Diamond Quest (DQ) Runs on GOAT Difficulty – A Complete Guide

Diamond Quest (DQ) in MLB The Show 25 is one of MLB The Show 25 Stubs the toughest, most rewarding challenges available. The “GOAT” difficulty setting – a new addition in this year’s game – pushes even the most experienced players to their limits. But if you can survive and succeed, the rewards in terms of Stubs, XP, and rare cards are enormous.

This guide breaks down how Diamond Quest works, what GOAT difficulty entails, and the best strategies to help you complete runs successfully.

What is Diamond Quest?
Diamond Quest is a progressive challenge mode within Diamond Dynasty where players face increasingly difficult opponents across multiple stages. Each run consists of 9 games, and winning them all earns you massive rewards – including 90+ OVR Diamond players, top-tier packs, and bonus Stubs.

You get three “lives” – lose three games and your run ends.

There are four difficulty tiers:

Rookie

All-Star

Hall of Fame

GOAT (new in MLB The Show 25)

The higher the difficulty, the better the rewards.

What Makes GOAT Difficulty Unique?
GOAT mode isn’t just “hard.” It combines Hall of Fame-level speed with Legend AI decision-making. Here’s what you’re up against:

Pitch speeds approach 100 mph regularly.

Pitch location is less predictable and more deceptive.

AI batters rarely chase and punish mistakes brutally.

Defensive AI reacts instantly – bunting and cheesing strategies rarely work.

Momentum swings are more pronounced – a bad inning can snowball fast.

Rewards for GOAT Runs
If you manage to complete a DQ run on GOAT difficulty, here’s what you can expect:

1x 90+ Overall Choice Pack (featuring special series Diamonds)

30,000–50,000 Stubs (depends on run quality and bonus objectives)

3x Ballin’ is a Habit Packs

1x Diamond Equipment or Perk

XP boost (varies based on missions and margin of victory)

Bonus rewards are given for:

No losses in the run (aka a "Perfect Run")

Player performance milestones (e.g., 10 HRs with a hitter, 20 Ks with a pitcher)

Using lower-rated squads (extra XP multipliers)

Best Strategies for GOAT Runs
1. Build a Balanced Squad
Avoid stacking only power hitters. You need contact, speed, and defense.

Prioritize players with high clutch and vision stats. These matter most against top-tier AI pitchers.

Defensive mistakes are punished in GOAT mode. Use fielders with 80+ fielding and strong arms.

Pitching Tips
Use off-speed pitches low and away to keep AI batters guessing.

Avoid predictable patterns. AI on GOAT will recognize and adjust quickly.

Prioritize pitchers with high control, stamina, and clutch stats.

Use your bullpen intelligently – don’t let starters go too deep.

Batting Approach
Sit on fastballs and adjust to off-speed.

Use Zone Hitting for better control of PCI placement.

Don’t swing early in the count unless it’s a hanger. The AI throws more junk in GOAT.

Plate discipline wins games: walk totals matter and get you XP bonuses too.

Smart Base Running
Avoid unnecessary steals unless you have elite speed and the pitcher is slow to the plate.

Use hit-and-run tactics occasionally to throw off the AI’s defensive timing.

Always take the extra base on outfielders with cheap MLB The Show 25 Stubs weak arms – use the in-game scouting info.