Aaron Judge has been named the cover athlete for the upcoming MLB The Show 26, marking the second time he has graced the cover of this popular video game. He previously appeared on the cover in 2018, and now, as the reigning American League MVP, he is set to lead the U.S. team in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. The artwork showcases Judge donned in both his New York Yankees pinstripes and his Team USA uniform, which is a first for the series with a player wearing their national jersey.
MLB The Show 26 is scheduled for release on March 17, 2026, for various platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and Nintendo Switch. Fans will have the opportunity for early access beginning March 13 for those who purchase the Digital Deluxe Edition. Preorders for both the Standard Edition and Digital Deluxe Edition will commence on February 3 at 11 a.m. ET.
Judge made his first cover debut shortly after making a significant mark in baseball history, having shattered a rookie record with 52 home runs in 2017, which earned him the American League Rookie of the Year honors. Since then, he has continued to establish himself as a powerhouse athlete, racking up three MVP awards, seven All-Star selections, five Silver Slugger titles, and this past 2022, he set the American League record with 62 home runs. In the 2025 season, Judge further demonstrated his prowess by hitting 53 home runs and securing his first batting title with a .331 average.
Through its 21 years of existence in its current format, Judge is the only Yankees player to appear on the cover of MLB The Show. Previous cover athletes include notable players like Joe Mauer, who was the only other player to feature on the cover more than once. Judge’s appearance as the cover athlete highlights not only his incredible abilities on the field but also his popularity that resonates with fans across the globe.
As part of MLB The Show 26, the newly returning World Baseball Classic will also feature prominently in Diamond Dynasty mode, offering fans more engaging gameplay experiences. This year, the game shifts back to its traditional format of having a single cover athlete after featuring a trio of young stars—Paul Skenes, Elly De La Cruz, and Gunnar Henderson—on the previous edition.
With the excitement of Judge leading Team USA and the return of the World Baseball Classic, MLB The Show 26 anticipates fostering a deeper connection between players and the spirit of baseball. Judge’s ongoing success gives fans hope for an exhilarating season ahead, both in the game and on the field.