Time: 2026-01-09
With the release of MLB The Show 26 arriving (or rolling out regionally), one of the first major decisions every player faces is simple — which team should I pick? Whether you’re jumping into Franchise Mode, Road to the Show, or Diamond Dynasty / MyTeam, the strength and ratings of your chosen franchise determine how challenging — or forgiving — your season will be.
Although full team ratings for MLB The Show 26 aren’t fully public yet, patterns from previous editions (The Show 24 and 25) allow us to predict the most likely powerhouse franchises. In MLB The Show 25, for example, top-rated teams included the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, and Philadelphia Phillies, each offering elite balance and depth.
When judging which team to use, consider three essentials:
Star Power & Depth: Does the roster feature multiple 90+ OVR players or key signature stars?
Balance: Great offense is meaningless if you lack pitching or defense.
Future-Proof Potential: Younger rosters perform better in career or long-term franchise modes.
Below are three teams that stand out as strong early picks in MLB The Show 26, along with analysis based on likely roster trends and performance factors.
Why They’re Strong: The Dodgers have been the franchise to beat in nearly every version. With 99 OVR stars like Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts (from The Show 24) alongside deep pitching and a loaded lineup, they continue to dominate ratings lists. Their consistency makes them a dream for players who want ready-made success without rebuilds.
What to Consider:
The Dodgers’ superior roster can make the game feel less challenging.
Player cards and stubs tied to this team often carry premium costs.
Keep an eye on aging players affecting long-term value in Franchise Mode.
Best For: Players who want instant contention — minimal rebuilding, maximum winning.
Why They’re Strong: The Yankees consistently rank near the top across The Show titles. In MLB The Show 25, they were often rated around 86 team OVR, fueled by power-hitting lineups and legendary branding. Expect another year of explosive offense and name recognition.
What to Consider:
Pitching and speed sometimes trail behind power categories.
Top Yankees cards are usually expensive in Diamond Dynasty.
A great choice for players who enjoy offensive dominance over tactical balance.
Best For: Players who value tradition, offensive might, and a franchise built for media attention.
Why They’re Strong: The Phillies combine solid hitting, strong defense, and competitive pitching — a rare blend in MLB The Show. Often ranking just behind the Dodgers and Yankees, Philly’s balance and youthful mix of roster talent make them versatile and rewarding.
What to Consider:
Their bullpen may be the weak link if The Show 26’s systems emphasize relief depth.
Not as flashy as other teams, but easier to build around strategically.
Great for players who like both challenge and flexibility in roster management.
Best For: Players who seek a balanced, strategic experience with room to grow and improve.
If you prefer an underdog or want better long-term growth potential, focus on teams with:
Several 90+ OVR talents or elite pitching rotations.
Strong balance across hitting, fielding, and speed.
Younger cores suited for multi-season progression.
Teams emphasizing pitching and defense often outperform their overall ratings in competitive game modes — ideal for players who thrive on tight, low-scoring strategies.
Top Teams: Focus on depth and development instead of overhauling the roster.
Mid-Tier Teams: Use trades and free agents efficiently; flip veterans for prospects to future-proof your team.
Exploit each roster’s core strength — e.g., power hitters vs. elite pitching.
Early efficiency is key: you’ll spend more MLB 26 Stubs to acquire star players, but elite cards often guarantee early wins.
Build “theme teams” for synergy bonuses and aesthetic appeal.
Monitor special card releases; top real-world franchises often get premium player drops throughout the year.
Joining a powerhouse team helps ensure more victories and faster progression.
However, playing for weaker teams gives you hero’s-journey moments and more chances to shine individually.
For MLB The Show 26:
Choose the Dodgers for instant dominance and maximum reward.
Pick the Yankees if you crave offensive fireworks and historical flair.
Roll with the Phillies if you prefer balanced gameplay and sustained progress.
Your enjoyment comes down to your playstyle — power vs. precision, speed vs. strategy, and winning now vs. building later. The right franchise choice shapes your entire season, so pick one that fits the way you love to play baseball.