If you’re building a team in Franchise Mode for MLB The Show 26, choosing the right shortstop is key. You want someone who not only performs now but also develops into a long-term cornerstone. This list breaks down the top 10 shortstops to target, factoring in age, development potential, and baseline attributes.
Top 10 Franchise Mode Shortstops
| Rank | Player | Team | Age | Overall Rating | Core Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bobby Witt Jr. | Kansas City Royals | 25 | 96 | 5-tool player, elite speed, max fielding |
| 2 | Francisco Lindor | New York Mets | 32 | 95 | Switch-hitter, diamond defense, elite contact |
| 3 | Mookie Betts | Los Angeles Dodgers | 33 | 95 | Exceptional hitting, premium active quirks |
| 4 | Gunnar Henderson | Baltimore Orioles | 24 | 94 | Raw power, youth, long-term team control |
| 5 | Elly De La Cruz | Cincinnati Reds | 24 | 93 | 99 speed, 99 arm strength, massive power ceiling |
| 6 | Corey Seager | Texas Rangers | 32 | 92 | Elite hitting vs. left right, top-tier swing animations |
| 7 | Carlos Correa | Minnesota Twins | 31 | 87 | Great arm strength, solid clutch performer |
| 8 | Dansby Swanson | Chicago Cubs | 32 | 86 | High defensive floor, consistent contact hitter |
| 9 | Zach Neto | Los Angeles Angels | 25 | 84 | High development potential, budget-friendly trade target |
| 10 | Willy Adames | San Francisco Giants | 30 | 84 | Great power ceiling for a shortstop, reliable defense |
Franchise Building Tips
Cornerstone Targets
If you have trade capital, focus on Bobby Witt Jr. or Gunnar Henderson. Both have A-grade potential, excellent age, and elite ratings. They’re safe long-term investments.
Budget Diamonds
Teams without premium assets should consider Zach Neto or scouting prospects like Leo De Vries. De Vries has a strong swing and develops fast, making him a cost-effective piece.
High-Risk, High-Reward
Elly De La Cruz is a game-changer. His speed and arm strength offer immediate impact, and if you train his contact stats, he becomes nearly unstoppable.
Franchise Mode is about long-term planning. Balancing top-tier talent, development potential, and your budget will keep your team competitive for years. These shortstops give you flexibility to build a dynasty or develop future stars while keeping your core stable.
