What is HR/9 in MLB The Show?
For fans of MLB The Show, understanding the intricacies of the game is key to dominating on the diamond. One statistic that often comes up but can be confusing for newcomers is HR/9. In this article, we’ll break down what HR/9 means, why it matters, and how you can use it to improve your gameplay.
What Does HR/9 Mean in MLB The Show?
HR/9 stands for Home Runs per 9 Innings. It’s a statistic used to measure a pitcher’s ability to prevent home runs. Essentially, it tells you how many home runs a pitcher allows on average for every 9 innings they pitch. A lower HR/9 indicates that a pitcher is better at keeping the ball inside the park, while a higher HR/9 suggests they struggle with giving up long balls.
In MLB The Show, this stat is crucial because it reflects a pitcher’s effectiveness in real-game scenarios. Whether you’re playing Franchise Mode, Road to the Show, or Online Ranked Games, understanding HR/9 can help you make better decisions about which pitchers to use and how to strategize against opponents.
Why HR/9 Matters in MLB The Show
In MLB The Show, HR/9 is more than just a number—it’s a strategic tool. Here’s why it matters:
Pitcher Evaluation: When building your roster, HR/9 helps you assess which pitchers are more reliable in critical situations. A pitcher with a low HR/9 is less likely to give up costly home runs in tight games.
Game Strategy: Knowing your pitcher’s HR/9 can influence your in-game decisions. For example, if your pitcher has a high HR/9, you might want to avoid using them in hitter-friendly ballparks or against power-hitting lineups.
Player Development: In Road to the Show, developing a pitcher with a low HR/9 can make them a valuable asset to your team. You can work on their skills and attributes to improve this stat over time.
How to Improve HR/9 in MLB The Show
If you’re looking to improve your pitcher’s HR/9, here are some tips:
Focus on Pitching Attributes: Attributes like Stadium and Pitch Velocity play a role in HR/9. Upgrading your pitcher’s Stuff and Control can help them throw more effective pitches and reduce home runs.
Pitch Selection: Throwing a variety of pitches, especially off-speed and breaking balls, can keep hitters guessing and reduce the chances of them hitting a home run.
Pitch Location: In MLB The Show, where you throw the ball matters. Aim to pitch outside the strike zone or in areas where hitters are less likely to make solid contact.
Ballpark Factors: Certain ballparks in the game are more hitter-friendly, with shorter fences that make it easier to hit home runs. Be mindful of this when selecting pitchers for away games.
Real-World Relevance
In real MLB, HR/9 is a key metric for evaluating pitchers, and MLB The Show mirrors this realism. For example, pitchers like Jacob deGrom and Clayton Kershaw, known for their ability to limit home runs, typically have low HR/9 in the game. On the other hand, pitchers who struggle with the long ball in real life will likely have higher HR/9 in the game.
Conclusion
In MLB The Show, HR/9 is a vital statistic that can make or break your pitching strategy. By understanding what it means and how to improve it, you can take your gameplay to the next level. Whether you’re a casual player or a competitive gamer, mastering HR/9 will help you step onto the virtual mound with confidence.