Breaks Up Batter Rhythm and MLB The Show 25 Stubs Anticipation
One of the biggest advantages of using submarine and sidearm pitchers in MLB The Show 25 is their ability to disrupt a batter’s timing and mental flow at the plate. Hitters train extensively to read and react to pitches coming from the typical overhand delivery, but these unconventional throwing styles introduce a level of unpredictability that can throw off even the most seasoned opponents.

Unusual Release Points Confuse Timing
Submarine pitchers deliver the ball from a low, almost underhand position, while sidearm pitchers release the ball horizontally from the side. This change in release point alters the ball’s trajectory and visual path, making it harder for batters to pick up the ball out of the pitcher’s hand. The batter’s timing — which relies heavily on tracking the ball from release — can be significantly compromised, leading to late swings, weak contact, or complete misses.

Different Sightlines Force Swing Adjustments
Because the ball approaches from a less familiar angle, hitters often have to adjust their swing planes and eye tracking in real time. These subtle but crucial adjustments disrupt the natural rhythm and flow that batters rely on. This can result in off-balance swings or hesitation, which gives pitchers a major edge.

Variation in Pitch Movement Adds to Confusion
The unique arm slots of submarine and sidearm pitchers also produce distinct pitch movements that contrast sharply with traditional deliveries. For example, submarine pitchers typically generate sinkers and sliders with sharp downward and lateral movement, while sidearm pitchers’ pitches often sweep across the strike zone horizontally. These unpredictable movements layered on top of unusual release angles make it challenging for hitters to anticipate pitch location or type.

Keeps Hitters Off-Balance Over Multiple At-Bats
Repeated exposure to standard pitching styles allows batters to anticipate pitch sequences and adjust their approach. But switching between overhand, sidearm, and submarine deliveries within a game keeps hitters guessing, preventing them from settling into a comfortable timing or batting rhythm. This strategic variability can be especially effective in longer at-bats or against disciplined hitters.

Psychological Impact
Beyond the physical challenge, facing a submarine or sidearm pitcher can mentally unsettle hitters. The rarity of these deliveries means many batters have limited experience and confidence against them, causing second-guessing and tentativeness at the plate. This psychological edge can be just as valuable as the physical deception.

Conclusion
Breaking up batter rhythm and anticipation is a key tactical benefit of submarine and sidearm pitching styles in MLB The Show 25. By introducing different release points, varying pitch movements, and forcing hitters to adjust their timing and swing mechanics, these pitchers create confusion and hesitation that translates into weak contact or strikeouts. For players looking to MLB Stubs disrupt their opponent’s flow, mastering the use of these unique deliveries can be a game-changing strategy.