Starting strong in MLB The Show 25 can be a challenge, especially when you're working with a limited budget. While high-end pitchers like Gerrit Cole or Jacob deGrom might be out of reach early on, there are plenty of underrated arms that can help you dominate without breaking the bank. Whether you're looking to bolster your rotation or need a reliable bullpen piece, these 12 budget pitchers will give you an edge in the early game.
1. Shane McClanahan (Tampa Bay Rays)
Even after his injury, McClanahan remains a steal for his price. His elite fastball and sharp slider make him a nightmare for hitters, especially in lower divisions. If you're looking to buy MLB The Show 25 stubs to upgrade elsewhere, McClanahan lets you save while still dealing.
2. Joe Musgrove (San Diego Padres)
Musgrove’s balanced pitch mix—featuring a sinker, slider, and curveball—makes him a reliable starter. He’s affordable and performs well above his rating, making him a must-have for budget-conscious players.
3. Chris Bassitt (Toronto Blue Jays)
Bassitt’s control and variety of pitches allow him to consistently keep hitters off balance. He won’t overpower anyone, but his ability to locate makes him a great early-game option.
4. Eduardo Rodriguez (Detroit Tigers)
Rodriguez brings a sneaky-good repertoire with a strong changeup and cutter. His price makes him an excellent pickup if you're building your squad on a budget.
5. Alex Cobb (San Francisco Giants)
Cobb’s sinker-heavy approach induces tons of ground balls, perfect for escaping jams. If you need a dependable arm without spending MLB The Show 25 Stubs Xbox on big names, Cobb is a solid choice.
6. Kyle Gibson (St. Louis Cardinals)
A veteran with underrated stuff, Gibson’s sinker and slider combo can frustrate opponents. He’s a great fifth starter early on.
7. Jordan Montgomery (Free Agent)
Montgomery’s crafty left-handed pitching keeps hitters guessing. His price hasn’t caught up to his effectiveness, making him a hidden gem.
8. Andrew Heaney (Texas Rangers)
Heaney’s high strikeout potential with his fastball-curve mix makes him a strong budget option. If you're grinding through Conquest or Ranked, he’s worth a look.
9. Taijuan Walker (Philadelphia Phillies)
Walker’s splitter is a deadly out-pitch, and his overall stats play above his cost. A great mid-rotation piece early in the game.
10. Drew Smyly (Chicago Cubs)
Smyly’s curveball is one of the best among budget pitchers. He’s especially useful in shorter outings or as a lefty specialist.
11. Seth Lugo (Kansas City Royals)
Lugo’s versatility—with a strong fastball and sharp breaking balls—makes him a great swingman for your staff.
12. Michael Kopech (Chicago White Sox)
Kopech’s blazing fastball and developing secondary pitches give him high upside. If you're willing to work on his control, he can be a dominant force without costing too much.
Final Thoughts
Building a competitive team in MLB The Show 25 doesn’t mean you have to splurge on the most expensive players right away. These budget pitchers provide excellent value, allowing you to allocate stubs elsewhere—whether you need to buy MLB The Show 25 stubs for a big bat or just want to save for future upgrades.
Keep an eye on the market, as player prices fluctuate, but these 12 arms should help you dominate early while staying efficient with your resources. Happy grinding, and may your opponents swing and miss!