Develop Elite Pitch Recognition Skills

Pitch recognition separates average hitters from MLB The Show 25 Stubs elite players. You need to identify pitch type, release point, spin, and location in under half a second.

How to Improve Pitch Recognition

Watch the pitcher's glove hand.
Most pitches can be identified as soon as the ball leaves the hand.

Track the ball, not the pitcher.
Focus solely on the baseball, even before release.

Look for spin cues:

Fastball: straight, consistent spin

Slider: horizontal sweep

Curveball: top-to-bottom drop

Changeup: slow, fading movement

Revisiting these cues during practice mode helps lock in recognition.

Use the Right Swing Type for the Situation

MLB The Show 25 still features the three standard swing types:

Power Swing (Up on Right Stick)

Best with high-power hitters

Useful when ahead in the count (2–0, 3–1)

Normal Swing (X / A)

Best all-around option

Highest consistency

Use in most game situations

Contact Swing (Circle / B)

Great with two strikes

Ideal against elite-speed pitchers

Helps fight off borderline pitches

Smart swing selection increases your competitive advantage in MLB The Show 25 Stubs for sale Ranked play.