How to Rake in the Respect (and Increase Your Overall) in MLB The Show 21: A Guide for Mere Mortals (and Joey Gallo Wannabes)
Let's face it, folks. Stepping onto the diamond in MLB The Show 21 with a sub-par overall is like showing up to a charity softball game in high heels. Sure, you might look fabulous, but hitting dingers and making diving catches is a whole other ballgame (pun intended). But fear not, aspiring baseball superstars (and those of us who can't tell a slider from a splitter)! This guide will be your cheat sheet to becoming a a legitimate on-field threat, or at least someone who doesn't get benched for the bat boy.
Step 1: Embrace the Grind (But Make it Fun)
- The Daily Grind (Without the Monotony): Look, leveling up takes time. But picture this: you crushing a walk-off homer with the bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth. Electric, right? Now imagine that happening every...single...game. Not realistic? Exactly. So, pace yourself, rookie. Play some moments, tackle challenges, or battle it out in online exhibition matches. Every at-bat, every pitch is a chance to refine your skills and inch that overall rating closer to superstardom.
Step 2: Gear Up Like a Boss (Even if You Play Like a Goofball)
- The Art of the (Virtual) Shopping Spree: Equipment in MLB The Show can be a game-changer. Think of it like your baseball uniform, but way cooler (and with stats!). Look for gear that compliments your playstyle. Power hitter? Grab a bat with some serious pop. Defensive whiz? A fielding glove that makes Nolan Arenado jealous is your new best friend. Remember, though, don't go overboard. You don't want to be that guy with the tricked-out bat who still swings like a windmill.
Step 3: Master the PCI (Unless You Like Striking Out)
- The PCI: Your Friend, Not Your Frenemy: Ah, the bane of every new player's existence. The PCI, that little target thingy, is key to making solid contact. Here's the gist: the better you time your swing and place it within the PCI, the sweeter the connection. Practice makes perfect, so spend some time in batting practice getting a feel for different pitches. Bonus Tip: If you can master hitting breaking balls with two strikes, consider yourself a legend in the making.
Step 4: Train Like a Champion (Even if You Mostly Eat Pizza)
- The Power of Training Days: Don't underestimate the importance of training days. These are your golden opportunities to focus on specific attributes that might be lagging behind. Need to lay down some bunts like a pro? Yep, there's training for that. Feeling a little butterfingers in the outfield? You guessed it, there's fielding drills for that too. Remember: a well-rounded player is a valuable player, so don't neglect any area of your game.
Step 5: Channel Your Inner Joey Gallo (But Maybe with a Bit More Discipline)
- Go Yard or Go Home (But Maybe Not Every Time): We all love the majestic home run. There's nothing quite like launching a ball into the stratosphere. However, becoming a one-trick pony (a la Joey Gallo) might not be the best strategy. Learn to hit for average, steal some bases, and make some dazzling defensive plays. A complete player is a force to be reckoned with, and besides, who wants to be known as "Mr. All-or-Nothing"?
There you have it, aspiring baseball champions! With a little dedication, some smart strategic choices, and maybe a dash of good luck, you'll be well on your way to becoming a force to be reckoned with on the diamond. Now get out there and make The Show proud (and maybe even strike out Mike Trout once or twice. Just sayin').
