First off, I want to say I’m a big baseball fan. I know some of you geeks might hate me for it, but I love it. Now with that said, over the last few years or so; I found the MLB: The Show series on the PlayStation 3 to be the best baseball game to come out on this generation. The only draw back that I thought was lacking, were the graphics. But the mechanics and movements of the players are the best in a baseball game. They could even be the best in sports games period. That made up for it not looking great.

The features were also awesome, of course they had the generic franchise mode, but they also included the ‘Road to the Show‘. That’s a mode where you create-a-player and go though the ranks as just that player. You start in the minor leagues and if you do well — hopefully climb to the bigs.

This year’s version has even more promise. Sony is adding even more detail when it comes to the graphics. Meaning the only flaw that I had with it — will no longer be an issue (I hope). The crowds are going to be involved with the game and will react accordingly to what is happing on the field.

They are even adding lighting effects. If the game starts at 7PM, over the course of the game, you’ll actually see it get darker.

MLB: The Show 09′ will also have online season modes, the ability to store your instant replays on your HDD and even have practice drills. And oh, all you Red Sox fan’s who hate the mascot Wally the Green Monster — you might hate this game a little more. Every mascot in Baseball will be included in the game (sigh).

The game will also be out for the PSP, but like every other year; it won’t be nearly as good looking.

After the jump, check out more screens from the game.