Whether you’re new to MLB The Show 26 or returning for another season of diamond dynasty domination, managing your Stubs wisely is crucial. Stubs are the primary in-game currency, and how you spend them can make or break your long-term progress—especially if you’re aiming to compete without pouring extra cash into microtransactions. Over the years, countless players have stumbled into the same spending traps that slow their progression, limit their team-building options, or just lead to buyer’s remorse.
To help you avoid these pitfalls, here are 9 rookie mistakes you should steer clear of when using your hard-earned Stubs in MLB The Show 26.
1. Buying Packs Instead of Players
It’s tempting to crack open packs in hopes of scoring a high-diamond player. The thrill is real—but so is the disappointment. Packs are essentially lottery tickets, and while some players get lucky, the odds are rarely in your favor.
Pro Tip: Use your Stubs to buy specific players off the marketplace instead. You’ll get better value and more control over your lineup.
2. Ignoring the Marketplace Trends
Many players make the mistake of buying cards impulsively, without understanding the ebb and flow of the marketplace. Prices fluctuate depending on time of day, active events, and newly released content.
Pro Tip: Study the market before making big purchases. Prices often drop after big pack drops or during double XP events. Use Buy Orders instead of quick buys to save Stubs.
3. Overpaying for New Content Immediately
When new player programs or limited-time cards are released, their prices skyrocket. Rookies rush to grab them instantly, often paying double or triple the price they’d see days later.
Pro Tip: Wait it out. If a card isn’t absolutely essential for your current lineup or collections, chances are it’ll be significantly cheaper in a week.
4. Neglecting Collections and Programs
Many players burn through Stubs on flashy cards without realizing that grinding programs and completing collections can earn them top-tier players—without spending anything.
Pro Tip: Before spending, check if the card you want is obtainable through a program or collection. Often, you can earn high-value players just by playing consistently and completing objectives.
5. Not Using Buy and Sell Orders Properly
A major mistake is ignoring the margin between buy and sell orders in the Community Market. Rookies often hit “Buy Now” or “Sell Now,” which cuts into their potential profits or savings.
Pro Tip: Always place your own Buy Orders and Sell Orders. This can save or earn you thousands of Stubs over time—especially with expensive cards.
6. Wasting Stubs on Stadiums, Uniforms, and Equipment Too Early
Cosmetics like stadiums, uniforms, and equipment can be fun, but they don’t help much in building a strong team early on. New players often splurge here instead of investing in players or grinding modes that provide long-term returns.
Pro Tip: Focus on improving your roster first. Once you have a solid foundation, you can personalize your team later with cosmetic items.
7. Chasing High Overall Ratings Over Performance
Many rookies chase high-rated cards assuming they’re automatically better. But in The Show, not all 90+ overall players fit every playstyle or situation. A cheaper 85-rated player with the right swing or fielding attributes might outperform a superstar in your lineup.
Pro Tip: Test players before committing big Stubs. Use free versions from events, moments, or rent via Battle Royale and Ranked Seasons. Stick with what works, not what looks good on paper.
8. Failing to Invest in Pitching Depth
Batters are flashy and often take center stage, but having strong pitchers—especially bullpen arms—is critical in competitive modes. Many players blow Stubs on power hitters while ignoring their rotation and bullpen.
Pro Tip: Spread your Stub investment across all positions. Clutch relievers and reliable starters can often be the difference between wins and losses in close games.
9. Not Saving Stubs for Future Events
It’s easy to burn through all your Stubs early in the game, especially when you’re excited to upgrade your team. But MLB The Show 26 is a live service title—new events, bosses, and content drops are constantly around the corner.
Pro Tip: Always keep a reserve of Stubs in your account. That way, when the next game-changing card drops or an event requires quick action, you’re prepared.
Spending Stubs wisely in MLB The Show 26 is about patience, awareness, and long-term strategy. By avoiding these common rookie mistakes, you’ll stretch your currency further, build a better roster, and enjoy the game’s progression systems without frustration.
If you’re planning to go far in Diamond Dynasty—or just want the most fun per Stub—stay smart, stay informed, and remember that sometimes the best move is the one you don’t make.
