MLB The Show: Ranking The BEST World Series Teams!

by Jhon Lennon 51 views

Hey MLB The Show fans! Ever wondered which World Series teams reign supreme in the digital world? We're diving deep into ranking the absolute best World Series teams you can play with in MLB The Show. Get ready for some heated debates and maybe even a few surprises!

What Makes a Great World Series Team in MLB The Show?

Before we jump into the rankings, let's break down what makes a World Series team truly dominant in the game. It's not just about having a roster full of superstars (although that definitely helps!). Here are some key factors we considered:

  • Hitting Power: Can they rake? A team that can consistently hit for power and average is a force to be reckoned with. We're looking at slugging percentages, on-base percentages, and clutch hitters who can deliver in big moments. Guys, you know a team can get hot when you see those bombs being launched!
  • Starting Pitching Depth: Do they have aces and reliable starters? A dominant starting rotation can shut down opponents and set the tone for the entire series. We're talking about pitchers with high velocity, nasty breaking balls, and the stamina to go deep into games. If you do not have this, you can kiss the series goodbye!
  • Bullpen Strength: Can they close out games? A lockdown bullpen is crucial for protecting leads and preventing late-inning collapses. We want relievers with high K/9 rates, low WHIPs, and the ability to handle pressure situations. Every great team needs a dependable closer. Those heart-stopping, nail-biting moments are what baseball is all about!
  • Defensive Prowess: Are they airtight in the field? Solid defense can save runs and prevent costly errors. We're looking for teams with sure-handed fielders, good range, and strong arms. A great defensive play can change the momentum of a game in an instant.
  • Speed and Base Running: Can they steal bases and take extra bases? A team with good speed can put pressure on the defense and create scoring opportunities. We're talking about guys who can swipe bags, go first to third, and score from second on a single. Speed kills, guys!
  • Intangibles: Do they have that "it" factor? Sometimes, a team just has that special something that can't be quantified. It could be team chemistry, leadership, or simply a knack for winning. This stuff matters, even in a video game!

Keeping these factors in mind, let's get to the rankings!

Top World Series Teams in MLB The Show

Alright, folks, here's the list you've been waiting for! Prepare to agree, disagree, and maybe even throw your controller in frustration. Remember, this is just one person's opinion, so feel free to create your own rankings in the comments below!

1. 1998 New York Yankees

Is this really a surprise? The 1998 Yankees are widely considered one of the greatest teams in MLB history, and their dominance translates perfectly to MLB The Show. With a lineup featuring Derek Jeter, Bernie Williams, Paul O'Neill, and Tino Martinez, this team can absolutely mash. Their pitching staff, led by David Cone, Andy Pettitte, and Mariano Rivera, is equally impressive. This team is stacked from top to bottom, making them a nightmare for any opponent. Let's break it down:

  • Offense: The '98 Yankees were an offensive juggernaut, leading the league in runs scored. Jeter's speed and O'Neill's power are particularly dangerous in the game. With a blend of power and contact hitters, this lineup is incredibly difficult to pitch to. The clutch hitting ability of this team is off the charts!
  • Pitching: The starting rotation is deep and talented, with multiple guys who can go out and give you quality starts. Rivera is, well, Rivera. Enough said. Having a legendary closer like that in your back pocket gives you a huge advantage in late-game situations. If you can get the lead, you can consider it game over.
  • Defense: The Yankees were also a solid defensive team, minimizing errors and making key plays when it mattered most. Jeter's range and O'Neill's arm in right field are assets in the game.

The 1998 Yankees are the gold standard in MLB The Show. They have everything you could want in a team and are virtually unbeatable in the right hands. This team is not only amazing to play with but they are a fantastic historical team to learn about. If you do not know about the dynasty, check it out! I'd recommend a documentary!

2. 1927 New York Yankees

Yes, another Yankees team! But this one is special, boasting the legendary "Murderers' Row" lineup. Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Tony Lazzeri form the heart of this powerhouse offense. This team can score runs in bunches and overwhelm opponents with their sheer hitting ability. The pitching staff is solid, if not spectacular, but they don't need to be with the offense they have. Imagine how fun it is to control Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig in their prime. This team gives the 1998 team a run for their money.

  • Offense: This is where the 1927 Yankees truly shine. Ruth and Gehrig are two of the greatest hitters of all time, and their virtual counterparts are just as dominant. The sheer power in this lineup is unmatched, and they can hit home runs at will. The satisfaction of hitting a towering home run with Babe Ruth is unparalleled.
  • Pitching: The pitching staff is decent but not amazing. They need to keep the game close so the offense can do their work. You might have to rely on your offense to carry you in some games.
  • Defense: The defense is also solid and reliable, although it isn't the team's main strength. However, if you can hit and get on base, you will be good to go.

The 1927 Yankees are a blast to play with, especially if you love hitting home runs. Just be prepared to outscore your opponents, as your pitching might not always be able to hold them down.

3. 1975 Cincinnati Reds

The "Big Red Machine" was a force to be reckoned with in the 1970s, and their virtual representation in MLB The Show is no different. Pete Rose, Joe Morgan, and Johnny Bench headline a lineup that can hit for average and get on base. Their pitching staff, led by Tom Seaver and Jack Billingham, is reliable and consistent. This team is all about grinding out at-bats and playing smart baseball. You cannot count this team out.

  • Offense: The Big Red Machine is known for its ability to get on base and create scoring opportunities. Rose, Morgan, and Bench are all high-average hitters with good plate discipline. Their speed and base-running skills also make them a threat to steal bases and take extra bases.
  • Pitching: Seaver and Billingham are solid starting pitchers who can consistently give you quality starts. The bullpen is also reliable, with guys who can come in and shut down the opposition.
  • Defense: The Reds are also a good defensive team, with sure-handed fielders and strong arms. Rose's hustle and Bench's ability to handle the pitching staff are key assets.

The 1975 Reds are a well-rounded team that can compete with anyone in MLB The Show. Their ability to get on base and play smart baseball makes them a tough opponent to beat.

4. 2018 Boston Red Sox

The 2018 Red Sox were an offensive juggernaut, led by Mookie Betts, J.D. Martinez, and Xander Bogaerts. This team could simply outhit anyone. Their pitching staff, led by Chris Sale and David Price, was also dominant. This team had the perfect combination of hitting and pitching, making them a serious threat. Playing with Mookie Betts is always fun in the game. Here is why they are a great team to play with:

  • Offense: The 2018 Red Sox were one of the highest-scoring teams in MLB history. Betts, Martinez, and Bogaerts are all MVP-caliber players who can hit for average and power. This lineup is incredibly difficult to pitch to, and they can score runs in bunches.
  • Pitching: Sale and Price are two of the best starting pitchers in the game. They can shut down opponents and give you quality starts every time out. The bullpen is also solid, with guys who can come in and close out games.
  • Defense: The Red Sox were also a good defensive team, with Betts patrolling right field and Bogaerts anchoring the infield. Their defense is consistent and reliable, minimizing errors and making key plays.

The 2018 Red Sox are a complete team that can dominate in MLB The Show. Their combination of hitting, pitching, and defense makes them a force to be reckoned with. This team is not only great to play with but also a great recent historical team.

5. 1984 Detroit Tigers

The 1984 Tigers were a dominant team from start to finish, and their virtual representation in MLB The Show is no different. Jack Morris, Alan Trammell, and Kirk Gibson headline a team that could beat you in a variety of ways. Their pitching staff was deep and talented, and their offense was powerful. This team had a swagger about them that made them fun to watch and play with. This team may be an underdog compared to the other historical teams, but they are amazing.

  • Offense: The Tigers' offense was led by Trammell and Gibson, who were both capable of hitting for average and power. The lineup also had good depth, with guys who could get on base and drive in runs.
  • Pitching: Morris was the ace of the staff, and he was backed up by a number of other quality starters. The bullpen was also solid, with guys who could come in and shut down the opposition.
  • Defense: The Tigers were a good defensive team, with Trammell anchoring the infield and Gibson patrolling the outfield. They made very few mistakes.

The 1984 Tigers are a well-rounded team that can compete with anyone in MLB The Show. Their combination of hitting, pitching, and defense makes them a tough opponent to beat.

Honorable Mentions

Of course, there are many other great World Series teams in MLB The Show that didn't make the top 5. Here are a few honorable mentions:

  • 2004 Boston Red Sox: Broke the curse!
  • 2009 New York Yankees: Another dominant Yankees team.
  • 2016 Chicago Cubs: Broke the curse!
  • 1988 Los Angeles Dodgers: Kirk Gibson's home run!

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my rankings of the best World Series teams in MLB The Show! Do you agree with my list? Which teams are your favorites to play with? Let me know in the comments below! And remember, at the end of the day, it's all about having fun and enjoying the game. Happy gaming, folks!