1. Understand the New Baserunning System

MLB The Show 25 introduces smarter baserunning controls and MLB The Show 25 Stubs more lifelike animations. Players now react to batted balls and fielder positioning with greater accuracy, making decisions like rounding a base or holding up more realistic.

The improved manual baserunning system gives you full control — but also full responsibility. Mistimed inputs can lead to costly outs, while smart reads can stretch an extra base or score a runner from first on a gap shot.

Key tip: Learn the difference between default, classic, and manual baserunning controls in the settings. Manual gives you the most control but requires precise timing. Practice switching runners and issuing independent commands so you can react instantly in high-pressure moments.

2. Read the Ball Off the Bat

The first step to smart baserunning is reading contact. Watch the angle, speed, and trajectory of every hit:

Grounders through the infield: Aggressive runners should always round the next base slightly to test the outfielder’s throw.

Line drives: Hold your ground if there’s a chance of a catch; double plays are the easiest way to kill a rally.

Fly balls to deep outfield: Tag up early and watch the fielder’s body language. If they’re running back or turning, you likely have time to advance.

Train your eyes to track the ball rather than rely on automated base prompts. The AI is smarter in MLB The Show 25, but human judgment still outperforms auto-pathing in clutch moments.

3. Know When to Steal (and When Not To)

Stealing bases is thrilling but risky — especially with improved pickoff mechanics in MLB The Show 25. Pitchers now use varied pickoff timings and deceptive deliveries, making predictable steals a quick route to an out.

Stealing tips:

Only steal with runners who have Speed (SPD) and Baserunning Aggressiveness (BR AGG) above 75.

Lead off one or two steps max. Anything more triggers the AI to throw over more often.

Watch the pitcher’s leg motion — lefties in particular will bait runners with subtle pauses.

Use the “First Move” strategy sparingly; while it can catch opponents off guard, it’s easily countered by quick pickoffs.

Pro move: If you suspect a pickoff, press back immediately before the animation finishes — a quick reflex can still save your runner.

4. Exploit Defensive Positioning

Positioning is everything. Many players overlook where defenders are set up before each pitch, but paying attention can unlock free bases.

If a left fielder shifts deep against a power hitter, consider sending a fast runner from first to third on a sharp single. Conversely, when infielders are playing in for a bunt or double-play attempt, hit-and-run plays become far more effective.

In Franchise and Diamond Dynasty modes, use scouting reports and shift data to predict defensive alignments. The more information you have, the better your baserunning decisions will be.

5. Use Situational Awareness to Pressure Opponents

Smart baserunning isn’t just about stealing or taking extra bases — it’s about creating pressure. Runners on base force pitchers to change their rhythm, use slide steps, and MLB Stubs for sale split focus between the batter and the runner.