Below is a practical guide written from the point of view of a long-time player. It focuses on how stubs work in MLB The Show 26, how most players earn them, and how they usually spend them without overthinking things.

What are stubs used for in MLB The Show 26?

Stubs are the main in-game currency. In general, players use them to buy cards on the community market, complete collections, or occasionally pick up packs. You don’t need to treat stubs as something special or rare, but you do need to manage them with some patience.

Most players use stubs to:

• Fill gaps in their Diamond Dynasty lineup

• Complete team or program collections

• Save for a specific card they want rather than opening packs

In practice, stubs are less about getting rich fast and more about steady progress over time.

How do most players earn stubs naturally?

Most players earn stubs just by playing the game. You don’t need advanced strategies to build a balance.

Playing Diamond Dynasty modes

In Diamond Dynasty, stubs come from:

• Program rewards

• Game results (wins and losses both pay small amounts)

• Conquest maps

• Mini Seasons

Usually, Conquest and Mini Seasons are the most reliable for casual players. You get stubs from games, hidden rewards, and end-of-run bonuses.

Offline vs online play

Offline players usually earn stubs at a slower but more predictable pace. Online players may earn more stubs per hour, but that depends on skill level.

In general:

• Offline modes = steady, low stress income

• Online modes = higher risk, higher reward

Most players mix both depending on mood and time.

Do packs actually help you earn stubs?

Usually, packs are not a reliable way to earn stubs. Most experienced players treat packs as entertainment, not investment.

Here’s how packs work in practice:

• Most packs return less value than their cost

• Occasionally you pull a high-value card, but it’s rare

• Over time, opening packs drains stubs

That’s why many players save packs from programs and avoid buying them directly with stubs.

When does it make sense to spend stubs?

Spending stubs makes sense when it clearly improves your lineup or helps complete a collection.

Buying players vs saving stubs

Most players follow a simple rule:

• Buy cards that help you right now

• Avoid buying cards just because they look interesting

For example, if you already hit well with your outfield, spending stubs on another outfielder usually doesn’t change much.

Collections and long-term value

Collections often reward cards that stay useful for a long time. That’s why players usually prioritize them over short-term upgrades.

If you’re working toward a big collection reward, spending MLB 26 stubs on required cards is usually more efficient than opening packs and hoping for luck.

How do player prices usually change over time?

Player prices fluctuate based on content drops, roster updates, and programs.

In general:

• Prices drop after new packs or programs release

• Prices rise when a card is needed for a popular collection

• Live series cards change with roster updates

Most experienced players wait a bit before buying unless they really need a card immediately.

Is flipping cards necessary to build stubs?

Flipping cards is optional. Some players enjoy it, others never touch it.

What flipping looks like in practice

Flipping usually means:

• Buying cards slightly below market value

• Selling them slightly higher

• Repeating the process many times

It takes time and attention. For most players, playing the game is more enjoyable and still earns enough stubs to progress.

If you have limited play time, flipping may not feel worth the effort.

Common mistakes players make with stubs

Spending too early

Early in the game cycle, many players spend stubs too quickly. Usually, better free cards arrive soon after.

Chasing every new card

Not every new release is necessary. Most players perform better by sticking with cards they already know how to use.

Ignoring programs

Programs are one of the most efficient sources of stubs and packs. Skipping them usually slows progress.

How many stubs do you really need?

That depends on your goals. Not everyone needs millions of stubs.

In general:

• Casual players need enough to upgrade weak spots

• Competitive players save more for collections

• Completionists need the most stubs overall

Most players find that consistent play provides enough stubs without grinding every mode.

How do experienced players think about stubs?

Experienced players treat stubs as a tool, not a score.

They usually:

• Save more than they spend

• Avoid emotional purchases

• Focus on value rather than hype

Over time, this mindset leads to a stronger lineup without frustration.

Stubs are part of the long-term rhythm of the game. You earn them by playing, you spend them to improve your team, and you slowly build toward bigger goals.

Most players don’t need advanced strategies to manage stubs well. Playing regularly, understanding when to spend, and avoiding impulsive decisions usually leads to steady progress and a more enjoyable experience.