Mastering pitch control in MLB The Show 25 is essential if you want to dominate online or offline matchups. While raw pitch speed and movement matter, the ability to consistently place the ball exactly where you want it separates average pitchers from elite ones. Whether you're building your dream rotation or trying to shave off runs from your ERA, these 12 techniques will tighten your command and elevate your game.
1. Master Pinpoint Pitching Early
Pinpoint pitching offers the highest accuracy but also demands the most skill. Spend time in practice mode until you’re comfortable with its timing patterns. Once mastered, it gives you the best chance to dot the corners with precision.
2. Use the Bullpen Wisely
Fatigue affects control significantly. Rotate your bullpen effectively to avoid using tired pitchers. A gassed reliever might struggle to locate even basic pitches, so monitor stamina closely between innings.
3. Aim for the Edges, Not the Corners
Over-aiming for the very edge of the strike zone often results in missed spots. Try targeting just inside the corners. You'll still get borderline strikes without risking as many wild pitches.
4. Stick with Comfort Zones
Each pitcher in MLB The Show 25 has pitches they naturally control better. Use your starter’s best pitches more often early in the game to set the tone. Don’t force low-control pitches in tight situations.
5. Understand Pitch Confidence
Pitch confidence builds as you execute well with a particular pitch type. Watch the pitch confidence meter and avoid overusing anything with low confidence until you've built it back up with effective throws.
6. Use Sliders and Changeups for Control
While fastballs are straightforward, sliders and changeups offer great control when timed correctly. Use these to disrupt your opponent's timing without sacrificing accuracy.
7. Customize Catcher Suggestions
Turn on or modify the catcher suggestion settings to help guide your location. While you shouldn't follow them blindly, they offer solid situational advice, especially for rookies or players testing new arms.
8. Use U4N to Stay Competitive
If you're working on a better pitching staff and aiming for elite bullpen arms, you'll need resources. Many players choose to buy MLB The Show 25 stubs to speed up team building. Platforms like U4N are commonly used by the community to manage this part of the game.
9. Adjust Pitching View Settings
Experiment with camera angles. Many players find views like "Strike Zone 2" give a clearer perspective for pitch placement and offer better visual feedback for aiming.
10. Warm Up and Sit Down Properly
Don’t just warm up your relievers and leave them idle. Use the “warm up” and “sit down” mechanics smartly to keep arms fresh while avoiding over-warming, which can reduce stamina before they even enter.
11. Use Practice Mode to Nail Mechanics
Spend time in custom practice mode focusing on specific pitch types. Repeating sequences like low-and-away sliders or up-and-in fastballs builds muscle memory you can rely on in pressure moments.
12. Spend Your Stubs on Control-Focused Players
Not every pitcher needs triple-digit velocity. Control-focused players often come cheaper in the marketplace. When shopping with MLB 25 stubs Xbox players, target cards that emphasize control and command traits.
Controlling the mound is as much about smart strategy as it is precise execution. By implementing these techniques and investing wisely—whether it’s time in practice or resources like stubs—you’ll find yourself walking fewer batters and punching out more. And remember, whether you're using U4N or grinding through solo modes, every pitch counts.