Introduction

In a surprising announcement on Monday, San Diego Studios revealed that the much-anticipated MLB The Show '26 will not feature a new cover athlete this year. This decision has raised eyebrows among fans and gamers alike who eagerly await the yearly installment of the baseball video game franchise. The team hinted at a return to previous cover stars, making for an exciting speculation period leading up to the game’s release.

Recapping Last Year's Stars

The 2025 edition of MLB The Show had a stellar lineup of cover athletes that included Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes, Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz, and Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson. Each of these players brought unique talents and stories to the game, showcasing a diverse range of skills from pitching brilliance to standout offensive capabilities.

Paul Skenes: A Logical Choice

If the game opts for the continuity of its previous cover athletes, Paul Skenes would undoubtedly be the frontrunner. Skenes had an impressive run during the 2025 season, finishing with a record of 10-10 over 32 starts, while boasting an extraordinary 1.97 ERA and a 0.94 WHIP. His 216 strikeouts in 187.2 innings solidified his reputation as one of the most effective pitchers in baseball, second only to Tarik Skubal in many fans' eyes. His remarkable performance throughout the season has made him a fan favorite and a logical choice for the cover.

The Case for Shohei Ohtani

Many consider the face of baseball, Shohei Ohtani, a prime candidate if San Diego Studios decides to feature a previous cover athlete. Having recently earned his third consecutive MVP award and fourth overall, Ohtani's dominance is undeniable. Furthermore, he secured his second consecutive title with the Los Angeles Dodgers, solidifying his legacy in the sport. Ohtani’s unique dual talent—excelling both as a hitter and a pitcher—sets him apart as one of the greatest athletes in baseball history. His inclusion as a cover athlete would undoubtedly resonate with fans, given his immense popularity and impact on the game.

Aaron Judge: A Home Run Machine

Another strong contender to make a return as a cover athlete is Aaron Judge. Judge claimed his second consecutive AL MVP award and his third overall, continuing his trend of explosive offensive power. Known for his consistency in hitting home runs, Judge has blasted 50 or more home runs in three of the last four seasons—an impressive feat that no other player has matched. His powerful presence on the field and popularity among fans make him an attractive candidate for the MLB The Show cover.

Andruw Jones and Other Nostalgia Picks

In addition to the current stars, it wouldn't be surprising for San Diego Studios to lean on nostalgia by featuring Andruw Jones, who graced the cover in 2022. Recently inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame alongside Carlos Beltrán, Jones represents a sentimental choice for the cover, appealing to long-time fans of the sport who remember his electrifying career. His legacy as one of the game's greats and recent honor could make this pick resonate with both old and new fans alike.

Conclusion: The Anticipation Builds

As the baseball community waits for further updates from San Diego Studios, the discussion surrounding the cover athlete for MLB The Show '26 is sure to intensify. Whether the game rehashes the success of past cover stars like Skenes, Ohtani, Judge, or even Jones, or takes an entirely different direction remains to be seen. The decision will have significant implications, not just for marketing but also for how fans resonate with the game. Whatever the outcome, one thing is for sure: the world of baseball gaming is in for an exciting year ahead.