Struggling to Hit in MLB The Show 23? You're Not Alone (Probably Because You Keep Swinging at Everything)
Let's face it, hitting in MLB The Show 23 can feel like trying to catch a greased watermelon in a windstorm. Pitchers are dealing like it's the Cy Young Awards ceremony, and you're flailing at every offering like a confused cat at a laser pointer. Fear not, fellow baseball enthusiast (or should I say, enthusiast of whiffing?), for I come bearing tips (and a healthy dose of humor) to turn your hitting woes into dingers galore.
Step 1: Accepting You're Not Shohei Ohtani (Spoiler Alert: Most of Us Aren't)
We've all seen the highlight reels. Ohtani launching moonshots, Alonso tattooing pitches into the stratosphere. But here's the thing: they're freaks. Genetically-modified baseball cyborgs sculpted by the gods themselves. You, on the other hand, probably haven't hit a homer since little league (unless you count that rogue flip into the concession stand that one time). Embrace the struggle. Accept that you won't hit nukes every at-bat. Focus on making solid contact, and those towering home runs will come naturally (or at least, more naturally than winning the lottery).
Choosing Your Weapon (No, Not an Actual Weapon, Although That Might Help Against DeGrom)
Batting Stance: This may seem trivial, but trust me, it matters. Some stances let you see the pitcher's delivery better, while others prioritize power. Experiment! Find one that feels comfortable and lets you react to pitches. Bonus Tip: If you see a stance that looks like your grandpa watering the lawn, it might be more suited for softball.
Camera Angle: Is your current view making you feel like you're watching the game from a blimp? Try Strike Zone for a zoomed-in approach, or Strike Zone High for a better view of high fastballs (those things are rockets!). Remember: There's no "best" camera angle, just the one that makes you feel like Neo dodging bullets in The Matrix (except, you know, with a bat).
Mastering the Art of Not Swinging Like a Wild Animal
Zone Hitting vs. Directional: This is a personal preference brawl. Zone hitting gives you more control over where you want to make contact, while directional lets you aim for specific pitches. Whichever you choose, for the love of Pete Alonso, lay off the breaking balls outside the zone! Discipline is key. You wouldn't order a plate of lutefisk at a fancy restaurant, would you? (Unless you're into that sort of thing). Apply that same logic to pitches – wait for something you can crush.
Practice Makes Progress (Unless You're Practicing Like a Clown)
Play Moments: These bite-sized challenges are a great way to hone your hitting skills in a low-pressure environment. Plus, some offer rewards that can boost your player's hitting attributes.
Batting Practice: It may not be the most glamorous option, but it works! Focus on specific pitch types or hitting situations to improve your weaknesses. Just avoid that one teammate who insists on throwing nothing but knuckleballs.
Remember, hitting in MLB The Show 23 takes time and patience. Don't get discouraged, and most importantly, have fun! After all, baseball is supposed to be enjoyable (unless you're a Yankees fan playing against the Red Sox, then all bets are off). Now get out there and start mashing!
