#1: There will be a new baseball game next year on Microsoft consoles.

Caley Roark - Fact: I think someone will jump in, capitalizing on a vacant market and the lowered pressure to create a quality product. Despite what EA may say, people will buy Madden 25 on the Xbox One (just as they did in ‘06) simply because it will be the only next-gen football game...not necessarily because it is a good game, even though it might be.

That said, a baseball game on Microsoft consoles next year may not be the type of game everyone wants. While I would love to see the return of MVP Baseball or High Heat, I think there is a better chance we get a watered-down or arcade title. It may come as a downloadable game, with or without the MLB license. This approach would allow a company to test the waters without a) spending big money for licensing and b) worrying about creating a statistically accurate simulation.

So, yes I think there will be baseball on the Xbox One--but I expect it to be a fairly safe, if not underwhelming, production.

#2: The Show will be the best next-gen sports game next year.

Caley Roark - Fact: I think this is true, simply from a timing perspective. The NBA, FIFA, and Madden all launch right before or around the time of the Xbox One and PS4 release window. That means production is underway/almost finished, and that these games have somewhat of a connection to current-gen titles being released in the interim.

The Show, while also probably being produced as you read this, has the benefit of a few extra months. Again, with no first hand experience in development, I think it is obvious the extra months may allow Sony to add polish or technology that the other games cannot. Also, while I suspect there will be an iteration for the PS3 next year, the added time can be further focused on developing exclusively for the PS4.

Also, subjectively, I think The Show has the fewest improvements to make, at least in the major sports game market--NBA 2K and NHL are close seconds. None of them are perfect, but I think  MLB 13’s gameplay is nearly there--even a graphical and presentation upgrade on this year’s version would be an outstanding title.

#3: Road to the Show is best played as a pitcher.

Caley Roark - Fiction: This used to be the case for me, as I liked developing my repertoire and making the transition from a bullpen guy to a spot starter to an ace.

However, this year, I love playing as a fielder, especially as an infielder. I don’t go the completely crazy route and watch every pitch, but I do love making plays with the new fielding camera, adjusting my defensive positioning, and turning double plays.

Plus, it’s a different experience that when playing a regular or franchise game. I mean, normally, you play as the pitcher--I like the diversity. And I like to hit.   

#4: The Pirates will make the Postseason this year.

Caley Roark - Fact: They can’t collapse again, can they? The Pirates owned another great first half, due in part to a roster with a good mix of veterans and homegrown talent. Plus, I think their experiences over the past few years have helped develop a mentally tough and mature team.   

The other thing helping the Pirates is a relatively weak National League. Other than the Cardinals, Pirates, Braves, and Reds, no teams are tearing up the win column (and the Braves are really riding a hot start). I wouldn’t be surprised to see three playoff teams emerge from the Central Division.

So, yes, I think after 20 years, the Buccos will not only finish with a winning record, but will secure at least a Wildcard spot.