MLB The Show 26 Launches March 17 With Aaron Judge as Cover Athlete

Aaron Judge on the cover of MLB The Show 26 featuring his Team USA and New York Yankees appearances
Aaron Judge appears on the cover of MLB The Show 26, highlighting his career journey from Team USA to the major leagues.

By Jon Scarr

Sony and San Diego Studio have announced MLB The Show 26, set to release on March 17, 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. The reveal also confirms that Aaron Judge returns as the game’s cover athlete.

Judge previously appeared on the cover of MLB The Show 18 following his 2017 season. Since then, he has gone on to become a three-time American League MVP, a seven-time All-Star, and the holder of the AL single-season home run record. He also serves as Team USA’s captain for the World Baseball Classic.

Aaron Judge Returns as MLB The Show's Cover Athlete

San Diego Studio says this year’s entry centres on a player’s career journey, from early development through a Hall of Fame–level run. That idea mirrors Judge’s own path, from amateur baseball through the minor leagues and into the majors.

The studio continues to emphasise long-term progression and authenticity across its core modes, with Judge’s return reflecting that focus and tying the game’s direction to his career arc.

Gameplay Reveal and World Baseball Classic Details Coming Soon

An official gameplay trailer for MLB The Show 26 is scheduled to debut on February 3, offering the first look at gameplay updates, returning features, and new additions planned for this year’s release.

San Diego Studio has also confirmed that World Baseball Classic content will return, with Judge featured on the cover in his Team USA uniform. More details on how it ties into Diamond Dynasty are expected closer to launch, alongside additional feature breakdowns in the weeks ahead.

Release Date and Editions

MLB The Show 26 launches on March 17, 2026, with early access beginning March 13 for players who purchase the Digital Deluxe Edition.

Key details include:

  • Standard Edition available March 17
  • Digital Deluxe Edition includes four days of early access
  • Pre-orders open February 3
  • Available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch

More Updates Ahead

San Diego Studio says additional feature details and updates will be shared following the gameplay reveal on February 3, with more information expected as launch approaches.

About the author
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Jon Scarr

4ScarrsGaming Owner / Operator & Editor-in-Chief

Jon covers video game news, reviews, industry shifts, cloud gaming, plus movies, TV, and toys, with an eye on how entertainment fits into everyday life.

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