good for 37th in MLB history.
2. Bryce Elder
Unlike Iglesias, this would be the second time that Elder has earned this honor, getting the selection in his debut season back in 2023. Elder has turned back the clock to this version of himself, offering the Braves a 1.97 ERA and consistently finding ways to make it deep into his starts. There is a very good chance that Elder is the only Braves starter outside of Sale with both the resume and health to earn the honor.
It would be fitting for Elder in a year that has, in many ways, mirrored his early success back in the 2023 season. This is a step beyond surprising for a player not expected to be in the team's starting rotation before spring training injuries opened the door.
3. Michael Harris
Harris previously wouldn't have made this list, but was among the league's worst hitters in the first half of the 2025 season. While there were signs of life, the outfielder left many fans wondering which version of the center fielder was going to show up in the 2026 season. That has been resoundingly answered with a stellar first two months of the season at the plate.
Harris has flashed impressive power and adjusted his aggressive approach, which has shown a far better ability to select what pitches to go after. The stellar defense and improved offensive performance have more than given Harris reason to be considered.
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