MLB The Show 26 April Fools Program Guide: Weird “Common to Diamond” Event Explained

Every year, MLB The Show 26 surprises players with unique seasonal content, and this year’s April Fools program is no exception. While it may look like a joke at first glance, this limited-time event actually offers a fun twist—and potentially valuable rewards if you understand how it works.

In this guide, we’ll break down the April Fools program, explain how to complete the challenges efficiently, and show why these “common” cards are worth your time.

What Is the April Fools Program?

At its core, the April Fools program revolves around low-rated common players that appear underwhelming initially. However, the twist is:

These common cards are expected to upgrade into Diamond cards after April 1st.

This mechanic mirrors last year’s event, where seemingly useless players transformed into high-value assets overnight. While it may feel repetitive, it still provides a unique and rewarding grind.

Featured Players in the Program

The program includes several well-known MLB names in downgraded “common” form, such as:

• Kerry Wood (64 OVR)
• Carlos Peña (64 OVR)
• Jorge Soler
• Trevor Story

At first glance, these cards are not usable in competitive lineups—but their future Diamond upgrade potential makes them highly valuable.

How to Complete April Fools Moments

The biggest trick in this program is that moment objectives are intentionally misleading.

Key Tip:

Always follow the small blue text instructions, NOT the large headline.

Example Challenges:

• Give up a run without striking anyone out
• Do NOT get a hit or RBI
• Get caught stealing
• Avoid extra-base hits

These reversed or unusual objectives are designed to confuse players, so pay close attention.

Fast Completion Strategies

Here are some easy ways to finish the moments quickly:

1. Pitching Challenges

• Intentionally walk batters or throw easy pitches to allow runs.
• Avoid strikeouts by pitching outside the zone.

2. Batting Challenges

If the goal is to avoid hits or RBIs, simply:

• Strike out intentionally
• Bunt into easy outs

3. Base Running Challenges

To get caught stealing:

• Leave early on purpose
• Use slow runners to guarantee failure

4. Avoid Extra Base Hits

If you need singles only:

• Stop at first base even if you hit a gap shot

Program Missions Overview

Beyond moments, you’ll also need to complete missions:

PXP Missions

• Earn 500 PXP with common players
• Earn PXP with specific program players

Stat Missions

• Get hits with common players
• Allow hits with pitchers
• Commit errors
• Get caught stealing multiple times

Pro Tip:

To complete error missions quickly:

• Use button accuracy throwing
• Purposely mistime throws (red accuracy) to trigger errors

Rewards and Why This Program Matters

Key Rewards:

• All featured players (likely upgrading to Diamonds)
• Show Packs
• Deluxe “New Threads” Pack (if completed within 24 hours)

Even though the grind feels silly, the payoff can be significant if the cards upgrade as expected.

Is the Program Worth It?

Yes—despite the joke-like presentation, this program is:

• Quick to complete
• Easy to grind
• Potentially highly rewarding

While it may lack originality compared to previous years, the opportunity to earn multiple Diamond players makes it a must-play event.

Final Thoughts

The MLB The Show April Fools program is intentionally weird, slightly confusing, and not entirely serious—but that’s the point. By embracing the unusual objectives and completing the challenges efficiently, you can walk away with valuable rewards.

If history repeats itself, today’s “useless” commons will become tomorrow’s elite Diamonds—making this one of the most unique limited-time programs in the game.