Building a championship-caliber team in MLB The Show 25 requires strategy, smart roster management, and an understanding of player strengths. Whether you're playing Diamond Dynasty, Franchise Mode, or Road to MLB 25 Stubs 
the Show, assembling the best squad can make the difference between a playoff run and an early exit.

In this guide, we'll break down the best ways to construct a dominant team, from scouting top players to optimizing chemistry and budget management.

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1. Understanding Game Modes & Team-Building Strategies

MLB The Show 25 offers multiple ways to build your dream team, each with its own challenges:

A. Diamond Dynasty (DD) – The Ultimate Card-Collecting Mode

- Focuses on collecting player cards with varying rarities (Common, Gold, Diamond).

- Requires completing Programs, Moments, and Conquest Maps to earn rewards.

- Live Series cards update based on real-life performances.

B. Franchise Mode – Full Team Control

- Manage every aspect of an MLB team, including trades, drafts, and contracts.

- Scouting & Player Development are crucial for long-term success.

- Budget Management affects your ability to sign free agents.

C. Road to the Show (RTTS) – Player Career Mode

- Focuses on developing a single player, but team success still matters.

- Choosing the right team can impact your player's growth.

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2. Best Players to Target in MLB The Show 25

Top Hitters (Power & Contact)

- Shohei Ohtani (Two-Way Threat) – Elite hitting and pitching.

- Aaron Judge (Power Hitter) – Best HR hitter in the game.

- Ronald Acuña Jr. (Speed & Power) – A five-tool superstar.

- Mike Trout (All-Around Hitter) – Consistent high-contact and power.

Best Pitchers (Starters & Relievers)

- Gerrit Cole (Ace Starter) – High velocity and control.

- Jacob deGrom (Dominant Fastball) – Unhittable when healthy.

- Josh Hader (Closer) – Best left-handed reliever.

- Emmanuel Clase (Fastest Fastball) – Nearly impossible to hit.

Defensive Specialists

- Fernando Tatis Jr. (SS/OF) – Elite arm strength and range.

- Mookie Betts (2B/OF) – Gold Glove defense with great hitting.

- Adley Rutschman (Catcher) – Best defensive catcher in the game.

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3. How to Earn the Best Players Fast

A. Diamond Dynasty Methods

- Complete Programs & Moments – Earn free packs and player rewards.

- Play Conquest Mode – Unlock hidden rewards and stubs.

- Flip Cards in the Marketplace – Buy low, sell high for profit.

- Invest in Live Series Cards – Buy before roster updates for profit.

B. Franchise Mode Tips

- Trade for Young Talent – Target prospects with high potential.

- Sign Underrated Free Agents – Look for players with hidden value.

- Draft Smartly – Prioritize power hitters and flame-throwing pitchers.

C. Road to the Show (RTTS) Team Selection

- Join a Rebuilding Team – More playing time early in your career.

- Choose a Contender Later – Better chance at winning a World Series.

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4. Team Chemistry & Lineup Optimization

A. Diamond Dynasty Chemistry

- Team Affinity Programs boost stats for players from the same division.

- Captain Cards provide bonuses to teammates.

- Ballplayer Archetypes (RTTS) can enhance team performance.

B. Best Lineup Strategies

1. Leadoff Hitter: Fast, high-contact player (e.g., Trea Turner).

2. Middle Order: Power hitters (Ohtani, Judge, Trout).

3. Clutch Hitter: High contact/vision (Freddie Freeman).

4. Balanced Bench: Left/Right-handed pinch hitters.

C. Pitching Rotation Setup

- Ace (Cole/deGrom) – Starts Game 1 in playoffs.

- Strong No. 2 (Spencer Strider, Corbin Burnes) – Reliable second option.

- Bullpen Depth – Mix of power arms (Hader) and finesse pitchers.

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5. Budget-Friendly Team Builds

If you're starting with limited stubs (in-game currency), try these cost-effective options:

Budget Hitters

- Yordan Alvarez (DH) – Affordable power bat.

- Luis Arraez (Contact Hitter) – High batting average, low cost.

- Oneil Cruz (SS) – Power and speed at a discount.

Budget Pitchers

- Logan Webb (SP) – Great control, low price.

- Devin Williams (RP) – Elite changeup for cheap.

- Camilo Doval (CP) – Hard-throwing closer on a budget.

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6. Advanced Tips for Long-Term Success

- Monitor Roster Updates – Live Series cards improve/drop based on real MLB performance.

- Grind Events & Ranked Seasons – Earn exclusive rewards.

- Use Custom Practice – Improve hitting against tough pitchers.

- Join a Community – Trade tips with other players.

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Final Thoughts

Building the best team in MLB The Show 25 takes time, strategy, and smart decisions. Whether cheap MLB Stubs you're chasing a 99-rated Diamond Dynasty squad or rebuilding a Franchise Mode team, these tips will help you dominate.