The New Tool Top MLB the Show Players Recommend to Improve Hitting
Precision Rings help limit PCI movement and smashing
Over the last few weeks, I’ve interviewed several of MLB the Show’s top players for an updated version of my book. I want to learn how they play at such a high level and then share those tips with readers to help them get better at the game.
One of the tools that was new to me but has been mentioned in each conversation so far is Precision Rings, especially the ones from KontrolFreeks (they are the green spongy-looking things in the above picture).
While these have been on the market for several months, they are beginning to gain traction among MLB the Show’s best (and please note that I have no relationship with KontrolFreeks and cannot place Amazon affiliate links in this substack, so this is just me passing along helpful info 😊)
So what exactly are Precision Rings?
Like the KontrolFreeks thumb sticks, Precision Rings work to help improve a player’s aim. The rings go around the joysticks of PlayStation and Xbox controllers, providing resistance when a player pushes too far in one direction.
The benefit for MLB the Show players is obvious: Precision Rings will help keep the PCI in the hitting zone even when slamming it in one direction. The game’s best players often talk about making little movements with the PCI to get the best results. That is easier said than done as most players instinctively slam the PCI as fast as possible in the direction of a pitch (usually down) and either missing or not making solid contact.
Don’t just take my word for it. Here’s a video from just a few days ago courtesy of Heyna.
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And here’s a tweet this morning from an MLB the Show goon:
Now, there are a few downsides to consider. Precision Rings are not the most durable and either rip or lose their resistance with regular play.
They also make defense a little more difficult, especially when chasing down fly balls. If you’re not paying attention, your outfielder will slowly jog after the ball instead of running. Some players have also said they are not ideal for pitching while others think they help locate better.
What do you think? Have you tried Precision Rings?
In Case You Missed It…
Columnist Dedrick Hendrix recently caught up with Negro League Museum President Bob Kendrick to discuss the Negro League programs coming to MLB the Show. It was a great interview and sheds light on an important gameplay addition.