Hint: Take advantage of player strengths. If your pitcher is a noted fireball thrower, have him bring the heat. If he's a slug, don't put him into situations where blazing foot speed is essential.

Hint: Players intent on stealing a base will often stretch their lead off the bag by an extra step, just as you're setting up to pitch. Monitor what the base runners are doing at all times, and get set to pick them off when they've pushed their luck a bit too far.

Hint: Set Auto Field to No. Automatic fielding may be easier at first, but doing it manually allows a far greater degree of control. You'll be surprised at what you can do with practice and experience.