Building a competitive Diamond Dynasty squad in MLB The Show 25 doesn’t mean you need to drain your stub balance on high-rated legends. For players who want to stay competitive without overspending, there are plenty of budget-friendly starters who can shine on the mound early in the season. Whether you’re grinding your way through Ranked Seasons or just getting your team off the ground, here are 13 solid starters that deliver well above their cost.

1. Reid Detmers (LHP) – Silver Tier

With a nasty curveball and decent control, Detmers is a lefty who can keep hitters off balance. His pitch mix is deceptive, and he works well against early-game lineups.

2. Josiah Gray (RHP) – Bronze/Silver Tier

Gray brings heat and movement. His high-velocity fastball combined with a solid slider makes him a reliable option against impatient hitters.

3. Brayan Bello (RHP) – Silver Tier

Known for his sinker and changeup combo, Bello is a ground ball machine. He’s effective at keeping the ball in the park, which is key when playing at smaller stadiums.

4. Michael Lorenzen (RHP) – Bronze Tier

Lorenzen offers versatility and a solid fastball. He’s especially valuable in early events and Battle Royale modes due to his low stub cost.

5. Drey Jameson (RHP) – Silver Tier

Jameson’s four-pitch mix and quick windup give hitters little time to react. He’s a sneaky good option who plays above his overall rating.

6. Aaron Civale (RHP) – Silver Tier

With pinpoint command and off-speed precision, Civale works well as a control pitcher. Use him to manage contact-heavy lineups.

7. Kyle Bradish (RHP) – Silver/Gold Tier

Bradish is a bit pricier than others on this list but still a bargain for what he brings to the table. His slider is elite when located properly.

8. Brandon Pfaadt (RHP) – Bronze Tier

He’s a low-risk, high-reward option with potential to grow in your rotation. His pitch velocity isn’t overwhelming, but his accuracy makes up for it.

9. JP Sears (LHP) – Bronze Tier

Another lefty with a deceptive motion, Sears thrives against left-handed batters and offers strong value in platoon matchups.

10. Clarke Schmidt (RHP) – Silver Tier

Schmidt’s cutter and sinker combination frustrate hitters looking to square up. He’s especially good against aggressive players.

11. Nick Martinez (RHP) – Silver Tier

Martinez offers an old-school feel with his pitch variety and strong command. He’s reliable in late innings when stamina isn’t an issue.

12. Ryan Yarbrough (LHP) – Bronze Tier

Yarbrough’s low velocity makes him an ideal contrast pitcher following someone like Gray or Bradish. He’s very effective if used correctly.

13. Dean Kremer (RHP) – Silver Tier

With solid velocity and break, Kremer is a balanced starter who can go deep into games without burning through your bullpen.

In MLB The Show 25 Diamond Dynasty, value matters just as much as talent. If you’re strategic with your rotation, you can dominate without shelling out thousands of stubs. That said, managing your resources wisely is key. Many players look to buy MLB The Show 25 stubs to speed up their progress, but it’s important to do so from a reliable source. For many in the community, U4N has earned a reputation as the best place to buy stubs MLB The Show 25 players can trust.

Whether you're a no-money-spent grinder or someone looking to build smart with a limited budget, these 13 starters are more than capable of carrying your squad into the win column.