In MLB The Show 26, knowing which players to mark as untouchable is crucial for building a strong franchise. Untouchable players are your core stars—players so valuable that trading them would seriously hurt your team’s long-term success. Typically, these are top performers, young superstars under team control, or high-cost contracts that teams are committed to keeping.



The Untouchable Tier



Some players are obvious must-keep assets. These are the ones every franchise would want to lock in:



Shohei Ohtani (DH/RHP, Dodgers): Triple MVP, two-time World Series champion. A two-way player who changes games on both the mound and at the plate.

Bobby Witt Jr. (SS, Royals): A top-three talent globally. Elite speed and power, making him a franchise centerpiece.

Paul Skenes (RHP, Pirates): NL Cy Young winner with a career ERA under 2.00. Dominant young pitcher with long-term upside.

Gunnar Henderson (SS, Orioles): Five-tool star with strong potential to carry a team for years.

Elly De La Cruz (SS, Reds): MVP-caliber talent who is electrifying on both offense and defense.

Untouchable Assets by Category

Category Primary "Untouchables" Why They’re Untouchable

Elite Pitching Tarik Skubal (DET), Paul Skenes (PIT), Garrett Crochet (BOS) Skubal chases multiple Cy Youngs; Crochet leads MLB in strikeouts; Skenes dominates young pitching ranks.

Young Stars Jackson Chourio (MIL), Roman Anthony (BOS), Junior Caminero (TB) Locked into long-term deals or extensive team control. High ceilings make them future cornerstones.

Foundational Bats Aaron Judge (NYY), Juan Soto (NYM), Kyle Tucker (LAD) Power hitters and recent mega-deal signees who define team identity.

Lock-down Defense Cal Raleigh (SEA), Will Smith (LAD) MVP-level catcher (Raleigh) and defensive anchor with long-term contract (Smith).

Rising Prospects Nearing Untouchable Status



Some rookies and young players are already becoming untouchable due to impressive debuts or early extensions:



Konnor Griffin (PIT): Baseball’s No. 1 prospect in 2026; signed a 9-year extension before debut.

Samuel Basallo (BAL): 2026 World Series MVP and top catching prospect.

Kevin McGonigle (DET): Historic Opening Day debut; signed an 8-year, $150M extension.

JJ Wetherholt (STL): NL Rookie of the Year candidate and long-term middle-infield piece.



When managing your MLB 26 franchise, treat untouchables as your foundation. Protect superstars, elite pitchers, and rising talents while making trades around them. Doing so ensures long-term stability and makes it easier to rebuild or compete each season.