In 2025, we’re celebrating a truly exciting milestone in the world of baseball gaming—MLB The Show is ringing in its 20th anniversary. That’s two decades of capturing baseball’s spirit, making strides in innovation, and creating memorable moments for fans around the globe. To honor this special occasion, San Diego Studio and PlayStation Studios are doing something a bit different this year by featuring not one, not two, but three athletes on the cover of MLB The Show 25. This year’s lucky trio includes Paul Skenes, Elly De La Cruz, and Gunnar Henderson. These emerging stars represent the next chapter in baseball’s future while we fondly look back on the franchise’s past and its legacy of legendary athletes.
Paul Skenes’ story is one for the books. He kicked off his journey in high school and continued to dazzle in college, clinching a national championship. This talent didn’t go unnoticed, as he was picked first overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2023 MLB Draft. Just a year later, he made history by becoming the first player ever to start in the All-Star Game a year after being drafted. Topping off a jaw-dropping 2024, Skenes walked away with the National League Rookie of the Year award and a spot on the All-MLB First Team. His trajectory fits perfectly with the Road to the Show game mode, where players can carve their path to baseball greatness.
Elly De La Cruz has risen through the ranks like a rocket. His spirited climb from the minors to the big leagues is the stuff of dreams for aspiring MLB stars. Since making his debut with the Cincinnati Reds in 2023, De La Cruz has captivated fans with his electrifying play on the field. Not only did he hit for the cycle as one of the youngest players in history, but his speed and powerful arm also make him a standout star. As a 2024 All-Star, Elly showcases a remarkable five-tool skillset, particularly with his switch-hitting capabilities. MLB The Show fans will see him as the epitome of what they aim to develop in the Franchise mode for their ideal shortstop.
Adding to this lineup of talent is Gunnar Henderson, the 2023 American League Rookie of the Year. After being selected 42nd overall in the 2019 MLB Draft, Henderson made waves in the minors before stepping onto the major league field with the Orioles in late 2022. As 2023 dawned, he was hailed as the #1 prospect on MLB’s Top 100 list. During his first full season, Gunnar became an essential player for the Orioles, aiding in their return to the postseason for the first time in seven years. His stellar performance earned him both Rookie of the Year honors and a Silver Slugger Award. In 2024, his star rose even higher as he was chosen for the All-Star Game and competed in the Home Run Derby. His journey intrigues MLB The Show fans who aim for top-tier performance on the diamond.
To stay in the loop with everything coming to MLB The Show 25, baseball enthusiasts should sign up for the Scouting Report. Subscribers get to enjoy all the latest updates, features, and even legendary additions, plus earn unique rewards throughout the year. From April to December 2025, fans will receive a special pack each month loaded with valuable in-game prizes. And stay tuned for the Golden Ticket Sweepstakes, where monthly winners are awarded amazing prizes—think Packs, Stubs, and autographed items from none other than Elly De La Cruz, Gunnar Henderson, and Paul Skenes, with some additional surprises thrown in. Don’t miss out! Register today at theshow.com.
While you’re at it, set up your MLB The Show account to gear up for Opening Day. MLB The Show 25 offers seamless platform transitions so you can maintain access to your entire card collection. Just hop over to the website, create your account, and link your platform accounts to be ready to play without missing a beat.
We’re thrilled to announce that MLB The Show 25 is set to launch on March 18, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. This time around, the game won’t be available on platform subscription services in 2025. However, fans who purchase the Digital Deluxe Edition can access it earlier, starting March 14.
Make sure your alarm is set for February 4 at 9:00 AM PST. That’s when you can catch the premiere of the first Gameplay Trailer over on San Diego Studio and MLB The Show’s social media channels.
To build excitement, expect weekly feature reveals, with deep-dive Feature Trailer discussions hosted by MLB Network’s Robert Flores, plus the return of Feature Premieres from the team at San Diego Studio.
Mark February 4 on your calendar as pre-orders open at 6:00 AM PST for both the Standard and Digital Deluxe Editions via theshow.com, platform stores, and select retailers.
For all things MLB The Show, head to TheShow.com, sign up for The Scouting Report, and follow our updates on X, Facebook, and Instagram.
*Just a heads-up, an internet connection is needed.
** Cross-platform play requires an internet connection, your own copy of MLB The Show 25 for each console, and linked network accounts.
