Baserunning in MLB The Show 23: From Couch Potato to Usain Bolt (Kind Of)
You've smashed a double, you're feeling like a hero, soaking in the cheers of the adoring (or confused) digital crowd. But hold on there, champ, because getting to third and flashing that pearly white smile requires more than just a good swing. This, my friends, is where the beautiful chaos of baserunning begins. Fear not, fellow gamers, for this guide will turn you from a base-clogging blunderbuss into a baserunning ninja.
Basic Controls: Not Rocket Science (But Maybe Astrophysics?)
- The Magic of Buttons: Each face button (or D-pad direction for the minimalists) controls a specific base. Want your daring dasher on first to scamper to second? Mash that button like it owes you rent!
- Herding Cats, But With Buttons: Hold L1 to send all your base-bound butterflies fluttering forward. Just be careful with a full house, unless you fancy a baserunning conga line ending in a confusing out.
Pro Tip: Master the left stick. It lets you select individual runners, perfect for that high-risk, high-reward double steal you've been practicing in the mirror.
Advanced Techniques: Because You're Basically Barry Bonds Now (In Your Dreams)
- The Art of the Steal: Hold that left trigger (LT) and tap the button for the base you want to swipe. But remember, stealing bases is like that second slice of pizza - tempting, but consider the situation first! A slow runner with a pitcher known for his pickoff move? Maybe not the best idea.
- Leading Off: This is where things get fancy. Tapping the left trigger lets your baserunner take a daring lead off the bag. Time it right, and you'll gain a precious advantage on a potential steal or a heads-up play at the plate. Time it wrong, and you'll be out in a cloud of digital dust.
Warning: Leading off can be addictive, and getting caught napping can be embarrassing (especially if your opponent has a mic).
Situational Awareness: Because Baseball is More Than Just Hitting Dingers
- The Mighty Out: Two outs? Don't be a hero! A base hit with two outs means you gotta play it safe. Tag up and advance one base at a time.
- The Art of the Slide: A well-timed slide can mean the difference between safe and out. Tap X (or Square) just before you hit the bag to initiate a dramatic, and hopefully successful, slide.
Remember: A flashy slide might look cool, but it can also do some serious damage (virtually speaking) if you miss the bag entirely. There's a fine line between "wow" and "wow, that was bad."
Bonus Round: Because Everyone Loves a Good Blooper
- The Accidental Homerun: Sometimes, the baseball gods have a funny bone. You might hit a weak grounder, and the fielder bobbles it. In this glorious chaos, unleash your inner Usain Bolt and run like the digital wind! You never know, you might just end up circling the bases and high-fiving a virtual teammate.
Baserunning in MLB the Show 23 may not be brain surgery, but it takes practice and a healthy dose of baseball IQ. With these tips and a sprinkle of luck, you'll be a baserunning maestro in no time. Now get out there and steal some bases (but maybe not too many from your own teammates)!
