7 Beginner Mistakes to Avoid in MLB The Show 26
Posted: Sat Mar 07, 2026 2:06 am
MLB The Show 26 is a great game, but like any sports game, it comes with a steep learning curve. Whether you're new to the series or just trying to get better, avoiding some common mistakes can make your experience a lot more enjoyable. Here are seven beginner mistakes to watch out for and how to fix them.
1. Why Are You Struggling With Timing?
One of the most common mistakes beginners make is having trouble with timing when hitting or pitching. If you're missing a lot of pitches or swinging at everything, it might be due to poor timing.
How to Fix It:
The key to hitting in MLB The Show 26 is learning how to time your swing properly. When you step up to the plate, you'll see a pitcher's windup, and you need to judge the pitch speed and where it will cross the strike zone. It takes practice to sync up your swing with the pitcher's motion, but you'll get better over time.
A helpful tip: Don't just swing at every pitch. Work the count. Patience is key. Focus on getting a feel for different pitches, and try to anticipate whether a pitch will be inside or outside. Over time, you'll start connecting more consistently.
Pro Tip:
In settings, you can adjust the difficulty and timing of pitches to better match your skill level. Take advantage of this when you're starting out.
2. Why Is My Pitching So Unpredictable?
Another mistake beginners make is not using the pitching mechanics properly. Throwing fastballs and curveballs in the right situations can make a huge difference, but a lot of players tend to over-rely on the same pitch or struggle with pitch location.
How to Fix It:
First, try mixing up your pitches more often. Use a variety of pitches to keep hitters off-balance. For example, throwing a change-up after a few fastballs can mess with timing. You also want to make sure you're hitting your spots. Don't just throw a pitch down the middle and hope for the best. Try to aim for the edges of the strike zone to make it harder for the batter to make contact.
Use the pitch meter to gauge how accurately you're throwing, and pay attention to the location markers when you're setting up your pitches. It's a learning curve, but with practice, you'll start to notice a significant improvement in your pitching consistency.
3. Why Am I Losing So Often in Online Matches?
If you’re struggling in online matches, it’s often because you're not adjusting your game based on your opponent’s playstyle. Beginners often stick to one strategy or feel too rushed.
How to Fix It:
In online matches, you’ll face players with different strategies and skill levels. Don’t just go with your default approach. Watch what your opponent is doing, and try to adjust. For example, if you notice your opponent is aggressive with their swings, throw more off-speed pitches to throw them off. If they’re patient, you might want to try throwing more fastballs to get them swinging early.
Another common mistake is rushing through the game. Take your time between pitches and make sure you're always analyzing the situation. Consider the count, the batter, and even how your pitcher is performing. Don’t forget about your bullpen – make sure you're making strategic pitching changes, especially when you see that your starter is tiring out.
4. Am I Missing Out on Important Features?
A lot of new players ignore certain features of MLB The Show 26 because they don’t realize how useful they are, such as customizing your player, tweaking your roster, and building your Diamond Dynasty lineup.
How to Fix It:
Spend some time in the menus, especially in Diamond Dynasty. Building a solid team is essential if you want to compete in this mode. You don’t have to buy a ton of packs to be successful, but having a well-balanced roster will make a big difference in gameplay. Keep an eye out for promotions and events, which can help you earn better players and items.
Another feature you should focus on is your player customization. Don’t just settle for the default look of your players or team. It’s a fun way to personalize your experience, and it helps you feel more invested in the game.
If you don’t want to grind for hours to build your team, you can always buy MLB 26 stubs Nintendo Switch. This can speed up your progress and help you get the players you need to compete at a higher level without spending a lot of time farming stubs.
5. Why Am I Striking Out So Much?
If you're swinging and missing constantly, you're likely chasing pitches out of the strike zone. Beginners often have a tendency to swing at anything, especially when the pitch count is full.
How to Fix It:
First, take a deep breath and slow things down. Don’t swing at every pitch. Even though it might seem tempting, you need to wait for your pitch. Work the count and focus on getting a pitch that you can drive. The best hitters in real life don’t just swing at everything – they wait for a pitch that fits their strengths. You should do the same.
Additionally, pay attention to the batter’s stats. Each player has strengths and weaknesses. Some players are better at hitting off-speed pitches, while others struggle against high fastballs. Customize your approach for each batter accordingly.
6. Why Is My Fielding So Bad?
If your fielding is off, it could be because you're not using the right control mechanics. Fielding in MLB The Show 26 can be tricky at first, and beginners often make errors because they rush or don’t use the right input.
How to Fix It:
Fielding is about timing and positioning. When a ball is hit your way, make sure you're moving towards it with the left analog stick before you make the throw. Be careful not to overcompensate when trying to catch a ball – sometimes, less is more. Let the game’s animation take over once you’re in position.
Another common mistake is throwing to the wrong base. You should always be aware of the game situation. If you don’t have a play at second base, don’t force it there – go for the sure out at first.
Additionally, don’t forget about the "throwing meter" – make sure you release the throw button at the right time. A lot of fielding errors come from releasing the button too early or too late. Try practicing fielding in Training Mode to get a feel for the mechanics.
7. Why Are My Runners Always Getting Thrown Out?
Base running is an area where many beginners struggle. Overrunning bases, not using lead-offs, and getting caught in rundowns are common mistakes when you’re starting.
How to Fix It:
Base running is all about timing and awareness. Make sure you're not overswinging when rounding the bases – this can lead to unnecessary outs. Pay attention to the situation: If there's a fly ball hit to the outfield, don't try to stretch your base running attempt. Hold your runners unless you're certain you can make it.
To improve your lead-offs, use the right trigger to get an initial jump when trying to steal bases. Be cautious with stolen base attempts, though. If the pitcher has a quick delivery, it might be better to hold off on stealing until the right time.
By avoiding these common beginner mistakes, you'll start playing MLB The Show 26 with more confidence and skill. With practice and patience, your gameplay will improve, and you'll be able to compete at higher levels, whether online or in offline modes. Keep experimenting, and don't be afraid to adjust your strategy based on your experiences.
1. Why Are You Struggling With Timing?
One of the most common mistakes beginners make is having trouble with timing when hitting or pitching. If you're missing a lot of pitches or swinging at everything, it might be due to poor timing.
How to Fix It:
The key to hitting in MLB The Show 26 is learning how to time your swing properly. When you step up to the plate, you'll see a pitcher's windup, and you need to judge the pitch speed and where it will cross the strike zone. It takes practice to sync up your swing with the pitcher's motion, but you'll get better over time.
A helpful tip: Don't just swing at every pitch. Work the count. Patience is key. Focus on getting a feel for different pitches, and try to anticipate whether a pitch will be inside or outside. Over time, you'll start connecting more consistently.
Pro Tip:
In settings, you can adjust the difficulty and timing of pitches to better match your skill level. Take advantage of this when you're starting out.
2. Why Is My Pitching So Unpredictable?
Another mistake beginners make is not using the pitching mechanics properly. Throwing fastballs and curveballs in the right situations can make a huge difference, but a lot of players tend to over-rely on the same pitch or struggle with pitch location.
How to Fix It:
First, try mixing up your pitches more often. Use a variety of pitches to keep hitters off-balance. For example, throwing a change-up after a few fastballs can mess with timing. You also want to make sure you're hitting your spots. Don't just throw a pitch down the middle and hope for the best. Try to aim for the edges of the strike zone to make it harder for the batter to make contact.
Use the pitch meter to gauge how accurately you're throwing, and pay attention to the location markers when you're setting up your pitches. It's a learning curve, but with practice, you'll start to notice a significant improvement in your pitching consistency.
3. Why Am I Losing So Often in Online Matches?
If you’re struggling in online matches, it’s often because you're not adjusting your game based on your opponent’s playstyle. Beginners often stick to one strategy or feel too rushed.
How to Fix It:
In online matches, you’ll face players with different strategies and skill levels. Don’t just go with your default approach. Watch what your opponent is doing, and try to adjust. For example, if you notice your opponent is aggressive with their swings, throw more off-speed pitches to throw them off. If they’re patient, you might want to try throwing more fastballs to get them swinging early.
Another common mistake is rushing through the game. Take your time between pitches and make sure you're always analyzing the situation. Consider the count, the batter, and even how your pitcher is performing. Don’t forget about your bullpen – make sure you're making strategic pitching changes, especially when you see that your starter is tiring out.
4. Am I Missing Out on Important Features?
A lot of new players ignore certain features of MLB The Show 26 because they don’t realize how useful they are, such as customizing your player, tweaking your roster, and building your Diamond Dynasty lineup.
How to Fix It:
Spend some time in the menus, especially in Diamond Dynasty. Building a solid team is essential if you want to compete in this mode. You don’t have to buy a ton of packs to be successful, but having a well-balanced roster will make a big difference in gameplay. Keep an eye out for promotions and events, which can help you earn better players and items.
Another feature you should focus on is your player customization. Don’t just settle for the default look of your players or team. It’s a fun way to personalize your experience, and it helps you feel more invested in the game.
If you don’t want to grind for hours to build your team, you can always buy MLB 26 stubs Nintendo Switch. This can speed up your progress and help you get the players you need to compete at a higher level without spending a lot of time farming stubs.
5. Why Am I Striking Out So Much?
If you're swinging and missing constantly, you're likely chasing pitches out of the strike zone. Beginners often have a tendency to swing at anything, especially when the pitch count is full.
How to Fix It:
First, take a deep breath and slow things down. Don’t swing at every pitch. Even though it might seem tempting, you need to wait for your pitch. Work the count and focus on getting a pitch that you can drive. The best hitters in real life don’t just swing at everything – they wait for a pitch that fits their strengths. You should do the same.
Additionally, pay attention to the batter’s stats. Each player has strengths and weaknesses. Some players are better at hitting off-speed pitches, while others struggle against high fastballs. Customize your approach for each batter accordingly.
6. Why Is My Fielding So Bad?
If your fielding is off, it could be because you're not using the right control mechanics. Fielding in MLB The Show 26 can be tricky at first, and beginners often make errors because they rush or don’t use the right input.
How to Fix It:
Fielding is about timing and positioning. When a ball is hit your way, make sure you're moving towards it with the left analog stick before you make the throw. Be careful not to overcompensate when trying to catch a ball – sometimes, less is more. Let the game’s animation take over once you’re in position.
Another common mistake is throwing to the wrong base. You should always be aware of the game situation. If you don’t have a play at second base, don’t force it there – go for the sure out at first.
Additionally, don’t forget about the "throwing meter" – make sure you release the throw button at the right time. A lot of fielding errors come from releasing the button too early or too late. Try practicing fielding in Training Mode to get a feel for the mechanics.
7. Why Are My Runners Always Getting Thrown Out?
Base running is an area where many beginners struggle. Overrunning bases, not using lead-offs, and getting caught in rundowns are common mistakes when you’re starting.
How to Fix It:
Base running is all about timing and awareness. Make sure you're not overswinging when rounding the bases – this can lead to unnecessary outs. Pay attention to the situation: If there's a fly ball hit to the outfield, don't try to stretch your base running attempt. Hold your runners unless you're certain you can make it.
To improve your lead-offs, use the right trigger to get an initial jump when trying to steal bases. Be cautious with stolen base attempts, though. If the pitcher has a quick delivery, it might be better to hold off on stealing until the right time.
By avoiding these common beginner mistakes, you'll start playing MLB The Show 26 with more confidence and skill. With practice and patience, your gameplay will improve, and you'll be able to compete at higher levels, whether online or in offline modes. Keep experimenting, and don't be afraid to adjust your strategy based on your experiences.