MLB

Astros throw 2026's first no-hitter as early MVP and Cy Young races take shape.

The 2026 MLB season has raced into June with spectacular pitching milestones and fascinating divisional battles setting the tone. In the National League, the Atlanta Braves boast the league's best record at 40-20, while the Milwaukee Brewers are currently running away with the NL Central. However, the biggest storylines remain on the mound. Philadelphia Phillies ace Cristopher Sanchez just surpassed Grover Cleveland Alexander's 115-year-old franchise record by tossing 44.2 consecutive scoreless innings in May, vaulting him to the top of the NL Cy Young race. Over in the American League, an injury to reigning Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal has opened the door for New York Yankees breakout sophomore Cam Schlittler, who boasts a dazzling 1.50 ERA through his first 12 starts. At the plate, the usual suspects are dominating, but fresh faces are making serious noise to challenge the heavy MVP favorites, Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge. Oakland Athletics standout Nick Kurtz recently tied a franchise record by reaching base in 48 straight games, and Arizona Diamondbacks star Corbin Carroll is flashing elite speed with a league-leading triple count. Recent call-ups have also made an immediate impact, highlighted by prospect Alimber Santa, who pitched two perfect innings in his major league debut to close out a combined no-hitter for the Houston Astros. With minor league bats like Toronto's Charles McAdoo also joining the show and trade rumors beginning to swirl around veteran arms, the summer stretch run is officially underway.