MLB The Show 26: Best Players You Can’t Trade in Franchise Mode

LOGaNWARD784

Top "Untouchable" Players in Franchise Mode

These players are basically impossible to get through normal trades. They are either elite veterans, young phenoms, or players with massive trade value. Here’s a look at the main untouchables:

PlayerTeamRoleWhy They Are Untouchable
Shohei OhtaniDodgersTWPThe highest trade value in the game thanks to hitting and pitching at elite levels.
Paul SkenesPiratesSP90+ OVR with “A” potential at a young age; the CPU treats him like gold.
Bobby Witt Jr.RoyalsSSPerfect 5-tool player: speed, fielding, contact, and more.
Aaron JudgeYankeesRFMassive power ratings and face-of-the-franchise status.
Juan SotoMetsLFOne of the highest-rated hitters in the game with elite offensive potential.
Byron BuxtonTwinsCFMinnesota’s franchise centerpiece with long-term service time and a no-trade clause.

These untouchable stars shape the core of every franchise, making trade strategy more realistic and challenging.

How the Untouchable System Works

Team Cornerstone Protection: Each MLB team usually designates about 20 untouchable players, including both top MLB stars and high-potential prospects.

Dynamic Status: Untouchable status can change. Teams struggling during the season might move some untouchables to the trade block, especially near the trade deadline.

Prospect Locking: High-level prospects, like Walker Jenkins, often start as untouchable. This keeps them out of your hands early in a franchise unless you force trades.

User Protection: You can tag your own players as untouchable too. This stops the CPU from constantly sending lowball offers or involving them in trade rumors.

“Personally I don't mind the idea of a select few per team being too valuable to trade for, but it feels like way too many players are untouchable to me.” – MLB® The Show, 1 month ago
“The untouchable thing is a great addition because it's always been way too easy to trade for young star players.” – Reddit · r/MLBTheShow, 1 month ago

Tips for Working Around Untouchables

• Track List Changes: Check community forums to see when untouchables might shift off the list.
• Use the Trade Hub: Players like Francisco Lindor or Ketel Marte may eventually become tradable depending on team performance.
• Plan Your Roster: Focus on acquiring elite players who aren’t untouchable or build depth through trades for solid secondary talent.
  

The Untouchable system adds realism and challenge to Franchise Mode, making every trade decision matter. Knowing who can’t be traded helps you plan long-term and build a winning team around the stars you can actually acquire.