There are particular signs to watch out for that indicate that a company isn't putting 100 percent behind a sports game. A lack of review copies going out to press outlets; not much in the way of advertising; and, even in the previews, no listing of major changes to the game itself. That's kind of the way it was with EA's "FIFA Soccer 13" for PS Vita, essentially similar to the game that came out with the launch line-up six months earlier; and, sadly, that's the way it is with "Major League Baseball 2K13."

Like last year, "MLB 2K13" runs by a few of the sport's basics. That's not to say it isn't a fun game as a result, but you'd think some sort of advancement would be made. The pitching system remains very refined, as you'll need to execute particular analog rolling functions in order to properly send balls sailing over the plate. Batting feels golden as well, with a timely difference between contact and power swings, and the ability to bunt if you feel like sacrificing a man for the RBI. Fielding is also decent, as you can line up a player for a catch with ease - even if they somehow creepily absorb the ball instead of catching it. I like the analog throwing system too, allowing you to throw with accuracy - or sloppiness - towards a base.

But, really, MLB 2K12 did that. The only differences I could feel in this version was just a slight bit better timing with both pitching and batting. And the real question is if I could notice $60 worth of difference. Nope, not really.

What about the graphics? Surely 2K Sports bumped up its game in that department, right? Sadly, no. The players still look pretty good, though some facial models look like they came off of an America's Most Wanted poster. The fields look good, like the real thing, though occasionally there's fuzziness and repeated crowd animations, particularly when they chase after a fly ball. The replay angles are okay, but hardly as realistic as, say, "MLB 13: The Show." With Sony's game, you couldn't tell if it was a TV broadcast or a video game. Here, it's like night and day.

Not much improvement comes with the commentary, either. It's rock solid, for the most part, as the team covers your every move on the bases and mound, but we didn't hear anything substantial from the sample matches we tried out. We can't even tell if they recorded anything new - um, did they?

There are extras, but, once more, they're recycled. The Home Run Derby returns, enabling you and friends to compete in quick rounds of slamming balls over the fence. It's substantially good, but some mini-game variety would've been welcome here. You'll also find Franchise and My Player, which remain pretty much in the same tact as last year (mind a few minor scouting changes and, of course, this year's stats). Neither can really stand up against the many changes Sony put into "MLB 13: The Show." There, you get the improved model. Here, you get a case of deja vu.

At least online still functions acceptably, where you can match up with friends. You'll also be able to catch up with daily match-ups over the course of the season, and compete for that million dollar prize - which seems to be the only thing 2K is advertising from the game, rather than the product itself.

You can tell that some corners were cut to get "MLB 2K13" on shelves, mainly because 2K was in a hurry to release it to keep its contract with Major League Baseball intact. But it would've helped to have a back-up plan in case of renewal, with some new features to keep players returning - particular with Xbox 360 owners, since this is the only game in town for them.

In the end, this game is fun, filled with enough content to keep you busy. But in the face of MLB 13: The Show, it's an embarrassment, mainly because of the lack of anything that really pushes the series forward. It feels like the Cubs insisting they'll dig in for a stellar season, only to have a sub-average one at best. Next year should be the time for 2K and Visual Concepts to step up and really add something that'll give "The Show" a run for its money. For now, if you need to round the bases, either stick with a Redbox rental or just pick up a used copy of "MLB 2K12." You won't be missing much holding off on the full purchase.

Score: 5.5

Playable on: PlayStation 3; Xbox 360

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