When you’re diving into MLB The Show 26, one of the key parts of progressing and having a good time in the game is creating and refining your lineup. If you’ve spent a lot of time grinding, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when it comes to putting together the best team. The process of building a solid roster isn’t about rushing to make decisions—it’s about understanding how to use MLB The Show 26 stubs effectively to make incremental upgrades and build a team you’re confident in.
Let’s go through some basic questions to help you get the most out of the lineup-building experience, and how you can approach stubs as a player in practical, everyday terms.
What Are MLB The Show 26 Stubs?
MLB The Show 26 stubs are the in-game currency used to buy packs, players, and other valuable items in the game. Most players use stubs to purchase new players for their roster, open packs to get random player cards, or get access to special content like uniforms or stadiums. The game gives you stubs through rewards, but also gives you the option to purchase them directly with real money.
While you don’t need to purchase stubs to be competitive, they do give you the ability to speed up your progression. But before you rush to purchase MLB The Show 26 stubs, let’s go over some key strategies for managing your lineup that focus on maximizing value without overspending.
How Do I Build a Strong Lineup in MLB The Show 26?
When it comes to building a strong team, most players start by focusing on their main positions—pitching, infield, outfield, and the bench. Each player’s attributes matter, and a balanced team can often outperform a team stacked with superstars who don’t complement each other well.
Focus on the Core of Your Team: In general, most players spend time in the early stages of the game upgrading key positions like starting pitchers, relief pitchers, and power hitters. These players tend to be the backbone of your team and will carry you through most of the content early on. If you’re on a budget, focus your stubs on getting the best possible pitchers and power hitters you can afford. A good pitching rotation will keep you competitive in most situations.
Balance Offense and Defense: Building your offense is important, but don’t neglect your defense. A solid defensive infield can make a difference when you’re trying to stop opponents from getting on base. As you progress, you’ll want to upgrade to players who offer both offense and defense, especially at key positions like shortstop and center field. Balanced players provide more flexibility when it comes to gameplay.
Upgrade Gradually: As you progress in the game, the players on your roster will naturally improve. Don’t rush to get top-tier players too quickly, especially if you’re new. It’s often better to take your time and upgrade your team gradually, using stubs wisely on players who are affordable but still have strong attributes.
How Can I Use MLB The Show 26 Stubs Effectively?
It’s easy to get carried away when it comes to spending stubs in MLB The Show 26, but most players find the best results come when they spend carefully. Here are some tips on using stubs efficiently:
Focus on Specific Player Needs: Instead of trying to buy packs in the hopes of pulling a rare player, focus your stubs on the positions you need to improve. For example, if you need a better closer, use your stubs to target the highest-rated relief pitchers you can afford. This allows you to use stubs purposefully rather than gambling on packs.
Use Stubs for Player Collections: Many players aim to complete player collections. These collections reward you with big-name players or other valuable rewards once you have completed them. Instead of spending your stubs on random packs, save up and purchase players directly to complete these collections and unlock powerful rewards.
Don’t Buy Every Pack: Packs can be tempting, but they’re often a risky way to spend stubs. The odds of pulling high-value players are usually low, and you can quickly burn through your stubs without seeing a return on investment. In general, most players recommend spending stubs on packs only if you’ve already built a solid foundation for your team and have extra stubs to spare.
Watch for Sales or Special Offers: Sometimes the game will offer discounted stubs, special promotions, or limited-time events that give better rewards for the same amount of stubs. Take advantage of these offers when they pop up to get more value out of your stubs.
How Do I Improve My Lineup Without Using Stubs?
If you're looking to improve your lineup without using stubs, you have a few options. Grinding through games or missions will net you rewards, stubs, and player cards. These can be used to fill out your roster with good players without spending money.
Complete Missions: Missions are a good way to earn stubs, special player cards, and other rewards. Focusing on these missions will help you gradually improve your team while keeping your stubs in your pocket for important purchases.
Earn Stubs by Playing: Playing through Diamond Dynasty games or participating in special events can also earn you stubs. If you’re willing to put in the time, you can slowly earn your way to building a top-tier team.
Market and Trading: The in-game marketplace allows players to buy and sell cards. Most players use this to sell duplicates or lower-rated players and use the proceeds to purchase higher-rated ones. This is an excellent way to improve your roster while limiting the need to purchase stubs.
Should I Purchase MLB The Show 26 Stubs?
While MLB The Show 26 stubs can make things easier by allowing you to quickly upgrade your team, they are not necessary to be competitive. Most players find success by being patient and working within their available resources. If you’re enjoying the game and want to speed up your progress, purchasing stubs is an option—but make sure to use them wisely.
For many players, the enjoyment of MLB The Show 26 comes from the strategy of building a team over time and seeing gradual improvements. Rather than rushing to build a perfect lineup right away, take your time, focus on upgrading in a balanced way, and use stubs only when they’ll have the biggest impact on your team.
