Jessica Mendoza returned with another Fielding Feedback update, highlighting how Franchise Mode in MLB The Show 26 will be more focused on realistic front office decision-making. Players still have full control of running an organization, but now they can customize how involved they want to be with staffing, contract negotiations and more. It’s easier to jump into key moments instead of playing every inning, giving users the freedom to shape their season while focusing on the moments that matter most. So it’s basically March to October merging into Franchise Mode.
A redesigned Trade Hub is at the center of the changes, acting as a one-stop dashboard for managing everything related to trades. Players can review offers, track targets, monitor rumors and manage trade blocks all in one place. Trade logic has been reworked across the board, making deals feel much closer to real life. Player value now takes into account star status, prospect potential, farm system rankings, positional value and overall market demand. Franchise cornerstones are far less likely to be moved and teams will approach deals differently depending on whether they are rebuilding or chasing a championship. Rivalries, market size and contract size also factor in, so smaller market teams may avoid expensive long-term deals while contenders focus on filling specific needs for a playoff push.
Trade timing now matters more with trade delays and pending offers, replacing instant deals. This gives players time to evaluate rumors, negotiate counters and compete with other teams targeting the same players, while Fog of War adds uncertainty around league chatter. Larger deals are also possible with support for trades involving up to eight players. Franchise Mode also brings upgrades to lineup and pitching logic, including more modern batting orders, smarter use of secondary positions and realistic bullpen fatigue. Bullpen games have been added as well, allowing teams to manage pitching staffs the same way many real MLB clubs do, either manually or through simulation.
The development team at San Diego Studio also discussed more details during their Franchise Mode Feature Premiere, walking players through the updated systems and explaining how these changes are designed to create a deeper and more authentic front office experience in MLB The Show 26.
