How to Unlock the GOAT Mode Achievement in MLB The Show 26

[PlainRidge]

The GOAT Mode achievement (or trophy) is earned by performing one of two actions while playing on GOAT difficulty—the hardest setting in the game:

Get a base hit while batting, or
Strike out an opposing batter while pitching

⚠️ Important: You cannot use simulated games. The hit or strikeout must be performed manually.

Step 1: Start an Easy Setup

Because GOAT difficulty is extremely tough, the fastest way is to cheese the achievement using Exhibition Mode:

Go to the Main Menu.
Select Exhibition Mode.
Choose any two teams. It helps to pick a powerhouse MLB team vs a weak one for easier results.
Open the Gameplay Settings and set the Difficulty to GOAT.
Step 2: Adjust Gameplay Sliders

Sliders let you modify player performance to make the achievement easier:

If you’re going for a Hit:

Human Contact: Max
Human Power: Max
Human Timing: Max
CPU Pitch Speed: Min
CPU Pitch Control: Min

If you’re going for a Strikeout:

Human Pitch Control: Max
Human Pitch Break: Max
CPU Batter Contact: Min
CPU Batter Timing: Min

These slider tweaks effectively reduce the difficulty while keeping GOAT mode “active,” making it easy to get your hit or strikeout quickly.

Step 3: Execute the Play
Start the game and perform the action.
Because of the sliders, you can usually complete the requirement in the first half-inning.
Once the hit or strikeout is recorded, the GOAT Mode achievement unlocks immediately.
Pro Tips
Fast Game Settings: Use quick counts and 3-inning games to save time.
Save Before Starting: If something goes wrong, you can reload without losing progress.
Crossplay Settings: Not relevant here, since Exhibition Mode is offline.

Using this method, even players who struggle with GOAT difficulty can unlock the achievement without endless frustration. It’s fast, safe, and ensures you get the trophy without risking Ranked or Diamond Dynasty progression.