Strategic Pitching Setups for Consistent Wins in MLB The Show 25
Consistency in pitching is often what separates average players from elite performers in MLB The Show 25. This year’s game places a premium on strategy, pitch sequencing, mlb stubs and real-time adjustments based on batter tendencies. While raw velocity still matters, the best pitching setups are those that blend power, movement, and off-speed deception to outwit batters. For players looking to dominate on the mound, one of the most effective and versatile setups is the sinker, cutter, and slider combination.
This setup is popular among elite pitchers because it creates horizontal movement on both sides of the plate and induces weak contact when used correctly. The sinker is your workhorse pitch. It moves down and in on same-handed batters, making it perfect for generating double plays and soft ground balls. In MLB The Show 25, it’s particularly effective when thrown inside to jam hitters or down in the zone to bait swings over the top. The key is location — if thrown in the heart of the plate, it can be punished, but if well-placed, it can be devastating.
The cutter offers the perfect counterbalance to the sinker. While the sinker moves in, the cutter moves away. This horizontal separation between pitches makes it extremely difficult for hitters to guess correctly. Cutters are best used against opposite-handed batters or on the outer edge of the plate. In high-pressure moments, a well-placed cutter can miss barrels and turn potential home runs into harmless pop-ups or lineouts.
The slider adds a vertical and diagonal break to the arsenal, making it especially effective in two-strike counts or as a setup pitch. A sharp slider can sweep away from same-handed hitters and induce swings and misses or even check swings. In MLB The Show 25, sliders thrown just off the edge of the zone can be very successful if set up correctly. Try following a fastball in or a sinker down with a slider breaking away — this sequencing creates deception and confusion in the batter’s eye.
One overlooked advantage of this setup is its ability to limit damage and pitch deep into games. Because the sinker and cutter generate weak contact, you’ll find that more batters are put away with fewer pitches, allowing starters to go longer and reduce bullpen fatigue. This is especially useful in Franchise mode or competitive online matches where managing your bullpen becomes critical.
In addition to pitch selection, this setup benefits from pitch tunneling. The sinker and slider, in particular, can appear similar out of the hand before breaking in different directions. This visual deception is critical in keeping hitters from squaring up pitches. By maintaining consistent arm slots and release points, you enhance the effectiveness of every pitch in your arsenal.