From Baseball Blunderbuss to Big Leaguer: Mastering MLB The Show 23
Ah, MLB The Show 23. The crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd, the existential dread as you realize you've swung at literally everything the pitcher threw. Been there, buddy. But fear not, fellow gamer! This guide will turn you from a baseball blunderbuss into a a full-fledged Cooperstown candidate. (Although, let's be honest, those plaques are probably expensive to maintain).
Step 1: Accepting Your Mortality (and Your Fielding Woes)
Look, we've all been there. You take the perfect swing, the crack echoes through the stadium, and... it's a lazy flyball to right field. Your outfielder, bless his cotton socks, takes a leisurely stroll towards it, then... poof ... the ball disappears. Here's the truth: outfielders in this game have the reflexes of a sloth wearing oven mitts. Do not take it personally. Just accept it and focus on what you can control: hitting dingers and painting corners (metaphorically, of course. Pitchers don't use paintbrushes).
Hitting Clinic: From Flailing to Launching
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Master the Art of Patience: Yes, I know, there's a fastball right down the middle. It's begging to be launched into the stratosphere. But resist! This game loves to throw junk pitches after a juicy fastball to make you chase. Wait for your pitch, young grasshopper.
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Learn Pitch Recognition: Not all pitches are created equal. A curveball isn't going to act like a fastball, shocker, I know. Take some batting practice and get used to the timing of different pitches.
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Situational Hitting: Bases loaded, two outs? Maybe don't try to hit a home run. Focus on making contact and driving in runs. You'll be surprised how effective a well-placed ground ball can be (and way less stressful than whiffing on a 3-0 count).
Pitching Poise: From Meatball Machine to Maestro
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Location, Location, Location: Sure, you can try to blow the ball past everyone with every pitch, but that's a recipe for disaster (and a high pitch count). Focus on hitting your spots and let the movement of the pitches do the work.
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Mix it Up: Don't be a one-trick pony. Fastball, fastball, curveball? The batter will be licking his chops. Throw a variety of pitches to keep the hitter guessing.
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Know Your Arsenal: Not all pitchers are created equal (see a theme here?). Some pitchers have nasty breaking balls, while others rely on a blazing fastball. Play to your pitcher's strengths and don't be afraid to experiment.
Bonus Tip: Embrace the Grind
Let's be honest, this game takes practice. A lot of practice. But hey, isn't that half the fun? Besides, think of the bragging rights you'll have when you're launching dingers and striking out batters left and right. Just remember, practice makes perfect (or at least, less embarrassing).
Remember, the key to MLB The Show 23 is to have fun. Sure, there will be frustrating moments, but there's also immense satisfaction in crushing a home run or striking out the side. So grab your controller, step up to the plate, and get ready to dominate!
