1. Neglecting the New College Experience
MLB The Show 26 expands the “Amateur Years” with 19 licensed NCAA colleges, giving you more ways to build your player before the draft.
The Mistake: Skipping college to jump straight into the draft.
The Fix: Play through the NCAA season and the Men’s College World Series. This helps your attributes grow naturally and boosts your draft stock in a safer environment than minor-league AA. You’ll start your professional career stronger and more prepared.
2. Over-Reliant on Power Swings
Many beginners try to hit every pitch with the Power Swing (Square on PS, X on Xbox).
The Mistake: Using Power Swings exclusively, shrinking your Plate Coverage Indicator (PCI) and missing more pitches.
The Fix: Stick to
Normal Swings for most at-bats. They give a balanced PCI and still have enough power for home runs. Reserve Power Swings for favorable counts like 2-0 or 3-1 when you anticipate a fastball in the sweet spot.
3. Mismanaging the “Bear Down” Pitching Mechanic
The new Bear Down mechanic lets pitchers stack “elite focus” for key moments.
The Mistake: Hoarding charges or using them on low-leverage pitches.
The Fix: Use Bear Down during high-pressure situations—like runners in scoring position—to boost accuracy and velocity when it matters most.
4. Poor Discipline with “Big Zone” Hitting
Big Zone hitting is a balance between Directional and Zone hitting, offering an expanded sweet spot.
The Mistake: Expecting Perfect-Perfect results every time.
The Fix: Select one of nine quadrants to expand your sweet spot. For ultimate contact quality, transition to Zone Hitting over time, as it provides the best control for high-level gameplay.
5. Ignoring Pitch Shadows and Traits
Pitch shadows show where the ball could land if your motion isn’t perfect.
The Mistake: Throwing to the edge of the strike zone without considering the shadow.
The Fix: Make sure the entire shadowed area is within your intended target. If part of it is outside the zone, you risk a ball.
Pro Tip: Avoid overusing the 2-Seam Fastball—it often acts like a slower 4-seam with little movement, making it easier for hitters.
6. Skipping Training and Simulating Games
Simulating games may feel faster, but it comes at a cost.
The Mistake: Skipping minor-league games to reach MLB sooner.
The Fix: Play the games to earn XP needed for Silver, Gold, and Diamond skill sets. This ensures your player reaches a major-league-ready overall rating (usually 85–90+) by your first full season.
Summary of Recommended Settings
Setting Beginner Recommendation Benefit
Hitting Interface Big Zone or Zone Better contact quality than Directional
Pitching Interface Classic or Meter Easier than mechanical Pinpoint
Camera View Strike Zone Helps recognize pitch breaks
Throwing Button Accuracy Puts throw results in your control via meter
Quick Tip for Fast Progress
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