Prioritize Pitches With MLB The Show 25 Stubs Horizontal Break in MLB The Show 25
The meta strongly favors:
Sinker
Cutter
Sweeping Slider
Slurve
Circle Change
Why?
Because they attack side-to-side PCI movement, which is harder for hitters than purely vertical movement.
If your pitcher doesn’t have at least two horizontal-moving pitches, they’re not meta for Ranked.
Control the Running Game on the Mound
Stolen bases are stronger this year, so controlling runners is part of pitching strategy.
Use Quick Pitching
Mix in quick pitch occasionally to disrupt timing.
Vary Looks
Step-offs
Holds
Pickoffs
Always throw at least one pick when someone reaches +80 speed. Reducing their lead reduces their scoring probability.
Manage Pitcher Stamina Like a Pro
Tired pitchers leave balls over the plate. MLB The Show 25 penalizes stamina more aggressively.
Rules for Stamina Management
Remove SP after 85–95 pitches depending on control loss
Don’t let relievers face three batters if their confidence is shaken
Warm up relievers early—even in the 4th inning if you're struggling
Optimize Stamina and Substitutions
Many XP Paths require full games or inning counts:
Rotate players to prevent fatigue penalties
Use auto-substitute for irrelevant positions
Simulate innings when objectives don’t require specific actions
Pro Tip: Completing objectives while simming parts of games can double your efficiency.
Example:
High fastball → Slurve away
Inside cutter → Slider off the plate
Low sinker → Changeup in dirt
Once you identify a pitcher’s rhythm, punish predictable patterns.
Use Zone + PCI Anchor for Extreme Scenarios
If someone spams sinker inside or cutter outside:
Anchor PCI in that direction
Wait for a miss over the middle
Lift for elevated xBHs
This dramatically increases barrel consistency.
Aim for Middle-Out for Power, Middle-In for Contact
The power meta today favors:
Opposite-field home runs on outside pitches
Pull-swing home runs on inside heaters
Don’t try to pull low-and-away sliders. Don’t try to go the other way on 102 mph inside.
Hit pitches where they’re thrown.
Final Thoughts: Master the Meta, Master the Plate
Track Your Progress and Plan Ahead
Programs and XP Paths can be overwhelming. The most efficient players:
Keep a checklist of objectives and modes
Know the “3 Batter Drop Rule”:
Once stamina dips past 50%, control worsens drastically over MLB Stubs for sale the next three batters. Don’t push past it unless it’s a blowout.