If you're diving into MLB The Show 25, one of the most crucial aspects to master is team building—and that means understanding which cards are worth pursuing. Whether you're an experienced player or new to Diamond Dynasty, knowing which cards provide the best value is key. From catchers to outfielders, each position has its standout players, and in this ultimate tier list, we'll MLB 25 Stubs rank the best cards for each role, helping you form the most competitive squad possible.
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S-Tier: Must-Have Cards
Catchers:
In the world of Diamond Dynasty, catching is often a position of need, but with a few elite cards, you can really make a difference. Jason Varitek (5K on the market) stands out as an affordable, switch-hitting catcher who excels at timing and hitting, making him one of the top picks. For a more expensive but potent option, Mike Napoli shines, especially for those who can unlock Trout for his strong bat. Another great option is Ted Simmons, another switch-hitting catcher that delivers consistent hitting stats, though he's a bit pricier.
First Base:
Gil Hodges dominates as the top-tier first baseman in MLB The Show 25. His offensive stats are off the charts, and he's a reliable defensive option, making him the perfect cornerstone for any team. Bryce Harper comes in as an A-tier player, but his swing makes him incredibly effective, often being one of the most favored in the game. On a budget? Anthony Santander provides excellent power and is a switch hitter who can also play in the outfield.
Second Base:
For second base, Alex Bregman takes the top spot due to his incredible balance of contact, power, and defense. He can also play third, giving you flexibility in your lineup. Ketel Marte also stands out as a reliable switch-hitter with great fielding, making him a valuable all-around player.
Pitching:
In terms of pitchers, Roger Clemens is head and shoulders above the rest, widely regarded as one of the best cards in the game. He has all the tools—velocity, pitch mix, and control—making him virtually unhittable. Right behind him, Al Leiter and Andy Pettitte shine, offering excellent control and great mechanics, especially for those who favor left-handed pitchers. Fernando Valenzuela is another standout, with a devastating mix of pitches that can dominate any hitter.
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A-Tier: Strong Performers
Catchers:
If you're willing to spend a bit more, Gary Sánchez is a formidable choice, packing power and solid defense, making him one of the top A-tier options. Another fantastic pick is Will Smith, known for his offensive consistency and decent defense.
First Base:
David Ortiz (aka Big Papi) is a classic, but his low speed makes him a bit of a liability in certain situations. If you're playing high difficulty or need a quick player, he might not always fit. Chase Headley is a great all-around choice, especially if you're looking for a switch-hitter with solid defense.
Second Base:
Glaber Torres is an all-around beast with solid contact and good defensive stats. Jason Kipnis is another great option, providing excellent power and the ability to switch-hit, but lacks secondary positions, limiting his versatility. Mookie Betts, while not traditionally a second baseman, can serve as a versatile player who fits into several key positions.
Pitching:
In the A-tier of pitchers, Chris Sale brings devastating velocity and pitching mechanics that can overpower hitters. If you're looking for a lefty with great stuff, Steve Carlton is a strong option, as is Noah Schultz, who has a unique and hard-to-read pitching motion. Both pitchers feature great pitch mixes, offering the control and velocity necessary to dominate.
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B-Tier: Solid Options with Some Limitations
Catchers:
In this category, Adley Rutschman provides a solid switch-hitting option but lacks top-tier power, limiting his appeal. Johnny Bench might not be as flashy but offers decent hitting and a reliable glove behind the plate. Kyle Hagashioka is another strong choice, known for his high power and ability to hit home runs, though his defense isn't spectacular.
First Base:
Babe Ruth remains one of the best pure hitters in the game but struggles with defensive limitations, making him a solid DH option. Cody Bellinger excels with defense and solid offensive stats but lacks the power you might expect from a first baseman. If you're after a more defensive-minded first baseman, Jake Berger is a great option.
Second Base:
Travis Bazana is another fantastic card, with decent contact and defense. Tommy Edman offers great versatility, although his lack of power makes him less attractive compared to others in the tier. Whit Merrifield is a solid utility player who can cover nearly every position, making him a fantastic bench player or defensive substitution.
Pitching:
In B-tier, pitchers like Corbin Burns and Roy Halladay offer solid pitching but fall short at higher difficulties. Buck Holtz and Clayton Kershaw are great in theory but are difficult to control. If you're looking for great control but not enough velocity, these options work, but against elite hitters, they can be a struggle.
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C-Tier: Good For Specific Situations
Catchers:
Pudge Rodriguez and JT Realmuto may not have the most powerful bats, but they provide excellent defense, making them ideal for offline play or defensive-minded teams. William Contreras is a platoon bat, but his power against lefties makes him a useful option in the right lineup.
First Base:
Frank Thomas and Freddie Freeman have solid stats but lack power compared to some of the higher-tier options. David Justice is a fun card to play with, especially against left-handed pitchers.
Second Base:
Marcus Semien and Bryson Stott can provide solid defense and decent offense but aren't consistent enough to break into the higher tiers. These cards are good for filling out your squad but not top-tier performers.
Pitching:
If you're looking for a starter in the C-tier, Jim Cant and Max Fried provide decent options but lack that high-level velocity or control that makes elite pitchers stand out. These cards work for filling out a roster but are less reliable for high-level competition.
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D-Tier: The Bottom of the Barrel
At the bottom of the list, you'll find players who offer little value in higher levels of play. While some of these cards are fun to use for casual play or specific challenges, they lack the attributes or playstyle versatility to perform well in Diamond Dynasty's competitive environment.
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Conclusion
Building a competitive team in MLB The Show 25 requires understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each card, and this tier list provides you with a solid foundation for choosing the right players. Whether you're focusing on hitting, defense, or pitching, the right cards can make all the difference in Diamond Dynasty. Keep this guide in mind as you build your roster and continue climbing the competitive ladder!
Let me know in the comments which players you cheap MLB 25 Stubs swear by or if there are any underrated gems that deserve more recognition in this tier list!
