MLB 2K12: Guide to Building Killer Team in Franchise Mode

MLB 2K12 releases on March 6th, and many sports gamers can't wait to delve into the franchise mode. With all of the varied online components in sports gaming these days, the franchise mode is still the bread and butter of a sports gaming series.

I am one that likes to build my team from the ground up via the fantasy draft. That's probably because I'm a Chicago Cubs fan, and the default roster is rarely exciting enough to entertain me.

It's also a way for me to live out my Moneyball fantasy, as any good franchise mode observes the budget of the team selected. You could cheat and turn budgets off or just pick the Yankees; it's about the same thing.

Whomever you pick, here is a surefire way to build a solid team on any budget.

One Way to Draft

There are two ways to play a franchise mode, but only one that makes sense. Sports games allow you to play multiple seasons; in truth, many of us never get past maybe the second or third season.

Don't worry about building for the future, it never come.

That said, it doesn't do you a lot of good selecting a ton of young players in hopes of having them mature. By the time that happens 2K13 will be released—go for established veterans.

Look for the Bargains

As MLB 2K12 observes the actual salaries of players, you must look for the bargains when building your team. 

Jacoby Ellsbury is a solid pickup. He only makes $8 million dollars this year, but he finished second in the MVP voting to cover man Justin Verlander in 2011.

Ellsbury gives you power, speed and defense, and at that price, he leaves you room to splurge on pitching later in the next round. He is a 95 overall, the second highest-rated center fielder in the game behind Matt Kemp. He's a solid pick with your first or second pick in the fantasy draft.

If you're looking for pitching, Ricky Romero of the Toronto Blue Jays is one of the game's best pitchers and makes only $5 million per year.

RR Cool Jay is a great pick in the fourth or fifth round.

Alternate between Pitchers and Hitters

A balanced team is essential—the best way to ensure you don't neglect hitting or pitching is to alternate your selections. I recommend starting with an ace first. Follow that up by drafting a bopper in the next round. Then go No. 2 starter. After that, grab yourself a leadoff man.

The only other strict guideline I'd recommend would be to grab a closer after the leadoff man. Now you have the specialist covered, as well as the hardest player roles already in hand.

From there, just continue alternating until you complete your team.

Don't Go Crazy With Power Hitters

It's easy to go bopper crazy, but MLB 2K12 is a simulation. This means you'll need speed as well as power. I wouldn't advise grabbing more than two one-dimensional power hitters. These games simulate the ups and downs of a season, and when the power goes in a slump, your softball players are useless.

Alright, consider yourself equipped to build a dynasty, a short one at least. Go and grab MLB 2K12 on March 6th to put the plan into action.