MLB The Show 25 is set to redefine the MLB The Show 25 Stubs virtual baseball experience, and one of its most immersive modes—Road to the Show (RTTS)—has received significant upgrades. A key part of this journey is choosing the right college team, a decision that can shape your player’s development, exposure, and future in the MLB.
With eight elite college programs available, each offering unique perks, strengths, and weaknesses, selecting the best fit is crucial. This guide ranks all college teams in MLB The Show 25 based on Exposure, Skill Development, and Perks, helping you make the best choice for your virtual baseball career.
Why Your College Choice Matters in MLB The Show 25
Before diving into the rankings, it’s essential to understand how college selection impacts your Road to the Show experience:
Exposure – Determines how quickly scouts notice you, affecting draft stock.
Skill Development – Influences how fast your player improves in key attributes.
Perks – Unique bonuses that enhance specific skills (Contact, Power, Defense, Speed).
Your college choice will shape your early career trajectory, so let’s break down the best options.
MLB The Show 25 College Team Rankings
1. Cal State Fullerton Titans
Overview: A historic powerhouse returning to prominence, known for producing MLB stars like Justin Turner and Matt Chapman.
Perks: Contact perk (boosts batting consistency).
Strengths:
5/5 Skill Development – One of the best for player progression.
Balanced Exposure – Strong scouting presence despite recent dips.
Best For: Players who want well-rounded development with a focus on hitting.
2. Tennessee Volunteers
Overview: A rising force in college baseball with a strong fanbase and competitive program.
Perks: Contact perk (enhances batting reliability).
Strengths:
High Exposure – Great for getting noticed early.
Strong Skill Growth – Solid development in all areas.
Best For: Players aiming for early draft recognition while maintaining skill growth.
3. LSU Tigers
Overview: The defending national champions (2023) and a factory for MLB talent (e.g., Paul Skenes).
Perks: Gold Power perk (boosts home run potential).
Strengths:
Elite Exposure – Scouts heavily watch LSU players.
Slightly Lower Skill Development – Still strong but not the best.
Best For: Power hitters who want maximum draft visibility.
4. Texas Longhorns
Overview: A legendary program with six national titles and alumni like Roger Clemens.
Perks: Gold Defense perk (improves fielding and arm strength).
Strengths:
High Exposure – Always in the spotlight.
Defensive Specialization – Best for infielders and outfielders.
Best For: Players who prioritize defensive skills and draft stock.
5. TCU Horned Frogs
Overview: A skill-development hub that has produced MLB arms like Jake Arrieta and Nick Lodolo.
Perks: Power perk (boosts slugging ability).
Strengths:
5/5 Skill Development – Top-tier training facilities.
Lower Exposure – Not as heavily scouted as LSU or Texas.
Best For: Pitchers and power hitters who want max attribute growth.
6. South Carolina Gamecocks
Overview: A balanced program with back-to-back championships and MLB alumni like Christian Walker.
Perks: Contact perk (improves batting consistency).
Strengths:
Even Exposure & Development – No major weaknesses.
Best For: Players who want a steady, well-rounded path to the pros.
7. UCLA Bruins
Overview: A prestigious program with a 2013 national title and stars like Gerrit Cole.
Perks: Speed perk (enhances baserunning and stealing).
Strengths:
Unique Speed Focus – Best for leadoff hitters.
Slightly Lower Exposure – Still respectable but not elite.
Best For: Players who rely on speed and agility.
8. Vanderbilt Commodores
Overview: An MLB talent factory (e.g., Dansby Swanson) but ranks last due to inconsistent exposure.
Perks: Gold Perk Package (varies by save).
Strengths:
Good Development – Solid but not the best.
Decent Exposure – Scouts watch but not as heavily as LSU or Texas.
Best For: Players who want a balanced but less predictable path.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a College
1. Playstyle & Position
Power Hitters → LSU (Power Perk), TCU (Power Perk).
Contact Hitters → Cal State Fullerton, Tennessee, South Carolina.
Defensive Specialists → Texas (Gold Defense Perk).
Speedsters → UCLA (Speed Perk).
2. Draft Ambitions
Highest Exposure → LSU, Texas, Tennessee (best for early draft selection).
Development Focus → Cal State Fullerton, TCU (best for long-term growth).
3. Perk Synergy
Power Builds benefit most from LSU’s or TCU’s boosts.
Contact/Speed Builds align with UCLA or Tennessee.
MLB The Show 25: New Features Enhancing College Play
Beyond team selection, MLB The Show 25 introduces major upgrades to RTTS:
"The Amateur Years" – Play high school & college games before entering the draft 1.
Revamped Attribute System – Customize skills with new advantages and drawbacks.
Diamond Dynasty: 360 – A roguelike mode where you earn rewards through challenges 1.
Ambush Hitting – A new mechanic for more realistic batting strategies 1.
These changes make the college experience deeper than ever, ensuring your choices have long-term consequences.
Final Verdict: Which College Should You Choose?
Priority Best College Choice
Max Skill Growth Cal State Fullerton, TCU
Highest Exposure LSU, Texas, Tennessee
Power Hitting LSU (Gold Power Perk)
Defensive Play Texas (Gold Defense Perk)
Speed & Stealing UCLA (Speed Perk)
Conclusion
Your college choice in MLB The Show 25 will shape your entire Road to the Show journey. Whether you prioritize early draft stock (LSU, Texas), skill growth (Cal State, TCU), or specialized perks (UCLA’s speed), each program offers a unique path to the majors.
For those looking to fast-track their progress, consider boosting your player with buy MLB The Show from trusted sources like MMOEXP to gain an edge in training and equipment.