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Let’s get this out of the way early—MLB The Show 25’s Battle Royale isn’t about pitching duels or defensive clinics. It’s about scoring quickly, often, and reliably in mlb the show stubs three short innings. That’s why adopting a hitter-first draft philosophy is the best way to win consistently.

Step 1: Prioritize Offense Early and Often

In the BR draft, you’re handed four Diamond and three Gold rounds. Always use these on hitters unless forced otherwise. The math is simple: if you score 4–6 runs every game, you’re going to win far more than you lose, even with a mediocre bullpen.

Ideal Diamond hitter traits:

High contact + power combo

Good splits vs both RHP and LHP

Decent speed and fielding (if possible)

Don't be seduced by pitchers with flashy stats unless they are endgame relievers like Emmanuel Clase or Devin Williams. In BR, offense has more win equity.

Step 2: Stack Your Lineup with Lefty-Righty Balance

Your opponents will likely build pitching staffs with cheap but effective right-handers. That’s why having a balanced lineup is key. Draft switch hitters, lefty power bats, and consider platoon threats. It’s often more effective to carry a low-overall bench bat who mashes righties than a high-rated player with lopsided splits.

Step 3: Look for Hidden Gems in Silver and Bronze Rounds

There are countless Silver and Bronze hitters with quirky swings, high exit velocity stats, and sneaky pop. Players like Jorge Soler, Joc Pederson, and Mitch Garver often fall in these tiers and can carry games. Use these rounds to fill in your lineup holes with proven Battle Royale beasts.

Step 4: Draft Bullpen with a Late Focus

You don’t need nine reliable pitchers—only three or four. Use your later rounds to select bullpen arms with good per 9 ratings (H/9, K/9) and deceptive delivery mechanics. Lefty relievers with a good slider or righties with a sinker/cutter combo are especially effective.

Step 5: Understand Meta Trends

Each Battle Royale cycle has its own meta. Sometimes, a certain pitch type (like circle change or sweeping curve) dominates the online scene. Stay updated and draft pitchers who match the current meta. Likewise, offensive cards with glitchy swings (like Jazz Chisholm or Michael Harris) are often more important than pure ratings.

Step 6: Build for 12 Wins, Not 0

You only need a team that can win 12 games, not a full-season dynasty. Stack your lineup with players who deliver in short spurts, avoid over-valuing starters, and always have a plan for late-game pinch-hit scenarios. It's also smart to keep two pinch hitters—one from each side of the plate.

Conclusion

If you’re not leaving your BR draft with 6–7 truly dangerous bats and 2–3 reliable bullpen arms, you’re playing it too safe. Focus on scoring first and fast. This isn’t Ranked Season—it’s Battle Royale. Be aggressive and draft like it.