Normally, this sort of thing is the remit of American sports enthusiast Sammy Barker, but he's off gallivanting, so it falls to this author to cover MLB The Show 26, which has just dropped a bunch of new info.

San Diego Studio's annual baseball sim returns on 17th March 2026, and with just over a month to go, Sony has released the first gameplay trailer, covering many new additions to the game:

The PS Blog goes into more detail, and it sounds like there are plenty of new additions to this year's entry.

In Road to the Show, there are 11 new college teams represented, the NCAA Men’s College World Series format and bracket is included, and there are new goals to aim for as you progress your career.

Additionally, there's something called Road to Cooperstown, in which you'll "Start from high school, build your legacy, and see if you can make it all the way to the Hall of Fame".

Diamond Dynasty has some new features too, including the return of World Baseball Classic content, an overhaul to mini-seasons, and plenty more to sink your teeth into.

The Negro Leagues storyline continues in Season 4, and Franchise mode has been updated to make it more flexible and approachable, including a refreshed trade logic system.

Finally, here are the main notes with regard to gameplay updates:

  • Big Zone hitting is a new batting interface for players of all skill levels
  • Play at three new stadiums including: The Tokyo Dome, Estadio Hiram Bithorn, and Terrapin Park
  • Bear Down Pitching gives you more control in the clutch situations
  • Hits per 9 innings and strikeouts per 9 innings attribute splits and pitch repertoire usage rate
  • Reaction rating attributes for fielders (left, right, forward, and back)
  • Catcher Pop Time attribute
  • Plate Coverage Indicator sensitivity slider for more control over your PCI
  • Added over 500 new gameplay animations
    • Re-captured all knee down catcher animations which includes throws, blocked balls, wild pitches and more

Pre-orders for the game are live now, and if you nab the Digital Deluxe edition, you'll be able to play four days in advance of the official release date.

Are you excited for MLB The Show 26? Tell us in the comments section below.

[source blog.playstation.com]