Who Is On The Cover Of Mlb The Show 22

Okay, folks, let's talk about the real burning question. Who graced the cover of MLB The Show 22? And more importantly, did they deserve it?

The "Official" Answer

Officially, it was Shohei Ohtani. You know, the guy who pitches and bats like a superhero. Can't argue with that too much.

He's a phenomenal player, a true two-way sensation. A marketing dream come true, really. Still...

Here's where my unpopular opinion comes in. I'm just saying, there were other contenders. Maybe even better contenders.

Hear me out. What about a cover featuring just a really, really good hot dog? Think about it: pure Americana.

Every baseball fan loves a good ballpark dog. More relatable than a guy who hits 46 home runs and throws 100 mph, right? Right?!

Okay, okay, back to reality. Let's brainstorm some actual player possibilities. People that might have challenged Ohtani.

What about Vladimir Guerrero Jr.? Dude had an incredible year. That smile alone is cover material!

Or maybe Fernando Tatis Jr. (before, you know...). When healthy, he's electric. Plus, the Padres needed some positive press, right?

Now, this one might be controversial. But what about a legend? Someone who embodies the spirit of baseball?

Imagine a cover with Albert Pujols. Celebrating his career, his impact. A tip of the cap to a future Hall of Famer.

That would've tugged at the heartstrings. Would have reminded us why we love the game. I'm not crying, you're crying!

Let's get really wild. What if they went completely outside the box? What if the cover featured... a fan?

A random dude in a jersey, catching a foul ball. Illustrates the fan experience and makes the game what it is.

Or maybe they feature a mascot? Imagine Mr. Met getting the cover spot? Blasphemy, maybe, but at least it would be funny!

Of course, marketing plays a huge role. Ohtani is an international superstar. He sells copies, plain and simple.

It's a business, after all. Gotta make those dollars. Can't fault them for that. Much.

Still, a hot dog cover would have been legendary. Quote me on that.

Look, Shohei Ohtani is great. Truly a once-in-a-generation talent. I concede.

But sometimes, I wish they'd take a bigger risk. Shake things up. Give the people what they really want. A giant hot dog.

In the end, it's just a video game cover. But it's fun to dream. Especially when those dreams involve condiments.