Slated to make its annual release in March 2024, MLB The Show has always provided a reliable, accurate, and addictive game for fans of the diamond. Being the only major player out there in the baseball game space, it only strengthens the need for gamers to identify their best experience. Whether you want to play with the best of the best, the underdog, or just your favorite team, you deserve to know what’s what out there on the field (or rather your couch) this season. Here’s my pick for the best teams to play as in MLB The Show 24 in ascending order.
Please Note: All player ratings were taken from the most recent update of MLB The Show 23 so as to provide most accurate estimates for The Show 24 as of the time of this article.
10) Houston Astros
Jose Altuve leads a dominant offense, while Framber Valdez highlights a solid starting five
Say what you want about the Houston Astros franchise. I’m sure that if you live outside of the city of Houston, it isn’t very good – and you’re probably well justified. But regardless of what happened several years ago, you can’t deny the ability of these players and their current squad. The small-but-mighty Jose Altuve leads a squad with a superb offense. After all, one of the great things about The Show is that there isn’t a button for hitting a garbage can.
Winning a solid 90 games last season, the Astros possess some of the most talented veterans and youngsters in the show. Yordan Alvarez boasts incredible hitting stats against Righties (100 Contact, 125 Power), while Jose Altuve is arguably just as good (108 Contact, 94 Power). Kyle Tucker and Alex Bregman are also two Diamond level offensive players that round out this offense with excellent contact and clutch hitting. In regards to pitching, the pickings are a bit slimmer, but the ageless wonder that is Justin Verlander (85 OVR) always seems to deliver no matter where he’s at or how he pitches. Add to that the continued development of pitcher Framber Valdez and you have a selection of starting pitchers that may surprise your opponent.
The fact that Altuve is now hitting just as many homeruns as he steals bases baffles me (in a good way). We also never know what to expect from Verlander, chugging along as he always does. Could he be even better this year? Not to mention, the fact that this team possesses some phenomenal clutch hitters, still makes it one of the best options to play as.
What’s great about the Astros:
- Great offensive team with a whopping 4 Diamonds in the starting lineup (Altuve, Alvarez, Bregman, and Tucker)
- Both Bregman and Altuve possess Clutch stats at or above 100, making this a team that excels in tough situations
- Justin Verlander is always one of the best starting pitchers in the game; who knows what he’ll bring this season
- Framber Valdez is also an underrated starting pitcher pick
9) Toronto Blue Jays
Vlad Jr. and Bo Bichette lead a Blue Jays team that is full of potential
A team that many have kept an eye on in the last couple of years due to their impressive young talent, the Blue Jays are my next pick as one of the best teams to play as. Winning one less than the Astros at 89 wins last season, the Blue Jays surprised many with their deep playoff run. And, of course, any team with the likes of Vlad Jr. has all the potential in the world to excel in your next matchup.
The Blue Jays lineup is headlined by former cover stars Bo Bichette and Vladimir Geurrero Jr. As you can imagine, these two provide quite the offensive punch. You can count on Vlad Jr. to have a much improved season than he had last year, and that is precisely one reason why this team is an excellent strategic choice. Don’t let the fact that this team only had one Diamond in 2023 fool you either, the potential this team has is excellent and don’t be surprised if one or more players gets promoted to Diamond this year.
Often overlooked by many, the Blue Jays also have Kevin Kiermaier as their center fielder. Many current baseball analysts consider Kiermaier to be one of the best defensive outfielders of all time. It is possible that if The Show continues to emphasize defense and fielding more (as it did in 2023), we may really see him as a more viable player. Kevin Gausman is also a criminally underrated and consistent pitcher.
What’s great about the Blue Jays:
- Young offense full of potential highlighted by Bo Bichette and Vlad Jr.
- Many borderline Diamond players that stand poised for a possible breakout year
- Kevin Kiermaier is a unique, defensive option for players
- Excellent underdog pick in light of recent playoff performance
8) New York Yankees
Juan Soto and Aaron Judge make up the backbone of an offensive powerhouse
The Yankees certainly have their haters but one thing’s for certain, they won’t perform as poorly this season as they did last. Mired by multiple injuries, the Yankees failed to make the playoffs despite coming off of Judge’s historic performance in 2022. Expect them to come back with a vengeance this yeare, especially with the addition of phenom Juan Soto.
As is not a surprise to any of you, the main player to feature with the Yankees is former cover athlete Aaron Judge. And, despite his troubles with injuries, his power remained in elite form last year over the first half of the year. Don’t expect that to change any time soon. His card is always among the most valuable in the game. In addition to this, he’s joined by his teammate Gerrit Cole. Ranked as a 90 OVR last year, he is among the best (if not the best) strikeout pitchers in the league. Not to mention, Juan Soto still remains one the most talented young players in the entire MLB.
Also, it’s worth mentioning that one of the great things about The Show is how often you can defy reality and do what you want. Maybe this time you can actually make Giancarlo Stanton live up to his hefty contract? Personally, I’m waiting patiently for the time they authentically replicate Nestor Cortes’ windup so I can troll my opponents endlessly.
What’s great about the Yankees:
- Aaron Judge will hit dingers in the most absolute way
- Gerrit Cole might be the best strikeout pitcher in the Live roster
- Juan Soto will likely to continue to develop into a world-class player
- Expect a much improved team this year as opposed to the injury-riddled 2023
7) Tampa Bay Rays
Yandy Diaz, an excellent pure hitter, highlights an excellent underdog team pick in 2024
The Tampa Bay Rays are another surprising team that broke out in 2023. Expect this pattern to continue into 2024 as this team possesses a wealth of young talent. In fact, it was almost enough to top their division rival, the Orioles. Winning 99 games gives you a good shot at beating any team that you might wish to conquer.
The biggest advantage to using the Rays is first baseman Yandy Diaz. He’s a newly minted stud with one of the best contact swings in the game and a whopping 109 CLUTCH rating. Another big draw on the Rays roster is starting pitcher Shane McClanahan. Unfortunately, the Cy Young-level pitcher looks to be out for possibly the whole season due to receiving Tommy John surgery. But The Show isn’t real life, importantly. That means that you’ll still be able to use him and outduel your opponents using his clutch attributes and breaking balls.
I can only imagine getting the most clutch hits with Yandy Diaz. Want a game-winning single up the middle? This is your guy. Otherwise, you might take joy in the fact that Tampa Bay has never won a world series. Maybe you can make this their first year.
What’s great about the Rays:
- Yandy Diaz is a clutch contact monster.
- Expect many of the younger players to improve their stats. This team didn’t win 99 for nothing.
- A great underdog pick, especially for those who want to bring home the first trophy for the franchise
- You can catch your opponents off guard by playing in the ugliest stadium in the game
6) Arizona Diamondbacks
Corbin Carrol, Ketel Marte, and crew are ready to deliver yet another impressive season
The team that undoubtedly had the most unexpected season in 2023, the D-backs are the ultimate underdog choice for 2024. Making an impressive World Series run with only 84 wins, this team no doubt possesses the talent for more. Can you take them all the way?
This team possesses an excellent 4 Diamond players headlined by NL Rookie of the Year Corbin Carroll, the OTHER elite speed-power player in the league. Seriously, this kid can run the bases better than any player in the league. Players are sure to take advantage of his perfect running stats (99 in every applicable category). Christian Walker also provides an elite power stroke against lefties. Not to mention Gabriel Moreno has an unearthly 120 CONTACT against them– and did I mention he’s a catcher?
Overall, the thing that makes this team fun to play as is their uniqueness. Players like Ketel Marte can hit outside of the strike zone particularly well, whereas Carroll is just pure fun to watch stealing bases. Perhaps the most unique part of the team though is how well they perform against lefties.
What’s great about the D-Backs:
- Corbin Carroll is the next up and coming speed-power threat
- Gabriel Moreno is one of the best catchers in the game
- The ultimate underdog pick
- This team is your secret weapon against left-handed pitchers
5) Baltimore Orioles
“The Mountain”, Felix Bautista closes for the Orioles. Just for comparison, Rutschman is 6’2”
Probably the biggest breakout team of 2023, the Orioles are poised to repeat their awesome performance this year as well. And it’s easy to see why. A franchise that was once completely down in the dumps has risen from the squalor for a division-leading 101 wins. It’s an inspiring tale, to be honest.
The Orioles have a relatively pedestrian 2 Diamond players compared to other elite teams, but man are they good ones. Adley Rutschman might be THE elite defensive catcher in the league – don’t count on many passed balls here. He also has excellent plate discipline and contact against lefties that is only poised to improve. However, the biggest attraction from this roster is no doubt, the man, “The Mountain”, Felix Bautista. Coming off one of the most dominant closer runs in the history of baseball, you’d be ashamed to pass this guy up. I mean, have you SEEN this guy’s splitter?
One thing that I’m looking forward to is how the player model of Bautista is going to look like. In 2023, the model was literally of comical proportions, his shoulder width made him look like he was wearing a 90’s leisure suit. Also, if you’re a fan of ballpark design, you can’t go wrong with the revered Camden Yards.
What’s great about the Orioles:
- An up-and-coming team that has risen from the ashes
- Adley Rutschman will continue to develop into an elite catcher
- Felix Bautista and his CHAD-level Splitter
- Many excellent young prospects such as Gunnar Henderson and rookie Jackson Holliday
4) Philadelphia Phillies
You can always bet on a team headlined by Bryce Harper and Trea Turner to deliver despite adversity
If you’re a Phillies fan, you’re probably still reeling from one of the most tragic postseason runs of your life. Many felt that the Phillies truly had the path set out for them to win last season. But take heart, a deep postseason run like last only bodes well for the future of this promising team.
What makes the Phillies a great team to play as is their talent. Bryce Harper always seems to put it together when it’s needed most and Trea Turner will continue to develop into one of the best contact-speed threats in The Show. J.T. Realmuto is also a highly desirable catcher, with elite arm strength and a surprising amount of speed (78 SPD). Did you know that? I didn’t. Most importantly among all this, though, is the retention of starting pitcher Aaron Nola, who seems poised to have a return to form this year.
One thing that I didn’t mention here (and maybe I should have) is Zach Wheeler. Although some have considered him a bit lackluster to use in The Show despite being a Diamond, he certainly isn’t in real life. With San Diego Studios’ commitment to realism, I would bet that they will continue to improve the effectiveness of certain players who deserve it
What’s great about the Phillies:
- Heal your trauma by actually winning the World Series this year
- Superb balanced hitting approach from Trea Turner and Bryce Harper
- Underrated catcher in J.T. Realmuto
- Look for a much improved Aaron Nola
3) Texas Rangers
You can never go wrong with the returning champs
An obvious pick, the defending world champion Texas Rangers will no doubt provide one of the best teams to play as in MLB The Show 24. Whether you just want a good team, or want to NOT play as that other Texas-based team, you’re in great hands here. A team coming off their first franchise championship will no doubt play effectively.
Attention is always drawn to the Ranger’s ridiculously powerful offense (4 Diamond players), but another thing that is shamefully missed is how solid this team’s pitching is. In fact, as of now, the highest rated player on the entire team is starting pitcher Jacob DeGrom. If you’ve never given DeGrom (95 OVR) a shot as a pitcher, you’re truly doing yourself a disservice; he’s absolutely incredible. Add to that the always-unpredictable Max Scherzer and you have an extremely capable pitching crew. In addition, many believe that Corey Seager is preparing for an MVP-level season in 2024.
If you don’t like Rangers’ new stadium I don’t blame you. I haven’t been there in person but heard it’s just a bit underwhelming. Fortunately for you, you can undo this tragedy by utilizing historic stadiums in The Show. The Ballpark in Arlington is only one option away.
What’s great about the Rangers:
- Extremely productive offense with 4 Diamond players
- The best pitcher in the game in Jacob DeGrom
- Corey Seager is a beast that is only going to get better
- You’re playing as the returning champs
2) Atlanta Braves
Look for Acuna to continue to put up record numbers
I know I might get some flack for putting the world champs as the 3rd best team to play as, but trust me when I say I have good reason for this. If you want a team that is fun, you simply can’t beat the Braves offense. If you like to hit dingers, there’s no better option. Disappointing seasons in real life don’t matter quite as much in the virtual world.
When I say this team hits home runs, you likely know I’m not joking. The Atlanta Braves literally tied the record for most team home runs in a single season with a whopping 307 homeruns. Looking at the roster, it’s only the most obvious thing in the universe. An incredible SIX Diamond players make up the starting lineup. Two-thirds of your lineup are literally some of the best hitters in the business. As a gamer, you couldn’t ask for much more. To add to this, Spencer Strider (along with the aforementioned Cole) is the best strikeout pitcher in the game. For real, this guy throws so fast it’s criminal.
If you didn’t already know it, Ronald Acuna is the highest rated player in The Show 2023. I wouldn’t expect this to change much. From a player coming off of the greatest speed-power season in major league history (by a long shot I might add), it would be a disservice to underrate him. Is he the next heir to Mike Trout’s throne for the next fan-favorite The Show card? Time will tell.
What’s great about the Braves:
- Hi my name’s <insert gamertag here> and I like to hit dingers
- Play with the best player in the entire live roster, Ronald Acuna
- Strikeout as much as you can with Spencer Strider
- 6 Diamond players in the starting lineup
1) Los Angeles Dodgers
In the most expensive signing in North American sports history, Ohtani is joining the Dodgers
If you can’t think of any reason why the Dodgers have been elevated to number one on this list, you might need to step outside for a bit. Breathe some fresh air and maybe just look up some general sporting news. In late 2023, the Dodgers signed the generational two-way talent of Shohei Ohtani to a deal worth $700,000,000. The worst part about it is that it's actually kind of justified.
Ohtani is the main reason for this team owning the number one spot. Despite being only a batter for the 2024 season, it’s likely that San Diego Studios will let you play with Shohei as a pitcher as well. This kind of two-way value is unparalleled in modern baseball. However, the man is not alone in hitting. He’s joined by the best pure-hitting first baseman in the game at Freddie Freeman, and a run-scoring maniac by the name of Mookie Betts. The new addition of Tyler Glassnow, currently gives the Dodgers 3 Diamond-Level pitchers. And that would make 4 if you count Ohtani. Altogether, there is VERY good reason to be afraid of this team, thus its ranking as the number one team to play as in MLB The Show 2024.
With a team this stacked, people that aren’t Dodger fans can feel understandably afraid. And there’s good reason for that. At the same time, if you have a large salary cap, this is the kind of stuff that happens. But that’s what makes baseball so great. It’s a sport that truly rewards the underdog and The Show franchise is no exception.
What’s great about the Dodgers:
- Play with Ohtani, the only two-way player in the game
- Excellent offense bolstered by Freeman and Betts
- 3 (or possibly 4) Diamond-level pitchers
- If you have no problem playing as the team with way more salary space than the other one, this is your team.
