Fielding in MLB The Show 26 can make or break a game. Whether you're in the outfield trying to catch a fly ball or playing at shortstop with runners on base, fielding awareness is crucial. But what does it mean to have good fielding awareness, and how can you improve yours?



In this article, we’ll go over how to improve your fielding awareness in MLB The Show 26. This includes recognizing what plays need attention, when to act quickly, and how to avoid mistakes that can cost you games. Let’s break it down by answering some common questions.



What Is Fielding Awareness?



Fielding awareness refers to your ability to make the right play at the right time. It’s not just about catching the ball; it’s about positioning yourself, knowing where to throw the ball, and reading the game situation correctly. Good fielding awareness means you know what’s happening around you — from knowing when to make a quick tag to understanding where to position yourself for the best chance to make a play.



You can have good reflexes and solid controls, but without awareness, you’ll find yourself out of position and missing opportunities. In short, fielding awareness is about being proactive rather than reactive.



How Do You Know Where to Position Yourself?



One of the most important aspects of fielding is positioning. In MLB The Show 26, the game gives you a general idea of where to stand, but it’s up to you to adjust based on the game situation. The key here is reading the batter, the pitch, and the situation on the field.



For example:



Outfield: In the outfield, you need to position yourself based on the batter’s tendencies. If you know the batter is a pull hitter, you’ll want to shade a little more towards that side. If it’s a contact hitter, move deeper to cover more ground. The wind and the stadium dimensions also play a part in your positioning.



Infield: Infielders need to watch the batter’s stance and the type of pitch being thrown. If it’s a power hitter, play deeper to give yourself more room for those deep ground balls. If it’s a speedster, be closer to the bag to turn double plays quickly.



When Do You Need to React Quickly, and When Should You Be Patient?



One of the hardest parts about fielding is deciding when to make a play and when to hold back. This comes down to understanding the situation in the game and reacting accordingly.



Quick Reactions: Sometimes, a play is right in front of you, and you need to act fast. For instance, if the batter hits a line drive to the outfield, you need to quickly gauge the speed of the ball and position yourself to make the catch. You can’t waste time thinking about it — just react.



Patience: On the other hand, some situations require you to take your time. When you’re playing in the infield and the batter hits a slow roller, don’t rush the throw. Field the ball cleanly and make a solid throw to first. If there’s a chance for a double play, be patient and make sure you get the first out before trying to turn two.



As you get more experience in MLB The Show 26, you’ll start to develop a sense of when to be aggressive and when to play it safe.



How Can You Avoid Errors in Key Situations?



Errors are often the result of poor decision-making or rushing the play. Here are a few tips to help you avoid mistakes:



Stay Calm: Don’t panic when there’s a runner coming home or when the pressure is on. You’ll often have more time than you think to make a solid play. Take a breath, focus, and make sure your throw is accurate.



Know Your Fielder’s Range: Each player has different fielding stats, so make sure you understand the range of your fielder. Don’t try to dive for a ball with a player who doesn’t have the skills to make that kind of play. Play within the range of your fielder to avoid unnecessary errors.



Avoid Over-Throwing: One common mistake players make is trying to throw the ball too hard. In high-stress moments, you might try to throw home or to another base as fast as possible, but often, a more controlled throw will get the job done. Overthrowing the ball can lead to errors, so keep the power of your throw under control and focus on accuracy.



What Are the Best Tips for Playing the Infield?



Infield play is all about quick thinking and precision. Here are some tips for improving your fielding in the infield:



Charge the Ball Early: If you’re playing third base or shortstop and you see a ground ball coming toward you, don’t wait for the ball to come to you. Charge it as soon as you can to shorten your throw to first. The quicker you field the ball, the better your chances of getting the out.



Double Plays: Turning double plays is one of the most satisfying parts of infield play. To be quick and effective with double plays, make sure you practice quick transfers from glove to throwing hand. Also, make sure to position yourself well for the throw to second base.



Don’t Panic with Runners: When you have runners on base, stay aware of the situation. Don’t rush a throw to first if there’s no need for it. Instead, make sure you field the ball cleanly and then take your time to make the right throw. Sometimes, taking the extra moment will help you get the double play instead of just one out.



What About the Outfield?



Outfield fielding in MLB The Show 26 has a few extra elements to consider, but the fundamentals are still the same. Here are some tips for improving your outfield play:



Track the Ball: The key to outfield play is tracking the ball. Always try to move to where the ball is going rather than waiting for it to come to you. Practice using the radar to judge where the ball is going and position yourself accordingly.



Know When to Dive: Diving can save a game, but only when it’s necessary. Don’t dive unless you know you have a good shot at catching the ball. Over-diving can leave you out of position and let the ball get past you.



Arm Strength: Outfielders often need to throw the ball long distances. It’s important to know the arm strength of your player and understand when you can afford to take an extra second to line up your throw. You don’t want to under-throw or overthrow a relay, especially with runners advancing.



Should You Buy MLB The Show 26 Stubs Online for Better Fielding Gear?



While improving your fielding awareness mostly comes down to practice, sometimes you can make your fielders even better with upgraded gear. In MLB The Show 26, buying stubs online allows you to purchase equipment that enhances your player’s fielding stats, like glove quality and reaction time. If you’re looking to boost your fielding performance quickly, buying MLB The Show 26 stubs online can help you get the necessary upgrades faster, allowing you to spend more time focusing on improving your in-game skills.



How Do You Practice Fielding Awareness?



The best way to improve your fielding awareness is by practicing in real game situations. You can use the game's practice modes, but also play through seasons and quick games to apply what you’ve learned. Over time, you’ll get a better feel for the game and start making smarter decisions without thinking about them too much.



Additionally, pay attention to how other players approach fielding in your online games. Take note of what works for them and see if you can incorporate those strategies into your own game.



Fielding awareness in MLB The Show 26 is about making the right decisions, positioning yourself well, and staying calm under pressure. By practicing, understanding the game situation, and knowing when to react quickly or take your time, you can significantly improve your fielding game. Whether you're playing infield or outfield, being aware of the situation is key to making plays that can win you the game.



With a combination of practice, knowledge, and the right upgrades (likebuying MLB The Show 26 stubs online for better gear), you’ll find yourself making fewer errors and making more game-changing plays on defense.