Now one more thing. Analog pitching grants total control over your pitch via the right stick, and such control renders the mechanic more difficult than other pitching interfaces. To compensate for the increased difficulty, and in a balancing effort to fashion each pitching mechanic as equally difficult in practice, the developers have afforded analog users greater forgiveness regarding user error. Likewise, a well-executed pitch command will confer a greater bonus to accuracy.
Ok. So now that we understand the mechanic, how do we master it? Well, similar to meter pitching, our proficiency with the mechanic in part stems from our newfound knowledge of the interface. Given our understanding of the inverse relationship between pitch power and accuracy/fatigue, we must CHOOSE our power wisely. As mentioned previously, it’s essential that our starting pitcher last as long as possible, and to that end, we must maximize pitch power strategically and economically. When behind in the count, or if the batter has three balls, accuracy is at a premium so as not to risk walking the batter. In such cases, we must push the right stick upward at an average speed to ensure greater accuracy. Conversely, when ahead in the count, or if the batter is down to his last strike, a power-maximized pitch will increase our chances of striking the batter out. So just flick the right stick upwards with extra velocity to obtain that extra heat or movement, and watch the batter swing in vain as he tries to catch up to your explosive fastball or make contact with your devastating curve.
Now I have one last tip. We’ve already covered how important it is for our starters to work as long as possible. But it’s a different story when one of our relief pitchers is in the game. Since relievers typically work only one inning per appearance, fatigue is less of a factor, and therefore, we needn’t worry about over exerting our bullpen. As such, when our reliever is on the mound, make sure to maximize the power of each pitch to give ourselves the best chance of preventing solid contact. Of course, when way behind in the count, you may opt for greater accuracy. But generally, the penalty for successive power-maximized pitches is less for relievers than for starting pitchers, so don’t be afraid to just let it go.
So that’s all for this week. Remember, with analog pitching, you’re in total control. To be successful, one must maneuver the right stick with great dexterity to more closely align the pitch cursor with your pitcher’s release point as well as your set target. But one must also strategically select the amount of power for each pitch; the risk vs. reward between power and accuracy establishes a cerebral component to the mechanic that must be utilized properly in conjunction with precise control of the right stick to master the mechanic. But now that we truly understand analog pitching, you can finally begin to master it. Now, it’s just a matter of time.
Analog Pitching. Accuracy. Power. YOU are in total control.
Be sure to check out my other MLB 15 The Show Guides here:
MLB 15 The Show Zone Hitting Guide
MLB 15 The Show Analog Hitting Guide
MLB 15 The Show Directional Hitting Guide
MLB 15 The Show Pulse Pitching Guide
MLB 15 The Show Meter Pitching Guide
