How to Draft Like a Champ (or at Least Not a Chump) in MLB the Show 23: A Guide for the Bewildered GM
So you've inherited this ragtag team of baseball misfits. Your trusty closer throws like a drunk octopus, and your shortstop has the range of a sloth on a sugar crash. But fear not, fellow GM! The MLB Draft is your chance to snag the next generation of superstars (or at least guys who can throw a straight fastball). But with all those confusing menus and endless scouting reports, the whole thing can feel like deciphering ancient scrolls written in Klingon. Worry not, for I, your friendly neighborhood baseball guru, am here to guide you through the draft like a sherpa navigating Mount Scoutington.
Step 1: Assemble Your Scouting A-Team (Because Apparently You Can't Do Everything Yourself)
Yes, yes, you're the GM, El Grande Poobah of the Ballpark. But you can't be everywhere at once, can you? That's where your trusty scouts come in. Think of them as your baseball bloodhounds, sniffing out talent across the nation. Here's the lowdown:
- The Bloodhound: This scout prioritizes Scouting. Their job is to get intel on specific players, like a baseball Sherlock Holmes. Aim for high "Efficiency" and good grades in "Position Players" or "Pitching" depending on your team's needs.
- The Nose for the Unknown: This scout is all about Discovery. They unearth hidden gems, the baseball diamonds in the rough. Prioritize high "Discovery" ratings, but be warned, these guys can be a gamble!
Pro Tip: Don't waste money on scouts with bad ratings. They'll bring you back reports that wouldn't impress a pigeon with nearsightedness.
Step 2: Dive into the Scouting Pool (Without Getting Soaked)
Alright, so you've got your scouts assembled. Now what? Here's where things get interesting –– the scouting menu. Don't be intimidated by all those buttons! Here's the gist:
- Pick Your Targets: Look at your draft position and upcoming picks. Focus on scouting players who might be available when it's your turn. You wouldn't use a bazooka to swat a fly, would you?
- Prioritize Like a Pro: You only have so many scouting points per week. Prioritize players you're really interested in, bumping them to "Priority 1" for a deeper dive.
- Scouting vs. Discovery: Spend most of your points on scouting specific players, but throw a bone to discovery every now and then. You never know, you might unearth a future MVP!
Remember: Don't go overboard scouting every player under the sun. You'll end up with a mountain of reports and a headache the size of Texas.
Step 3: Draft Day! It's Showtime, Baby!
The big day has arrived! You've sweated over scouting reports, and now it's time to put it all to the test. Here's what to keep in mind:
- The Board is Your Oyster: Look at the draft board. See who's available and how your scouting intel stacks up.
- Don't Be Afraid to Go Against the Grain: Don't just pick the highest-rated player. Maybe a lower-rated guy with a specific skillset perfectly fits your team's needs.
- Bonus Pool Shenanigans: This is the money you have to sign your draft picks. Don't go overboard on one player and leave yourself scrambling to sign the rest.
Remember: Don't get caught up in the heat of the moment. Stick to your plan, and don't be afraid to take a gamble on a player with potential.
With a little planning and these handy tips, you'll be drafting like a seasoned pro in no time. Now, go forth and build your baseball dynasty (or at least a team that doesn't make you cry)!
