Speed often gets overlooked in MLB The Show 25, where power hitters and flamethrower pitchers tend to grab the spotlight. But building a speed-based team can give you a serious edge—especially in Ranked Seasons, Events, and Conquest games. Whether you’re looking to manufacture runs, disrupt defenses, or create chaos on the basepaths, here are 9 essential strategies to help you build a speed-first lineup that wins games.

1. Prioritize Speed in Key Positions

Start with speed-focused players at premium positions like center field, shortstop, and second base. These spots require range on defense and offer chances for leadoff opportunities. Players with 90+ speed should be your targets here.

2. Use the Speed Filter in Diamond Dynasty

When browsing the market, use the speed filter to quickly find players who fit your team’s identity. Sorting by speed and secondary positions helps you find hidden gems. Some fast players also come at a discount, letting you conserve your MLB The Show 25 Stubs for other needs.

3. Craft Your Batting Order Strategically

Stack the top of your lineup with your fastest runners. The 1-2 spots are perfect for high-speed, high-contact players. Once they’re on base, you can create early pressure with bunts, steals, and hit-and-run plays.

4. Focus on Contact and Vision Stats

Speed is nothing without the ability to get on base. Players with high contact and vision are more likely to put the ball in play, setting the stage for infield hits, drag bunts, and aggressive baserunning.

5. Take Advantage of Bunt Mechanics

Bunting is a lost art for most players—but not for speed teams. Learn how to execute drag bunts and squeeze plays to perfection. It’s even more effective in online play, where defenders often misjudge bunts and throw accuracy.

6. Disrupt Pitchers with Steals

Fast runners constantly threaten to steal, which forces pitchers to throw more fastballs and make mistakes. Even if you don’t always attempt a steal, the threat alone changes pitch selection. Use this to your advantage in clutch moments.

7. Invest Smartly with Your Stubs

While building your speed squad, manage your budget wisely. You can buy MLB The Show 25 Stubs to grab specific cards, but prioritize speedsters with strong secondary traits. Platforms like U4N provide options for stubs at competitive prices, but remember to focus on roster balance first.

8. Maximize Fielding Range and Reaction Time

Speed helps on defense too. Look for outfielders and infielders with high reaction and speed stats. They’ll cover more ground and prevent extra-base hits, making your team tougher to score against.

9. Play Small Ball Situationally

Knowing when to bunt, steal, or hit-and-run is crucial. Small ball isn’t just about speed—it’s about timing. Use it to break up no-hitters, disrupt rhythm, or scratch out runs in tight games. Combine this with pinch runners and defensive subs for maximum impact late in games.

Speed isn’t always flashy, but in the right hands, it’s deadly. Whether you’re grinding offline or competing online, a well-built speed team can tilt the game in your favor. Be patient, play smart, and don’t underestimate the power of pressure on the basepaths. And if you're short on in-game currency, keeping a reserve of MLB The Show 25 Stubs from trusted sources like U4N can help you complete your roster faster.