Swing Like You Mean It (But Not At Everything!): Mastering Plate Discipline in MLB The Show
Ah, plate discipline. The bane of button mashers and the secret weapon of patient sluggers. Let's face it, folks, we've all been there. You see a juicy fastball coming in hot, your retinas detach with excitement, and WHAM! You flail at air like a confused windmill. Here's the thing, my friends, hitting dingers is awesome, but it ain't gonna happen if you swing at every pitch like a toddler trying to whack a pi�ata.
Step Up Your Zen Master Game: Cultivating Patience
Let's be honest, the pitchers in The Show are like those sneaky friends who know exactly what buttons to push. They'll throw that tempting high fastball just as you're digging in for a low curve. But fear not, grasshopper! Patience is key. Think of yourself as a baseball whisperer, waiting for the exact pitch you want to crush. Here's how to become a connoisseur of perfect pitches, not a chaser of junk:
- Know Your Hitter: Different players have different strengths. Maybe your guy murders fastballs down the middle. Maybe he feasts on sliders that hang like a forgotten birthday balloon. Play to their power zone and become one with their batting spirit.
- Think Like a Pitcher: What are they trying to accomplish with the count? Are they aiming for a strikeout with nasty off-speed stuff? Maybe they're trying to get weak contact with a changeup. Predict their pitches and watch those balls become batting practice.
Practice Makes Perfect (and Less Frustrated)
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
Let's face it, just reading about patience won't magically turn you into Ted Williams overnight. You gotta put in the work, champ! Here's your training montage:
- Challenge of the Week: This mode is your plate discipline boot camp. You'll face a variety of pitchers with different styles, forcing you to be selective with your swings.
- Strike Zone Camera: Ditch the pitcher view and get up close and personal with the zone. This will help you recognize pitches faster and understand what's coming your way.
Bonus Tip: If you find yourself swinging at everything, take a deep breath, step away from the controller for a minute, and maybe channel your inner zen garden.
QuickTip: Pause to connect ideas in your mind.
How To Improve Plate Discipline Mlb The Show |
FAQ: Plate Discipline Edition
Q: How to know what pitches to swing at?
A: Focus on your hitter's strengths and wait for pitches in their sweet spot.
QuickTip: Scan quickly, then go deeper where needed.
Q: How to resist chasing pitches?
A: Think about the count and what the pitcher might be throwing. Patience is your friend!
Q: How to improve pitch recognition?
QuickTip: Skip distractions — focus on the words.
A: Practice in Challenge of the Week and use the Strike Zone camera.
Q: How to not get frustrated while working on plate discipline?
A: Take breaks, breathe deeply, and remember, practice makes perfect (and less rage-quits).
Q: How to become a plate discipline guru?
A: Keep practicing, become one with your hitter, and maybe wear an eye patch for extra focus (not recommended, but hey, no judgement here).