The Art of the Hook: A Guide to Pulling Your Pitcher in MLB the Show (Before They Melt into a Puddle of Despair)
Ah, the age-old question that plagues every MLB the Show manager: when do you yank your pitcher who's suddenly developed the accuracy of a drunken squirrel throwing darts? Fear not, fellow gamers, for I, Captain Obvious (retired), am here to guide you through the delicate dance of the pitcher pull.
How To Pull Pitcher In Mlb The Show |
Signs Your Pitcher Needs a Vacation (From the Mound, Not the Bahamas)
- Your controller starts to vibrate... uncontrollably. This isn't a new haptic feedback feature, my friend. It's your pitcher channeling his inner earthquake because his fastball keeps ending up in the next county.
- The opposing team's dugout erupts in a standing ovation... for your pitcher. Let's be honest, they're probably just impressed by his newfound ability to paint the corners of the strike zone... with the batter's helmet.
- The commentators start referring to your pitcher by his nickname: "Wild Thing" Willy or "Meatball" Mike. These aren't compliments, folks. It's time for a change.
The Art of the (Not-So-Subtle) Hint
- The mound visit. It's a classic for a reason. Just remember, this isn't your chance to chat about the weather. Give your pitcher a pep talk that doubles as a not-so-subtle suggestion that his next pitch should be from the bullpen.
- The "accidental" walk to the bullpen. Casually stroll over there, like you're just checking on your guys. Maybe even stretch with them a bit. Subliminal messaging at its finest (or weirdest).
The Dreaded Decision: Pulling the Plug
Sometimes, tough love is the best love. Don't let your pitcher become a human pitching machine, flinging meatballs until his arm explodes in a shower of confetti and disappointment. Be decisive, be swift, and for the love of all that is holy, warm up your reliever beforehand! You don't want to go from a leaky faucet to a burst pipe, do you?
Remember: A happy bullpen is a healthy bullpen (and a bullpen less likely to revolt).
QuickTip: Keep a notepad handy.
Frequently Asked Pitcher-Pulling Ponderings:
How to Warm Up a Reliever:
Press Up on the D-pad or go to Manager > Bullpen. Select your reliever and choose "Warm Up." Easy peasy!
QuickTip: Repetition reinforces learning.
How to Tell if My Pitcher is Gassed?
Look for a drop in velocity, a rise in pitch count, or that haunted look in their eyes that screams, "Please get me out of here!"
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
How to Avoid Needing to Pull My Pitcher in the First Place?
Mix up your pitches, locate effectively, and maybe pray to the baseball gods for a little mercy.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
How Do I Know When to Pull My Pitcher in RTTS?
Similar signs as above, but unfortunately, you don't have the luxury of pulling yourself. Channel your inner zen and focus on damage control (and maybe throwing a tantrum in the post-game interview... we won't judge).
How Do I Deal with the Inevitable Backlash from My Pulled Pitcher?
A box of chocolates and a signed copy of your autobiography usually does the trick.