Alright, let’s talk about picking off runners in MLB The Show. I’ve been messing around with this for a while, and I think I’ve got a few things figured out that can actually help. Not gonna lie, it’s not foolproof, but it’s better than just randomly throwing over and hoping for the best.
First off, know your pitcher. Seriously. Some guys have terrible pickoff moves, and you’re just asking for trouble if you try to be fancy with them. Check their ratings – look for high “FLD” (Fielding) and “BRK” (Breaking Ball Control) stats. A higher Fielding stat means they’re less likely to make an error throwing over, and better Breaking Ball Control can sometimes help with how deceptive their move looks.
Okay, so you’ve got a pitcher who can actually pick off. Now what? Here’s my breakdown:
- Pay Attention to the Runner’s Lead: This is crucial. If the runner’s barely off the bag, don’t bother. You’re just wasting time and letting them get a better read on your timing. Wait until they take a decent-sized lead. You can visually see this!
- Vary Your Timing: Don’t always throw over at the same point in your windup. That’s a dead giveaway. Sometimes wait a little longer, sometimes go quick. Mix it up. The more unpredictable you are, the better.
- Use the L2/LT (PlayStation/Xbox) Button: This is your friend. Tapping L2/LT will make your pitcher step off the mound without throwing. This is HUGE for messing with the runner’s timing. Do it a few times, especially if they’re an aggressive base stealer. Watch their reaction. If they’re twitchy, you’re in their head.
- The Actual Throw: When you decide to throw, it’s all about speed and accuracy. Use the right analog stick to select 1st base (or 2nd or 3rd, depending on who’s on base). Flick it quickly and cleanly. Don’t try to be fancy with a slow, looping throw. Get it there fast.
- Don’t Overdo It: Seriously, you can’t pick off everyone every time. If you try too often, the runner will just get a better jump on you, and you’ll end up giving up stolen bases. Pick your spots.
Here’s a scenario where I actually got a pickoff yesterday:
It was the bottom of the 7th, tying run on first, one out. I was pitching with a reliever who had decent fielding stats. The runner, Ronald Acuña Jr. (of course!), took a pretty big lead. I tapped L2/LT twice to step off. The second time, he shuffled his feet like he was gonna go. That’s when I knew I had him. I quickly flicked the right stick to first, and boom! Called out. Double play. Inning over.
Biggest mistake I used to make? Being predictable. I’d always throw over at the same point in my windup, and the runners were just waiting for it. Once I started varying my timing and using the step-off move, my pickoff rate went way up.
It’s not a perfect science, and you’re still gonna get burned sometimes, but these tips have helped me out a lot. Give ’em a try and let me know if they work for you. Happy pitching!
