MLB The Show 25 has arrived, bringing with it a revamped Road to the Show mode. This mode lets you live the dream of becoming a major league baseball player, but the journey begins with a crucial decision: college or the pros?
Unlike previous iterations, MLB The Show 25 starts you as a high schooler facing this pivotal choice. Major colleges and MLB teams are scouting you, but you can only choose one path. Your high school performance and your showing at the MLB Combine heavily influence your draft stock and the number of college offers you receive.
After the Combine, you'll commit to a college or go straight to the pros. Even if you choose college, you'll still be drafted. The game clearly outlines the pros and cons of each path. For example, one potential scenario presents these options:
Go Pro:
- Receive a signing bonus of 5 Tokens
- Reduced chance of fast-tracking to the Major Leagues
- Begin your pro career as an 18-year-old
Go to College:
- Receive all benefits of the college's official offer (e.g., LSU)
- Pursue becoming the #1 overall pick in a future MLB Draft
- Begin your pro career as a 21-year-old after completing your college career
Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference. If you've spent years grinding through the minor leagues in previous games, college might be a refreshing change of pace. Becoming the #1 overall pick is a significant achievement, and starting as a more developed player offers a different experience. However, the challenge of starting at the bottom and working your way up might be more appealing to others.
In one playthrough, choosing college proved rewarding. The chance to be the #1 overall pick was too tempting to pass up, and the college experience, though brief (the game skips to your third year), added a unique element. It offers the best of both worlds without an overly extended college career.
So, the choice is yours. Whether you choose the immediate gratification of the pros or the potential for greater reward in college, MLB The Show 25's Road to the Show offers a compelling journey either way. For more tips, check out the best pitching settings for the game.
MLB The Show 25 is now available in Early Access on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
