MLB The Show 26 gameplay revealed – PlayStation.Blog
MLB The Show fans, the time is here. San Diego Studio couldn’t be more excited to share all of the new updates we have in store for MLB The Show 26. This year, we’re giving you more control, deeper immersion, and more action on and off the field.
Road to The Show: More to the journey
This year, Road To The Show builds on what you loved in ‘25, creating an even more immersive experience. We’ve:
- Expanded the amateur experience to add more realism to your story on the way to The Show
- Added 11 additional college teams for a total of 19 schools including: University of Arkansas, University of Florida, Stanford University and University of Michigan
- Brought in the (CWS) officially licensed NCAA Men’s College World Series format and bracket
- Introduced new goals that keep you pushing to progress throughout your career
We’re also proud to announce, Road To The Show: Road to Cooperstown. Start from high school, build your legacy, and see if you can make it all the way to the Hall of Fame in this all-new feature in Road To The Show. Are you up for the challenge?
Diamond Dynasty*: All new ways to compete including The World Baseball Classic
Diamond Dynasty is back and better than ever with new ways to play. Be sure to check out:
- The World Baseball Classic content returns to DD, now featuring WBC ballparks including the Tokyo Dome and Estadio Hiram Bithorn.
- Mini-seasons overhaul
- New rewards, programs, and collections
- More live-service updates for exciting challenges and experiences
Storylines*: Negro Leagues Season 4
The award-winning game mode returns with all-new legends, uniforms, and a new stadium to celebrate the stories of some of the most impactful, yet largely unknown, ballplayers in history.
Franchise: More realism and control
Franchise mode has some exciting updates that put you in position to build a dynasty:
- New Trade Experience incorporating a new Trade Logic System featuring the comprehensive Trade HUB.
- Modernized logic including lineup, starting pitcher rotation, and bullpen games to reflect current MLB trends.
- A more approachable Franchise experience that lets you tailor your desired level of control & gameplay to get through more seasons.
New gameplay updates in ShowTech for the most authentic on-field baseball experience
Gameplay is the bread and butter of the MLB The Show franchise and this year we’re aiming to continue that tradition by adding new features and refining the game experience.
Here’s what’s new in ‘26:
- Big Zone hitting is a new batting interface for players of all skill levels
- Play at three new stadiums including: The Tokyo Dome, Estadio Hiram Bithorn, and Terrapin Park
- Bear Down Pitching gives you more control in the clutch situations
- Hits per 9 innings and strikeouts per 9 innings attribute splits and pitch repertoire usage rate
- Reaction rating attributes for fielders (left, right, forward, and back)
- Catcher Pop Time attribute
- Plate Coverage Indicator sensitivity slider for more control over your PCI
- Added over 500 new gameplay animations
- Re-captured all knee down catcher animations which includes throws, blocked balls, wild pitches and more
Stay tuned for what’s next
Coming up: Fielding Feedback 2.0 returns with updates on all things MLB The Show 26. Plus, we’ll be announcing more feature premieres in the coming weeks including a deep dive into what’s new in Road To The Show.
Sign up for Scouting Report
Sign up for the MLB The Show Scouting Report — it’s the best way to stay updated on the latest news on MLB The Show 26. Plus, when you do, you’ll unlock a monthly scouting report pack. It all starts in April 2026, so sign up today on TheShow.com!
Pre-order MLB The Show 26 now
Get ready to leave your mark. Pre-orders are open now and MLB The Show 26 launches on March 17, with early access starting on March 13 for the Digital Deluxe Edition.
Pre-order loyalty discount for previous MLB The Show owners
We are also happy to announce a new loyalty discount**. You will receive 10% off your Digital Deluxe Edition pre-order if you have purchased any digital version of MLB The Show that’s been released since MLB The Show 21. Note that this pre-loyalty offer will be live soon after pre-orders open.
Now & Later Packs are back
Earn your packs in the XP Path and Now & Later Program in ‘25 and get vouchers that will automatically be redeemed* into The Show Packs when logging into MLB The Show 26 with the same account you used in ‘25. The Now & Later Program goes live at 12 pm PST today and you can score up to 12 additional packs. Plus, get a Carlos Beltrán player item to use in MLB The Show 25 and a different Carlos Beltrán player item in ‘26.
Stay updated for what’s on deck
There’s a lot more excitement ahead between now and launch. In the meantime, sign up for The Scouting Report, and be sure to follow us on X, Facebook, and Instagram.
*Internet connection required.
**Discount reflected in cart. Must be signed into your account. Only applies to same platform purchases. For Nintendo Switch, since MLB The Show 22
