So You Wanna Be a Hold Hero in MLB the Show 23? A Guide for the Not-So-Closing Closers
Listen up, pitchers! Tired of being overshadowed by the ninth-inning glory hounds? Do you dream of getting your name in the box score without the crushing pressure of a save situation? Well, my friends, the world of holds awaits you!
But hold on (pun intended!), becoming a hold master isn't exactly a walk in the park. It's like being the understudy for a rockstar – you gotta be ready to jump in at a moment's notice and keep the party going, but without the fancy solo at the end.
Here's the down-low on how to snag those sweet, sweet holds:
Hold Up! What Exactly is a Hold?
Think of a hold as a participation trophy for relievers. Just kidding (kind of). It goes to the pitcher who comes in with a shaky lead (3 runs or less, or the tying run on deck) and keeps the party from turning into a total blowout. You gotta record at least one out, hand the ball off to another reliever before things get dicey, and pray the bullpen door doesn't turn into a revolving door after you leave.
How to Become a Hold Hero: A Not-So-Scientific Guide
- Befriend the Starter: This guy sets the stage for your hold-grabbing glory. The longer they can stretch out their outing, the better your chances of coming in with a manageable lead. Become their biggest fan, bribe them with pizza, whatever it takes!
- Master the Art of the Quick Inning: Nobody likes a reliever who takes forever to get an out. Be sharp, be efficient, and get outta there before you blow the save situation (which would disqualify you from hold contention).
- Develop Your Inner Psychic: You gotta have a sixth sense for when the opposing team is about to mount a rally. Feel a cold sweat? See the bases getting loaded? Time to politely inform the manager it's probably best to bring in someone else. There's no shame in knowing your limits!
- Embrace the Role of the Hype Man: Your job isn't to close the deal, it's to keep the energy high for the next guy in line. Pump your fist, yell encouragement from the dugout – do whatever it takes to keep the team's confidence from crumbling.
- Celebrate the Small Victories: A hold might not be as flashy as a save, but it's still a valuable contribution! Revel in the quiet satisfaction of a job well done. You're the glue that holds the game together, the unsung hero of the bullpen!
Bonus Tip: If you're really struggling, try playing on Rookie difficulty. Just saying.
Remember, becoming a hold king is all about reliable pitching, a dash of luck, and a whole lot of hustle. So grab your trusty fastball, channel your inner hype man, and get out there and snag those holds! Just don't expect a parade in your honor, that's for the closers.
