MVP 2005 - It ships today

[henry296]

I am also playing on XBox. Very enjoyable, unfortunately didn't get any games in last night. I've never trusted my fielding in a video game, so I too use assisted fielding.

Todd

[CamEdwards]

I used MizzouRah's sliders last night, and also adjusted the pitch accuracy to -5 for both user and CPU. Playing as Boston at Chicago Cubs, I won 5-3. It was by far my most enjoyable game. Schilling gave up three early runs, including a homerun by Sosa. I battled back once I knocked out Glendon Rusch and took the 5-3 lead into the 9th. Then Keith Foulke proceeded to load the bases with one out. It took a double play to get him out of the jam.

I still need to work on patience at the plate. If I hadn't been so damn eager, I would have had 3 or 4 walks last night. I ended up walking 2 in 9 innings, which isn't great. Perhaps I'll bump the user pitch accuracy down to -10 and see how that works.

[jbmagic]

Wow, awesome site!

All I did was edit Bonds with the CAP I posted above. in the updated online roster as I've read some of the user created rosters were having some weird issues with CPU roster management.

Todd


no problem. glad you like that site.

dont worry, you wont have any problems if you just edit names and player info for fake players.

i think the people that are having problems with roster is when there creating a lot of new players not in the game.

if you only edit the fake names to the real name and use that web site above for info how to make them look like the real player you will be ok.

[jbmagic]

Fielding:
User OF Speed (manual): (-5)
User OF Speed (mvp): (-5)
CPU OF Speed: (-5)

User INF Speed (manual): (-3)
User INF Speed (mvp): (-3)
CPU INF Speed: (-3)

User Baserunning Speed: (5)
CPU Baserunning Speed: (5)

I play with the 6/4 view, assissted fielding, everything off EXCEPT for pitch cursor which is set to fade.

Todd


In MVP2005, the only settings for User infielder (or outfielder) speeds are for manual or MVP mode, which don't apply for assisted fielding.

[SackAttack]

Only a 9? C'mon duDe, this game r0cks foo.

Good review. :)


Todd

Blame Kuiper and Krukow. :)

[TRO]

In MVP2005, the only settings for User infielder (or outfielder) speeds are for manual or MVP mode, which don't apply for assisted fielding.
I'm a manual fielder, but perhaps the CPU sliders are what you have to tinker with on assisted (since the CPU is the one doing the fielding afterall).

[MizzouRah]

In MVP2005, the only settings for User infielder (or outfielder) speeds are for manual or MVP mode, which don't apply for assisted fielding.

Sure they do - well, that's what the CPU INF Speed is for (assissted), just like TRO said.

I don't have the time to mess with all the CAP's, just wanted to make sure the most feared hitter in baseball is in the game. :)

Todd

[MizzouRah]

I used MizzouRah's sliders last night, and also adjusted the pitch accuracy to -5 for both user and CPU. Playing as Boston at Chicago Cubs, I won 5-3. It was by far my most enjoyable game. Schilling gave up three early runs, including a homerun by Sosa. I battled back once I knocked out Glendon Rusch and took the 5-3 lead into the 9th. Then Keith Foulke proceeded to load the bases with one out. It took a double play to get him out of the jam.

I still need to work on patience at the plate. If I hadn't been so damn eager, I would have had 3 or 4 walks last night. I ended up walking 2 in 9 innings, which isn't great. Perhaps I'll bump the user pitch accuracy down to -10 and see how that works.

Glad you're having fun. ;)

About pitching, I look at it this way, if I'm a major league pitcher and I want to pitch a strike, I should be able to. I don't want to dummy the pitch meter to make me throw a ball when I'm trying to throw a strike. That's where the "variable stuff" and ump's variable strikezone comes in. Having said that, I only hit the "perfect" pitch about once every other ab.. sometimes more, sometimes less.

If men are on base and someone like Berkman comes up, I try to nibble or just walk the batter, if needed. In MVP on AS, if you pitch one down the middle, more times than not it's going to get crushed. I found that out last night. :)

Todd

[jbmagic]

MizzouRah

are you seeing walks by the user and cpu teams?

i probably need to be more patience at the plate.


also i seen shortstop make catches by going back close to the left field player to make a catch.

i seen 2b, go out close to the centerfielder player to make a catch.

i seen 1b, go close to the rightfielder player to make a catch.

you usually dont see that in the majors that often.


when the ball is out that far, the outfielder usually takes the play.

is that a problem with MVP 2005? what can i do to fix that?

i seen this with cpu and human teams

[MizzouRah]

MizzouRah

are you seeing walks by the user and cpu teams?

i probably need to be more patience at the plate.


also i seen shortstop make catches by going back close to the left field player to make a catch.

i seen 2b, go out close to the centerfielder player to make a catch.

i seen 1b, go close to the rightfielder player to make a catch.

you usually dont see that in the majors that often.


when the ball is out that far, the outfielder usually takes the play.

is that a problem with MVP 2005? what can i do to fix that?

i seen this with cpu and human teams

Yep, I see plenty of walks. My pitcher was walked in with the bases loaded the other night.


Todd

[henry296]

MizzouRah

are you seeing walks by the user and cpu teams?

i probably need to be more patience at the plate.


also i seen shortstop make catches by going back close to the left field player to make a catch.

i seen 2b, go out close to the centerfielder player to make a catch.

i seen 1b, go close to the rightfielder player to make a catch.

you usually dont see that in the majors that often.


when the ball is out that far, the outfielder usually takes the play.

is that a problem with MVP 2005? what can i do to fix that?

i seen this with cpu and human teams

I've seen the infielders roam a little bit too. I thought changing the infielder speed would help, but I don't think so any more. I've seen some people try to change the CPU catch effort and make it lower. That would also help if you have assisted fielding.

[markprior22]

MizzouRah

are you seeing walks by the user and cpu teams?

i probably need to be more patience at the plate.


also i seen shortstop make catches by going back close to the left field player to make a catch.

i seen 2b, go out close to the centerfielder player to make a catch.

i seen 1b, go close to the rightfielder player to make a catch.

you usually dont see that in the majors that often.

when the ball is out that far, the outfielder usually takes the play.

is that a problem with MVP 2005? what can i do to fix that?

i seen this with cpu and human teams

It does seem like the SS and 2B go out too far for pop ups/fly balls. I don't know if you can fix that with sliders or not. It's not a game killer for me by any means.

Also, I can definitely get walks. You do have to be patient though.

[sooner333]

Any way to edit players in owner mode? I just restarted mine, using the default EA rosters, but only edited Bonds before I started. Now I'm four games in, and don't feel like playing the Dodgers in opening week for the third time.

[Logan]

I've seen the infielders roam a little bit too. I thought changing the infielder speed would help, but I don't think so any more. I've seen some people try to change the CPU catch effort and make it lower. That would also help if you have assisted fielding.

Also been seeing this. I've seen fielders catching weak liners over their heads that seem like they should be dropping in for hits, but they mosey out and catch it.

Not nearly enough to ruin the game for me, but yeah it can get annoying, and a slider adjustment that would fix this would be great.

[MizzouRah]

Also been seeing this. I've seen fielders catching weak liners over their heads that seem like they should be dropping in for hits, but they mosey out and catch it.

Not nearly enough to ruin the game for me, but yeah it can get annoying, and a slider adjustment that would fix this would be great.

With the small tweaks I made, I haven't seen it unless it was a pop fly, but then again I play with the Cardinals and have a great defense. I have seen bloopers drop in between the 3B/LF and 1B/RF plenty of times though. Decreasing the INF speed anymore just makes them slower when running out to catch the ball - I don't think it has any effect on them deciding to go out into the OF.


Todd

[jbmagic]

It does seem like the SS and 2B go out too far for pop ups/fly balls. I don't know if you can fix that with sliders or not. It's not a game killer for me by any means.

Also, I can definitely get walks. You do have to be patient though.

cool
so the CPU OF and IF Speed sliders works for automatic and assisted too.

that great news. maybe this will help make the 1st base, 2nd base, ss, to not go out all the way close to the outfield to make a catch.

maybe setting CPU OF and IF Speed sliders to -5 if you use automatic or assisted can help that.

[MizzouRah]

cool
so the CPU OF and IF Speed sliders works for automatic and assisted too.

that great news. maybe this will help make the 1st base, 2nd base, ss, to not go out all the way close to the outfield to make a catch.

maybe setting CPU OF and IF Speed sliders to -5 if you use automatic or assisted can help that.

In my experience, -5 for the infielders has too many rountine grounders going through for hits. That's why I went down to -3 for the infield, and I like it.

I do agree with with -5 for the outfield though.


Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

Are you using the latest tweaks I posted? If so, how are they working?

Luckily I don't play SF for awhile... although the Pirates are off to a 4-0 start. :)

I'm back to playing all my games again as I just can't take myself away from this game.


Todd
I'm using your latest tweaks (-5 for outfielders and -3 for infielders, +5 for runners) and I think that is the best combo. Like you, I was seeing too many hits go through the infield. I now see a good realistic number of hits getting through the infield. I also see that the slower reactions have infielders making some "good" errors on plays as they get to the ball just a little too late :)

I'm looking forward to playing some more later tonight. It's difficult (in a good way) as both this and FM have me pulling in different directions ;)

[SackAttack]

I'm thinking -4 might be a good balance for the infielders, since otherwise they get to too many outfield pop flies.

[MizzouRah]

I'm using your latest tweaks (-5 for outfielders and -3 for infielders, +5 for runners) and I think that is the best combo. Like you, I was seeing too many hits go through the infield. I now see a good realistic number of hits getting through the infield. I also see that the slower reactions have infielders making some "good" errors on plays as they get to the ball just a little too late :)

I'm looking forward to playing some more later tonight. It's difficult (in a good way) as both this and FM have me pulling in different directions ;)

That's good to hear. I'm getting ready to fire up the Xbox now for a game or two... ok I'll be up most of the night. :)

Sack,
I still like -3 for the simple fact I'm seeing some really neat plays in the infield right now. Hurried throws, weak/strong arms.. etc.. I honestly haven't seen a pop up that made me say, that should have dropped in, but I have seen some really nice bloopers drop... but by all means post some impressions using -4.


Todd

[jbmagic]

just to pass this along.

the game comes with manager tendencies for each team like when to pitch hit,hit and run, sub players, bunt, intentional walks, etc. its different for each manager and team.

and it has home intensity level, intensity level rating against each team, and manager rating. it all different for each team.

the only bad part you can't change it with sliders in the game.

if you have the pc version, you can edit it all for each team with MVPedit utility. and your able to see what each team manager profile setting is on the roster.


so its not all about player rating ability only. those things i mention above has some impact too.

[SackAttack]

That's pretty sweet. HH2k used to let you do that. It's a shame MVP doesn't, at least for the consoles, but it's great to hear they've implemented that somehow.

[Draft Dodger]

just ordered this - have been gunshy about baseball games since EA and HH let me down, so I'm crossing my fingers on this.

[jbmagic]

just ordered this - have been gunshy about baseball games since EA and HH let me down, so I'm crossing my fingers on this.


hi

you going to love mvp 2005. it so awesome.

i hope you get the pc version, because there so many mods and updated roster, facepacks, stadium, uniforms, etc.

[Draft Dodger]

oh yeah, PC for sure

[jbmagic]

there is a thread over at MVPMods.com that describes a way to unlocks all the rewards.

Someone found that if you go into the in-game roster editor and create a player named "Katie Roy", it will unlock all the rewards.

If you create a player named "Neverlose Sight", it unlocks the Red Sox St. Patrick's Day uniform.

When you add these players, it puts them on the Free Agent List, but if you save your profile and then remove the two players, you will find that the rewards are still there.

Also, as an FYI, it appears that the Red Sox St. Patrick's Day uniforms can only be used if the Sox are the home team.

[hukarez]

Wow. 11 pages of text already!

In any case, has anyone been using Pared's sliders on Operation Sports? I tried them out and was using them -- it's a bit challenging to say the least. A pity I'm never patient at the plate, it wasn't until my 3rd or 4th game that I actually managed to get a walk.

Aside from that, I've been having memorable games so far. Clearly, a lot more enjoyable once I got that mentality of "the L stick dictates HOW you hit the ball, not where you swing the bat" out of my system.

[samifan24]

How do you guys steal? I have Coco Crisp on my team and am something like 0 for 6 over nearly a month's worth of games. I'm even getting gunned down by guys like the Mariners' Miguel Olivo! Help!

[MizzouRah]

How do you guys steal? I have Coco Crisp on my team and am something like 0 for 6 over nearly a month's worth of games. I'm even getting gunned down by guys like the Mariners' Miguel Olivo! Help!

Push the "R" stick up two times. Before the pitch push the D-pad up. That's it, stolen base most of the time.


Todd

[samifan24]

Push the "R" stick up two times. Before the pitch push the D-pad up. That's it, stolen base most of the time.


Todd

I've been hitting up on the D-pad once each time I try to steal.

[henry296]

I've been hitting up on the D-pad once each time I try to steal.

Yeah, the right stick is your lead off button.

[Eaglesfan27]

I made the same mistake of not leading off, and Rollins was routinely getting thrown out. Now that I'm using the R stick to lead off by a few steps, he is 27 of 28 stealing (I don't run against guys who I know have a very strong arm of 90 or higher.)

[jbmagic]

is there a way to have baserunning on automatic?

[SackAttack]

I made the same mistake of not leading off, and Rollins was routinely getting thrown out. Now that I'm using the R stick to lead off by a few steps, he is 27 of 28 stealing (I don't run against guys who I know have a very strong arm of 90 or higher.)

You can check that too with the quick-manager button, which is I believe the white button on offense. Just click over to their lineup, find the catcher, and look at his ratings. Almost as cool as the ability to track every pitch for each at-bat in a game.

[MizzouRah]

is there a way to have baserunning on automatic?

Don't touch the stick.


Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

You can check that too with the quick-manager button, which is I believe the white button on offense. Just click over to their lineup, find the catcher, and look at his ratings. Almost as cool as the ability to track every pitch for each at-bat in a game.
You learn something new every day. Thanks for the tip!

[samifan24]

I made the same mistake of not leading off, and Rollins was routinely getting thrown out. Now that I'm using the R stick to lead off by a few steps, he is 27 of 28 stealing (I don't run against guys who I know have a very strong arm of 90 or higher.)

I'm glad to hear that I wasn't the only one who made this mistake. I just assumed that the runner always took a lead automatically, which is why I never knew I had to increase his lead. I hope to have similar success with Coco Crisp because the man can fly.

[DaddyTorgo]

can someone walk me through how i can leadoff using the keyboard? cuz I'm confused.

[SackAttack]

You learn something new every day. Thanks for the tip!

No problem. I've almost literally been discovering new things in this game every time I play. I could easily have gone another month before writing my review, but, well, sometimes you gotta shit or get off the pot.

[MizzouRah]

Fielding:
User OF Speed (manual): (-5)
User OF Speed (mvp): (-5)
CPU OF Speed: (-5)

User INF Speed (manual): (-3)
User INF Speed (mvp): (-3)
CPU INF Speed: (-3)

User Baserunning Speed: (5)
CPU Baserunning Speed: (5)

I play with the 6/4 view, assissted fielding, everything off EXCEPT for pitch cursor which is set to fade.


After playing many more games, I'd have to say MVP 2005 is my favorite baseball game *ever* on a console... or any other graphical sports game I've played. I truly love this game and these settings work perfectly for my level of play.

I wore my Logitech wireless controller out, called Logitech and told them my "A" button was sticking. Although my warranty ran out 2 weeks ago, they sent me a brand new wireless precision joystick. I like this one better than my last one. :)

Playing a series in PNC park, you can really tell these small tweaks make the game so much fun to play and watch. Maybe it's the fraction of a second feedback from the wireless joystick that makes pitching a challenge for me, but I haven't even thrown a shutout yet - after 60+ games. HAHA!!

Play in a small park and HR's win games, play in a big park and hits dominate the game. I'm seeing errors on rushed throws, players thrown out at home, runners on first going to third on a single to RF, runners on 2nd coming home after a hit, and many more great things. No two games are alike thanks to things like varible strikezones, blown calls, arguing with the umps, and players who go through various streaks - especially pitchers. Playing a tight game vs the Pirates 4-4 tie in the 8th and Walker throws out Jason Bay at home, the call could have went either way but the ump called him out... out comes the Pirates manager who gets in a heated argument. Things like that really get you immersed in the game. Good stuff!

Todd

[jbmagic]

Don't touch the stick.


Todd

but will they try to steal for you too?

[MizzouRah]

but will they try to steal for you too?

No, you have to do that manually.


Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

I just had my funniest play ever. If I wasn't already up 1-0, I'd probably be mad that I was robbed of a hit.

I'm playing against the Mets who are currently 1 game ahead of me in the division and I have Rollins up against Pedro Martinez in the 3rd. He throws a slider up high, and Rollins smacks it right up the middle. Pedro turns his body, but it bounces off his chest, up into the air, hits him in the head, bounces up again, and then lands in his glove for the out!

I'm with Todd. This is my favorites graphical baseball game ever.

[Eaglesfan27]

Dola -

I love how they model the players so accurately. Piazza has a pathetic arm with a 40/40 rating for accuracy and power. Michaels got his first steal against him which led to my first run. Now, I just had Abreu steal second, but Piazza threw it high and Abreu ended up with 3rd on the error. Thome came through in the clutch and hit a single to bring Abreu home. Guys just play reasonably similar to how I expect them to do so IRL :)

[jbmagic]

why is the Infielders wandering off to the deep outfield to make a catch?


i just seen a 2nd base player run from 2nd base player go to deep outfield near right field line to make a catch.

that not realistic at all. that the outfielder job.

i love this game.

but seing the infielders go out very deep. is kinda crazy.

[MizzouRah]

why is the Infielders wandering off to the deep outfield to make a catch?


i just seen a 2nd base player run from 2nd base player go to deep outfield near right field line to make a catch.

that not realistic at all. that the outfielder job.

i love this game.

but seing the infielders go out very deep. is kinda crazy.

If that's all you have to be pissed about, I'd say kudos to EA. Really, I don't see this near as much as you do. IRL, an outfielder will wave off an infielder most of the time, but there's maybe a handful of times where it looks goofy, imo. Maybe it's because you're playing the pc version, I don't know.. but I'm not seeing it. Just had a deep pop that Reggie Sanders took the catch and the SS stayed put. The only times I see this is when it could drop for a bloop hit as my OF is playing deep for a power hitter.

Todd

[Pumpy Tudors]

In two games against the Mets, my Cardinals had to face Martinez and Glavine. Glavine pitched a 1-hitter on us (Pujols got a two-out pinch-hit single in the 9th inning). I haven't been able to get any speed on the bases in either game to take advantage of Piazza's sorry arm. The series finale is about to start RIGHT NOW! Off to the XBox I go!

[Eaglesfan27]

In two games against the Mets, my Cardinals had to face Martinez and Glavine. Glavine pitched a 1-hitter on us (Pujols got a two-out pinch-hit single in the 9th inning). I haven't been able to get any speed on the bases in either game to take advantage of Piazza's sorry arm. The series finale is about to start RIGHT NOW! Off to the XBox I go!
Glavine was tough on me too :(

He was responsible for my only loss in the series. His circle change ate me alive.

Martinez on the other hand started running out of gas in the 5th, and I pounded him for 4 runs in the 5th on the way to a 6-0 win. :)

[SackAttack]

I'm nearing the end of spring training. I had a fun game against the Indians yesterday. They went up 1-0, we clawed out 3 runs in the bottom of the 5th to take the lead, they got to Penny for 3 runs in the top of the 6th, and then we had homers from our #3, #4, and #6 hitters - Luis E. Gonzalez (our new 3B), Drew, and Bradley to take the lead for good, 6-4. Those little power surges are always great. :D

[jbmagic]

In two games against the Mets, my Cardinals had to face Martinez and Glavine. Glavine pitched a 1-hitter on us (Pujols got a two-out pinch-hit single in the 9th inning). I haven't been able to get any speed on the bases in either game to take advantage of Piazza's sorry arm. The series finale is about to start RIGHT NOW! Off to the XBox I go!


try leading off with right analog stick.. you can take up to 3 steps. that helps out but watch out for the pickoff.

[Pumpy Tudors]

try leading off with right analog stick.. you can take up to 3 steps. that helps out but watch out for the pickoff.
Thanks, but what I was saying was that I didn't have any baserunners to do any running. I couldn't hit the New York pitching.

[DaddyTorgo]

i'm going to try not to get upset, but can SOMEONE explain to me how to leadoff and then steal bases using the keyboard?? I asked before and didn't get an answer and now that I have a team with Alex Sanchez and Carl Crawford up top I feel this would be a huge help! Key is really the leading off, I know I can steal using the "advance all" button but without getting a bit more of a leadoff I get caught too often.

[jbmagic]

i'm going to try not to get upset, but can SOMEONE explain to me how to leadoff and then steal bases using the keyboard?? I asked before and didn't get an answer and now that I have a team with Alex Sanchez and Carl Crawford up top I feel this would be a huge help! Key is really the leading off, I know I can steal using the "advance all" button but without getting a bit more of a leadoff I get caught too often.

check the manual.

i dont have it with me, or i wil show you how here.

[DaddyTorgo]

the manuel is no help. it's a POS

[Eaglesfan27]

i'm going to try not to get upset, but can SOMEONE explain to me how to leadoff and then steal bases using the keyboard?? I asked before and didn't get an answer and now that I have a team with Alex Sanchez and Carl Crawford up top I feel this would be a huge help! Key is really the leading off, I know I can steal using the "advance all" button but without getting a bit more of a leadoff I get caught too often.
I think many of the main contributors to this thread are playing on Xbox. As a result, quite a few of us don't know how to lead off with the keyboard. That is my guess on why you haven't received an answer yet. Sorry, I can't be more help.

[DaddyTorgo]

aaaah. fair enough. I can't figure out the solution to what on the keyboard approximates the D-Pad. and the manuel is no help. which is taking a big chunk out of my ability to play effectively.

[jbmagic]

aaaah. fair enough. I can't figure out the solution to what on the keyboard approximates the D-Pad. and the manuel is no help. which is taking a big chunk out of my ability to play effectively.


ok i am home.. look like the manual for leadoff for keyboard it says N/A.


so try to go in the game and do the configration for keyboard and you can assign what keys you want.

[DaddyTorgo]

aaaah. i wonder if that will work. i thought i had checked that but i will check again jb.

[samifan24]

Ok, I must be the world's worst basestealer. I'm 1 for 10 with Coco Crisp and this includes four or five attemps with using the leadoff button. Any tricks I should know, or is Coco just not that good?

[jbmagic]

Ok, I must be the world's worst basestealer. I'm 1 for 10 with Coco Crisp and this includes four or five attemps with using the leadoff button. Any tricks I should know, or is Coco just not that good?

what his baserunning speed rating.?

also it depends on the catcher strength in throwing guys out form stealing.

post those here to see.

[samifan24]

what his baserunning speed rating.?

also it depends on the catcher strength in throwing guys out form stealing.

post those here to see.

He's an 85 for speed and (I think) an 85 for baserunning aggressiveness. I've been thrown out by guys like I-Rod (makes sense) but also by guys like Sandy Alomar (75/80 if I remember correctly) and John Buck (75/75 I think). It seems like somebody's grandma could gun down Coco and he's the fastest guy on the Tribe roster.

[jbmagic]

hmm that strange.


when you leadoff, do you take 3 steps ahead?

and when you steal the base , do you use the right analog / \ down to do a hook slide to left and right of the bag when you get close to the base?

[samifan24]

hmm that strange.


when you leadoff, do you take 3 steps ahead?

and when you steal the base , do you use the right analog / \ down to do a hook slide to left and right of the bag when you get close to the base?

When I lead off, I hit up twice on the right stick, then hit the up arrow on the D-pad. I usually just slide head first or feet first, I don't mess with left or right.

[MizzouRah]

try leading off with right analog stick.. you can take up to 3 steps. that helps out but watch out for the pickoff.

Actually, it's only two steps. :)

The Mets are tough, very tough. I hate playing them. Damn Beltran always takes me yard. Time for a series up in Atlanta to take on the Braves. Mulder gets the start in what is hopefully a 3 game winning streak for us. We dropped the first game against the Brewers, but took the next two.. the last game a walkoff 3 run HR to win the game 4-3.


Todd

[MizzouRah]

aaaah. fair enough. I can't figure out the solution to what on the keyboard approximates the D-Pad. and the manuel is no help. which is taking a big chunk out of my ability to play effectively.

Check gamefaqs.com


Todd

[MizzouRah]

I just stole 5 bases total on the Brewers rookie catcher. His arm strength was 55. Cedeno was all over him as well as Eckstein.


Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

When I lead off, I hit up twice on the right stick, then hit the up arrow on the D-pad. I usually just slide head first or feet first, I don't mess with left or right.

On close plays, the left or right slide can really help. I've slid around a few tags that way. However, I usually don't have great success with any of my guys that are under 90 unless the catcher has a fairly weak arm. I usually don't have great success stealing with anyone besides Rollins (96 speed I think) unless the catcher's arm strength is 70 or under or his accuracy is 70 or under. Either one being low can help me to steal quite a bit.

[Eaglesfan27]

Dola -

In a game against, Piazza (40/40) I stole 2nd and 3rd with Rollins and Abreu.... twice in one game.

[samifan24]

On close plays, the left or right slide can really help. I've slid around a few tags that way. However, I usually don't have great success with any of my guys that are under 90 unless the catcher has a fairly weak arm. I usually don't have great success stealing with anyone besides Rollins (96 speed I think) unless the catcher's arm strength is 70 or under or his accuracy is 70 or under. Either one being low can help me to steal quite a bit.

The thing that bugs me is I stole a clean base with Jody Gerut, who has a 68 speed rating, but I keep getting thrown out with Crisp and his 85 rating. :(

[MizzouRah]

Remember, there are a lot of variables working here:

1. Speed of the runner
2. Arm strength of the catcher
3. Lean (two pushes up is as far as you can go)
4. Hitting up on the D-pad prior to the pitch
5. Pitch type
6. Pitch speed
7. Stealing ability of the runner (yes, there is a rating for this)
8. Fielding ability of the catcher
9. Fielding ability of the infielder (although very minute.. I would think)

Finding the right time to steal is an art and takes some practice.

Todd

[jbmagic]

samifan24

try this for the slider

User running Steal Delay -5

you should get better realistic steals.

Let me know how he does with that.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Does it seem to anyone else that the CPU team's baserunners get better jumps on steal attempts than the human baserunners? Is there any way I can force my guy to take off sooner? Probably not, huh?

[Bo Jackson's Hip]

Play against Wakefield and you should see be able to steal. I stole 5 or 6 bags the other night. His fastball tops out at like 79 and the knuckler is about 58-60.

[Eaglesfan27]

Personally, I think steals are fine. Particularly, with the +5 base runner speed setting that I've been using, along with the other sliders that Todd has posted in this thread.

[jbmagic]

Does it seem to anyone else that the CPU team's baserunners get better jumps on steal attempts than the human baserunners? Is there any way I can force my guy to take off sooner? Probably not, huh?


i just posted this above your post.

User running Steal Delay -5 that will give you a better jump

[SackAttack]

Just had a 3-0 win over the Washington Nationals on Opening Day, 2006. Stole four bases (without tinkering with my sliders), which was awesome. I was thunderstruck to see Joe Thurston down in AAA with speed of 85 and baserunning ability of '0'. Yeah, I think he's staying down there for a while.

[samifan24]

Has anyone else seen pitchers whose statistics are outrageous? I was playing a AA game the other day and there was a pitcher with something like 30 IP and 150 hits allowed. I saw it again the other day in the majors. Both times these numbers appeared on the in-game graphic when they entered the game and I forgot to check in the actual roster screens to see if the numbers were there, too. Anybody else seen this?

[Logan]

Has anyone else seen pitchers whose statistics are outrageous? I was playing a AA game the other day and there was a pitcher with something like 30 IP and 150 hits allowed. I saw it again the other day in the majors. Both times these numbers appeared on the in-game graphic when they entered the game and I forgot to check in the actual roster screens to see if the numbers were there, too. Anybody else seen this?

Was his name Chan Ho Park?

Haven't seen anything like it, but I vaguely remember some times in last years game when stats would be different on-screen than they were in actuality. Or I could be completely making that up in my mind.

Not much help was I?

[jbmagic]

my dual analog gamepad dont have vibration on.

what does it do for pitching and for hitting when its on?

[SackAttack]

my dual analog gamepad dont have vibration on.

what does it do for pitching and for hitting when its on?

For hitting, little of real interest. It lets you know when a player slides, or when you've made contact with the ball.

For pitchers, the vibration tells you when you're about to cross the boundaries of the strike zone.

Gonna be an interesting April/May of 2006 for my Dodgers. Odalis Perez got his leg broke by a line drive just two innings into the season, which means the immortal Brandon Claussen will be filling a rotation spot for me.

[jbmagic]

it must be hard to pitch with strike zone off, hot.cold zone hot, pitch cursor off and no vibration.

[Pumpy Tudors]

it must be hard to pitch with strike zone off, hot.cold zone hot, pitch cursor off and no vibration.It is. I like it that way. :D

My Cardinals are dying for a shortstop, as we lost David Eckstein and Bo Hart for the season. I tried Hector Luna there for a couple of games, but his weak arm was hurting us. I traded Julian Tavarez for a minor-league SS. The minor leaguer will play in Memphis for a few weeks. I brought up Abraham Nunez to play SS in the meantime. Now the only speed I have in my regular lineup is Reggie Sanders (!). I miss Eckstein. :(

Two other things I love about this game: it seems like anybody can hit a homer at any time. In other baseball games I've played, it seemed near impossible for somebody like Yadier Molina to hit a home run. Sure, if you simmed a season, he'd probably hit 5-10, but it didn't ever seem possible to hit one if you were actually controlling somebody like that. That's not the case in this game. I nearly hit one to the opposite field with Mark Grudzielanek last night, and he's certainly not a power hitter. It's great to have those games where the least likely guys just light it up. Another thing I love is the dirt on the player's uniforms. I haven't watched very closely, but it seems like the guys are getting dirty in the right spots. If I have a guy slide headfirst, it seems like the next inning, he has dirt on his chest and knees. Maybe I'm just imagining things, but it seems true. That's good enough for me!

[MizzouRah]

It is. I like it that way. :D

My Cardinals are dying for a shortstop, as we lost David Eckstein and Bo Hart for the season. I tried Hector Luna there for a couple of games, but his weak arm was hurting us. I traded Julian Tavarez for a minor-league SS. The minor leaguer will play in Memphis for a few weeks. I brought up Abraham Nunez to play SS in the meantime. Now the only speed I have in my regular lineup is Reggie Sanders (!). I miss Eckstein. :(

Two other things I love about this game: it seems like anybody can hit a homer at any time. In other baseball games I've played, it seemed near impossible for somebody like Yadier Molina to hit a home run. Sure, if you simmed a season, he'd probably hit 5-10, but it didn't ever seem possible to hit one if you were actually controlling somebody like that. That's not the case in this game. I nearly hit one to the opposite field with Mark Grudzielanek last night, and he's certainly not a power hitter. It's great to have those games where the least likely guys just light it up. Another thing I love is the dirt on the player's uniforms. I haven't watched very closely, but it seems like the guys are getting dirty in the right spots. If I have a guy slide headfirst, it seems like the next inning, he has dirt on his chest and knees. Maybe I'm just imagining things, but it seems true. That's good enough for me!

Wow, that stinks Pumpy.. but it's fun to see you're trying to fill the void.

I play Bo Hart at short when Eckstein needs a rest and you can definitly tell the arm strengh difference.

I love the dirty uniforms and they do happen when they should. Have someone slide into a base, next at bat their uniform is dirty. Lets you know who's been playing hard or not. :)

Todd

[jbmagic]

MizzouRah

you playing it with no strike zone, no hot/cold zone and cursor on fade?

with that setup, is there a big difference if you have vibration on than having it off when pitching and hitting?


my dual analog gamepad dont have vibration.

[MizzouRah]

MizzouRah

you playing it with no strike zone, no hot/cold zone and cursor on fade?

with that setup, is there a big difference if you have vibration on than having it off when pitching and hitting?


my dual analog gamepad dont have vibration.

Yes, and the behind the pitcher view. I think with vibration on, pitching is way too easy. I don't think it matters when hitting. You're not missing out on anything.

Todd

[SackAttack]

Yes, and the behind the pitcher view. I think with vibration on, pitching is way too easy. I don't think it matters when hitting. You're not missing out on anything.

Todd

Do you use behind the pitcher when hitting, too? or just when pitching? If both, why? I've never been able to play a baseball game without the camera behind the catcher at one angle or another.

[Eaglesfan27]

Do you use behind the pitcher when hitting, too? or just when pitching? If both, why? I've never been able to play a baseball game without the camera behind the catcher at one angle or another.
I'm almost certain that Todd and I only use the behind the pitcher when pitching. I started doing it when I was using a cursor to make it more challenging. Now, even with the switch to no cursor, I just like the view. I use the batter's eye camera for hitting as the behind the back pitcher camera would be too hard.

[MizzouRah]

Correct, I use the 6/4 view. Meaning, btp for pitching and the "center" view for hitting. I couldn't see how anyone could use the btp when batting.

I'm back to .500! 3-1 to start the month of May.


Todd

[samifan24]

I'm almost certain that Todd and I only use the behind the pitcher when pitching. I started doing it when I was using a cursor to make it more challenging. Now, even with the switch to no cursor, I just like the view. I use the batter's eye camera for hitting as the behind the back pitcher camera would be too hard.

I can't use the pitching view from behind the pitcher, I think it's way too small. I'm hitting the ball well and have won 6 of my last 7, but my pitching is just mediocre so I'm not ready to set some house rules just yet.

[TRO]

6/4 view here too. With the 4 batting view, you have more time to decide what to swing at and picking up pitches with batter's eye is possible but much more difficult.

[Eaglesfan27]

I can't use the pitching view from behind the pitcher, I think it's way too small. I'm hitting the ball well and have won 6 of my last 7, but my pitching is just mediocre so I'm not ready to set some house rules just yet.
That is how I did it too. I only switched to the behind the pitcher view when I realized I was holding every team to one or two runs max. Eventually, I realized even with the behind the pitcher view, I was pitching too well. Now, I have the perfect balance for my ability level with no cursor on. It's nice that there are these options to change as we "master" the game.

[sooner333]

I tried using the 6/4, but switched back to 6/1, as at my stadium, it was too hard to pick up the ball as the release point was in a white area at the 6/4 view, but in the green plants in the 6/1 view.

[jbmagic]

wow

we all know there a manage play with no graphic and we can make decisions has we play.

but just notice you can take over and play the game at any inning if you want.

so for example you can manage to 6 innings, making all the decisions, etc and then swithc over to play mode and finsih the game out by playing.

[MizzouRah]

wow

we all know there a manage play with no graphic and we can make decisions has we play.

but just notice you can take over and play the game at any inning if you want.

so for example you can manage to 6 innings, making all the decisions, etc and then swithc over to play mode and finsih the game out by playing.


Where have you been? :)


Todd

[samifan24]

That is how I did it too. I only switched to the behind the pitcher view when I realized I was holding every team to one or two runs max. Eventually, I realized even with the behind the pitcher view, I was pitching too well. Now, I have the perfect balance for my ability level with no cursor on. It's nice that there are these options to change as we "master" the game.

I can't even imagine being good enough to turn the cursor off. I could easily part ways with the hot/cold zones, but there's no way I could throw from behind the pitcher view with the whole cursor off!

[MizzouRah]

I can't even imagine being good enough to turn the cursor off. I could easily part ways with the hot/cold zones, but there's no way I could throw from behind the pitcher view with the whole cursor off!

Me either. I don't want to meet EF online. :)


Todd

[Galaril]

I finally got this . Great game but I had a questio for anyone who got it for the pc. How do you get you're batters to move in the box? And is anyone using the wingman 2 rumblepad. It doesn't seem to be configuring right.

[jbmagic]

I can't even imagine being good enough to turn the cursor off. I could easily part ways with the hot/cold zones, but there's no way I could throw from behind the pitcher view with the whole cursor off!


i agree.

do you play with strike zone off and hot/cold off?

do you have cursor on fade or on?

[jbmagic]

I finally got this . Great game but I had a questio for anyone who got it for the pc. How do you get you're batters to move in the box? And is anyone using the wingman 2 rumblepad. It doesn't seem to be configuring right.


i am a pc owner too.

in the Manual page 2

to move batter in the batter's box.
its button 7+left analog stick left or right

look at picture on page 1 to know what the button are.


i dont have your gamepad, but go in the game and you can do a configration and assign the keys the way you want.

[Galaril]

Yeah, I saw that stuff in the manual and configured my controller but for some reason I can't move the batter around at all.

[sooner333]

How do you move them in the box on the XBOX?

[Pumpy Tudors]

How do you move them in the box on the XBOX?
Hold down the black button and then move the left stick left or right, depending on which way you want to move.

[jbmagic]

Yeah, I saw that stuff in the manual and configured my controller but for some reason I can't move the batter around at all.


to check if its working, have the strike zone, hot/cold on and try to move.

be sure you hold the button 7 down when moving left or right on left analog stick.

you should see the strike zone move.

[Eaglesfan27]

Me either. I don't want to meet EF online. :)


Todd

I want to play you online :)

You'll probably kick my butt.

[samifan24]

i agree.

do you play with strike zone off and hot/cold off?

do you have cursor on fade or on?

I currently play with everything on. I've only had the game for 3 weeks.

[MizzouRah]

I've been using the 6/3 view due to the slight angle in batting. Had 7 hits against Pedro. :)

It's tough to tell an inside strike though.


Todd

[Draft Dodger]

so, the game arrived today.

first thing I found out was that my trusty old Gravis Gamepad Pro doesn't seem to be supported...so I guess I'll need to pick up a new gamepad.
second thing I noticed was that I have no clue how to get rid of the obnoxious music. can it be turned off (or, at least, down???).
third thing: interface is kind of a mess...which is a criticism I've had for just about ever EA game I've played. I assume I'll get used to it, but why do their games have to be such a clusterfuck? (yeah, I do know the answer to that)

anyway, can't really comment more until I get a gamepad - tried to play a game on the keyboard, and it just wasn't happening...

[FBPro]

You can turn the music down all the way, first thing I did. :)

[MizzouRah]

I love the music.

Tessie....

Todd

[samifan24]

I'm buying The Bravery's new cd when it comes out next week. I guess the music took its toll on me, but I still skip most of the songs.

[Galaril]

Anyone recommend rosters for the pc version?

[DaddyTorgo]

i'm using llcmac & hypnoxxx's 3.4 roster set and it seems fine. Then again I havn't done comparing and contrasting with any others. It's available on MVPmods.com

[jbmagic]

the most popular and best one is llcmac & hypnoxxx's roster( named change to HLS now)

and just was reading there bringing GForce22 to the team. from what i hear he iis great with making roster and doing the ratings. he came up with formulas to get the correct rating by stats

there next release will be around opening day.

http://www.mvpmods.com/index.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=5874

[MizzouRah]

This might be the biggest console game thread ever? ..at least EA related. :p


Todd

[Galaril]

the most popular and best one is llcmac & hypnoxxx's roster( named change to HLS now)

and just was reading there bringing GForce22 to the team. from what i hear he iis great with making roster and doing the ratings. he came up with formulas to get the correct rating by stats

there next release will be around opening day.

http://www.mvpmods.com/index.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=5874

I could not get that roster set to work.I am pretty sure the problem is i didn't have the Korea terminator guy's Bonds and millar cyber faces added to the game so it kept crashing. I couldn't get the RAR Files for those two into the game/ Th ereadme for these aren't written very well. Anyways I gave up but was able to load the
Real Baseball System 2005 Rosters which are going to be compatible with Bill Harris' MVP progression mod like the one he did last year so I am using it and it is pretty good. Anyways my first full game the yankees got 24 runs on 30 hits while my red osx got 6 runs on 8 hits on Pro level. I need to improve my pitching the minigame didn't really help.Suggestions?

[Draft Dodger]

and, any PC Game Controller recommendations? I just want to pick up something cheap...but don't want to miss out on a button or something I need...

[jbmagic]

and, any PC Game Controller recommendations? I just want to pick up something cheap...but don't want to miss out on a button or something I need...


i recommend the Logitech Dual Action gamepad. it has a left and right analog stick, d-pad, buttons.

its very similar to the one they show in the mvp manual.

[jbmagic]

I could not get that roster set to work.I am pretty sure the problem is i didn't have the Korea terminator guy's Bonds and millar cyber faces added to the game so it kept crashing. I couldn't get the RAR Files for those two into the game/ Th ereadme for these aren't written very well. Anyways I gave up but was able to load the
Real Baseball System 2005 Rosters which are going to be compatible with Bill Harris' MVP progression mod like the one he did last year so I am using it and it is pretty good. Anyways my first full game the yankees got 24 runs on 30 hits while my red osx got 6 runs on 8 hits on Pro level. I need to improve my pitching the minigame didn't really help.Suggestions?


what is Bill Harris' MVP progression mod?
what does it do?
i am not familar with that mod.


also get spitoon walk datafile mod.
and if playing pro. here some good sliders to try with it.

User Pitch Meter Difficulty -50
CPU Balls +20
User & CPU Control -50
User Steal Delay -5
Everything else is at 0


thanks

[Galaril]

Thanks JB,
I will check out the walk mod and sliders. Here is the link to last years progression mod for last year game. It should be out in the next week Bill told me. The mod fixes all the ratings progression for the players in a dynasty. It also fixes rookies generated in the future as well. Bill has a great blog that is a fun read about many things including gaming. He is the guy who wrote the Night Call section on the old Gone Gold Site. I am surprised you never heard about the mod last year it still is one of the most popular downloads on MVP.mods.I found a url to the mod discussion for this years mod.

link:Feb 28 2005:http://dubiousquality.blogspot.com/2005/02/mvp-2005-pc-player-progression-project.html

March 3 2005: http://dubiousquality.blogspot.com/2005/03/mvp-2005-progression-mod-update.html

[jbmagic]

Thanks JB,
I will check out the walk mod and sliders. Here is the link to last years progression mod for last year game. It should be out in the next week Bill told me. The mod fixes all the ratings progression for the players in a dynasty. It also fixes rookies generated in the future as well. Bill has a great blog that is a fun read about many things including gaming. He is the guy who wrote the Night Call section on the old Gone Gold Site. I am surprised you never heard about the mod last year it still is one of the most popular downloads on MVP.mods.I found a url to the mod discussion for this years mod.

link:Feb 28 2005:http://dubiousquality.blogspot.com/2005/02/mvp-2005-pc-player-progression-project.html

March 3 2005: http://dubiousquality.blogspot.com/2005/03/mvp-2005-progression-mod-update.html


thanks

First year with MVP. This game is great. There so much things you can do with the pc version.

[Eaglesfan27]

Josh Beckett has nasty stuff.

I hate the Florida Marlins.

[finkenst]

Josh Beckett has nasty stuff.

I hate the Florida Marlins.
don't you have an FM dynasty to update!!?

[Eaglesfan27]

don't you have an FM dynasty to update!!?I just did ;)

I'm debating whether to keep Howard or not (the debate is very active in my mind between games of MVP ;))

Meanwhile, Beckett and the Marlins just took a 7 game lead on me in late July because I couldn't score against him. I did toast their number 5 starter for 8 runs in the preceding game, but I really needed to sweep this series to have a good chance of catching the Marlins.

[MizzouRah]

I just did ;)

I'm debating whether to keep Howard or not (the debate is very active in my mind between games of MVP ;))

Meanwhile, Beckett and the Marlins just took a 7 game lead on me in late July because I couldn't score against him. I did toast their number 5 starter for 8 runs in the preceding game, but I really needed to sweep this series to have a good chance of catching the Marlins.

I remember years ago playing baseball games and having like a 150-12 record because the AI just wasn't there yet. I'm 4.5 games out with the Cardinals and every win seems like an accomplishment.


Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

I remember years ago playing baseball games and having like a 150-12 record because the AI just wasn't there yet. I'm 4.5 games out with the Cardinals and every win seems like an accomplishment.


Todd
Agreed. Also, even if we can't edit manager's profiles on the X-Box, it is quite clear they are present. Playing power teams with average runners, and they don't run. Meanwhile, the Marlins are running me to death. This really is my favorite console sports game.

[finkenst]

I remember years ago playing baseball games and having like a 150-12 record because the AI just wasn't there yet. I'm 4.5 games out with the Cardinals and every win seems like an accomplishment.


Todd
likewise.


i also remember trying to get as many power pitchers as possible because those 102mph fastballs were hard to hit...

is mvp2k5 worth it?

[MizzouRah]

is mvp2k5 worth it?

There are 13 pages of MVP talk, what else do you need? :)


Todd

[MizzouRah]

dola,

I opened up a series vs the Phillies tonight and decided to try the "hitter's eye" view again. (the combo is 6/1 for viewing)

I had 12 hits and hit Billy Wagner pretty good as well. If CF wasn't so deep, I might have jacked 2-3 out of the park.. gotta love that park. :) I lost 4-3 in a great game.

I can't wait until next series vs Kansas City in KC, should be a fun series. I've always loved that ballpark.

Todd

[SackAttack]

My first no-hitter! Edwin Jackson shut down the Mets in the 7th game of the season. Didn't walk a batter, although one reached base on a Cesar Izturis throwing error.

Finished it off in style, too, striking out the first two hitters in the 9th before inducing a weak grounder to the 1st baseman to seal the deal. It was pretty cool to watch Jackson celebrate on the mound. He was more animated than he usually is after a game.

Just too bad I couldn't do it at Dodger Stadium. That would've ruled. Getting it against the Mets was awesome, as stacked as that lineup is.

[Eaglesfan27]

dola,

I opened up a series vs the Phillies tonight and decided to try the "hitter's eye" view again. (the combo is 6/1 for viewing)

I had 12 hits and hit Billy Wagner pretty good as well. If CF wasn't so deep, I might have jacked 2-3 out of the park.. gotta love that park. :) I lost 4-3 in a great game.

I can't wait until next series vs Kansas City in KC, should be a fun series. I've always loved that ballpark.

Todd
Wagner has been very inconsistent for me. Some games, he is lights out, and other games his fastball doesn't have much movement and the CPU kills it. Earlier today, he had his 5 blown save of the year for me :(

We are now 9 games out of first with a record of 52-48.

[Eaglesfan27]

My first no-hitter! Edwin Jackson shut down the Mets in the 7th game of the season. Didn't walk a batter, although one reached base on a Cesar Izturis throwing error.

Finished it off in style, too, striking out the first two hitters in the 9th before inducing a weak grounder to the 1st baseman to seal the deal. It was pretty cool to watch Jackson celebrate on the mound. He was more animated than he usually is after a game.

Just too bad I couldn't do it at Dodger Stadium. That would've ruled. Getting it against the Mets was awesome, as stacked as that lineup is.

Congrats. That is a huge achievement.

The best I've done is a 2 hitter by Randy Wolf against the Pirates. I've also had a 3 hitter with Padilla.

[FBPro]

New patch posted 3/28/05

ftp://ftp.ea.com/pub/easports/patches/mvp2005/

[SackAttack]

Congrats. That is a huge achievement.

The best I've done is a 2 hitter by Randy Wolf against the Pirates. I've also had a 3 hitter with Padilla.

Thanks. I would've expected Perez to be the guy to do it for me, but when I had to call Jackson up after Perez broke his leg on Opening Day...I guess there was a reason for that after all, huh?

[jbmagic]

New patch posted 3/28/05

ftp://ftp.ea.com/pub/easports/patches/mvp2005/


awesome patch #2

just a note its for the pc version.

it fix the stuttering on the pc version according to mvpmods.com forum

[Galaril]

I am having a bitch of a time pitching.Anyone got suggestions to improve my pitching?I am on pro difficulty and am thinking of going down until I get the pitching down. The other thing am wondering if you got assisted fieldin gon what does that do. I don't seem to be able to take control of the nearest player to the ball. SO, if a ball is hit to deep centerfield i shoul dbe able to hit 7 button and take control of the CenterFielder and jump up to catch the ball at the wall, right?

[Eaglesfan27]

I am having a bitch of a time pitching.Anyone got suggestions to improve my pitching?I am on pro difficulty and am thinking of going down until I get the pitching down. The other thing am wondering if you got assisted fieldin gon what does that do. I don't seem to be able to take control of the nearest player to the ball. SO, if a ball is hit to deep centerfield i shoul dbe able to hit 7 button and take control of the CenterFielder and jump up to catch the ball at the wall, right?

Assisted fielding means that the CPU gets your player to the ball, and all you do is throw it. I like it as I'm not a very good fielder in console baseball games. Also, I like assisted fielding because it really approximates the player's real life abilities. Guys with great range will get good jumps on the ball.

As far as pitching, I think the key is that you need to mix up your pitches while still using plenty of your pitcher's best pitches. You also need to make sure you mix up the location. I mostly work down in the zone, but sometimes I work up. I work in and out quite a bit. If I do go up in the zone, I usually make sure that I'm high enough that it will be hard for the hitter to hit (i.e. out of the strike zone.)

[Balldog]

I wish days were 36 hours long so I would actually have time to buy this, then actually play it! I'm a good month and a half away from having the time.

[jbmagic]

I am having a bitch of a time pitching.Anyone got suggestions to improve my pitching?I am on pro difficulty and am thinking of going down until I get the pitching down. The other thing am wondering if you got assisted fieldin gon what does that do. I don't seem to be able to take control of the nearest player to the ball. SO, if a ball is hit to deep centerfield i shoul dbe able to hit 7 button and take control of the CenterFielder and jump up to catch the ball at the wall, right?


when you pitch i hope you hold the button when it get to the red part. Make sure the red bar on the pitching meter lights up (darker red) before you release button

if you dont your not throwing it with any velocity

[Galaril]

Good advice I see what you mean about the players playing to fileding ratings better I will continue to use assisted fielding also.

[MizzouRah]

From what I've read on another forum, the tweaks I posted work just as well on Pro level. Try that.

My hitting has been stagnant once again. I might try a game or two on Pro tonight.


Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

From what I've read on another forum, the tweaks I posted work just as well on Pro level. Try that.

My hitting has been stagnant once again. I might try a game or two on Pro tonight.


Todd
My hitting was getting stagnant too. I went back to -5 speed for infielders again, and I've played 20 games on All-Pro with -5 for all fielders. I've decided I really like that setting better. Infielders with good to excellent range still don't let too many balls through, but I get more bloop hits and more hits down the lines. Rollins and my speed guys are doing better at getting infield hits too. I find that my good fielders still get to balls plenty. However, I just lost Utley for the season to an MCL tear :( Now, I need to rely on Offerman at second *gulp*

[MizzouRah]

My hitting was getting stagnant too. I went back to -5 speed for infielders again, and I've played 20 games on All-Pro with -5 for all fielders. I've decided I really like that setting better. Infielders with good to excellent range still don't let too many balls through, but I get more bloop hits and more hits down the lines. Rollins and my speed guys are doing better at getting infield hits too. I find that my good fielders still get to balls plenty. However, I just lost Utley for the season to an MCL tear :( Now, I need to rely on Offerman at second *gulp*

My hitting was getting so bad I would get like 1 hit a few games. Yikes!

I'm going to try Pro tonight, if not just to see what it's about.

I might go back to the (-5) for the infielders like you have, but aren't you seeing some goofy hits that should have been outs.. I saw some plays on (-5) like ground balls going right past the SS and I mean right by him almost hitting his shoe. :)


Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

My hitting was getting so bad I would get like 1 hit a few games. Yikes!

I'm going to try Pro tonight, if not just to see what it's about.

I might go back to the (-5) for the infielders like you have, but aren't you seeing some goofy hits that should have been outs.. I saw some plays on (-5) like ground balls going right past the SS and I mean right by him almost hitting his shoe. :)


Todd
In 20 games, I've two or three plays like that with bad shortstops. It has never happened to Rollins. However, I do also see that happen with bad second basemen on a few plays. Most of those hits were fairly hard though and it hasn't been happening on slower hits for me.

[Galaril]

Mizz,
I saw those sliders they work great for fielding and running. You don't tweak the sliders at all for pitching. Anyone got sliders for pitching that work particularly for pro level.

[SackAttack]

I haven't messed with pro level pitching sliders, but I have set the hot zones to fade, turned off the pitching cursor, and turned off the rumble. That'll generate some walks with or without the sliders.

[jbmagic]

Mizz,
I saw those sliders they work great for fielding and running. You don't tweak the sliders at all for pitching. Anyone got sliders for pitching that work particularly for pro level.

you have the PC version

get Spitoon Walk Data file

and setup the sliders for PRo as follow.

User Pitch Meter Difficulty -50
CPU Balls +20
User & CPU Control -50
User Steal Delay -5

Everything else is at 0

[Galaril]

Thanks. BTW I never noticed that much of a advantage for user pitcher control. I can see the CPU control being dropped -50 but the User?

[jbmagic]

Thanks. BTW I never noticed that much of a advantage for user pitcher control. I can see the CPU control being dropped -50 but the User?

yes i tought the same..but try it with spitoon walk datafile.

you will see realistic walks by user and cpu.

[Galaril]

JB,
I couldn't find the spitoon walk mod on MVP .com. Could i trouble you to shoot me the zip for the file. PM if possible. Thanks.

[jbmagic]

JB,
I couldn't find the spitoon walk mod on MVP .com. Could i trouble you to shoot me the zip for the file. PM if possible. Thanks.

here a link to it.

http://www.mvpmods.com/modules.php?name=Downloads&d_op=viewdownload&cid=30&min=20&orderby=dateD&show=10#cat

[Galaril]

JB,
Thanks for the link. Let me get this correct you just paste the data text file into the datafile directory, right? Thanks again.

[jbmagic]

JB,
Thanks for the link. Let me get this correct you just paste the data text file into the datafile directory, right? Thanks again.


yep

put datafile.txt into your /data folder.


just into the data folder..not into the datafile folder.

[TLK]

Tessie is the Royal Rooters rally cry
Tessie is the tune they always sung

I've been playing this game too much.... time for a break :)

[MizzouRah]

Tessie is the Royal Rooters rally cry
Tessie is the tune they always sung

I've been playing this game too much.... time for a break :)


Putting songs with their games works as they intended for me.. I sing almost every song from MVP throughout the day.

I'm finding out true love is blind....


Todd

[Galaril]

Bill Harris has released his greta MVP baseball Progression Mod that has helped improve the walksin the game for AI as well a srookie generation and player progression . I got the Version 1 but he has released a version 2 over at MVP.com anyone got this yet?

[SackAttack]

I'm gettin' close to giving up on ranked Live play.

Gettin' real tired of games that go 16 innings with a combined 10 hits because even when you jump on a mistake, you dribble it off the bat or pop it up.

And then, after 15 or 16 innings of a pitcher's duel, lag starts cropping up, causing you to groove three in a row, and the other guy manages to hit one of them out to end the game on a walk-off.

I've had that happen three times today. I wouldn't mind it so much if both of us were generating offense, but I hate to lose on what is pretty clearly a fluke, the way the rest of the game is going.

[Eaglesfan27]

I'm at the end of my first season, and I'm so excited about the final game of the year. With a record of 93-68, we are currently tied for 1st in the division with the Mets (Their starting pitching held up and Carlos had a monster year) and tied for the Wild Card with the St. Louis Cardinals. The Cardinals were on pace for 100 wins until they lost Pujols for 4 weeks with 2 weeks to go in the regular season. After losing Pujols they have had a 7 game losing streak allowing me to catch them for the wild card. Now, I'm about to play the final game, and hope that either the Mets or Cardinals lose their game. I need to get into the playoffs to make some money and get out of the red.

[Eaglesfan27]

Dola -

We won our game as Padilla pitched one of his best games of the season striked out Washington players 12 times. Abreu provided most of the offense with a 2 run homer, and Rollins pitched in a solo shot.

The Mets won, but the Cardinals lost. Now, it has us and the Mets playing a playoff game to decide who wins the division and who becomes the wildcard. Is that how it would normally be in MLB?

[MizzouRah]

Dola -

We won our game as Padilla pitched one of his best games of the season striked out Washington players 12 times. Abreu provided most of the offense with a 2 run homer, and Rollins pitched in a solo shot.

The Mets won, but the Cardinals lost. Now, it has us and the Mets playing a playoff game to decide who wins the division and who becomes the wildcard. Is that how it would normally be in MLB?

Yes, sounds fine to me.


Todd

[EagleFan]

Dola -

We won our game as Padilla pitched one of his best games of the season striked out Washington players 12 times. Abreu provided most of the offense with a 2 run homer, and Rollins pitched in a solo shot.

The Mets won, but the Cardinals lost. Now, it has us and the Mets playing a playoff game to decide who wins the division and who becomes the wildcard. Is that how it would normally be in MLB?

I thought that they only played the one game playoff if it meant that one team wasn't in the playoffs. I think there was a situation a few years back in the AL when this happened and they decided it through head to head record instead of a playoff.

[Eaglesfan27]

Yes, sounds fine to me.


Todd
Cool. I was thinking that the playoff game would not be played if both teams were definitely in the playoffs. Not sure why I was thinking that.

In any case, I'm in the playoffs and still having a blast with this game.

[Eaglesfan27]

I thought that they only played the one game playoff if it meant that one team wasn't in the playoffs. I think there was a situation a few years back in the AL when this happened and they decided it through head to head record instead of a playoff.

That is what I was thinking of as well.

[Eaglesfan27]

Dola -

Burrell broke his hand in the playoff game, and now he will miss the rest of the playoffs. I'm going to have to go with a highly ranked AAA outfielder that I acquired midseason in exchange for Lofton and Polanco. Hopefully, F. Pie is ready to play in the majors.

[MizzouRah]

You play the game to determine the division winner - thus the wildcard team goes to play the team with the best record.


Todd

[EagleFan]

Found it. In 2000 Oakland and Seattle finished with 91 wins and there was no one game playoff to decide the wild card team, a tie breaker was used instead.

[MizzouRah]

Major League Baseball Playoff Tiebreaker Info (1999)


When there is a tie for a Division Championship and the breaking of the tie will result in the losing team nonetheless being the Wild Card team, the Division Champion shall be:
a. the team with the better record in head-to-head competition, or in the event the teams have the same record in head-to-head competition,
b. the team with the better record, based on winning percentage in intradivisional competition, or, in the event the two teams have the same intradivisional winning percentages,
c. the team with the better record in League competition over the last 81 games played by each team, or, in the event the two teams have the same records over this period,
d. the team with the better record in League competition over the last 82 games, provided that the 82nd game was not a game between the tied teams.
If necessary, the subparagraph (d.) procedure of adding the immediately preceding game played by each team records shall be continued until such time as one team emerges with a better record and that team shall thereupon be declared the Division Champion and the other team shall be declared the Wild Card team.

See if this fits EF.


Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

Major League Baseball Playoff Tiebreaker Info (1999)


When there is a tie for a Division Championship and the breaking of the tie will result in the losing team nonetheless being the Wild Card team, the Division Champion shall be:
a. the team with the better record in head-to-head competition, or in the event the teams have the same record in head-to-head competition,
b. the team with the better record, based on winning percentage in intradivisional competition, or, in the event the two teams have the same intradivisional winning percentages,
c. the team with the better record in League competition over the last 81 games played by each team, or, in the event the two teams have the same records over this period,
d. the team with the better record in League competition over the last 82 games, provided that the 82nd game was not a game between the tied teams.
If necessary, the subparagraph (d.) procedure of adding the immediately preceding game played by each team records shall be continued until such time as one team emerges with a better record and that team shall thereupon be declared the Division Champion and the other team shall be declared the Wild Card team.

See if this fits EF.


Todd
I loaded up the schedule, and I see that we split the head to head series vs the Mets.

I'm not sure about B.

As far as C, the Mets were 6 games ahead of me going into the second half of the season, therefore, I'm sure that I did better in the last 81 league games than they did.


So, it would seem that a playoff shouldn't have been necessary. In any case, I won the playoff and ended up facing off against the Padres in the 1st round.

Does Jake Peavy really have a wierd windup in which he almost double pumps? He does in the game, and it was very distracting. He also has some nasty stuff in the game. I was so glad when he left and Trevor Hoffman came on in the 9th. Thome hit a 2 out solo shot off Hoffman for the game winning run :)

Oh yeah, F. Pie is Felix Pie. He was a top 100 rated player in the minors. I played him in left field tonight. He didn't hit at all, but he climbed the wall and saved a homer, which was huge in a 1-0 win. Now, I know I will at least get 2 home games in this series.

[Logan]

Personally, in a video game, I'd rather see the tiebreaker game than the scenarios listed above.

[MizzouRah]

Way to go EF!!

I'm 48-32 with 6 games left until the All Star break. Pittsburgh is on my heels at 45-36.

I've been using these sliders as of late and like the results thus far.. they seem a bit extreme, but so far so good. Low scoring games were getting a tad regular, so these provide some offense and definite ratings differences in the field and on base. I haven't had to scratch my head on a play yet and I'm seeing many new hits and harder hit balls for some reason.

All outfielders speed (-15)
All infielders speed (-15)
All runners (+15)
Foul balls (+15)

This also seems to remedy the infielders who run out and catch pop flies in the OF. I've only seen one so far and there was a slow RF who wouldn't have made it to the ball.


Todd

[jbmagic]

Way to go EF!!

I'm 48-32 with 6 games left until the All Star break. Pittsburgh is on my heels at 45-36.

I've been using these sliders as of late and like the results thus far.. they seem a bit extreme, but so far so good. Low scoring games were getting a tad regular, so these provide some offense and definite ratings differences in the field and on base. I haven't had to scratch my head on a play yet and I'm seeing many new hits and harder hit balls for some reason.

All outfielders speed (-15)
All infielders speed (-15)
All runners (+15)
Foul balls (+15)

This also seems to remedy the infielders who run out and catch pop flies in the OF. I've only seen one so far and there was a slow RF who wouldn't have made it to the ball.


Todd


thanks for the tip. i hated when i see infielders run so deep to the outfield to make a play.

i remember you saying -5 for outfield speed and -3 for infield speed was good before.

but glad -15 for infielder speed and outfielder speed is better.

[jbmagic]

eaglefan

congradulations on your season.

you play every game out so far during the season and playoffs?

[Eaglesfan27]

Way to go EF!!

I'm 48-32 with 6 games left until the All Star break. Pittsburgh is on my heels at 45-36.

I've been using these sliders as of late and like the results thus far.. they seem a bit extreme, but so far so good. Low scoring games were getting a tad regular, so these provide some offense and definite ratings differences in the field and on base. I haven't had to scratch my head on a play yet and I'm seeing many new hits and harder hit balls for some reason.

All outfielders speed (-15)
All infielders speed (-15)
All runners (+15)
Foul balls (+15)

This also seems to remedy the infielders who run out and catch pop flies in the OF. I've only seen one so far and there was a slow RF who wouldn't have made it to the ball.


Todd
Thanks. Those are very interesting sliders. I'm fairly happy with the negative 5 across the board at this point. Most of my guys hit about what I would expect for an average (except for Lieberthal who has been horrible.)

As far as the scores in my games, since I switched to negative 5 for both infielders and outfielders, most of my games have about 4 to 5 runs for each side. The exception is when I'm facing a top pitcher or I have Padilla or Wolf on the mound. I can usually dominate with either of them. However, the way I pitch is very different for them.

[Eaglesfan27]

eaglefan

congradulations on your season.

you play every game out so far during the season and playoffs?

I played half of them, and I used the "manage" mode in the other half of the regular season games.

I'm playing out every game of the playoffs.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Gee, I must be the only one stinking it up. My Cardinals have the worst record in the National League (something like 22-40). Strangely, the offense has been up since I traded for Ray Durham, though. I know I mentioned this before, but I really love how you can sometimes get a home run out of anybody in your lineup. I had a game just the other night in which I had back-to-back-to-back home runs. Now, it'd make sense if Pujols or Rolen or Edmonds had been involved, but check out the three guys who hit the homers:

Reggie Sanders
Mark Grudzielanek
Yadier Molina

I believe it was only the second homer of the season for each of the guys. If this thing happened all the time, it would annoy me, but it's good to see that it's capable of happening even once. Very cool.

[MizzouRah]

The CPU is very good at trading. I've been trying to unload Sanders, Cedeno, Simontachi, and/or Eldred and no team wants anything to do them any of those players.. not even for the worst A ball player.


Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

The CPU is very good at trading. I've been trying to unload Sanders, Cedeno, Simontachi, and/or Eldred and no team wants anything to do them any of those players.. not even for the worst A ball player.


Todd
Awesome!

I had to give up a lot in Polanco and Lofton to get a good prospect as well. However, Felix is quite the prospect. He just had a single in the 15th inning for me, stole second, went to third on a ground ball to the right, and finally scored the game winning run on a long sacrifice fly.

However, this game went 15 innings and during the game I saw Offerman run out to mid centerfield. I also saw Klesko and Giles make gold glove type plays in the gaps. I'm not quite ready to go to -15 yet, but I do think I'm going to try -10 since you haven't had any big problems with -15.

As far as the plus 15 on foul balls, what does that do? (I know that is probably obvious, but I'm not sure.)

[SackAttack]

Got my first triple play today. It was pretty hilarious. I played three games with a guy who chose the Cubs, and in the second game, he had runners on 1st/2nd with nobody out. He hit a sharp grounder to Choi at first, who threw the ball down to 2nd to get the runner.

The runner took out Izturis with a slide, and the runner who had been on 2nd turned the corner and headed for home. Izturis got up, threw the ball home, and Ross held onto the ball as the runner tried to railroad him, for the second out. While Ross was recovering from the collision, the runner on first took off for second. Ross stood up, threw a strike down to 2nd, and the runner was out by about three feet.

Most hilarious thing I've ever seen, and really, it seemed like the kind of thing I would do. So glad to be on the other end of that, even though I lost the game. :D

[Eaglesfan27]

My first game with -10 for fielders and +10 for runners was surprisingly low scoring. Somehow, I thought it was going to become a scoring fest, but Padilla held the opposition to 1 run and 5 hits through 8. Wagner pitched a perfect 9th. I only scored 2 against Darrell May although I did have 10 scattered hits. I liked that Thome blooped two hits in front of Giles because he was playing so deep. I think before the switch, he would have miraculously caught them.

Interesting part of playing owner mode was that I was a little sad to sweep the Padres. We really could have used that money that a 2nd home game would have generated ;)

Oh well, time to wait and see who our opponent in the NLCS is.

[DaddyTorgo]

i got triple-played the other day too. Bases loaded, nobody out (obviously). Hit a hard grounder right down the line at 3rd. 3rd baseman grabbed it as he crossed the bag (out #1) and then fired to second (out #2) and then they completed it by getting me by a hair at first. Pissed me the hell off, but it was awesome to see!

[SackAttack]

i got triple-played the other day too. Bases loaded, nobody out (obviously). Hit a hard grounder right down the line at 3rd. 3rd baseman grabbed it as he crossed the bag (out #1) and then fired to second (out #2) and then they completed it by getting me by a hair at first. Pissed me the hell off, but it was awesome to see!

Sounds like Padres manager Bruce Bochy after Kerry Robinson bounced into a triple play last year:

"You're thinking he's a good guy to stay out of the double play. Well, we did that."

[MizzouRah]

I'm at the All Star break and although I think big parks will yield the occassional triple, the (-15) sliders seem fine so far. Had the CPU in my first run down ever.. it was quite fun. I'm seeing more hits down the line and into the gaps. Scoring has been normal.

On the foul ball slider, I think it's supposed to generate more foul balls.. but my hope is: more pitch count, more hit variety, and harder hit balls... the latter two seem to be working, not sure about the pitch counts yet because the number of foul balls seem just a tad over the default.

Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

I'm at the All Star break and although I think big parks will yield the occassional triple, the (-15) sliders seem fine so far. Had the CPU in my first run down ever.. it was quite fun. I'm seeing more hits down the line and into the gaps. Scoring has been normal.

On the foul ball slider, I think it's supposed to generate more foul balls.. but my hope is: more pitch count, more hit variety, and harder hit balls... the latter two seem to be working, not sure about the pitch counts yet because the number of foul balls seem just a tad over the default.

ToddI'm glad you mentioned your sliders. It was the impetus for me examining my own games a bit more, and I'm so glad I switched to -10 on the fielders and plus 10 on the runners. I'm having some great games. I'm up 2-1 on the Astros in the NLCS and I'm seeing some great hits, great drives into the gaps. Felix Pie who is really amazingly fast got an infield single which I've almost never had. He hit a weak dribbler down the third base line, and just beat out the throw. Rollins is my only other player to ever have an infield single.

I'm seeing a lot more variety in shots over the infielders head that drop in front of the outfielders. Also, I saw for the first time ever where Jason Michaels didn't cut off a ball and it bounced past him. I'm also seeing more errors because guys are getting to the ball a second too late to make it a comfortable play. I'm not seeing insane amounts of errors, just more realistic. I've never played a string of 5 consecutive games of MVP and wanted to keep playing. I do tonight :)

[MizzouRah]

I'm glad you mentioned your sliders. It was the impetus for me examining my own games a bit more, and I'm so glad I switched to -10 on the fielders and plus 10 on the runners. I'm having some great games. I'm up 2-1 on the Astros in the NLCS and I'm seeing some great hits, great drives into the gaps. Felix Pie who is really amazingly fast got an infield single which I've almost never had. He hit a weak dribbler down the third base line, and just beat out the throw. Rollins is my only other player to ever have an infield single.

I'm seeing a lot more variety in shots over the infielders head that drop in front of the outfielders. Also, I saw for the first time ever where Jason Michaels didn't cut off a ball and it bounced past him. I'm also seeing more errors because guys are getting to the ball a second too late to make it a comfortable play. I'm not seeing insane amounts of errors, just more realistic. I've never played a string of 5 consecutive games of MVP and wanted to keep playing. I do tonight :)

I feel the same way with the (15, -15) tweaks. I've seen some really neat errors, and plays with those thus far.


Todd

[Bo Jackson's Hip]

Could someone post the latest 'consensus' settings that you all seem to be liking now? I.E. the +15, -15 etc. It gets kind of confusing scrolling backward through the posts, with the timestamp bug etc.

[maximus]

Does MLB 2005 have a Homerun Derby option?

[samifan24]

Does MLB 2005 have a Homerun Derby option?

Yes.

[jbmagic]

MizzouRah and Eaglefan

can you guys post your latest sliders and level you play on. also what view you use for hitting and pitching? and what pitch aids you have on and off.

thanks

[maximus]

Ahh, I just realized that MLB is a console game.

I need a PC baseball game that supports a homerun derby. :)

[Eaglesfan27]

MizzouRah and Eaglefan

can you guys post your latest sliders and level you play on. also what view you use for hitting and pitching? and what pitch aids you have on and off.

thanks
I'm currently using -10 for all fieders speed and plus 10 for all base runners speed. I'm strongly considering going to -12 for all fielders and plus 12 for all baserunners when I start my next season (currently tied 3-3 in the NLCS against the Astros.)

I use the 6/1 view, I leave hot/cold zones on (I think my catcher and I would know where the guy likes the ball), I have the pitching cursor off, vibration off, strike zone is on (it helps me hit.)

I use assisted fielding in which I just pick what base to throw it to and how hard to throw it. With the -10 sliders for fielders, I find that fielding ratings really matter. In fact, I have had to use Felix Pie in left field due to an injury to Burrell, and he is so fast and playing left field so well (he is a natural centerfielder) that I'll probably start him next year in centerfield. Because of these settings, a fielders range and speed really matter. Before I started using any sliders, Burrell and other relative slow left fielders were getting to too many balls in the gaps and down the lines. Pie is a very light hitter, but he is a left handed hitter who gets down the line very fast and I'm starting to get the occasional infield hit with him (realisticly on weak hit balls and one on a ball that bounced very high off the dirt in front of the mound) so I'm really excited to see what he can do in a full season. He is a base stealing machine too.

[Eaglesfan27]

Could someone post the latest 'consensus' settings that you all seem to be liking now? I.E. the +15, -15 etc. It gets kind of confusing scrolling backward through the posts, with the timestamp bug etc.
I'm not sure that there is a consensus. However, I'm slowly creeping more towards Todd's -15 for all fielder speed and plus 15 for all baserunner speed. I might end up settling at either 12 or 10 for those settings though. I'm sure all people on here have other opinions.

[jbmagic]

eaglefan

thanks.

you playing on pro or all star?

[Eaglesfan27]

All star.

[Philliesfan980]

Hey guys, just joining the thread

Just picked up the game for PC the other day (Its getting close to the end of tax season, so I might be able to start playing soon).

From what I've heard , is this really going to be EA's last year for an MLB game. Seems like such a shame, because from what I've read here, this game is the best graphical game to date (including High Heat). What has everyone else heard about this? If so , it will be sort of bitter sweet playing such a great game knowing that we won't have another next year.

[Eaglesfan27]

Hey guys, just joining the thread

Just picked up the game for PC the other day (Its getting close to the end of tax season, so I might be able to start playing soon).

From what I've heard , is this really going to be EA's last year for an MLB game. Seems like such a shame, because from what I've read here, this game is the best graphical game to date (including High Heat). What has everyone else heard about this? If so , it will be sort of bitter sweet playing such a great game knowing that we won't have another next year.
From everything I've heard, Take Two or VC has exclusivity for Baseball for the next several years, and therefore it will be impossible for EA to release a new Major League Baseball game next year unless they want to go the all fictional route.

I agree that it is a shame, however, this game is so good that I could see myself playing it for two or three years.

[MizzouRah]

Me too. This just might be my baseball game for the next few years.

My settings: All Star

All fielders speed (INF and OF): (-15)
Baserunning: (+15)
Foul Balls: (+15)

I switch with the 6/1 & 6/4 views depending on who's pitching. I have all aids turned off except for the pitching cursor which is set to fade.

I also use assissted fielding, so I'm not sure if the (-15) fielder speeds will be beneficial to you manual folks. (In fact, a setting of (-5) might be better for manual fielding.)

That's all I can think of right now at work. Tonight is the all star game and I think I'm going to either play as the NL team or just watch the game like a televised game. (both teams to CPU controlled)


Todd

[Philliesfan980]

I think you guys are all still in your first season, but how is progression? Also how is fatigue among positional players and pitchers?

[Eaglesfan27]

I think you guys are all still in your first season, but how is progression? Also how is fatigue among positional players and pitchers?

I'm still in my first season, but people at Operation Sports and other places have reported progression works well in this version.

I think fatigue among positional players works great on default. You can have a guy play all 162 games, but he is going to get down to 75% or so at various points of the year. Personally, unless it is one of my stars I rest guys a game when they get down to 80%. Catchers get tired MUCH more quickly than any other position player, and using that 80% guideline, I had to rest Lieberthal about 25-30 games throughout the year.

Pitcher fatigue is a little bit low. Pitchers recover too quickly between starts and relievers recover too quickly between appearances. This can be fixed with sliders, but it has never been bad enough to bother me. I use a little house rule, and don't start guys out of order unless our team had a day off since the player's last start. The CPU seems to usually use a full 5 man rotation, and there are no pitchers getting ridiculous numbers of starts.

[rexallllsc]

Hey I'm gonna go buy this right now. Can anyone link me or tell me some solid sliders to start with? Any tips? Thanks

[Eaglesfan27]

I just had an awesome game 7. Minutemaid park is really small, and Houston jumped on Padilla early with solo shots from Biggio and Bagwell. However, Rollins squeaked one over the wall to cut it to 2-1. Had a great pitchers duel between Padilla and Oswalt until Padilla fell apart in the 6th and gave up a quick hit, homer, and then a second homer. That put us down 5-1. Fortunately, I scored two off Oswalt in the 8th as Pie hit a bloop single, stole second, advanced to third on a grounder by Lieberthal, and than Ryan Howard my pinch hitter hit a homer to bring them both in.

However, Rollins and Offerman both hit into ground ball outs and that left me down 5-3 going into the 9th. Lidge had owned me all series, and I thought I was done. He quickly struck out Abreu and Thome. Then, Michaels stepped up and hit a liner over that short left field wall that had victimized me all game. Great, now we are down 5-4, but I didn't think I'd get another run against Lidge. Bell steps up, I swing at the first pitch, and it goes down the left field line, and it hit the flag pole! Homerun. 5-5 tie.

In the bottom of the 9th, Brett Myers struck out the first two batters, but he gave up a solo homer to Brad Ausmus to that freaking short left field porch and the Astros beat me 6-5 to win the NLCS in 7 games.

The good news is that the playoffs generated over 5 million in revenue, and put me over 4 million in the black. This means that I will have enough money to add some seats to the stadium :)

Now, the Astros get to face the Red Sox in the World Series since they swept the Yankees 4-0.

[Eaglesfan27]

Dola -

I didn't like being the victim of it, but the NLCS celebration on the field was nicely done.

[Eaglesfan27]

The Red Sox swept the Astros in the World Series and Damon won the World Series MVP.

I'm in the offseason, and I'm very impressed about how retirements were handled. It was great to see a few different types of reasons for retirements, such as ability, personal, age, injury, etc. I wish it gave more information, but overall retirements seemed good.

However, I'm doing the draft now, and I'm concerned because most of the players seem to have very low speed. I mean many of them are below 50, and even Thome has a 44. Anyone else noticing this? Did I just get a slow draft class? The best speedsters in the draft are 85 and 82 speed. Also, the top speed guy in the first round only has 75 speed. Most of the guys taken in the first round had 30-50 speed.

[sooner333]

However, I'm doing the draft now, and I'm concerned because most of the players seem to have very low speed. I mean many of them are below 50, and even Thome has a 44. Anyone else noticing this? Did I just get a slow draft class? The best speedsters in the draft are 85 and 82 speed. Also, the top speed guy in the first round only has 75 speed. Most of the guys taken in the first round had 30-50 speed.


This doesn't bode well for my dyansty I'm playing with a friend (where I pitch and he hits and we play game one of the series and sim the remainder). We did a fantasy draft with the Indians, and after it was all said and done, we realized that we were going to win games with speed, speed, and more speed. Our lineup only has two power guys (Teixiera and Eric Chavez) and then Chone Figgins, Coco Crisp, Angel Berroa, Matt Lawton, and Lew Ford (along with slowsters Josh Bard/Todd Greene and Ken Harvey, and sometimes Casey Blake).

[Eaglesfan27]

This doesn't bode well for my dyansty I'm playing with a friend (where I pitch and he hits and we play game one of the series and sim the remainder). We did a fantasy draft with the Indians, and after it was all said and done, we realized that we were going to win games with speed, speed, and more speed. Our lineup only has two power guys (Teixiera and Eric Chavez) and then Chone Figgins, Coco Crisp, Angel Berroa, Matt Lawton, and Lew Ford (along with slowsters Josh Bard/Todd Greene and Ken Harvey, and sometimes Casey Blake).
I'm reading the scout reports of the top draft picks, and from reading those I think that speed improves as the players age. I don't think that is very realistic, but if it happens that should be fine. Right now, it says for one of the guys, Brian Williams, that this second basemen keeps getting faster over the years and he has the potential to be very fast. His current speed rating is only 62.

[sooner333]

I'm reading the scout reports of the top draft picks, and from reading those I think that speed improves as the players age. I don't think that is very realistic, but if it happens that should be fine. Right now, it says for one of the guys, Brian Williams, that this second basemen keeps getting faster over the years and he has the potential to be very fast. His current speed rating is only 62.

Yeah, pretty silly, but at least they improve some. In fact, speed is usually the only thing that doesn't get better (and they could have even made their instincts bad on the basepaths and stealing ability a little worse and kept speed static until they get past a certain age).

[Eaglesfan27]

Well, I discovered something else I'm worried about. I was able to acquire several young good players in free agency for cheap prices. Pitchers were expensive, but I maanged to acquire Rocco Baldelli for a million a year on a 2 year deal. Interestingly, he was hurt most of last year and maybe I'm not seeing his ratings accurately (my scout is bad), but I still worry about this signing. I also was able to acquire Mark Mulder for 7 million a year for 2 years (likely at the expense of those extra seats.) Finally, I was able to acquire Benji Molina for only 2.4 million a year for 3 years. He is 31, but he is still a very good catcher and he was half as cheap as Lieberthal. I'm not sure if any of those signings are that terrible, but as a group they worry me a bit.

[DaddyTorgo]

yeah I have noticed this also Eaglesfan. Good players are available rather cheap, hell Dontrelle Willis went for like 8 million a year for just 4 years in one of my saves. I'm hoping that someone is working on a fix for it in the datafiles...

[rexallllsc]

Well, I got the game, and after not playing since something like Triple Play 99 (or something like that), WOW!!!

Very impressed all around.

I practiced for about an hour, and then started a Dodgers Dynasty. First game, I'm playing the Giants, and I'm up 2-0 going into the 9th. Odalis Perez pitched a 2-hitter with 5 Ks (thinking I'll need to tweak some things...). Yhency Brazoban comes in to set the table for Gagne, and is promptly smacked around. He gives up a double and then a single, so I've got runners on the corners w/ 1 out. He then walks Dowd, and Snow is up. Bring in Gagne early, and Snow smacks a double off of the wall, bringin in all 3.

I lose 3-2. Nice. Lost the second game 7-0.

Can't wait to play more!

[Eaglesfan27]

I tried the -15 for fielders and plus 15 for runners for my first spring training game and liked it so far. It didn't produce any crazy hits, and it was a good game which I lost 3-0 due to Adam Dunn going yard twice on Wolf. Oh yeah, I let Livan Hernadez 3 hit me :( I guess I better stop playing and go to bed ;)

[MizzouRah]

I tried the -15 for fielders and plus 15 for runners for my first spring training game and liked it so far. It didn't produce any crazy hits, and it was a good game which I lost 3-0 due to Adam Dunn going yard twice on Wolf. Oh yeah, I let Livan Hernadez 3 hit me :( I guess I better stop playing and go to bed ;)


:)


Todd

[MizzouRah]

Well, I got the game, and after not playing since something like Triple Play 99 (or something like that), WOW!!!

Very impressed all around.

I practiced for about an hour, and then started a Dodgers Dynasty. First game, I'm playing the Giants, and I'm up 2-0 going into the 9th. Odalis Perez pitched a 2-hitter with 5 Ks (thinking I'll need to tweak some things...). Yhency Brazoban comes in to set the table for Gagne, and is promptly smacked around. He gives up a double and then a single, so I've got runners on the corners w/ 1 out. He then walks Dowd, and Snow is up. Bring in Gagne early, and Snow smacks a double off of the wall, bringin in all 3.

I lose 3-2. Nice. Lost the second game 7-0.

Can't wait to play more!

It only took 15 pages to get you to try MVP out. :p


Todd

[rexallllsc]

It only took 15 pages to get you to try MVP out. :p


Todd

Well...I had to be REALLY built up after all of these years of Madden and Triple Play...

[Bo Jackson's Hip]

For those of you who said that you have had trouble hitting, I notice that I hit much better on a larger TV set. If you're playing on a small 19 inch or less, it makes it more difficult to read the hitter's eye if you have that enabled. I'm still not hitting very many HRs with my Braves, though and Mondesi sucks as much as he does IRL.

[Ajaxab]

I'm got the game about a week ago and started a dynasty with the Mariners. After practicing quite a bit with the hitting mini-game, I finally hit a homer in my fifth game. Anyone got any tips for hitting the ball with more power? Is the only recourse to try holding the analog stick up while swinging?

[DaddyTorgo]

the only problem that i've noticed with the -15 for fielders and +12 for baserunning is that Juan Pierre and indeed really anybody bunting can get a bunt for a basehit everytime

[MizzouRah]

the only problem that i've noticed with the -15 for fielders and +12 for baserunning is that Juan Pierre and indeed really anybody bunting can get a bunt for a basehit everytime

Hmmm...haven't tried that with anyone fast yet. I've just seen pitchers and they get thrown out realistically. I did change the infielders to -10 as some routine groundballs were getting through.. and after hearing your thoughts, running is at -10 as well. I do like the outfielders at -15.


Todd

[SackAttack]

I'm got the game about a week ago and started a dynasty with the Mariners. After practicing quite a bit with the hitting mini-game, I finally hit a homer in my fifth game. Anyone got any tips for hitting the ball with more power? Is the only recourse to try holding the analog stick up while swinging?

It's also about timing and positioning. You aren't likely to hit one out that's up-and-in if you're crowding the plate, and if you try to pull a ball that's outside, you're not going to have much luck either.

If you get the right pitch, yes, pushing up will help, but you want to make sure that you're going with the pitch, not against it.

[Eaglesfan27]

Well, I can confirm that speed does change as you progress seasons. I saw Abreu at the age of 32 gain 5 speed! However, that was the only truly odd progression as most of my older guys lost speed and a few of my younger guys gained speed. Particularly of note, Felix Pie went up from 94 to 98 speed. He will certainly get plenty of PT as a pinch runner and defensive sub in left field for Burrell.

The progression looked pretty good to me with Thome losing about 12 points of power, which should still leave him able to hit plenty of homers but not as much as he did for me last year (47.)

I am still concerned that I obtained Baldelli and Mulder so cheap. Molina looks like he didn't age well, but Mulder looks like he could help me win a CY young and I don't think I should have been able to sign him so cheap. However, it did cost me my planned ball park upgrade (at least temporarily.)

[CraigSca]

After about a month long layoff, I decided to pick this one up again last night. For some reason, I've always had problems with baserunning and after picking up the manual again, I think I have it figured out. Needless to say the problem I was having was a little embarassing but since it's been "fixed" my enjoyment of the game has gone up again.

I still have major problems with hitting, and I find myself getting about 12-15 basehits per game, but all but one or two are singles (with the other two being doubles). I NEVER hit homeruns (I'm hoping I don't have to use the uppercut to hit them, though it seems like I do - using the uppercut swing seems artificial to me), and about 90% of my hits are comebackers RIGHT up the middle. Every single hit I get is a line drive just beyond the infield or ground ball. Do these guys ever hit it hard in the air?!

I'm also thinking about turning down the outfielder speed. It really seems like a ton of extra base hits are getting cut off (either that or every outfielder's arm is Dave Winfield circa 1985). I don't want a double frenzy, but I'm sick of balls going to the wall and holding the opponent to a single.

[Eaglesfan27]

After about a month long layoff, I decided to pick this one up again last night. For some reason, I've always had problems with baserunning and after picking up the manual again, I think I have it figured out. Needless to say the problem I was having was a little embarassing but since it's been "fixed" my enjoyment of the game has gone up again.

I still have major problems with hitting, and I find myself getting about 12-15 basehits per game, but all but one or two are singles (with the other two being doubles). I NEVER hit homeruns (I'm hoping I don't have to use the uppercut to hit them, though it seems like I do - using the uppercut swing seems artificial to me), and about 90% of my hits are comebackers RIGHT up the middle. Every single hit I get is a line drive just beyond the infield or ground ball. Do these guys ever hit it hard in the air?!

I'm also thinking about turning down the outfielder speed. It really seems like a ton of extra base hits are getting cut off (either that or every outfielder's arm is Dave Winfield circa 1985). I don't want a double frenzy, but I'm sick of balls going to the wall and holding the opponent to a single.

I really recommend about -15 for outfielders, and -10 for infielders. That will lead to more hits down the lines, into the gaps, etc.

For my first 50 or so games, my hitting woes were the same as yours. Now, I've learned to hit homers without pressing the uppercut swing. It can happen, but the timing has to be absolutely perfect. I'm also getting more hits that are hard in the air. However, using the uppercut certainly does lead to more Home runs, particularly if you can get something you can pull. I always use the uppercut swing with Thome. Of course, the counterbalance is that this leads to more weak popups as well.

[CraigSca]

If it's counterbalanced, that's ok. I suppose my revulsion towards using the uppercut swing started when I was first playing the game and was unable to hit at all. I'd end the game with about 3 hits and 2 of them would be homeruns. So, I'd have guys with .100 batting averages, with 3 homeruns and 3 RBIs. Maybe, since I've learned how to collect about 10 hits a game, I can start to selectively use the uppercut and won't feel I'm hitting homeruns or nothing at all (like I was previously).

[MizzouRah]

Can't wait for the psp verison to come out!


Todd

[jbmagic]

After about a month long layoff, I decided to pick this one up again last night. For some reason, I've always had problems with baserunning and after picking up the manual again, I think I have it figured out. Needless to say the problem I was having was a little embarassing but since it's been "fixed" my enjoyment of the game has gone up again.

I still have major problems with hitting, and I find myself getting about 12-15 basehits per game, but all but one or two are singles (with the other two being doubles). I NEVER hit homeruns (I'm hoping I don't have to use the uppercut to hit them, though it seems like I do - using the uppercut swing seems artificial to me), and about 90% of my hits are comebackers RIGHT up the middle. Every single hit I get is a line drive just beyond the infield or ground ball. Do these guys ever hit it hard in the air?!

I'm also thinking about turning down the outfielder speed. It really seems like a ton of extra base hits are getting cut off (either that or every outfielder's arm is Dave Winfield circa 1985). I don't want a double frenzy, but I'm sick of balls going to the wall and holding the opponent to a single.


here is a great hitting guide for MVP 2005

http://www.theperfectgame.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=1398

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

How is the immersion faction in the game?
Im torn between this and Baseball Mogul.

[CraigSca]

Depends - what do you wanna do? Is there anything more immersive than playing the games out yourself? The animations are absolutely gorgeous.

[CraigSca]

here is a great hitting guide for MVP 2005

http://www.theperfectgame.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=1398
Thanks, Jbmagic. I guess I'm going to have to start using that stick :)

[MizzouRah]

How is the immersion faction in the game?
Im torn between this and Baseball Mogul.
VERY immersed, but I also like the speed of bbmogul for playing many seasons.


Todd

[jbmagic]

PC owners

Patch #3 is out

ftp://ftp.ea.com/pub/easports/patches/mvp...p2005patch3.exe

[Eaglesfan27]

Darn it! Billy Wagner has lost 4-5 MPH on his fastball and is now just an average closer. He just blew a 3 run lead by giving up 3 base hits, then got 2 outs, but then gave up a grand slam to Luis Gonzalez.

The good thing is that I like how the player progression is going. My older guys are starting to lose their stuff.

[DaddyTorgo]

can anyone walk me through getting my logitech rumblepad 2 to work with MVP 2005? I have been looking for a configuration profile, but havn't found one out there. Alternatively, if anyone has one to share that'd be awesome!

[samifan24]

I just lost to the Chi Sox 1-0 in 15 innings. Three things annoy me about this game:

1) Why such low scoring all the time? I play as CLE and this is the 2nd scoreless regulation game I've played against the CPU in a week (vs. MIN earlier this week).

2) I hate the fact that CPU pitchers throw a ridiculous number of innings, even with the slider for CPU pitcher fatigue set to -5. Shingo Takatsu worked 7 innings against me in tonight's game! :rolleyes:

3) I also hate the fact that if you don't aim a pitch before the cursor fades, you are left without the ability to aim the pitch. I lost on a solo homerun in the 15th on a pitch which I lost control over. After 14 1/2 fun innings, I was really frustrated to end the game this way. :(

[Eaglesfan27]

I just lost to the Chi Sox 1-0 in 15 innings. Three things annoy me about this game:

1) Why such low scoring all the time? I play as CLE and this is the 2nd scoreless regulation game I've played against the CPU in a week (vs. MIN earlier this week).

2) I hate the fact that CPU pitchers throw a ridiculous number of innings, even with the slider for CPU pitcher fatigue set to -5. Shingo Takatsu worked 7 innings against me in tonight's game! :rolleyes:

3) I also hate the fact that if you don't aim a pitch before the cursor fades, you are left without the ability to aim the pitch. I lost on a solo homerun in the 15th on a pitch which I lost control over. After 14 1/2 fun innings, I was really frustrated to end the game this way. :(
You using any sliders? With -15 for outfielder speed, -10 for infield speed, and +10 base running speed, I'm averaging 7 runs/game in my 2nd season of my owner's mode dynasty.

2. Do you swing at most first pitches? I rarely swing at first pitches, and usually work most counts for 4 or 5 pitches (except Thome who I have swing at the first good inside pitch) and I usually see pitchers leaving in either the 5th or 6th inning.

3. You can still aim the pitch after the cursor fades, you just have to do it from feel. Also, you know you can turn the cursor to either "on", "fade", or "off." So you can have it permeantly stay on if you wish. I did this when I was first learning the game.

[samifan24]

You using any sliders? With -15 for outfielder speed, -10 for infield speed, and +10 base running speed, I'm averaging 7 runs/game in my 2nd season of my owner's mode dynasty.

2. Do you swing at most first pitches? I rarely swing at first pitches, and usually work most counts for 4 or 5 pitches (except Thome who I have swing at the first good inside pitch) and I usually see pitchers leaving in either the 5th or 6th inning.

3. You can still aim the pitch after the cursor fades, you just have to do it from feel. Also, you know you can turn the cursor to either "on", "fade", or "off." So you can have it permeantly stay on if you wish. I did this when I was first learning the game.

I wasn't using any fielding sliders but will try it if it means more scoring.

I don't swing at most first pitches, but I'd say that most of my hitters see three pitches, so I guess that'd have something to do with it.

I didn't know you could still aim the pitch. I wish I'd walked the batter intentionally and moved on to the next guy. I like the challenge of having the cursor fade, but every so often when I don't know where the pitch is going, it makes all the difference in a game.

[jbmagic]

I wasn't using any fielding sliders but will try it if it means more scoring.

I don't swing at most first pitches, but I'd say that most of my hitters see three pitches, so I guess that'd have something to do with it.

I didn't know you could still aim the pitch. I wish I'd walked the batter intentionally and moved on to the next guy. I like the challenge of having the cursor fade, but every so often when I don't know where the pitch is going, it makes all the difference in a game.


if your batters are not walking, then you swinging too much at every pitch.

[TRO]

A negative fatigue factor makes the fatigue slower. If you want the CPU to pitch less innings, turn the fatigue up not down.

[sooner333]

I know all of you guys with the -15/-10 fielding, +10 baserunning sliders are using CPU defense (or whatever it is called)....does anyone know how these work with human defense?

[samifan24]

A negative fatigue factor makes the fatigue slower. If you want the CPU to pitch less innings, turn the fatigue up not down.

Wow, thanks. I didn't know that. I figured that the positive option would give "more stamina." I'm gonna go try these new sliders now.

[JPhillips]

Just got this and I love it. It might be the best baseball game I've ever played. Not only is the gameplay great, but I love the extras that make the game so much more enjoyable.

I was playing a game today and the number 8 hitter for the Mets was a rookie who wasn't hitting well. Everytime he came to the plate my crowd just gave him hell, chanting "OVERRATED!" I doubt that the game takes it into account, but the kid was rattled and went 0-4 with 2Ks.

[Balldog]

Well I bought this for the XBOX about a month ago, I played ONE game the day I bought it and did not touch it again until this past Sunday afternoon.

One of the reasons why I had only played it once was because the manual sucks. I really had no clue how to do anything. So Sunday I went online to Game FAQs and read someone's tutorial or whatever and learned how to play. I have since played about 6 games using sliders found over at OS, I think they are Pared's.

Comments, I think this is the first baseball game I have played where when I am pitching with Pedro I feel like I am pitching with Pedro. Or when I am facing Jason Schmidt I feel like I am facing Jason Schmidt, instead of just a random pitcher. Batter's eye is very nice, I am a big fan of it. When I played against the Orioles and Sidney Ponson I could actually see what pitch he was throwing almost as soon as he started his windup. I swore I could see the 'red' for slider while the ball was in his glove.

My only complaints are with the hitting system, I am thinking it may be too hard to hit for both the CPU and myself. I had a no-hitter going into the 6th last night with Colon against the Giants, in just my 6th time playing the game. Though in the 7th, 8th, and 9th innings they left the bases loaded, men on 2nd and 3rd, and the bases loaded respectively. I got lucky and won 1-0, thanks to a Vlad solo shot in the 5th.

I like this game, even though they completely butchered Great American Ballpark.

[DaddyTorgo]

just wondering if someone can clue me in without me having to look how I can get more popups to reach the stands/fewer popups to be caught. Seems like every other batter on my team and theirs pops out.

[MizzouRah]

FWIW,

I'm using -12 for both infield/outfield speed and +10 for baserunning... meter difficulty is at -50.


Todd

[CamEdwards]

I've been playing this game at Pro level since I bought it. I'm thinking I'm going to have to move up to All-Star soon, but I'm concerned. I can hit the ball fairly well (usually score between 3-7 runs a game), but I'm very dominant with my pitching. I don't want to move up and start getting smoked. I just want to be able to have the computer achieve some realistic numbers against me.

MizzouRah, you're at -50 on pitch meter difficulty? That makes it LESS accurate, not more, right? How are your results with that? Are the aces still able to achieve realistically low ERA's?

[jbmagic]

FWIW,

I'm using -12 for both infield/outfield speed and +10 for baserunning... meter difficulty is at -50.


Todd


you still playing on pro?

[sooner333]

I've been playing this game at Pro level since I bought it. I'm thinking I'm going to have to move up to All-Star soon, but I'm concerned. I can hit the ball fairly well (usually score between 3-7 runs a game), but I'm very dominant with my pitching. I don't want to move up and start getting smoked. I just want to be able to have the computer achieve some realistic numbers against me.


I think your hitting is most likely to go down. I have a dynasty going with a friend of mine where he hits and I control the pitching staff. On that one, I use the default view, and usually give up on average of 3-4 runs per game. On my own dynasty I use the behind the pitcher view, and give up a few more runs (and I'm really bad at hitting). Both are on all-star with about -5 on fielder speed and +5 baserunning as the only changes.

[MizzouRah]

you still playing on pro?
I've NEVER played on Pro. Always used All-Star.


Todd

[jbmagic]

I've NEVER played on Pro. Always used All-Star.


Todd


wow

how your hitting on that level?

how many walks your issue per game and walks your batters gets per game?


-12 for both infield/outfield speed and +10 for baserunning... meter difficulty is at -50

the rest of slider on 0?

thanks

[MizzouRah]

wow

how your hitting on that level?

how many walks your issue per game and walks your batters gets per game?


-12 for both infield/outfield speed and +10 for baserunning... meter difficulty is at -50

the rest of slider on 0?

thanks
Hits vary on who's pitching, ballpark, and if I can pickup their pitches with hitter's eye.

Rest of sliders at default.


Todd

[jbmagic]

on manager mode

how do you warm up the pitcher? i dont see that option in manager mode.

[SackAttack]

It's not required in manager mode. Just sub freely.

[Young Drachma]

The Polo Grounds is a crazy place to play. I hadn't played there in MVP before.

I've put Brad Lidge in two consecutive games as a setup man. And in both games, first batter he faces takes him deep in both games. Luckily, in the first game we won 3-2 (it was a 2-run homer) after I yanked him and in the next game, we had a 6-0 lead before the solo shot.

But still. Talk about a quick way to get on my shit list. The trade deadline is coming up.

[CraigSca]

Played again last night, and I continue to fine-tune some of the parameters to make it more realistic. I'm still only averaging about 3 runs per game on Pro, so I see no need to go to All-star from an offensive perspective. However, pitching-wise I'm dominant (even with this year's PREDICTED Orioles ratings). Because of this, I've decided to change some of the pitching parameters including pitcher control (I figure if I can't nibble the corners as much, I won't be as succesful). However, there was one parameter under pitching that looked interesting (I think it was the one right after pitcher control), but I have no idea what it really does (unfortunately, I don't have access to the game right now, so I can't repeat the parameter here). Which...brings up a point - why the hell is the MVP 2005 manual so lame? Is there any place that these parameters are actually documented?!

Also, is there a parameter that changes reliever's BETWEEN GAME endurance? I'd like to have tired relievers if possible.

Still - this game is tops as far as a console game that's given me the most bang for the buck this year.