MLB The Show 26 has officially unveiled the July Spotlight Retro Lightning Program, rewarding players with a 99 OVR David Ortiz based on his incredible July 2002 performance. The legendary slugger headlines the latest Spotlight content and offers elite power, clutch hitting, and one of the most dangerous left-handed bats available in Diamond Dynasty. Whether you're building a competitive Ranked squad or completing collections, this free Retro Lightning reward is one of the best programs to prioritize. As you complete program objectives, you'll also earn valuable MLB The Show 26 Stubs and other rewards to upgrade your roster even faster.
1. David Ortiz Becomes July's Retro Lightning Reward
The newest MLB The Show 26 content drop celebrates one of baseball's most iconic hitters. David Ortiz receives a 99 OVR Retro Lightning Card inspired by his outstanding July 2002 campaign with the Minnesota Twins.
The card is expected to feature elite offensive attributes, making Ortiz an immediate upgrade for most Diamond Dynasty lineups. His combination of raw power and consistent contact should make him one of the strongest designated hitters or first basemen currently available through free content.
As with previous Spotlight Retro Lightning Programs, players can unlock Ortiz simply by completing featured program objectives instead of purchasing packs.
2. What Makes 99 OVR David Ortiz So Valuable?
David Ortiz has always been one of the most popular hitters in MLB The Show, and this version should continue that tradition.
Expected strengths include:
Elite Power vs Right-Handed Pitching
Excellent Power vs Left-Handed Pitching
High Contact Ratings
Strong Clutch Attribute
Reliable Vision for difficult counts
Although speed and defense won't be his strongest areas, his offensive production alone easily justifies a permanent place in many Diamond Dynasty lineups.
For players needing a middle-of-the-order bat, Ortiz instantly fills that role.
3. Fastest Way to Complete the July Spotlight Program
The Spotlight Programs are usually designed around earning Program Stars through multiple activities. To unlock David Ortiz efficiently, focus on completing several objectives simultaneously.
Prioritize these activities:
Finish all Spotlight Moments first
Complete the associated Player Missions
Use July Spotlight players in Conquest games
Progress Parallel XP objectives while grinding offline
Complete any available collections tied to the program
Mini Seasons and Conquest remain the fastest methods because they allow multiple objectives to be completed in a single game while also generating additional rewards and MLB The Show 26 Stubs.
4. Best Ways to Use David Ortiz in Diamond Dynasty
Once unlocked, Ortiz immediately becomes a premier run producer.
He performs especially well in these situations:
Cleanup hitter against right-handed starters
Designated Hitter in Ranked Seasons
First baseman for offense-focused lineups
Event and Battle Royale teams requiring maximum power
Surrounding Ortiz with high-contact hitters gives him frequent RBI opportunities, allowing his elite power to shine.
Players who enjoy patient hitting will get even more value by forcing pitchers into favorable counts before attacking mistake pitches.
5. Additional Rewards Worth Earning
The Retro Lightning Program is expected to include much more than just the headline reward.
Players can likely earn:
Spotlight player cards
Choice packs
Equipment items
XP rewards
Packs
MLB The Show 26 Stubs
Even if David Ortiz is your primary goal, completing the entire reward path provides excellent overall value for both new and veteran Diamond Dynasty players.
6. Final Verdict
