If you want full control over your pitches in MLB The Show 26, Pinpoint Pitching is where it’s at. It’s not easy to master, but the payoff is huge—your pitches land exactly where you aim, reducing the randomness that often frustrates even experienced players.

Core Mechanics of Pinpoint

The Gesture (Trace): Every pitch has a unique pattern you need to trace using the right stick. Follow the demo’s speed as closely as possible. Go too fast, and the indicator turns yellow or red; too slow, and the same happens. Smooth, consistent motion is key.

The Hold: Most traces finish at the top of the circle. Hold your stick there until the outer circle closes onto the inner static circle at the bottom. This sets up the perfect release window.

The Release (Slam): This is the most critical part of any pitch. Pull the stick down toward the bottom circle at the exact moment the circles overlap.

Timing: Affects vertical placement. Slightly late is better than early to avoid leaving a hanging curve or slider.

Angle: Determines horizontal accuracy. A small deviation can move the ball a foot or more from your target in-game.

Advanced Tips for Accuracy

Watch the Pitcher, Not Just the Meter: Align your release with the pitcher’s animation—the leg kick, the arm coming forward—rather than relying solely on the on-screen meter. It helps make your timing more consistent.

Optimize Your Settings: Use one of the Strike Zone cameras (1, 2, or 3) to get a better view from the umpire’s perspective. Turn on the Pitch Trail or Perfect Accuracy Region (PAR) marker to see where your pitch will land if executed perfectly.

Leverage “Bear Down” Pitching: This new MLB The Show 26 feature lets you use a limited “elite focus” supply to boost control in clutch moments. Perfect for full-count situations or runners in scoring position.

Hardware and Practice: Struggling with small movements? KontrolFreek thumbsticks or tweaking your stick dead zones can improve precision. Spend 30 minutes in Custom Practice, ideally with a pitcher like Shohei Ohtani, to master different deliveries like splitters, sliders, and fastballs.