MLB The Show 26 4th Inning Drop: Is the new content actually worth the grind after massive leaks?

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• MLB The Show 26 Jacob deGrom Exchange Glitch Doubles Your Rewards | Finish XP path in minutes for free

  XP Path program for May in MLB The Show 26 is about to end. Are you still frustrated that you haven't completed it? There is a somewhat unethical method to quickly earn XP right now: you need to take advantage of a glitch.

  This glitch will probably be patched soon, but if the developers are a bit slow to respond, you might also be able to use it during 4th XP Path program. Furthermore, this is not only an excellent way to farm XP but also an efficient way to acquire stubs.

  

  95 OVR Jacob deGrom Milestone

  95 OVR Jacob deGrom Milestone card, released on June 1st, is the core of this glitch. Don't worry if you haven't obtained this card yet, because you can still get it now. This card is currently valued at around 38,000 stubs in the game. Even if you ignore its role in the glitch, it is unquestionably one of the best pitchers in the current meta, so you need not worry about wasting your effort.

  Completing the challenge to acquire him takes only about 20 minutes, which means you can generate value equivalent to 38,000 stubs every 20 minutes. That alone is a fantastic method for earning stubs.

  How to Obtain 95 OVR Jacob deGrom?

  First, select Play Single Player from the main menu, then go to Showdown page and find Jacob deGrom Showdown. You need to complete two games: one mini-boss battle and one final boss battle. Participating in this Showdown requires a certain number of MLB The Show 26 stubs, but the rewards far exceed what you invest.

  To successfully get through Showdown and earn Jacob deGrom, you should adjust your lineup accordingly. During the challenge, the only pitcher you will face is Jacob deGrom himself. Therefore, when drafting, prioritize lefties and switch hitters.

  This is a 27-out Showdown challenge. Jacob deGrom will have to throw many pitches, so draining his confidence and stamina will greatly reduce the difficulty of hitting later on.

  Focus on batters' power attributes against righties. For instance, 90 OVR Juan Soto card has a power rating of 105 against righties, making him an excellent choice.

  High contact attributes are also a great option. For example, 83 OVR Michael Young has contact ratings above 100 against both lefties and righties, making him a very reliable pick. Additionally, you could choose Carson Benge or Brandon Nimmo, both lefties, who will have an easier time against deGrom.

  Selecting Perks

  After finishing the draft, do not start the first mission immediately. You need to set up your perks first. You should ignore all perks related to drag bunts, consecutive outs, or consecutive hits. Instead, prioritize perks that boost exit velocity or vision when you are behind in the count or have two strikes.

  After setting your perks, go to your lineup screen. Here is a small tip: after completing the first mission, you will receive a diamond-quality player on your bench. Be sure to substitute him into the lineup. Also, in this mode, defensive positions do not matter because you will not be playing defense, so you can arrange your players anywhere.

  Tips

  Beating Jacob deGrom on Hall of Fame difficulty is very difficult. If a left-handed hitter can't help you win, try focusing on anticipation and hitting fastballs. Or aggressively steal bases. Because you start down by 14 runs, AI won't cover bases when the deficit is large.

  Even runners with a speed of only 30-30 can easily steal bases. AI will only start covering bases properly when the deficit is around 5 runs. Therefore, steal as many bases as possible before you close the gap to 5 runs.

  Steps for Infinite XP Glitch

  Once you have successfully completed the challenge and obtained 95 OVR Jacob deGrom card, the real glitch activation begins. Follow these steps:

  1. Find and enter Build from the main menu.
  2. In Build menu, scroll all the way to the right, find and select Exchange option, then go to Exchange Players.
  3. On the exchange screen, you will see 95 OVR Jacob deGrom displayed in the center. Click on him.
  4. After clicking on deGrom, advance, and the system will prompt Exchange completed. This is the key action that triggers the glitch.

  Normally, after you exchange a player, he becomes no-sell. However, with this glitch, deGrom does not become non-sellable; he remains sellable. This means you can list him for sale to earn 38,000 stubs while repeatedly using him for exchanges.

  As you repeat the exchange process, you will see your XP path progress constantly increasing. Each exchange provides 100 XP, and the action is very simple, taking just a few seconds to complete. If you perform it ten times within one minute, you will earn 10,000 XP. No other method can match this efficiency.

  Additionally, you can also obtain many wheel rewards, including top player cards like Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto. By repeatedly spinning the wheel, you can continuously get packs and stubs. You can also complete collections more quickly.

  In short, this glitch turns 95 OVR Jacob deGrom into an XP printer. If you have not yet completed this season's XP path, be sure to hurry. You can try performing the steps on the companion app, or even set up an auto-clicker. Go claim all the rewards on XP path now.

• MLB The Show 26 Mini Seasons Grinding Playstyle is being ruined by card stat issues | Don't push veterans away any more!

  With the World Cup fast approaching, FC 26 has undoubtedly taken the spotlight among recent sports video game releases. However, contributing to its current dominance also includes the issues plaguing MLB The Show 26.

  We have previously analyzed the shortcomings of MLB The Show 26 in other articles; however, those discussions focused primarily on the macro-level lack of playable content.

  This time, drawing upon recent player experiences and community feedback, we present an analysis specifically focused on card stats within Mini Seasons mode.

  

  What are Mini Seasons?

  This offline game mode is a component of Diamond Dynasty, the flagship mode of MLB The Show 26. Its primary value lies in being one of the most efficient ways to earn MLB 26 stubs in a relatively short amount of time.

  The core mechanic of Mini Seasons involves pitting you against AI-controlled teams in short seasons, each comprising a varying number of games.

  More specifically, MLB The Show 26 offers three distinct ways to experience Mini Seasons: the classic mode featuring three-inning games with no stadium restrictions, the brand-new World Baseball Classic, and longer-term programs presented as the series.

  What are card stats?

  In baseball, a player's abilities are typically visualized and measured through various statistical metrics. In the context of MLB The Show 26, these metrics are represented by the stats displayed on each individual player card.

  Based on this system, as you play the game, you can use these stats to assess the value and potential of any new cards you acquire.

  Furthermore, if you consistently use a specific card to progress through the game, you can track the changes in its stats to observe the player's growth and development over time.

  Poor card stat tracking in Mini Seasons

  Since the launch of MLB The Show 26 Mini Seasons, chaotic data tracking has resulted in stat displays that are almost never accurate.

  For instance, when you substitute a player in your lineup to complete a specific mission or objective, the newly inserted player may erroneously inherit the accumulated statistics of the player they replaced.

  Alternatively, you might encounter cards that you have just pulled from a pack and are using for the very first time in Mini Seasons, yet their stats appear to indicate that they already have a history of games played.

  The accumulation of such errors can ultimately lead to bizarre scenarios during the season-ending awards ceremony: for example, a rookie who played in only a single postseason game might inexplicably win MVP award.

  This glitch not only disappoints players who enjoy Mini Seasons mode, but it also has a severely negative impact on your ability to farm stubs and packs.

  For instance, 15-Win Method has recently become a highly popular strategy for efficiently reaching the postseason.

  This strategy requires you to precisely track your win count, player stamina consumption, and other metrics; this allows you to simulate the remainder of the regular season once you've secured 15 wins, thereby guaranteeing your advancement to the playoffs.

  However, the statistical and display errors plaguing Mini Seasons can throw your roster into disarray, directly undermining the efficiency of this farming method.

  

  Impact on other mechanics

  Beyond the immediate blow to the player experience, the statistical display issues in Mini Seasons can also negatively ripple through other game modes, given the interconnected nature of the various mechanics within MLB The Show 26.

  In Diamond Dynasty, one of the core incentives driving your progression is the accumulation of PXP through the use of specific cards, which allows those cards to evolve and upgrade their attributes.

  Furthermore, the various Team Affinity programs introduced in the game often require you to play a specific number of innings, or achieve a designated number of strikeouts or home runs, while using players or cards from a particular team.

  Consequently, if the card statistics within Mini Seasons are displaying incorrectly, you are completely unable to track your progress accurately and in real-time while actually playing the game.

  This means that in order to obtain accurate data to monitor your improvement, you are forced to exit the mode and navigate through a tedious series of menus to cross-reference your overall player profile.

  While your competitive spirit might make you willing to invest time into honing your skills and developing your players, this kind of pointless, yet currently unavoidable work is nothing short of a complete waste of your time.

  How can this issue be resolved?

  Fundamentally, this is a type of software bug; therefore, the most critical first step is for the development team to prioritize game maintenance rather than simply letting player complaints pile up.

  The consistent decline in gameplay quality over recent months has caused the reputation of MLB The Show 26 to plummet. Although new programs are released from time to time, they fail to truly address the core issues or satisfy player needs.

  If for some reason the development team currently lacks plans to introduce substantial new content, they should at the very least focus on maintaining the existing mechanics, particularly core features like Mini Seasons, which serve as a vital source of stubs for you.

  Additionally, the developers could easily look to other MLB The Show 26 modes, which already handle data display effectively, as a benchmark to guide the further optimization of Mini Seasons.

  For instance, while progressing through Conquest maps, you can view in real-time the actual performance data that each card has accumulated over time.

  This experience not only makes using these cards feel more meaningful but also adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the repetitive process of farming.

  As we have noted previously, data lies at the very heart of baseball; building upon this foundation, Diamond Dynasty further emphasizes the importance of forging a personal connection with your cards.

  If the displayed data is unreliable, and furthermore, limited to a mere sample size from a single, fleeting season, then the inherent value and enjoyment of Mini Seasons will ultimately be completely lost.

  Conclusion

  While the issues reflected in Mini Seasons card stats may represent only the tip of the iceberg, if they are not addressed and resolved promptly, even the last remaining core of loyal veteran players will sooner or later abandon MLB 26.

• MLB The Show 26 Vintage Series Tier List: Best Cards Ranked Meta Picks

  Vintage Series has officially joined MLB The Show 26, bringing not only a wealth of collectible content but also recent changes to current MLB best lineup construction.

  Many players face the same question after acquiring these cards: which players are worth investing resources in? To help everyone plan their lineups more efficiently, IGGM will conduct a tiered analysis of popular players in Vintage Series, taking into account the current meta environment, player attribute panels, in-game performance, and positional competition.

  It should be noted that the rating not only considers player attribute values ​​but also emphasizes their actual value in ranked matches. Therefore, some players with average stats but excellent performance have also received higher ratings.

  Tier S

  • Ketel Marte
  • Derek Jeter
  • Matt Strahm
  • Enrique Hernández

  Tier A

  • Chase Utley
  • Ubaldo Jiménez
  • Larry Walker
  • Scary Terry

  Tier S

  Ketel Marte

  Without a doubt, Ketel Marte is the most valuable player in the entire Vintage Series. As a Vintage Collection reward, he has virtually no glaring weaknesses. His overall rating of 96 is exceptionally high in contact, power, speed, and fielding. Whether placed at second base or in other suitable positions, Ketel Marte can be the core of your MLB 26 team's offensive system.

  Enrique Hernández

  Another player in S Tier is Enrique Hernández, with an overall rating of 92. His exceptional versatility makes him one of the most useful players in MLB 26. Aside from catcher, he can play almost any position on the field, while also possessing good hitting, fielding, and speed.

  In an environment where roster flexibility is increasingly emphasized, Enrique Hernández offers significant tactical flexibility in MLB 26, making him worth 4,250 MLB The Show 26 Stubs.

  Matt Strahm

  Matt Strahm is one of the outstanding left-handed relief pitchers in Vintage Series. He possesses excellent pressure and consistent control, effectively limiting the opponent's offensive rhythm in challenging MLB 26 situations. His pitching repertoire is comprehensive, including fastball, sinker, slider, cutter, and changeup.

  Matt Strahm can also disrupt batters' decisions through various pitch combinations. While his advantage against some top left-handed hitters isn't as pronounced as against right-handed hitters, his excellent control, superior pitching ability, and rarity as a left-handed pitcher make him a popular choice in the current MLB 26 bullpen, providing reliable relief support in crucial situations.

  Derek Jeter

  Derek Jeter is a typical all-around shortstop card, with his greatest strength coming from his consistent hitting ability. Derek Jeter maintains good on-base efficiency against both left- and right-handed pitchers. Combined with excellent clutch performance attributes, a great hitting touch, and a high margin for error, he remains an ideal choice for MLB 26 at this stage.

  Defense is also a major selling point for Derek Jeter. He possesses a reliable defensive range and solid throwing ability, capable of consistently performing most defensive tasks in the shortstop area. Overall, this is a well-rounded player card with almost no obvious weaknesses, suitable for long-term use by players seeking consistent performance and a balanced offensive and defensive lineup.

  Tier A

  Ubaldo Jiménez

  Ubaldo Jiménez is a powerful pitcher card that combines fastball, pitch depth, and starting stamina, making him quite competitive in the current MLB The Show 26. His greatest strength lies in his balanced attributes, maintaining consistent pressure against both left- and right-handed batters, while possessing the full stamina configuration of a starting pitcher, allowing him to maintain intensity for extended periods.

  In terms of pitches, the four-seam fastball paired with a high-quality sinker creates a powerful offensive system, while the forkball, slider, and curveball further enrich the pitch options, allowing him to continuously disrupt the batter's rhythm.

  While his control is slightly inferior to top starters, requiring a certain level of pitching skill to unleash his full potential, Ubaldo Jiménez remains a very suitable starting card for MLB 26 high-score rankings thanks to his excellent speed, a good mix of pitches, and well-rounded matchups.

  Chase Utley

  Chase Utley is a card that many players tend to underestimate. With an overall rating of 94, his excellent swing, consistent offensive and defensive balance, and outstanding defensive abilities make him highly competitive at second base. While his stats may not seem impressive, his performance in actual MLB 26 games is often more reliable than expected.

  While his pure power-hitting ability is slightly lacking compared to other top offensive infielders in MLB 26, and his arm strength is relatively average, he doesn't possess a particularly outstanding throwing advantage in certain extreme defensive possessions. Therefore, his ceiling may not be as high as some star cards with super-powerful offense or extreme speed.

  Overall, Chase Utley is a high-quality second baseman with a well-rounded offensive and defensive game and a very high margin for error, making him particularly suitable for MLB 26 players seeking a balanced and consistent lineup.

  Larry Walker

  Larry Walker is a more all-around outfielder card, offering consistent offensive and defensive performance in MLB The Show 26. His greatest strength lies in his excellent hitting ability, maintaining high consistency against both left and right pitchers, especially posing a greater threat against right-handed pitchers.

  Combined with excellent clutch attributes, he can consistently contribute offensive value in crucial situations. His defense is equally commendable, possessing reliable defensive capabilities and a wide receiving range, while his arm strength and throwing accuracy are excellent for an outfielder, effectively limiting the opponent's extra - base hits.

  Larry Walker's biggest weakness is a decline in his power hitting threat against left-handed pitchers. Additionally, while his speed is adequate, it's not enough to consistently create pressure. Overall, Larry Walker lacks any particularly outstanding individual abilities, but his consistent output and solid defense make him a reliable starting option for your MLB 26 team.

  Scary Terry

  Scary Terry has an overall rating of 91, possessing consistent on-base reach and a powerful ability to generate hits. He has excellent contact, vision, and clutch attributes, maintaining high hitting consistency against various pitchers.

  Meanwhile, his defense is above average, capable of fulfilling daily outfield duties without becoming a defensive liability. However, Scary Terry's biggest weakness is his relatively weak power hitting ability; his speed and base-stealing ability are only average. Nevertheless, his defense is above average, ensuring he won't be a defensive liability for your MLB 26 team.

  Overall, Vintage Series is undoubtedly one of the most noteworthy series in MLB The Show 26 right now. In the current version, if your goal is to achieve a more consistent win rate in ranked matches, then prioritizing building your roster around the players mentioned above will be the most direct and effective way to improve your team's strength.

• MLB The Show 26 Best Infielders Tier List: Top Catchers, First Basemen, Shortstops & More

  With May content update phase concluded, the competitive landscape of MLB The Show 26 Diamond Dynasty is becoming clearer. While the number of new cards released by MLB 26 over the past month wasn't particularly large, it still provided players with many noteworthy new options. Meanwhile, some star cards that performed strongly at the start of the season continue to firmly occupy mainstream roster positions.

  Infield composition is especially crucial in MLB 26. With more and more high-rated players entering the meta, competition between positions has intensified, and newcomers have surpassed many previously popular choices. Based on current community feedback, in-game performance, and usage rates among high-level players, some players have essentially secured their top-tier status in their respective positions.

  So, in MLB The Show 26, after May, which infielders are most worth investing resources in? IGGM will now provide a comprehensive overview of the best infielders for each position based on the current meta and analyze why they have reached the top tier.

  • Catcher: Jorge Posada, Carlos Santana
  • First Base: Albert Pujols, Miguel Cabrera
  • Second Base: Ketel Marte
  • Third Base: Jose Ramirez, Chipper Jones
  • Shortstop: Troy Tulowitzki

  Catchers

  If we were to choose the best catcher in MLB The Show 26 right now, Jorge Posada and Carlos Santana would be almost undisputed.

  Jorge Posada remains the top catcher in the eyes of many high-level players. He possesses an extremely smooth swing and consistent output. He remains competitive against both left and right pitchers while also providing solid defense.

  Carlos Santana is another top choice for the catcher position. While his defense is slightly inferior to some pure defensive catchers, his excellent situational hitter quirks, outstanding batting statistics, and versatility make him one of the most well-rounded infielders in MLB 26.

  In contrast, while Ted Simmons boasts impressive stats, his swing is controversial. Some MLB 26 players love his feel, but many others believe his swing is far less consistent than Posada's and Santana's.

  Adley Rutschman, Victor Martinez, and Drew Romo offer excellent value, capable of playing as starters, especially for budget-conscious MLB 26 players.

  First Base

  Albert Pujols, with his top-tier stats and powerful quirk combination, grips the top spot at first base. While his swing isn't the absolute best in MLB The Show 26, his overall output is terrifying, posing a slugging threat against any pitcher.

  Miguel Cabrera possesses even more impressive hitting statistics, particularly excelling with outside pitches. However, some players believe his swing is vulnerable to inside fastballs, leading to some debate about his actual feel.

  Besides these two top players, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has become a hidden favorite for many players. While his card stats aren't extravagant, his excellent swing makes him far more effective in actual games than we imagine.

  Joc Pederson, Lou Gehrig, and Freddie Freeman, all left-handed first basemen, are also good choices. Their skill levels are similar, and the choice depends on your personal swing preference in MLB 26.

  Second Base

  Ketel Marte is undoubtedly the undisputed ruler of second base. This card has almost no obvious weaknesses. He boasts excellent left and right hitting stats, a wealth of quirks, consistent defense, and a speed exceeding 80. Many players consider Marte to be one of the most well-rounded fielders in the entire MLB 26.

  Jackie Robinson and Craig Biggio form the second tier. Both possess good speed and versatility, but their slugging ability is still significantly inferior to Marte's.

  While Gleyber Torres of MLB The Show 26 possesses a top-tier swing, his defensive capabilities limit his potential. For high-ranking players, defensive consistency at second base is far more important than pure offensive ability, so whether to invest your MLB The Show 26 Stubs in this card requires careful consideration.

  Third Base

  Third base remains dominated by José Ramírez and Chipper Jones. José Ramírez, with his exceptionally high stats and versatility, is currently one of the most popular third basemen in MLB 26. 

  He can not only play third base but also contribute at second base and shortstop. The only controversy stems from some MLB 26 players' feedback regarding dread lag, but this hasn't affected his overall top-tier status.

  Chipper Jones continues to maintain his legendary status in MLB 26. Although some of his attributes are starting to be caught up by newer cards, his swing remains one of the most popular in the game. For many veteran players, Chipper is still the best choice in crucial games.

  Alex Bregman is currently one of the most noteworthy, affordable, powerful cards. His exceptional extreme pull states combined with a superb swing give him a performance in MLB 26 that far exceeds his price tag.

  Shortstop

  Troy Tulowitzki remains the best shortstop in MLB 26. While his swing isn't for everyone, his superior fielding, top-tier arm strength, and excellent hitting ability more than compensate. His defensive coverage and clutch consistency place him among the top shortstops in MLB 26.

  Derek Jeter and Francisco Lindor belong to the second tier of MLB 26 shortstops. Jeter possesses consistent contact ability and well-rounded stats, making him an ideal choice for many legendary-level players. Lindor, on the other hand, has gained a large following thanks to his Situational Hitter Quirks advantage and widely acclaimed swing.

  Elly De La Cruz is one of the most controversial shortstops. He possesses terrifying athleticism and an explosive offensive ceiling, but his high defensive error rate and unique swing rhythm make him difficult for some players to handle. However, considering it's obtainable for free, Elly De La Cruz remains one of the most valuable reward cards in MLB.

  Looking at the overall MLB The Show 26 environment in May, the selection of Best Infielders has largely reached a consensus. While the new content in June may bring more competition, these players still represent the highest level of infielders in MLB The Show 26 Diamond Dynasty. For players building a roster aiming for Ranked Seasons or Weekend Classic status, building a team around these core players is the safest option.

• MLB The Show 26 Vintage Program Gameplay and Rewards: How to unlock the ultimate Vintage Ketel Marte?

  Last Friday, MLB The Show 26 simultaneously released three new programs. A single weekend is clearly not enough to complete them all, especially Vintage Program, which features a reward path consisting of a whopping 20 items!

  This program offers not only a large quantity of rewards but also a wide variety of types, from card packs and specific player cards to in-game XP, it has it all!

  Below, we provide a comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know to complete Vintage Program, ensuring you don't miss out on this valuable source of rewards!

  

  Vintage Program duration

  This program went live last Friday, May 29, alongside Old School Event and May Spotlight Drop 4. While the exact end date remains unconfirmed, most MLB 26 programs, with the exception of weekly updates, typically run for three to four weeks.

  That said, we highly recommend setting aside enough time this week to complete Vintage Program as soon as possible. Since new events are likely to launch this coming Friday, delaying the completion of older programs will only increase your workload and pressure later on!

  Vintage Program reward path

  The program features a total of 20 rewards, requiring you to accumulate 100 XP to unlock them all. The path begins at 5 XP, with a new reward unlocking every time you earn an additional 5 XP. Below is a list of all rewards and the corresponding XP required to unlock them:

  XP Required	Reward
  5 XP	1,000 Game XP
  10 XP	The Show Pack
  15 XP	250 Stubs
  20 XP	Luis Arraez
  25 XP	1,000 Game XP
  30 XP	The Show Pack
  35 XP	250 Stubs
  40 XP	Robbie Ray
  45 XP	2,000 Game XP
  50 XP	Ballin' is a Habit Pack
  55 XP	2,000 Game XP
  60 XP	Michael Conforto
  65 XP	The Show Pack
  70 XP	2,000 Game XP
  75 XP	Headliners - Random Pack
  80 XP	Lou Gehrig
  85 XP	The Show Pack x2
  90 XP	2,000 XP
  95 XP	Deluxe Vintage
  100 XP	Matt Carpenter

  In addition to the fixed player card rewards, you also have the opportunity to pull other potentially powerful players from seven different types of packs.

  Even if these packs don't yield exactly what you're looking for, the cumulative total of 8,000 Game XP awarded, once credited to your current active Inning Reward Path, will allow you to unlock even more MLB 26 stubs. These stubs can then be used to trade for additional packs or specfic players on the market.

  It is also worth noting that if you manage to collect all 25 of Vintage Series cards (including the 5 players obtained through the reward path) by opening packs, you can unlock Vintage Ketel Marte by completing Vintage Collection.

  • Ketel Marte
  • Derek Jeter
  • Chase Utley
  • Matt Carpenter
  • Larry Walker
  • Gary Sánchez
  • Joc Pederson
  • Gleyber Torres
  • Lou Gehrig
  • Enrique Hernández
  • Nolan Arenado
  • Mitch Garver
  • Michael Conforto
  • Teoscar Hernández
  • Terry Pendleton
  • Xander Bogaerts
  • Josh Bell
  • Raul Ibanez
  • Luis Arraez
  • Fred McGriff
  • Tyler O'Neill
  • Andrew Benintendi
  • Mike Yastrzemski
  • Ryan McMahon
  • Ubaldo Jiménez

  How to earn the rewards?

  You can earn Vintage Program XP by completing specific missions. The system provides you with 14 missions, offering a total of 150 XP upon completion. This means you don't need to complete every single objective; earning a minimum of 100 XP is sufficient.

  Below is a list of all the missions and the corresponding XP rewards they offer:

  Mission Content	XP Rewards
  Tally 31 hits with any player	10 XP
  Tally 18 strikeouts with any pitcher	10 XP
  Score 17 runs with any player	10 XP
  Tally 47 total bases with any player	15 XP
  Tally 6 home runs with any player	15 XP
  Win 5 games in any mode	10 XP
  Earn 2,000 Parallel XP with any Vintage Series players	10 XP
  Earn 4,000 Parallel XP with any Vintage Series players	10 XP
  Earn 6,000 Parallel XP with any Vintage Series players	10 XP
  Win one game in Conquest mode	10 XP
  Earn 500 Parallel XP with any Carlos Beltran player item	10 XP
  Earn 1,000 Parallel XP with any Immortals player items	15 XP
  Earn 1,500 Parallel XP with any Jolt Series players	15 XP

  It is worth noting that the first six missions are designed to commemorate career highlights of six specific reward players (including Ketel Marte).

  The latter five missions serve to commemorate the launch of several significant new modes and events that have been introduced throughout the history of MLB The Show series.

  Therefore, if you are a longtime fan who has witnessed the evolution of this game series, you are likely to feel a strong sense of nostalgia while progressing through Vintage Program.

  These rewards are not merely tools to enhance your roster; they also serve as a fond tribute to the gaming moments of the past.

  Optimal strategy for completion

  First, keep in mind that missions offering higher XP rewards are not necessarily the most difficult to complete; do not let this misconception mislead you or slow down your progress toward unlocking rewards.

  Second, you will notice that while some missions place no restrictions on the players you use, others specifically require certain players. Therefore, you should prioritize using the specific players designated by the latter type of missions.

  By doing so, you can attempt to accumulate as many hits, strikeouts, or other required stats as possible within a single game, while also striving to win that game.

  By repeating this process, you can complete a greater number of missions with fewer attempts, thereby maximizing your efficiency.

  That concludes our overview of everything you need to know for this guide. I hope everything goes smoothly as you move forward with Vintage Program, and don't forget to complete the other two programs currently underway!

• MLB The Show 26 Best Players by Position - Top Cards Ranked

  As MLB The Show 26 Diamond Dynasty progresses, more and more players are discussing the current meta lineups. From Live Series overpowered players to top-tier Collection Reward and Chase Pack cards, the meta answers for each position are gradually emerging.

  Whether you're building a ranked lineup or looking for the core players best suited to your playstyle, the top choices for each position will directly affect your in-game experience. This time, we'll list the strongest, most consistent, and most dominant players in MLB The Show 26, categorized by position.

  Some players are universally recognized as the answer because of their overpowered attributes, while others stand out thanks to their unique swings, animations, and in-game feel. Let's take a look at the top players worth using in each position right now.

  • First Base: Albert Pujols, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Carlos Santana
  • Second Base: Ketel Marte, Jackie Robinson, Travis Bazzana
  • Shortstop: Troy Tulowitzki, Francisco Lindor, Elly De La Cruz
  • Third Base: Miguel Cabrera, José Ramírez, Maikel Garcia
  • Left Field: Babe Ruth, Manny Ramirez, Ian Happ
  • Center Field: Ken Griffey Jr., Mickey Mantle, Carlos Beltrán
  • Right Field: Juan Soto, Anthony Santander, Vladimir Guerrero
  • Catcher: Ted Simmons, Jorge Posada
  • Pitcher: Felix Hernandez, Michael King, Schultz

  First Base

  The first base pick shouldn't be surprising. It's Albert Pujols from 99 Overall Live Series, with almost no controversy. Whether it's hitting, power, quirk, or overall build, this card is a top-tier choice in the current MLB 26 lineup.

  Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is also a good option, definitely a top-five right-handed hitter in MLB 26, especially in the ancient game; you rarely see a player with such immense power.

  Carlos Santana is an upgraded version of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. This card has almost no glaring weaknesses: Switch Hitter, excellent Contact, consistent Power, plus decent defense, making him a fully upgraded Vlad.

  Second Base

  The number one Second Base player will definitely surprise you; it's still Live Series Ketel Marte. Even mid-season, he still possesses top-tier swing and consistent output. Especially when he's on the plate, his batting average against right-handed pitchers is almost 100%.

  While Ketel Marte's stats or attributes are slightly weaker, he boasts a top-five swing in MLB The Show 26, and I can't think of a better card for this position.

  I think Jackie Robinson is second. This card is essentially an upgraded version of Dustin Pedroia. I feel this card is severely underrated; he has seven quirks, encompassing all MLB The Show 26 skills you could want. I love playing him, and he absolutely deserves a second place in second base.

  Travis Bazzana is ambidextrous, with 80 power in both and high speed. Such an MLB 26 player would be fantastic at second base. I think he definitely deserves a spot.

  Shortstop

  First place belongs to Troy Tulowitzki. MLB The Show 26 recently fixed his swing, and his handling of inside balls is now significantly improved. He possesses top-tier swing, strong defensive capabilities, all-around hitting ability, and excellent animations, with virtually no glaring weaknesses.

  Francisco Lindor is also outstanding; his one-handed swing is incredibly fast, making it difficult to predict pitch on Legendary difficulty. Elly De La Cruz is one of the most popular free shortstops in MLB 26. Although many players criticize his speed ​​of only 78, he boasts excellent power and power hitting ability, covering a wide range of situations, making him a very well-rounded shortstop card.

  Third Base

  The first place undoubtedly belongs to Miguel Cabrera with 99 OVR. His overall hitting ability is excellent, possessing powerful hitting ability, a vision rating of 83, and a discipline rating of 77. When there are runners on base, Miguel Cabrera's impressive clutch performance rating of 111 often proves effective.

  He is a very exaggerated putting-type hitter, so he can basically only hit outside pitches. If he could hit inside pitches, he would be the strongest card in MLB The Show 26. José Ramírez has excellent stats, but his real problem is that players with dreadlock models on Xbox cause a drop in MLB 26 frame rate. This directly affects the gameplay experience for many players. Otherwise, this card should be even stronger.

  Maikel Garcia is a very easily overlooked Collection Reward. If upgraded to Parallel 5 and equipped with a Power Mod, he can have 80+ Power on both sides simultaneously. His overall performance is stronger than many players expected.

  Left Field

  I believe there are three Left Field cards that are significantly better than other MLB 26 Left Field cards, while the stats of the other cards are relatively similar. Babe Ruth, while having average defense, is still an extremely formidable hitter with an amazing 110 batting average and 100 clinch rate. I recommend equipping him with a field speed mod.

  Manny Ramirez possesses top-tier hitting ability, but he is also affected by Dread Lag issue. Many players have a poor experience using him on Xbox. I think Ian Happ is almost on a par with Mickey Mantle (93 Overall), and even stronger in some aspects. As a free card in MLB 26, his value is incredibly high.

  Center Field

  I believe the strongest MLB The Show 26 center fielder currently is Ken Griffey Jr. from Chase Pack. Although extremely expensive, he boasts 100 Power, 80 Fielding, 80 Speed, and 90+ Contact, making him a truly all-around outfielder.

  Mickey Mantle's stats are also good, but his problem is that as a high-difficulty Collection Reward, he doesn't show absolute dominance. He's strong overall, but lacks a truly exceptional aspect. Carlos Beltrán's switch hitting and top-tier swing make him a long-term main center fielder for many players. Especially under high difficulty, his hitting response is extremely consistent.

  Right Field

  Juan Soto remains one of the most consistent right fielders in the current MLB The Show 26 version. Although his Overall rating is only 95, his Power, Clutch, Swing, and in-game output are all top-tier.

  Anthony Santander, despite his poor speed and defense, boasts a 111 power rating with both hands. This is one of the strongest power attributes in MLB 26. You could equip him with a batting average mod for a typical DH-type right fielder. Vladimir Guerrero's swing is described as buttery smooth. However, he's particularly dangerous against left-handed pitchers.

  Catcher

  I believe Ted Simmons is currently the strongest catcher in MLB The Show 26 version. While some players believe he has a noodle bat problem, I think his swing and overall hitting performance are still top-tier. The only downside might be his high price tag, requiring 205,000 MLB The Show 26 Stubs.

  Jorge Posada is almost always a top-tier catcher. Excellent swing, consistent power, and especially dangerous against left-handed pitchers. Switch-hitter catchers are crucial in the current meta. Excellent Swing + ambidextrous play give them a natural advantage.

  Pitcher

  Felix Hernandez is arguably the most perfect pitcher in the current MLB The Show 26 version, possessing Fastball, Sinker, Circle Change, Slider, Cutter, and also boasting extremely high H/9 and Clutch. Michael King is widely considered one of the most annoying pitchers among Legend players, his sinker motion being incredibly difficult to read.

  It's worth noting that Schultz has a very unpredictable release motion. Sweeper + Cutter combination is extremely difficult to handle on Legend difficulty, making this card worth investing in.

  Overall, MLB The Show 26 meta has entered a relatively stable phase. With the release of new cards, events, and major updates, the current meta may still change. But at least for now, these players undoubtedly represent the top-tier strength at each position in MLB The Show 26. If you're aiming for Ranked and building the strongest lineup, these players are definitely worth prioritizing.