Discover 15 Must-Have Draft Cards in MLB The Show 25

If you're diving into MLB The Show 25’s latest Draft mode, picking the right cards early can be the difference between a solid squad and an unstoppable lineup. Over the past few weeks, I’ve tested dozens of draft choices, compared stats, and paid close attention to how each player performs in real matchups. Here’s a breakdown of 15 must-have draft cards you should keep an eye out for if you want to stay ahead in Ranked, Conquest, or even casual games.

1. 99 OVR Shohei Ohtani (Two-Way Superstar)
Ohtani’s unique blend of elite pitching and batting makes him the ultimate draft steal. His flexibility alone can transform your lineup.

2. 98 OVR Ronald Acuña Jr. (Outfield Threat)
Speed, power, and solid defensive stats—Acuña’s card fits perfectly whether you need a leadoff hitter or a cleanup option.

3. 97 OVR Mookie Betts (Versatile Second Baseman)
With excellent contact vs. both lefties and righties, Betts can boost your batting average and help you turn close games around.

4. 96 OVR Julio Rodríguez (Dynamic Outfielder)
Julio brings energy with clutch hitting and top-tier fielding. His draft card remains a favorite for players who rely on aggressive baserunning.

5. 95 OVR Gerrit Cole (Reliable Ace)
Drafting Cole early gives you a consistent starter with great stamina and strikeout potential, perfect for ranked matches.

6. 95 OVR Juan Soto (Power Lefty)
Soto’s swing feels smoother than ever in MLB The Show 25. His card is a must if you’re looking to dominate right-handed pitchers.

7. 94 OVR Emmanuel Clase (Shutdown Closer)
Clase’s velocity and cutter combo makes him a nightmare in the ninth inning. A true difference-maker when closing tight games.

8. 94 OVR José Ramírez (Switch Hitter Advantage)
Ramírez brings pop and speed, and being a switch hitter makes him even more valuable against any pitching matchup.

9. 93 OVR Aaron Judge (Home Run Machine)
With massive power ratings, Judge can flip a game with one swing—ideal for late-game pinch-hit scenarios.

10. 93 OVR Yordan Alvarez (Designated Hitter Beast)
Alvarez’s draft card offers a perfect mix of contact and raw power, making him dangerous every time he steps up.

11. 92 OVR Freddie Freeman (Consistent Bat)
Freeman’s balanced ratings and smooth left-handed swing help keep rallies alive, especially when the pressure’s on.

12. 91 OVR Francisco Lindor (Elite Defense and Speed)
Lindor’s glove adds reliability in the infield, while his contact hitting can set up big innings.

13. 91 OVR Jacob deGrom (Strikeout Specialist)
Despite occasional injury concerns, deGrom’s card remains one of the most feared options in any draft.

14. 90 OVR Bobby Witt Jr. (Young Star)
Witt’s mix of speed and surprising pop gives your team more flexibility, especially when facing tricky pitchers.

15. 90 OVR Josh Hader (Lefty Relief Weapon)
Hader’s unique delivery and slider keep hitters guessing. He can be your secret weapon to handle tough left-handed bats.

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Draft mode in MLB The Show 25 rewards smart choices and strategic thinking. Keep these 15 cards on your radar, and you’ll have a competitive edge right from the first pitch.