MMOexp: Franchise Mode Innovations in MLB The Show 25

Franchise Mode Innovations in MLB The Show 25
Franchise Mode has long been a staple of MLB The Show, giving players control over their favorite teams for MLB The Show 25 Stubs multiple seasons as they build a dynasty. However, in recent years, fans have been calling for deeper customization, smarter AI, and a more immersive experience. With MLB The Show 25, Sony San Diego Studios has the opportunity to introduce several innovations that could revamp Franchise Mode and make it more engaging than ever.

1. Revamped Player Development & Scouting System
One of the biggest complaints about Franchise Mode has been the lack of depth in player progression and scouting. In MLB The Show 25, we could see:

Dynamic Player Development: A system where prospects develop based on in-game performance, coaching, and even mentorship from veteran players.

Expanded Scouting Reports: More detailed scouting, including player tendencies, psychological attributes, and in-depth prospect write-ups.

Realistic Draft Process: A draft system that mimics real-life MLB scouting, where teams can attend pre-draft showcases and analyze in-depth player stats before making selections.

2. Enhanced Trade Logic & AI Team Management
Franchise Mode has often suffered from unrealistic trades, with CPU-controlled teams making questionable deals. MLB The Show 25 could introduce:

Smarter AI Decision-Making: AI teams that consider long-term rebuilds, salary cap constraints, and team needs more realistically.

Trade Value Adjustments: Improved trade logic where prospects, contracts, and team direction factor more heavily into negotiations.

Multi-Team Trades: The addition of three- or four-team trades, which are common in real MLB transactions.

3. Deeper Contract & Free Agency System
Contracts and free agency are a major part of baseball’s offseason, and MLB The Show 25 could enhance this experience by:

More Negotiation Options: Players may have preferences beyond just money, such as team competitiveness, playing time guarantees, or location.

Expanded Arbitration & Qualifying Offers: A more realistic arbitration process and qualifying offer system that allows teams to manage player contracts strategically.

Better Budget Management: The ability to set custom payroll plans, restructure contracts, and handle team finances in a more interactive way.

4. Team Relocation & Stadium Customization Improvements
While MLB The Show has introduced stadium customization, it still lacks depth compared to other sports franchises. Potential upgrades could include:

Full Team Relocation: The ability to move a franchise to a new city with full control over branding, logos, and uniforms.

Expanded Custom Stadium Features: More architectural choices, weather effects, and minor league stadium customization.

Dynamic Fan Reactions: Attendance and fan engagement that reflect team success, stadium quality, and market size.

5. Expanded Coaching & Staff Management
Currently, Franchise Mode has a limited coaching system. MLB The Show 25 could introduce:

Detailed Coaching Staff Roles: Hiring specialized pitching and hitting coaches, trainers, and general managers who impact team performance.

Coaching Strategies & Philosophies: Different coaching styles that affect player morale, development, and in-game strategies.

Mentorship Programs: Veterans mentoring young players, helping them develop faster or adapt to the MLB level.

6. Historical & Alternate Franchise Modes
Adding new ways to play Franchise Mode could increase its longevity. Possible additions include:

Historical Franchise Mode: Start in a past MLB era (e.g., 1990s, 1980s) and play through history with accurate rosters and rule changes over time.

Owner Mode: A deeper simulation experience where you control not just the roster but also ticket prices, marketing, and revenue management.

Final Thoughts
MLB The Show 25 has the potential to bring much-needed innovation to Franchise Mode. By focusing on realism, customization, and smarter AI, Sony San Diego Studios could create the most immersive baseball management experience yet. If these changes make it into the game, Franchise Mode could become a true must-play mode for buy MLB The Show 25 Stubs baseball fans.