MLB The Show 25 brought an exciting new wave of strategy and cards with its Diamond Dynasty mode, but it’s not always the max 99 rating cards stealing the spotlight. If you’ve spent any real time hitting home runs, you’ll probably agree that some of the best cards out there are the ones that often fly under the radar.
The real game-changers are those sneaky picks with key stats or hidden perks that make them extremely effective. Sure, they don’t have the highest rating, but once you get them on the field, they just dominate.
The Hidden Power Of Non-99 Overall Cards
When it comes to cards under 99 OVR, some of them actually pack a punch, and it all comes down to how the game’s attribute weight system works. Certain stats like Contact, Power, and Clutch matter way more in actual gameplay than most players realize.
This was done intentionally, and the developers at SDS cleverly kept such key stats maxed out while dialing down the less important ones so the card’s OVR doesn’t hit 99. So, you might see a <99 OVR card and think it’s not in competition, but in reality, it can perform like a top-tier 99 OVR card if its ratings in hitting power or contact are maxed out to 100, for instance. That’s why professional players look past the headline number and know where to find the real game-changers.
Standout Overpowered Cards Below 99 Overall
Several of these “hidden beasts” dominate the meta:
Chipper Jones (90 Overall Rating)
Don’t let that 90 rating fool you. Chipper’s hitting stats are simply insane, especially against lefties, and his Contact and Power stats also push past what you’d usually get at this rating. The real kicker? His swing, often described as “buttery smooth”, makes him a beast in early and mid-game. T
he only catch is a relatively low clutch stat, making him less reliable in late-game and high-pressure moments. Sure, you can’t always count on him to save you in the ninth, but if you put him in the right spot in your lineup, he holds the potential to turn a game on its head.
Ralph Kiner (98 Overall Rating)
One of the scariest hitters out there. Kiner’s all about that raw power and solid contact. He doesn’t quite reach the official 99 rating, but make no mistake, he definitely hits like one.
People only see home runs, but he also maintains consistent batting averages like no other. One of the best <99 OVR cards out there to grab your hands on, Kiner offers great balance and power for your lineup
Willie Mays (98 Overall Rating)
The Say Hey Kid, Mays, is still a game-changer despite missing that 99 overall rating tag. He’s got impressive contact at the plate and covers the outfield like it’s nothing. On top of that, he’s fast, so he’s always a threat to steal a base or take an extra one.
Whether you want him to smash home runs, track down fly balls, or swipe bases when the opportunity presents, Mays’ combination of power & agility lets you do it all.
Ty Cobb (97 Overall Rating)
Regarded for his elite speed and contact, Ty Cobb is simply relentless. Whether at the plate or on the base paths, he’s a real threat all around. His contact rating is exceptional for someone with a 97 OVR, giving him impressive bat control over the field.
More so, his speed ratings make him invaluable for stealing bases and scoring from first on doubles without breaking a sweat. In close games where every run counts, Cobb takes small chances and turns them into game-changing moments.
Roberto Clemente (96 Overall Rating)
Clemente’s card isn’t just about stats; it’s got something beyond the numbers. He stands out for his exceptionally sharp fielding and clutch-hitting attributes. He’s the type of hitter you can count on consistently, and his defense locks things down in the outfield.
Although his OVR of 96 looks modest, his ability to deliver in clutch moments and shut down runs in the outfield is what sets him apart. That’s why players who know what they’re doing love having him on their squad as a meta favorite.
After discovering these hidden gems, check out the 10 Best Finest cards next.
