If you want to excel in MLB The Show 25 Stubs, mastering hitting is one of the most critical skills you need. Whether you’re playing Road to the Show, Franchise Mode, or online against other players, consistently putting the ball in play and driving runs is essential to winning games.

Hitting in MLB The Show 25 can be challenging because the game balances realism with skill-based mechanics. But don’t worry — with the right approach and techniques, you can quickly elevate your batting game.

Here are the best hitting tips you absolutely NEED to dominate the diamond in MLB The Show 25.

1. Understand the Different Hitting Mechanics
MLB The Show 25 offers several hitting control options:

Standard Hitting: This uses a single button press timed with the pitch. It’s straightforward but limited in control.

Zone Hitting: Allows you to move a targeting cursor within the strike zone to time and place your swing precisely.

PCI (Plate Coverage Indicator) Hitting: You position the PCI over the ball to influence contact quality and direction.

Pro tip: While standard hitting is beginner-friendly, Zone and PCI hitting provide greater control and power. Spend time practicing these advanced mechanics in batting practice or offline modes to unlock your hitting potential.

2. Timing Is Everything — Don’t Swing Too Early or Late
One of the biggest mistakes new players make is poor timing. Swinging too early or too late will lead to weak contact or strikeouts.

Watch the pitcher’s release point carefully.

Practice recognizing pitch types and speeds.

Adjust your timing based on the pitcher’s delivery and the count.

Using the timing meter in Zone hitting helps you gauge when to swing. Aim to connect the bat squarely with the ball for optimal power and contact.

3. Use the PCI to Aim for the Sweet Spot
In PCI hitting mode, the square you move around represents the sweet spot of the bat:

Position the PCI directly over the incoming pitch to increase your chance of solid contact.

For off-speed pitches or breaking balls, adjust the PCI’s position slightly in the direction the ball is moving.

Practice predicting pitch locations and moving the PCI quickly.

Hitting the sweet spot results in higher exit velocities and better chances for extra-base hits or home runs.

4. Know the Count and Adjust Your Approach
The count in an at-bat affects both the pitcher’s tendencies and your ideal hitting strategy:

Early in the count (0-0, 1-0): Look for strikes and be ready to swing at good pitches.

Behind in the count (0-2, 1-2): Be more defensive and wait for a pitch to protect the plate.

Ahead in the count (3-0, 3-1): Expect a fastball and prepare to be aggressive.

Adjust your PCI placement and swing type based on the count. For example, with two strikes, focus on contact swings rather than power to avoid striking out.

5. Use the Zone Hitting Target for Directional Control
When using Zone hitting, the small rectangular target controls where your swing aims:

Place it slightly inside or outside depending on pitch location.

Aim for the opposite field when you can’t pull a pitch.

Move the target to match the pitcher’s release point and pitch break.

This directional control lets you avoid weak grounders and maximize your hitting options.

6. Practice Recognizing Pitch Types and Speeds
Successful hitters in MLB The Show 25 read pitchers just like real MLB players:

Learn the pitcher’s pitch repertoire — fastballs, sliders, curveballs, changeups, etc.

Notice pitch speed changes and release animations.

Use this information to anticipate pitches and time your swings better.

In modes like Franchise or Road to the Show, studying pitcher tendencies before at-bats will significantly boost your hitting success.

7. Mix Up Your Swing Types
MLB The Show 25 lets you choose between different swing types:

Power Swing: Increases your chance of extra-base hits but with higher risk of strikeouts.

Contact Swing: Prioritizes putting the ball in play but with less power.

Normal Swing: Balanced approach.

Use Power Swings when you’re confident the pitch will be a strike and you’re looking for a big hit. Use Contact Swings when protecting the plate or in clutch situations. Mixing your swings keeps pitchers guessing and improves your overall hitting profile.

8. Use Bunting Strategically
Bunting is a powerful but underutilized tool in MLB The Show 25:

Use bunts to advance runners with sacrifice bunts.

Try drag bunts or squeeze plays to surprise the defense.

In close games, a well-timed bunt can be the difference-maker.

Learn to lay down bunts effectively by practicing the timing and direction to avoid pop-ups or easy outs.

9. Adjust Difficulty and Assist Settings Appropriately
If you’re new, tweaking the difficulty level and hitting assists can help you learn the game’s mechanics without frustration:

Start with easier difficulty levels and use hitting assists like PCI assist or timing assist.

Gradually reduce assistance as you improve.

Avoid staying on beginner levels too long or using too many assists, as it can limit your growth.

Adjusting these settings lets you focus on skill development while still enjoying competitive gameplay.

10. Study and Adapt to Pitcher Behavior in Online Play
When playing online, pitchers often use unpredictable pitch sequences:

Pay close attention to pitch sequences — pitchers tend to repeat patterns.

Learn to recognize pitch locations and release points quickly.

Adapt your PCI placement and swing timing in real-time.

The best online hitters stay calm, patient, and flexible, adjusting their hitting approach to counter the pitcher’s strategy.

Bonus Tip: Take Advantage of Batting Practice and Training Modes
MLB The Show 25 offers various practice and training modes designed to improve your hitting:

Use batting cages and hitting drills to practice timing and PCI placement.

Practice against different pitch types and speeds.

Focus on developing muscle memory and pitch recognition.

Regular practice in these modes pays huge dividends during real games.

Final Thoughts
Becoming a great hitter in MLB The Show 25 takes time, patience, and practice. By mastering the various hitting mechanics, focusing on timing and pitch recognition, and adapting your approach based on the count and pitcher, you’ll see your batting stats and game wins soar.

Remember, no two at-bats are the same, and flexibility is key. Use all the tools available—PCI, Zone hitting, bunting, and training modes—to develop a well-rounded hitting game.

With dedication and these tips, you’ll be crushing home runs, driving in runs, and dominating the competition in no time. Now step up to the plate, adjust your stance, and get ready to buy MLB The Show 25 Stubs swing for the fences in MLB The Show 25!