1. Start with Your Core Lineup

Your first priority should always be building a balanced core lineup. This doesn’t mean chasing every Diamond-tier card from MLB The Show 25 Stubs day one—it means strategically investing in affordable, high-value players who perform well in early games.

Look for Underrated Golds and Low Diamonds

Many Gold-tier cards outperform their ratings, offering elite stats in key categories for a fraction of the cost. For example, a 84 OVR contact hitter might give you more consistent at-bats than a flashy 90+ power slugger who strikes out often. Similarly, low-tier Diamonds with balanced fielding and speed attributes can anchor your defense while you build around them.

Balance Is Key

Aim for a mix of right-handed and left-handed hitters to handle different pitching matchups. Don’t neglect defense—strong fielders can save you runs, especially early when errors can swing games. In MLB The Show 25, defensive metrics are more impactful than ever, and misplays can be costly.

2. Invest in Equipment and Perks for Your Ballplayer

If you’re playing Road to the Show (RTTS) or Diamond Dynasty with a created player, equipment and perks are one of the smartest early investments you can make. These items directly boost your attributes and stay with your player long-term.

Focus on Attribute-Boosting Equipment

Prioritize equipment that enhances your key strengths based on your archetype. For example:

Power Hitters: Invest in bats and bat grips that increase Power and Contact.

Contact Hitters: Look for bat skins and batting gloves that boost Vision and Plate Discipline.

Pitchers: Go for gloves and cleats that improve Control, Break, and Velocity.

Even Silver or Gold-tier gear can make a big difference early on. Diamond-tier equipment can come later once your player rating and Stub balance improve.

Choose Archetypes Wisely

Perks and archetypes influence your playstyle. Early on, pick a balanced archetype (like Power/Contact Hybrid for hitters or Velocity/Control for pitchers) to keep your growth steady while you learn the system. Investing in the right archetype now saves you time retraining later.

3. Learn the Marketplace Early

The Community Marketplace in MLB The Show 25 is one of the most powerful ways to grow your wealth if you know how to use it. Every player, piece of equipment, and perk has fluctuating value based on in-game demand and upcoming content drops.

Flipping 101

Flipping means buying low and selling high. Early in the game cycle, player prices swing wildly as new events and programs launch. Look for cards in high demand but temporarily undervalued—often, these include players required for Collections or strong Live Series performers.

For example, if a Team Affinity program requires a specific team’s roster, prices for that team’s players spike. Buy before demand peaks, then sell once the hype hits.

Avoid Panic Buying

Many players waste Stubs early by impulse-buying expensive Diamonds. Instead, let the market stabilize. Within a week or two of buy MLB Stubs release, prices typically drop as supply increases. Investing smart means being patient.