Adding Ken Griffey Jr. to your Diamond Dynasty lineup in MLB The Show 26 is exciting, but completing his missions can be tricky if you don’t know the most efficient path. Whether you’re chasing the 95 OVR All-Star or the 99 OVR Retro Lightning version, here’s a step-by-step guide to get it done.
Main Mission Types
There are several categories of missions you’ll need to tackle:
1. Total Bases Challenge
Use any Ken Griffey Jr. card in your lineup to accumulate a set number of total bases. This helps you progress in the program and earn XP.
2. Program Moments
Complete all “Moments” in the Ken Griffey Jr. Spotlight program. Each Moment usually gives between 10–28 points, pushing you closer to higher-tier rewards.
3. In-Game Stat Missions
Home Runs: Hit home runs specifically with Griffey cards from the Mariners or Reds.
Parallel XP (PXP): Play Griffey in ranked games, Battle Royale, events, or Mini Seasons to earn Parallel XP.
4. Collection Missions
To unlock the 99 OVR Retro Lightning version, you must collect 8 out of 11 July Spotlight Pack players. This is often the biggest grind, but it’s straightforward if you focus on completing Moments first.
Shortcut Strategies
Player Exchanges: Struggling with the home run missions? Skip them by exchanging Mariners or Reds players. This can net the points needed without grinding at-bats.
Chase Packs: The 95 OVR All-Star Ken Griffey Jr. can drop from Chase Pack 9, available via the 3rd Inning XP Reward Path Wheel or in 50-pack bundles.
Card Versions & How to Get Them
Card Series OVR Team How to Get It
Retro Lightning 99 Mariners July Spotlight Collection (8 players)
All-Star 95 Mariners Chase Pack 9 / Marketplace
All-Star 87 Mariners Marketplace (~9,000 Stubs)
Pro Tip: Prioritize the July Spotlight Program first. Completing its 28 Moments points gives you a strong head start toward unlocking the 99 OVR Retro Lightning card.
By following this guide, you can efficiently progress through Ken Griffey Jr.’s missions and get him into your lineup faster. Focus on Moments, use Player Exchanges smartly, and don’t forget to check Chase Packs for quick pulls.
