Top Rated Teams in MLB The Show 26
With the release cycle of MLB The Show 26 approaching (or just arrived, depending on your region), one of the first strategic decisions any player makes is: which team do I choose? Whether you’re jumping into Franchise Mode, Road to the Show, or MyTeam/Diamond Dynasty, the rated strength of your team plays a big role in how easy (or difficult) your experience will be.
While specifics for MLB The Show 26 aren’t yet fully published across every mode, we can extrapolate from past versions (24, 25) to determine the “big picks” and what to look for. For example, in MLB The Show 25, the top‐rated teams were led by franchises like the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, and Philadelphia Phillies thanks to stacked rosters and strong all-around ratings.
So, for MLB The Show 26, you should focus on three things when judging teams:
1. Star power and depth – Does the roster include multiple 90+ overall players (OVR) or signature players who dominate modes?
2. Balance across categories – One great hitter doesn’t guarantee success if pitching and defense are weak.
3. Future-proof potential – Especially in Franchise or Road to the Show, a younger core means you’ll have longer payoff.
Below, I’ll highlight three teams that are very likely to be top picks in MLB The Show 26, explain why they stand out, and give some tips for players depending on their mode of choice.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
Why they’re strong
The Dodgers have been the consistent #1 in previous editions. For MLB The Show 24 and 25, they often featured multiple 99-OVR players, deep rotations, and elite hitters. They combine star names like Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts (both 99 OVR in The Show 24) with an already loaded supporting cast. In Franchise Mode or Road to the Show, this means fewer “holes” to address. In MyTeam/Diamond Dynasty, you’ll often start with many strong cards from the Dodgers, making them efficient.
What you should consider
• Because they are so strong, playing with them might reduce the challenge if you like a more underdog path.
• In modes where budget or stubs matter, you may pay higher premiums for Dodgers cards or players.
• If MLB The Show 26 introduces roster updates/ages, keep an eye on the supporting cast’s age to ensure long-term value.
Best for: Players who want a “ready to win” team with minimal rebuild time.
2. New York Yankees
Why they’re strong
The Yankees consistently show up near the top in team-rating lists for The Show. For example, one guide ranked them the highest-rated team in The Show 25 with an 86 average OVR across cards. They offer big-name hitters, a powerful lineup, and brand value that means the game often gives them “top team” status.
What you should consider
• Their pitching and speed categories sometimes lag behind their hitting and power, so you might need to shore up those areas.
• The cost of using them in MyTeam may be higher if players expect premium choices.
• If you like a longer-term challenge, you might find yourself chasing upgrades rather than starting with everything.
Best for: Players who want strong offensive firepower, major-league branding, and plenty of content around a big franchise.
3. Philadelphia Phillies
Why they’re strong
The Phillies were ranked #2 in several MLB The Show 25 “best team” lists thanks to excellent contact hitting, strong speed, and a decent pitching core. Their mix of young and veteran talent gives them great all-round potential. In many modes, balancing offense and defense/pitching is key — the Phillies are one of the teams that do that reasonably well.
What you should consider
• They may not have quite the same depth or star power as the Dodgers or Yankees, so in modes like Franchise, you may still have some “work to do” off-season-wise.
• Because they are a strong team but not always “#1”, budget players may find better value and challenge here.
• Pay attention to bullpen strength in MLB The Show 26 if it’s revamped: some articles pointed out bullpen can be a weak link for this team.
Best for: Players who want strong competition but also want a team with room to improve and grow.
Quick Picks for Other Good Team-Investments
While the big three above are among the safest choices, if you’re looking for “value picks” or something less obvious, consider these general guidelines:
• Teams with multiple 90+ OVR players or with a strong pitching staff.
• Teams that have balance (hitting+pitching+defense).
• Teams whose real-life rosters fit your playstyle (e.g., speed-based, power-based, pitching-dominant). Even prior versions of the game highlight that defense and pitching often separate good teams from great in Franchise/RTTS. So a team that may not have “all the stars” but has elite pitching or defense might be a smart pick if your style is “grind/pitching first”.
Strategy Tips for Choosing & Playing Top Teams in MLB The Show 26
1. In Franchise Mode
If you pick a top-rated team:
• You can focus more on building depth than worrying about the core roster.
• Consider investing in player development (farm system) rather than massive trades.
• Exploit the team’s strengths: e.g., if your hitting is elite, use an aggressive batting strategy; if pitching is elite, rely on strikeouts and weak contact.
If you pick a mid-tier or underdog team:
• Use trades and FA savvy to gradually build up.
• Use the offseason to misbalance roster risk: trade veterans for prospects.
• Enjoy the challenge of turning a lesser team into a contender.
2. In Diamond Dynasty/MyTeam
• Early on, you’ll want “bang for buck” cards. Choosing a top team means you may spend more MLB 26 stubs but gain results quicker.
• Look for “theme team” opportunities: using a full roster from one franchise can unlock bonuses or favorite branding.
• Monitor card releases: top teams often get premium content (legends, special cards), which amplifies their strength.
3. In Road to the Show/Player Career Modes
• Joining a star team means a better supporting cast and fewer losses, which helps progression.
• But your individual spotlight moments may be fewer (less drama). Choosing a weaker team can offer more “hero-story” opportunities.
Final Thoughts
In summary, for MLB The Show 26: If you want a quick, high-reward experience, pick the Los Angeles Dodgers. If you love iconic franchises with big names, the New York Yankees are a safe bet. If you’re after strong balance with some upside, go with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Whichever team you pick, align it with your preferred mode (Franchise vs MyTeam) and your playing style (power, contact, pitching). The right team at the start can make a big difference in your season on the diamond.
MMOexp MLB 26 Team