MLB The Show 26 Only New Threads Cards Worth Your Time | From an unstoppable closer to a disappointing collection reward

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• MLB The Show 26 New Threads Program Guide | How to land a 90 OVR Alonso without spending a dime?

  Following the offseason moves of numerous MLB stars to new teams, MLB The Show 26 has introduced New Threads Program, showcasing these players in their fresh uniforms.

  By completing New Threads Program, you can earn several complimentary New Threads players, along with the coveted New Threads Deluxe Pack. However, these rewards aren't simply handed out - let's take a look at how you can earn them.

  

  New Threads Program Rewards

  1. 5 Points: 1,000 XP
  2. 10 Points: MLB The Show 26 pack
  3. 15 Points: 250 Stubs
  4. 20 Points: 87 OVR New Threads Devin Williams
  5. 25 Points: 1,000 XP
  6. 30 Points: MLB The Show 26 pack
  7. 35 Points: 250 Stubs
  8. 40 Points: 87 OVR New Threads Brandon Lowe
  9. 45 Points: 2,000 XP
  10. 50 Points: MLB The Show 26 pack
  11. 55 Points: 2,000 XP
  12. 60 Points: 88 OVR New Threads Ranger Suarez
  13. 65 Points: MLB The Show 26 pack
  14. 70 Points: 2,000 XP
  15. 75 Points: MLB The Show 26 pack (x2)
  16. 80 Points: 89 OVR New Threads Dylan Cease
  17. 85 Points: MLB The Show 26 pack (x2)
  18. 90 Points: 2,000 XP
  19. 95 Points: New Threads Deluxe Pack
  20. 100 Points: 90 OVR New Threads Pete Alonso

  Complimentary Players

  While the rewards include some MLB The Show 26 stubs, the focus is undoubtedly on whether the free players are effective on the field.

  87 OVR New Threads Devin Williams, CP / Mets

  • H/9 Right: 99
  • H/9 Left: 98
  • K/9 Right: 108
  • K/9 Left: 90
  • Control: 75
  • Pitch Clutch: 101
  • Stamina: 24
  • Velocity: 71
  • Break: 99
  • Stuff: 92
  • HR/9: 75
  • BB/9: 67

  Devin Williams, the former star relief pitcher for Milwaukee Brewers, has transferred to New York Mets for the new season. His card boasts solid dominance: a 108 K/9 against right-handed batters and 90 against lefties. His pitch repertoire includes a screwball, splitter, and cutter.

  The issue lies in the similar velocities of his splitter and cutter, and he lacks the signature changeup and slider he was known for during his Brewers tenure. As a result, this card may not replicate the dominance of his peak versions, but it still stands as an effective arm out of the bullpen.

  87 OVR New Threads Brandon Lowe, 2B / Pirates

  • Contact Right: 94
  • Contact Left: 64
  • Power Right: 106
  • Power Left: 80
  • Vision: 66
  • Discipline: 51
  • Clutch: 93
  • Bunt: 35
  • Drag Bunt: 25
  • Durability: 91

  Pittsburgh Pirates have bolstered their roster by bringing in Brandon Lowe. This card has a very distinct profile: it features powerful hitting stats of 94/106 against right-handed pitchers, but its effectiveness drops noticeably when facing lefties. While you could theoretically offset its weaknesses with various boosts, this card likely won't be a permanent fixture in your lineup.

  88 OVR New Threads Ranger Suarez, SP / Red Sox

  • H/9 Right: 70
  • H/9 Left: 91
  • K/9 Right: 73
  • K/9 Left: 90
  • Control: 73
  • Pitch Clutch: 73
  • Stamina: 92
  • Velocity: 70
  • Break: 99
  • Stuff: 80
  • HR/9: 36
  • BB/9: 90

  Ranger Suarez allows 9 hits per nine innings (H/9) against right-handed batters, a rather poor statistic. This becomes a significant disadvantage against the switch hitters who remain prevalent in the current game. His performance against left-handed batters is much stronger, but his overall velocity is low, and he lacks an effective changeup. Overall, it's difficult for him to be considered a top-tier starting pitcher.

  89 OVR New Threads Dylan Cease, SP / Blue Jays

  • H/9 Right: 84
  • H/9 Left: 82
  • K/9 Right: 97
  • K/9 Left: 92
  • Control: 67
  • Pitch Clutch: 83
  • Stamina: 87
  • Velocity: 99
  • Break: 99
  • Stuff: 83
  • HR/9: 63
  • BB/9: 65

  Dylan Cease features two types of fastballs and three breaking balls, but lacks a changeup or any off-speed offering. More critically, the velocities of his curveball and slider are very similar, making his pitches easier for opponents to read. While his H/9 and control ratings are respectable, the limitations in his pitch mix prevent him from reaching the elite tier of starting pitchers.

  90 OVR New Threads Pete Alonso, 1B / Orioles

  • Contact Right: 97
  • Contact Left: 72
  • Power Right: 100
  • Power Left: 85
  • Vision: 70
  • Discipline: 62
  • Clutch: 102
  • Bunt: 35
  • Drag Bunt: 25
  • Durability: 99

  Pete Alonso is a quintessential power-hitting right-handed batter, boasting excellent contact and power ratings of 97 and 100 respectively against right-handed pitching. While his contact drops against lefties (72), his power remains a solid 85. As a first baseman, his defensive abilities aren't the primary concern. This card features a smooth swing and multiple Quirks, making it a likely cornerstone for many lineups and one of the top rewards in this program.

  How to Make Progress？

  You'll need to complete various tasks to earn points, or Stars, to unlock rewards. There are multiple ways to accumulate points. As long as you're willing to invest some time, reaching all the rewards is not difficult.

  Moments

  Complete 12 Moments: 60 points total, 5 points each.

  Missions

  • Pitch 21 innings with any pitcher(s) (5 points)
  • Accumulate 38 total bases with any player(s) (5 points)
  • Accumulate 18 extra-base hits with any player(s) (5 points)
  • Hit 9 home runs with any player(s) (5 points)
  • Accumulate 2,000 PXP with New Threads players (5 points)
  • Accumulate 4,000 PXP with New Threads players (5 points)
  • Accumulate 6,000 PXP with New Threads players (10 points)

  BONUS XP Missions

  Earning 500 PXP with each of the following players will grant 5 points:

  • Devin Williams
  • Ranger Suarez
  • Dylan Cease
  • Pete Alonso
  • Nolan Arenado
  • Edwin Diaz
  • Kenley Jansen
  • Alex Bregman
  • Eugenio Suarez
  • Kazuma Okamoto
  • Luis Arraez
  • Willson Contreras
  • Owen Caissie

  New Threads Player Collection

  Collecting the following 88 OVR New Threads players will award 30 points:

  • Marcus Semien
  • Cedric Mullins
  • Sonny Gray
  • Framber Valdez
  • Nick Castellanos

  Collecting the following 90 OVR New Threads players will award 70 points:

  • Tatsuya Imai
  • Taylor Ward
  • Jorge Polanco

  It's recommended not to go out of your way to acquire these player cards at high costs just to complete these collections. If you happen to have them, use them to finish the tasks. If not, feel free to skip them, as Moments and tasks alone provide enough progress to reach the end of the program.

  That concludes the overview of MLB The Show 26 New Threads Program. Hopefully, you'll secure the players from your favorite teams.

• MLB The Show 26 Parallel Mods System | Not just adds 5 to All-Around Stats! The secret to further enhancing your players!

  While acquiring more powerful players is important in MLB The Show 26, the most effective way to boost your team's overall strength is, more often than not, by enhancing the cards you already own.

  To achieve this, farming Parallel XP is key. This specialized type of XP allows you to boost a player's all-around stats, up to five times.

  Building upon this foundation, and to ensure Parallel mechanic functions even more effectively, MLB 26 introduces the brand-new Parallel Mod system. So, how does it work? We're here to walk you through it.

  

  What is Parallel XP?

  Some newcomers might confuse Parallel XP (PXP) with standard XP. Although the sources for farming them are largely the same, they are, in fact, two distinct mechanics within MLB 26.

  Standard XP serves to advance your progress along Season XP Reward Path, thereby unlocking additional MLB 26 stubs or premium player cards and packs.

  Parallel XP, on the other hand, is utilized specifically to boost the stats of the player cards you currently own. Generally, we recommend reserving this for the core players in your starting lineup.

  Whenever you accumulate enough PXP to cross a specific threshold and complete a level-up, you earn a +1 boost to all of that player's stats, up to a maximum of +5:

  • Parallel I - 500 PXP
  • Parallel II - 1,500 PXP
  • Parallel III - 3,000 PXP
  • Parallel IV - 6,000 PXP
  • Parallel V - 10,000 PXP

  It is important to note that these stat boosts only take effect when you are playing in Diamond Dynasty mode, and they apply specifically to the individual player cards currently active in your lineup.

  How to farm PXP?

  Almost every mode in MLB The Show 26 offers both PXP and standard XP. However, the amount of PXP you earn varies depending on the specific in-game actions performed, the difficulty level selected, and the game mode played.

  More specifically, performing more complex actions and playing on higher difficulty settings yield greater amounts of PXP; additionally, online modes typically provide a 1.5x bonus multiplier for Parallel XP earnings.

  Alternatively, you can capitalize on the game's periodic Double PXP Days events, during which PXP earned from completing any match is doubled.

  As for standard XP, there is a daily cap on the total amount you can earn, set at a maximum of 30,000. However, if you do not play on a given day, any unused portion of that daily limit will roll over and be added to your XP cap for the following day.

  Additionally, the game allows you to earn extra standard XP by completing specific Programs or by engaging in special game modes such as Conquest or Mini Seasons.

  What is Parallel Mod?

  Introduced as a new mechanic in MLB 26, Parallel Mod builds upon the existing PXP system to provide you with additional ways to enhance your players' stats.

  This system features three rarity tiers: Silver, Gold, and Diamond, ranging from lowest to highest, each offering stat boosts of varying potency.

  To unlock each Mod tier, you must not only meet specific Parallel Level or PXP requirements but also complete certain in-game objectives, such as securing a specific number of wins or recording a certain number of hits.

  Notably, both the gold and diamond mods can offer two distinct types of boosts: those targeting a single stat, and those targeting a combination of two stats.

  How to utilize Parallel Mod?

  Given the demanding nature of the unlock conditions, you must formulate a clear plan for unlocking and upgrading right from the start; this ensures you maximize the value of Parallel Mod within your limited time and effort. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

  Prioritize adding mods

  Although there are three tiers of Parallel Mods available, we recommend prioritizing the unlocking of gold mods for the majority of your players.

  You can then select your core starters to pursue diamond mods; this strategy allows you to boost your team's overall strength much more rapidly.

  However, once a player card reaches Parallel Level 1, you can use just 500 PXP to unlock their exclusive silver mod. While the resulting stat boosts may not be particularly significant, they serve as a helpful aid if you are not yet in a position to unlock the higher-tier mods.

  Identify the stats you wish to enhance

  As previously mentioned, the gold and diamond tiers offer you a choice between two types of stat boosts: single-stat boosts and dual-stat (mixed) boosts.

  Single-stat boosts provide higher numerical increases to a specific stat, whereas dual-stat boosts offer broader coverage across multiple areas of a player's performance.

  Therefore, before making a decision, you must thoroughly analyze and consider the existing stats of the player you intend to enhance.

  For instance, if a specific dual-stat Mod boosts both stat A and stat B, but the player in question already possesses a very high rating in one of those stats, then applying that dual-stat mod would effectively be a waste of resources.

  Single-player modes are the best way to unlock mods

  To accelerate your progress toward meeting PXP requirements for Parallel Mods, you might be tempted to prioritize farming in online modes, as they offer a 1.5x PXP bonus.

  However, online modes are characterized by high difficulty and inherent unpredictability. You could end up making repeated attempts without ever achieving your objectives, thereby wasting valuable time rather than making efficient progress.

  Therefore, we highly recommend that you farm in single-player modes such as Hall of Fame or Legends. Not only is this approach more consistent, but you can also earn more PXP by unlocking higher difficulty levels more quickly.

  That covers everything you need to know about the new Parallel Mod feature in MLB 26. We hope this guide proves helpful as you play the game!

• MLB The Show 26 Review: Game-Changer or Just a Roster Update? | Still the Best Baseball Game, but far from praiseworthy

  Much like the enduring EA FC series, MLB The Show 26 made its return in March 2026. It stands as the finest baseball game available, with the developer annually building upon the previous iteration. Unfortunately, that doesn't necessarily mean MLB 26 is a great game.

  This is because, over the past several years, changes to MLB have been confined to minor details. This year's release, MLB The Show 26, feels even more lacking in substance than usual, making it a tough sell for anyone except the most die-hard baseball enthusiasts.

  

  A Lack of Innovation

  MLB series isn't in the same troubled state as Madden franchise. Objectively, it remains a content-rich, enjoyable baseball game with excellent core gameplay. But the same was true last year, and the year before that saw virtually no difference from the one prior.

  The visual presentation has stagnated since MLB The Show 21, with numerous animations even traceable back to PS2 era. Franchise Mode remains offline-only and is identical to its predecessor. Road to the Show is also the same as last year, aside from a few new universities to choose from.

  The game introduces only minuscule tweaks and adjustments—the kind that could have been added as a free update to MLB 25. Instead, the publisher expects players to part with at least $70 for them. 

  Gameplay

  The gameplay foundation of MLB The Show 26 is solid. Beyond some more frequent stuttering, it feels indistinguishable from previous years, meaning the core mechanics remain dependable.

  For starters, a newly added Depth of Field batting option brings a degree of fresh visual experience. This setting helps eliminate distracting visual elements in the stadium when focusing on the pitch and timing your swing, seeming like a viable option for competitive play.

  Bear Down Pitching is an enhanced pitching mechanic that charges over time during a game and can be used several times per match. Activating it triggers slow motion accompanied by the audible thud of the pitcher's heartbeat.

  It's an interesting realism-focused adjustment that makes crucial pitches feel momentous, offering a slight boost to your velocity and control. It also introduces a layer of strategy, as you need to decide how to allocate your Bear Down Pitching uses throughout the contest.

  Big Zone Hitting is another new batting option. Essentially a more forgiving timing and placement system, it offers an alternative for players who want more involvement than "Timing Hitting" but find the standard "Zone Hitting" too challenging.

  Beyond this, the experience largely mirrors what has been offered since MLB 21. It's a well-crafted baseball game that balances fun with challenge, but you could acquire a nearly identical experience with a previous MLB The Show title for far less.

  Game Modes

  Diamond Dynasty is MLB's Ultimate Team mode. While it's more accommodating to free players compared to most similar games, it still carries the hallmarks of a mode where financial investment can provide a competitive edge. Your MLB The Show 26 stubs largely determine your experience in this mode.

  There's plenty to do within Diamond Dynasty, such as Diamond Quest board game mode introduced last year. Like much of the game, this mode is virtually unchanged from MLB 25, with the sole exception being the inclusion of World Baseball Classic.

  World Baseball Classic is marketed as the headline new feature of MLB The Show 26, yet it exists solely within Diamond Dynasty. On its own merits, it's a solid addition—your team replaces a real participating nation as you compete through a tournament to earn rewards—but it would have been better served as a standalone mode.

  Road to the Show remains largely identical to last year, merely offering more university choices. There's a new video at the outset showcasing your path to Cooperstown, and you'll encounter specific goals to achieve during your career. Otherwise, it's the same as last year.

  Franchise Mode also sees no changes. Female players now appearing in the free agent pool is a welcome adjustment, and lineup logic and AI have been reworked, but beyond some perplexing font color alterations, you'll notice little tangible difference. If you were anticipating a leap forward for Franchise Mode this year, the wait continues.

  Storylines Mode is perhaps the game's finest component. MLB series excels at authentically presenting iconic moments in baseball history through this mode.

  This year, four new storylines from Negro Leagues are added, recounting chapters of baseball history you may not have heard. Each storyline features well-crafted videos and gameplay that reflects its respective era. This is the closest you'll get to experiencing genuinely new content in MLB The Show 26.

  Visuals

  The most glaring issue with the series is its stagnation in graphical fidelity. While titles like Madden, NBA 2K, and even PGA Tour 2K have made significant strides on current-generation consoles, MLB has remained static.

  The last true graphical upgrade dates back to PS4 Pro era, when the game was enhanced to 4K HDR. Now, player models appear quite rough, with facial textures looking dated. The animations remain solid, but the overall visual presentation carries a dated, flat feel reminiscent of PS4 generation.

  This year would have been the ideal opportunity for a major graphical overhaul, given how little else has changed. That didn't happen, undoubtedly adding to the overall sense of disappointment.

  MLB 26 isn't a title that comes highly recommended. In isolation, it's not a bad game, but when you consider the trajectory of the series over the past decade, it becomes clear that the developer is falling short of expectations, and this installment is far from a standout effort.

• MLB the Show 26 Road to the Show Overhauls the Draft | How to pick the best university for your Pro Career?

  Among the three core modes in MLB the Show 26, Road to the Show (RTTS) is arguably the least focused on pure competition; instead, it emphasizes the personal development of the player character rather than the outcome of any individual game.

  Consequently, whether you achieve ultimate success in this mode depends entirely on your ability to guide your player, the avatar you control, all the way into Hall of Fame.

  In this guide, drawing upon the specific changes and gameplay mechanics introduced in MLB the Show 26 RTTS, we will provide you with the essential tips you need to master in order to reach this ultimate goal.

  

  RTTS basic gameplay

  When you first embark on your RTTS journey, you begin as a high school player. Your performance in the high school league will directly determine your subsequent draft position or the university offers you receive.

  The ideal outcome is to be drafted directly into a professional organization; however, if that does not happen, you have the option to enroll in one of several fictional universities to continue your development.

  Each university offers a unique set of recruitment packages that serve as sources for various player attribute boosts.

  From there, you will manage your amateur career by participating in games until you eventually turn professional and begin pursuing more specialized, career-defining achievements.

  What's new in MLB the Show 26?

  Building upon the foundation mentioned above, MLB the Show 26 introduces several key changes.

  First, the number of selectable universities has been expanded to 19, more than the number available in the former. This wider array of collegiate options means there are now even more possibilities regarding your future draft prospects.

  Additionally, a new objective system called Road to Cooperstown has been introduced; this system activates once you reach Major League Baseball level.

  Once active, you will use this system to manage both your short-term goals and long-term career milestones, all of which directly influence your professional trajectory and your eventual eligibility for Hall of Fame.

  Furthermore, during the amateur collegiate phase of the game, MLB the Show 26 has added NCAA Men's College World Series to RTTS.

  This allows you to participate in highly competitive, official tournament play before turning professional, thereby significantly enhancing the value and depth of the collegiate experience within RTTS.

  Choose your university wisely

  With this basic information in hand, you are now ready to officially embark on your Road to the Show journey. It is quite difficult to jump directly from high school into a professional career; advancing to university is a much more common path.

  When selecting a university in the game, the primary factors you should consider are the specific benefits and perks offered by each institution. These benefits typically include increased exposure, skill development bonuses, and various other advantages.

  For instance, if your goal is to unlock No. 1 In Your Heart achievement as quickly as possible, you would be better off choosing a university that offers enhanced early-game exposure and specific bonuses designed to boost your draft stock.

  Furthermore, schools that offer comprehensive development programs can help you plan your career path in a more balanced and well-rounded manner.

  However, regardless of which path you prefer, the prerequisite for receiving an acceptance letter from a high-quality university is to perform exceptionally well in your high school amateur games; otherwise, you'll end up with nothing but a pile of rejection letters upon graduation.

  

  Mastering new batting strategies

  MLB the Show 26 also features updates to specific gameplay mechanics; therefore, if you plan to play as a hitter in Road to the Show, you need to understand the changes made to PCI.

  Previously, PCI would drift back toward the center of the strike zone whenever you released the analog stick, a design intended to prevent you from locking in on a specific pitch location.

  Now, however, this drift has been eliminated, allowing you to keep PCI precisely where you've positioned it at all times.

  This change offers a distinct advantage: when facing a dominant pitcher while ahead in the count, you gain more time to wait for a fastball.

  Additionally, it allows you to slightly expand your effective hitting zone and reduce the need to swing with maximum force, thereby helping you avoid blindly chasing pitches outside the strike zone.

  Building upon this, we recommend lowering your PCI sensitivity setting to around 70%. By reducing sensitivity, you minimize the risk of over-correcting with the analog stick during pitch delivery, which helps prevent you from swinging and missing.

  How to use Bear Down?

  This new feature is designed specifically for pitchers. If you find yourself struggling with your pitching angle or timing, you can activate this ability to filter out ambient noise on the field, allowing you to focus on the sound of your own heartbeat to enhance your pitching accuracy.

  However, to ensure fair gameplay, Bear Down ability has limited uses per game. Therefore, you should activate it at the most opportune moments. For instance, when the very next pitch could be the one that helps you tie the game.

  Changes to the perks system

  In Road to the Show, the perks system provides additional attribute boosts as your player progresses over time, with specific perks unlocking as you achieve various in-game milestones.

  Expanding on this foundation, MLB the Show 26 introduces several new mechanics.

  For example, you can now preview the specific requirements needed to unlock the next available perk, allowing you to decide in advance whether you wish to pursue it. This makes planning your career progression much simpler and more transparent.

  Generally, we recommend prioritizing perks that complement your player's specific archetype. Once acquired, you should combine these perks with the skills you've cultivated during your college career to accelerate your overall development and progress.

  That wraps up our overview of the new features in this update. If you're the kind of player who enjoys taking a big-picture approach to your career, you definitely won't want to miss out on the newly revamped Road to the Show!

• Don't worry about missing MLB the Show 26 Early Access! Here is the guide to complete 1st Inning Program before time runs out

  If you didn't pick up MLB the Show 26 Deluxe Edition due to budget constraints or other reasons, and consequently missed out on the four days of early access, you might be worried about falling behind on your progress, particularly within the latest, limited-time 1st Inning Program.

  However, there is no need to worry. As long as you quickly familiarize yourself with how to participate in the program once the game officially launches and immediately start earning XP toward it, you can absolutely complete it before it ends.

  Below, we present a comprehensive guide to help you successfully complete 1st Inning Program.

  

  1st Inning Program duration

  This MLB the Show 26 program kicked off alongside the early access period, starting on March 13, and will run until April 10. Even if you don't jump into the game until March 17, you will still have at least three weeks to complete it.

  Based on previous titles in the series, we anticipate that more programs will be released in the future; so if you do happen to miss the deadline for this one, don't be overly concerned.

  That said, 1st Inning Program is undoubtedly one of the best sources for acquiring your first batch of MLB the Show 26 stubs and earning additional card packs.

  Complete list of rewards

  The program offers 40 rewards, each requiring you to earn a specific amount of XP to unlock. You can earn XP in both online and offline game modes.

  So the only thing you really need to worry about is whether you can dedicate enough time to playing. Here are all the rewards and corresponding XP points:

  • 3,000 XP - MLB the Show 26 pack
  • 7,500 XP - Ballin' is a Habit Pack
  • 12,500 XP - MLB the Show 26 pack
  • 17,500 XP - 500 Stubs
  • 22,500 XP - 5x MLB the Show 26 pack
  • 27,500 XP - Ballin' is a Habit pack
  • 32,500 XP - 500 Stubs
  • 40,000 XP - MLB the Show 26 pack
  • 47,500 XP - World Baseball Classic Gold Pack
  • 55,000 XP - 88 OVR WBC Gleyber Torres
  • 62,500 XP - MLB the Show 26 pack
  • 70,000 XP - Ballin' is a Habit Pack
  • 77,500 XP - 750 Stubs
  • 85,000 XP - WBC Gold Pack
  • 92,500 XP - 5x MLB the Show 26 pack
  • 100,000 XP - MLB the Show 26 pack
  • 110,000 XP - WBC Gold Pack
  • 120,000 XP - 750 Stubs
  • 130,000 XP - MLB the Show 26 pack
  • 140,000 XP - 89 OVR WBC Kyle Schwarber
  • 150,000 XP - WBC Gold Pack
  • 160,000 XP - MLB the Show 26 pack
  • 170,000 XP - 750 Stubs
  • 185,000 XP - MLB the Show 26 pack
  • 200,000 XP - Ballin' is a Habit pack
  • 215,000 XP - MLB the Show 26 pack
  • 230,000 XP - 1,000 Stubs
  • 245,000 XP - Ballin' is a Habit pack
  • 260,000 XP - MLB the Show 26 Pack
  • 275,000 XP - 90 OVR WBC Yoshinobu Yamamoto
  • 295,000 XP - MLB the Show 26 Pack
  • 315,000 XP - Ballin' is a Habit Pack
  • 335,000 XP - WBC Deluxe Pack
  • 355,000 XP - MLB the Show 26 Pack
  • 375,000 XP - Ballin' is a Habit Pack
  • 400,000 XP - 1,500 Stubs
  • 425,000 XP - WBC Premier Pack
  • 450,000 XP - Ballin' is a Habit Pack
  • 475,000 XP - 2,000 Stubs
  • 500,000 XP - 1st Inning Boss Choice Pack

  Among these, the ultimate reward, 1st Inning Boss Choice Pack, contains two cards: Ronald Acuña Jr. and Munetaka Murakami, both rated at 90 OVR. You can choose one of them based on your needs.

  How to farm XP?

  As you can see from the reward list above, if you wish to obtain all 40 rewards, the total amount of XP required is substantial. Fortunately, almost every mode of gameplay in MLB the Show awards XP.

  Complete other programs

  In addition to 1st Inning Program, there are many other programs currently running simultaneously within the game; notably, WBC Recap Program and St. Patrick's Day Program were just released on March 17th.

  You should prioritize completing those programs that offer XP rewards; doing so not only advances your progress in 1st Inning Program but also allows you to earn rewards from those other programs.

  We specifically recommend that you complete WBC Pools A-D programs. Returning as a featured event in MLB the Show 26's Diamond Dynasty mode, World Baseball Classic content is divided into four separate pools, each featuring a reward track that includes a total of 80,000 XP.

  Another feature worth highlighting is Team Affinity. Once the game launches, this feature establishes a dedicated program for each MLB team, programs that typically remain active for a full year.

  If you go all-in and play with maximum effort, a single Team Affinity program can typically be completed within three to four hours. However, given the abundance of other activities available in the game, you may wish to prioritize completing the programs for your favorite teams first to save time.

  Notably, MLB 26 introduces several updates to Team Affinity, including, but not limited to, the dual captain mode (where captains can provide stat boosts to other teammates) and the ability to swap out player cards without resetting your progress.

  Participate in Ranked Seasons

  This mode serves as the premier online competitive experience within Diamond Dynasty. You can assemble a team using your collection of player cards, then climb the rankings and earn rewards by competing against teams controlled by other players.

  If you wish to leverage this feature for faster XP farming, the most efficient strategy is to prioritize shorter matches, specifically those requiring only 3 to 5 innings. After all, dragging out a game for too long not only makes the outcome more unpredictable but also leads to player fatigue.

  Offline modes

  Mini Seasons and Conquest are among the most popular offline modes in MLB the Show 26. More importantly, they have been optimized compared to previous iterations. This means you can now earn XP quickly and efficiently simply by playing against AI.

  That wraps up everything you need to know about MLB 26 1st Inning Program, along with a comprehensive guide on how to complete it. Jump into the game right away so you don't miss out on acquiring your favorite high-OVR player cards!

• MLB the Show 26 Secret Pitching Attributes you need to boost to dominate all the Core Modes!

  In a previous article, we introduced batting strategies for MLB the Show 26 online modes, focusing on run-scoring efficiency. However, you might occasionally find yourself wanting to try your hand at playing other positions.

  Comparatively speaking, aside from batters, pitchers are arguably the most popular position in the game; indeed, these two roles represent the primary head-to-head matchup on the diamond.

  While playing a video game may seem simpler than competing in a real-life baseball match, MLB the Show 26 actually requires you to master specific technical knowledge, such as pitching attributes, to become a truly effective pitcher.

  In this guide, we will base on the game's three core modes to explain the meaning behind various pitching attributes and highlight which ones you should prioritize.

  

  What are pitching attributes?

  In real-world baseball, a pitcher is the player responsible for throwing the ball from the pitcher's mound to the catcher. Their objective is to employ a variety of pitching strategies to retire opposing batters.

  For real-life players, this demands immense physical stamina, unwavering focus on both the game and the opponent's movements, and the ability to make timely strategic adjustments in response to the batter's approach.

  In MLB the Show 26, these real-world qualities are translated into a series of specific, quantifiable pitching attributes.

  The game currently features three primary modes: Franchise Mode, Diamond Dynasty, and Road to the Show (RTTS). Although pitching elements are present in all of them, the specific details and nuances regarding attributes may vary slightly depending on the gameplay style of each mode.

  It is worth noting that, for the sake of brevity, both the game itself and the player community commonly use abbreviations to refer to these various attributes. To ensure a smoother and more intuitive gaming experience, it is highly recommended that you familiarize yourself with these abbreviations.

  Franchise Mode

  While not necessarily the most popular mode, Franchise Mode places a greater emphasis on the individual players themselves; consequently, its attribute system is highly detailed, featuring a total of 13 distinct pitching attributes.

  Stamina (STA)

  You can simply think of this attribute as your pitcher's physical endurance. Every pitcher's stamina will naturally deplete as the game progresses; the key difference lies in the fact that each pitcher possesses a unique base stamina value.

  If you wish to field a pitcher with a high stamina rating right from the start, you will need to consume MLB the Show 26 stubs to acquire and open a sufficient number of card packs until you unlock a high-tier pitcher who possesses this specific attribute.

  Hits per nine innings (H/9)

  H/9 represents the probability that opposing hitters will either swing and miss or fail to put the ball in play (within fair territory) when facing you. The higher this value, the lower the opponent's chance of success.

  Strikeouts per nine innings (K/9)

  This attribute indicates the probability that you, as a pitcher, will record a strikeout over the course of nine innings. A higher value signifies that you are capable of racking up a greater number of strikeouts.

  Walks per nine innings (BB/9)

  Simply put, BB/9 attribute determines the precision of your pitch control; the numerical value is directly proportional to your actual accuracy on the mound.

  Homeruns per nine innings (HR/9)

  This attribute is somewhat similar to H/9, as it directly relates to the opposing batter's effectiveness when facing you. HR/9 reflects the likelihood of an opposing hitter hitting a home run against a specific pitcher; a higher value indicates that the pitcher is more dominant.

  Pitching Clutch (PCLT)

  During a game, a pitcher is often required to prevent the opposing team from scoring when runners are occupying second or third base. Pitching Clutch represents your ability to hold the line and successfully navigate these high-pressure situations.

  Control (CTRL)

  Similar to BB/9, this attribute determines the precision of your pitching. To make a fine distinction: while BB/9 relates more to the outcome, CTRL primarily concerns your physical command and feel for the ball during the pitching motion itself.

  Velocity (VEL)

  This refers to the maximum speed you can achieve when throwing a pitch. However, this is not an isolated attribute; the final velocity value is also influenced by your specific pitch repertoire and pitching mechanics.

  Break (BRK)

  This attribute measures the overall magnitude of movement, or curvature, in your pitches that feature a breaking motion. Generally, the greater the break, the more difficult it is for the opposing batter to make contact with the ball, thereby preventing them from scoring.

  Fielding (FLD)

  This is a relatively comprehensive attribute that evaluates your overall defensive ability based on various skills, including catching, running, and throwing.

  Arm Strength (ARM)

  As the name suggests, this refers to a pitcher's physical arm power, which ultimately determines the maximum distance and velocity you can generate when throwing the ball.

  In real-world games, for the sake of player safety, a pitcher is typically limited to a maximum of 100 pitches per outing; furthermore, their actual arm strength is bound to fluctuate over the course of a game. However, virtual games do not seem to take this specific factor into account.

  Arm Accuracy (ACC)

  Compared to CTRL and BB/9, ACC provides a more intuitive representation of a pitcher's throwing precision.

  Reaction Time (REAC)

  This attribute measures the speed at which you decide which base to throw to immediately after fielding the ball. However, being fast does not necessarily guarantee an accurate throw.

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  Diamond Dynasty & Road to the Show

  These two modes are grouped together here because the specific pitching attributes available in each are fewer than those found in Franchise Mode.

  The only point to note is that Road to the Show gameplay focuses on a single specific player; therefore, you can prioritize upgrading certain attributes based on that player's unique characteristics, rather than striving for all-around development.

  Diamond Dynasty:

  • Stamina (STA)
  • Hits per nine innings (H/9)
  • Walks per nine innings (BB/9)
  • Control (CTRL)
  • Pitching Clutch (PCLT)
  • Velocity (VEL)
  • Break (BRK)

  Road to the Show:

  • Stamina (STA)
  • Hits per nine innings (H/9)
  • Homeruns per nine innings (HR/9)
  • Strikeouts per nine innings (K/9)
  • Walks per nine innings (BB/9)
  • Pitching Clutch (PCLT)
  • Arm Accuracy (ACC)
  • Arm Strength (ARM)
  • Fielding (FLD)
  • Reaction Time (REAC)
  • Durability

  The only attribute listed here that was not mentioned in Franchise Mode is Durability; this metric measures a player's physical resilience and determines how quickly a pitcher recovers from training sessions.

  If your RTTS pitcher's Durability rating exceeds 95, they will unlock Unbreakable Quirk, which significantly accelerates the player's recovery speed thereafter.

  That concludes our guide for today. If you wish to play as or develop a competent pitcher in MLB 26, be sure to keep these points in mind and make sure to upgrade your player's attributes regularly!