Even though the start of the 2012 MLB season is still a few weeks away, MLB 12: The Show should be able to hold hardcore fans over until Opening Day (See ya at the Tokyo Dome on March 28. Konichiwa, bitches!). The latest installment of MLB: The Show drops tomorrow, March 6, and offers gamers the closest thing to actually suiting up and playing on the diamond. Plus, when you control the game with your fingertips, it means every team actually has a chance. Yes, even your squad, Mets fans.
We caught up with The Show cover star Red Sox first baseman Adrian Gonzalez while he was promoting the game at the Sony Style Store in Manhattan to talk about everything from his love for video games to how he feels about Boston's upcoming season.
Interview by Jose Martinez (@ZayMarty)
How does it feel to be the cover athlete on a video game?
It’s real special. I grew up looking at all the cover athletes and I thought it was really cool, so being able to be on the cover of MLB 12: The Show is a privilege. The fact that they could’ve picked anybody and they chose me is a great honor.
Are you a big gamer?
I grew up playing video games and I know how to play all of them. I’m not a die-hard expert, but I do love playing them.
What were some of your favorites?
Well, I started playing Zelda on Nintendo. I also played R.B.I. Baseball and Baseball Stars. So, I didn’t grow up with the Atari but I did have a Nintendo.
Aside from MLB 12: The Show, what other games do you enjoy playing regularly?
The FIFA series.
What’s your team?
Real Madrid, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chivas.
Do you ever play online?
I don’t. My brother-in-law does play online, though. He’s really good. He wants me to play online but…for me, it’s just about playing and enjoying the half-hour rather than trying to become an expert and getting really into it.
While growing up playing those baseball games, did you ever create yourself?
There wasn’t really any way for you to create yourself until PlayStation. But once that did happen, you do. You always want to create yourself and put yourself in the lineup, especially when you’re a kid growing up that has dreams of being in the big leagues. It’s your first taste of it.
Is there any competition in the clubhouse when it comes to playing video games?
There is with some guys.
Anyone in particular?
I can’t say just one, but there are a couple of pitchers that play while they’re on the road.
When you're playing MLB 12: The Show, do you always play as the Red Sox?
If I’m not playing as the Red Sox, I’ll play with the Padres.
Speaking of which, how did you feel about your transition from San Diego to Boston?
It was a pretty easy transition for me, personally. I went into the season knowing a lot of what to expect. Overall, I just focused on being the player I can be and not letting any of the outside stuff get in the way.
Outside of the upcoming baseball season, what else are you looking forward to for 2012?
I have a two-month old daughter, so just watching her grow throughout the years is something I look forward to everyday when I wake up.
What’s your favorite type of music to listen to?
Oh man, I’m all over the place because I’m not a big music fan but I do listen to everything from Mexican music to country to a little bit of hip-hop and R&B.
Is there a particular genre that you prefer hearing in the clubhouse?
Something that was played a lot that I did enjoy listening to was Reggaeton and Pitbull. He has some great beats.
How do you feel about the upcoming season with the Red Sox?
2012 is a new team. There was a lot of movement throughout the organization over the offseason, so we just need to work towards gelling together in the clubhouse and becoming one.
