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In MLB The Show 26, fielding is more than just pressing a button at the right time. One of the stats that often gets overlooked is Directional Reaction. Understanding how it works can make a noticeable difference in your defense, especially in the infield and outfield. This guide explains how Directional Reaction affects gameplay and how most players use it effectively.

What Are Directional Reaction Ratings?

Directional Reaction is a fielder’s ability to react to a ball hit in different directions. In general, it’s about how quickly a player moves toward the ball after it’s hit. Unlike Speed, which determines how fast a player can run, Directional Reaction influences how fast a player starts moving and how well they can adjust to sharply hit balls.

Most players think of fielding as just catching or throwing, but Directional Reaction is what makes players look natural on defense. Players with high ratings will often reach balls that would be out of reach for others, while lower-rated players might struggle with balls hit to their “weak� sides.

How Does Directional Reaction Affect Gameplay?

In practice, Directional Reaction affects several key moments:

Ground Balls to the Corners – If a third baseman or first baseman has low Directional Reaction, they usually take longer to get to balls hit down the line. Even with high Speed, the delay can cost you an out.

Line Drives – Middle infielders and outfielders often have to move quickly to cover balls hit hard and low. A higher rating means they usually get into position faster, making plays on hard-hit balls more consistent.

Balls Hit to the Opposite Hand Side – Right-handed shortstops moving to their left, or left-handed second basemen moving to their right, rely heavily on Directional Reaction. Low ratings can cause players to be late on these plays.

Double Plays – Quick reactions are crucial when turning double plays. Most players notice that even a small increase in Directional Reaction can make double plays more reliable, especially on slow hops or tricky bounces.

In general, Directional Reaction doesn’t make mistakes impossible, but it reduces the chances of your fielder being caught flat-footed.

How Can You Check a Player’s Directional Reaction?

In MLB The Show 26, you can see a player’s Directional Reaction rating in the stats menu under fielding attributes. Most players notice that:

The rating is usually shown numerically (1-99).

There are slight differences between infield and outfield versions of the rating, depending on the player.

Veterans or top-tier players tend to have ratings above 85, while lower-tier players can be in the 60s or 70s.

In practice, you can test it yourself by hitting balls toward different sides of the player and watching how fast they react. Most players do this in practice mode or by playing several innings in Franchise or Diamond Dynasty to get a feel for each fielder.

Should You Rely on Directional Reaction Over Speed?

Not exactly. Speed and Directional Reaction work together:

Speed determines how fast a player can cover ground.

Directional Reaction determines how quickly they start moving and how smoothly they adjust.

Most players find that even a slower player with high Directional Reaction can make plays that look impossible, while a very fast player with low Directional Reaction might miss routine balls because they react late. In general, you want a balance between the two, especially in key defensive positions like shortstop, second base, and center field.

Tips for Using Directional Reaction in Gameplay

Positioning Matters – Even players with high Directional Reaction can struggle if they are out of position. Most players place fielders based on batter tendencies and pitch type to give their Directional Reaction a chance to work.

Don’t Panic on Bad Hops – Directional Reaction helps, but balls that bounce unpredictably are still tricky. Most experienced players focus on controlling the initial movement, not trying to guess every hop.

Practice with Different Hit Directions – Try hitting balls to both sides of a fielder in practice mode. This will help you notice where each player’s strengths and weaknesses are in real gameplay.

Consider Position-Specific Values – Outfielders rely more on Speed and catching ability, but Directional Reaction still affects how quickly they get to line drives. Infielders benefit more directly because quick reactions determine if you make the out or not.

Combine with Throwing and Fielding Ratings – Directional Reaction isn’t the only stat that matters. Players usually perform best when they have decent fielding and arm strength as well, especially when turning double plays or throwing across the diamond.

Common Misconceptions About Directional Reaction

“Higher is always better.� – Not necessarily. Most players find that a rating above 80 is usually enough for consistent results. Beyond that, differences are minor unless you are doing very high-level competitive play.

“It only matters for infielders.� – Outfielders use it too, especially when moving toward balls hit at angles.

“It guarantees catches.� – Directional Reaction improves the chance of a good play, but unpredictable hops or very hard hits can still get through.

Understanding this stat helps you set realistic expectations and position players properly.

How Do Most Players Use Directional Reaction in Team Building?

When creating lineups or managing rosters:

Most players prioritize high Directional Reaction for middle infielders and catchers.

Corner infielders and corner outfielders are usually judged more on power and arm strength, but Reaction is still helpful.

In Diamond Dynasty or franchise modes, replacing a player with one who has better Directional Reaction can noticeably reduce defensive errors, especially in late innings or tight games.

Directional Reaction in MLB The Show 26 is a subtle but important defensive stat. It affects how quickly players start moving toward a ball and how well they adjust to different hit directions. Most players use it in combination with Speed, fielding ability, and positioning to improve defensive consistency. Testing players in practice mode and paying attention to in-game reactions is the best way to understand how it impacts your team.

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