MLB The Show 26 players over at the r/MLBTheShow subreddit are raising concerns about XP rewards. A recent post from the community highlights how XP rewards for programs were generous when the game launched, but have dropped significantly since. The frustration stems from a perceived shift in the game’s economy, and one user cleverly compared the model to the business model of Chuck E. Cheese:
“SDS is doing the Chuck E. Cheese business model. Buy your way into the game, lots of flashing lights and prizes you can’t really ever obtain, and a desk with the prizes that lets you spend real money for prizes so you/your kids don’t feel like a loser. Worst part is even spending real money doesn’t get you prizes in this place.”
A Collapse In Program Value
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The data highlighted by the community paints a stark picture when comparing the launch window to the current season’s slump. During the first week of March, players were greeted with a robust “Starter Program” worth approximately 30,000 XP, supplemented by four World Baseball Classic (WBC) programs and the Travis Hafner program, which offered an immediate 25,000 to 30,000 XP. Team Affinity also allowed for a grind of 4,500 XP per team.
In contrast, players report that programs released over the past two weeks offer a meager 4,000 – 8,000 XP max. This massive reduction in reward density has made the climb toward top-tier rewards feel impossible for those with full-time jobs:
“I play this game as much as someone with a full time job can, and I’m pretty burnt out from it at this point. I’ve played countless mini seasons, have completed every program, and essentially have nothing to show for it. Not even close to Randy or Babe. Makes me sad because I usually love the grind, but this year feels different thus far.”
Another player reports that XP while playing rates have also been slashed. A standard 1-2-3 inning in Franchise Mode on All-Star difficulty would previously net you nearly 300 XP, and according to some users, it now only yields 99 XP. Some even feel that spotlight programs are shorter, easier to complete, and offer fewer rewards than previous games.
This is only the most recent complaint from Diamond Dynasty players since MLB The Show 26 launched. Just this week, a massive cheating scandal involving players using third-party software was uncovered by a popular Show streamer.
Published: Apr 28, 2026 01:30 pm