Upcoming MLB The Show Lacks Cover Athlete for First Time
The upcoming installment of the popular baseball video game series, MLB The Show, will break a long-standing tradition. MLB The Show ’26 will not feature a cover athlete for the first time in the franchise’s history. San Diego Studios, the developer behind the series, shared this information via a statement on Monday.
Significance of the Cover Athlete
Typically, the selection of a cover athlete generates excitement and serves as a major marketing tool for video games. Over the years, various prominent players have adorned the covers, enhancing the allure of each release. The decision to eliminate the cover athlete this year comes without any specified reasoning from the developers at San Diego Studios.
Recent Years’ Cover Athletes
In recent editions, the following athletes have represented the franchise:
- 2025: Paul Skenes, Elly De La Cruz, Gunnar Henderson
- 2024: Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
- 2023: Jazz Chisholm Jr.
Platforms and Release Date
MLB The Show ’26 is set to launch on multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch. While an official release date has yet to be revealed, previous installments typically launch a few weeks ahead of the new MLB season.
Fans can anticipate more details about MLB The Show ’26 in the coming months. The absence of a cover athlete marks a significant shift for the franchise, leaving enthusiasts eager to learn what this means for the game’s marketing strategy.
