Bunting in MLB the Show 22: A Guide for the Faint of Swing (or Strategically Inclined)
Let's face it, folks, we can't all be Shohei Ohtani launching moon shots every at-bat. Sometimes, you gotta get a little... crafty. That's where the humble bunt comes in, your secret weapon for moving baserunners around the diamond like a seasoned chess master (or at least a guy who remembers how the pawns move).
How To Bunt In Mlb The Show 22 |
The Classic Sacrifice Bunt: The Outfielder's Worst Nightmare
This is bunting 101. You see a base runner itching to get into scoring position, and a pitcher with a delivery that looks like a drunken octopus juggling fastballs, it's bunt time! Here's how to make it happen:
- Hold that Y/Triangle Button: This is your "forget swinging, I'm going all in on awkwardness" button. Hold it down early in the pitcher's windup, like you're waving a tiny white flag of surrender (but a strategic surrender!).
- Pray to the Baseball Gods (Optional): While not technically required, a quick plea for a decent bunt placement never hurts.
- Enjoy the Show (Hopefully): If all goes well, you'll lay down a perfect bunt that makes the first baseman look like they're trying to catch butterflies with oven mitts. You'll be out, sure, but your baserunner will be chugging to second base, a smug grin plastered on their face.
Pro Tip: If you've got a particularly slow runner on first, this might not be the best option. Imagine trying to outrun molasses uphill...it ain't a pretty picture.
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The Daring Drag Bunt: Because Sometimes You Gotta Fake 'Em Out
This is where things get a little more exciting. The drag bunt is all about timing and finesse. Here's the breakdown:
- Wait for the Perfect Pitch (Well, Almost Perfect): You don't necessarily need a strike, but a pitch coming right down the middle might make things a little too easy for the defense.
- Tap That Button Like a Ninja: Right as the pitcher releases the ball, unleash your inner bunting fury with a tap of the Y/Triangle button. Think of it like a surprise handshake, only with a bat and a little white sphere.
- Book it!: If you timed it right, the ball should roll softly in front of the plate. Use your blazing speed (or at least average jogging speed) to reach first base before the defense can react.
Bonus Points: If you pull off a drag bunt against a team that's shifted all the way over to one side of the field, well, that's just pure baseball poetry.
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Frequently Asked Bunt-related Questions:
1. How do I bunt in a specific direction? Unfortunately, you can't really control the direction of the bunt. However, with the drag bunt, where you time your button press can slightly influence where the ball rolls.
2. Is bunting always a good idea? Nope! If you've got a power hitter at the plate with a good chance of launching a dinger, then maybe put down the bunt sign and hold onto your hat.
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3. What happens if I accidentally bunt when I meant to swing? Hey, it happens to the best of us! There's no penalty, but you might get a funny animation of your batter looking completely bewildered.
4. Can I bunt with a pitcher? Technically, yes. But unless you're trying to win the award for "Most Confusing Baseball Play Ever," it's probably best to stick with letting your hitters do the bunting.
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5. Is bunting boring? Absolutely not! A well-placed bunt can be a game-changer, and it adds a layer of strategic depth to your gameplay. So next time you're at bat, don't be afraid to surprise everyone with a little bunt magic!