You Pitch Like a Noodle? How to Throw a Quality Start in MLB The Show 23 (Even if You're Basically Bartolo Colon)
Let's face it, aces are born, not created (or acquired through a lucky pack pull). But fear not, fellow below-average gamers like myself! Just because your fastball tops out at "funeral dirge" speed doesn't mean you can't rack up quality starts (QS) in MLB The Show 23. Here's your survival guide to becoming a QS machine, even if your pitching repertoire resembles a confused toddler throwing spaghetti at a wall.
Step 1: Embrace the Dark Side... of the Pitch Selection Menu
Forget about heaters. We're in "changeup city, population: you." Master the art of the off-speed. Develop that 12-to-6 curveball like it's your prized possession (because against those power hitters, it kind of is). Remember, location is king! A perfectly placed changeup that dives under the hitter's bat is your best friend.
Step 2: Become the Master of the Mixer
Don't be a one-trick pony. Keep hitters guessing by mixing in that slow curve with a funky slider and maybe even a daring fastball (just for show, of course). Think of yourself as a jazz musician, improvising a symphony of pitches that leaves batters bewildered.
Step 3: The Art of the "Strategic Walk"
Here's a secret most YouTubers won't tell you: a walk isn't the enemy. Sometimes, it's your best friend. Facing a monster masher with a batting average that would shame Ted Williams? Walk him! It might feel like surrender, but trust me, it's better than watching a towering home run disappear into the stands. Plus, all those walks add to your pitch count, helping you reach that magical 6-inning mark.
Step 4: Channel Your Inner Greg Maddux
Remember that crafty pitcher who relied on guile over overpowering stuff? Be Greg Maddux! Work the corners of the zone, paint the edges, and become a master of pitch sequencing. Learn to set hitters up for that perfect strikeout pitch.
Step 5: Manage Your Stamina Like a Boss
Going the distance requires managing your stamina like a hawk guarding its nest. Don't waste pitches! Focus on quality over quantity. And for Pete's sake, lay off the high cheese – it might look cool, but it drains your stamina faster than a teenager discovering their dad's credit card.
Step 6: Embrace the Occasional Prayer (and Maybe a Lucky Rabbit's Foot)
Remember, even the best pitchers have bad days. Sometimes, all you can do is throw your hands up, mutter a quick prayer to the baseball gods, and hope for a weak ground ball.
So there you have it! With a little practice, a whole lot of off-speed pitches, and maybe a dash of good luck, you too can become a QS machine in MLB The Show 23. Now go forth and dominate (or at least survive) those online matches! Just remember, if all else fails, there's always next season...
