MLB The Show 23’s cover athlete was revealed in a livestream hosted by MLB Network’s Robert Flores on the Sony San Diego Studio Twitch channel this afternoon. NBA All-Star Donovan Mitchell, whose father works in the New York Mets front office, made an appearance on the stream and professed his love for The Show. (Fun fact: when playing Road to the Show, Mitchell names his fictional player Miles Morales after the Spider-Man character.) Artist King Saladeen then popped in to reveal three jerseys he designed, one of which will appear in the game after fans vote on the design they like best. (The graffiti design seems to be the top pick).
Let’s get it! My spark can't be contained. ⚡️🤟🏾 #MLBTheShow #OwnTheShow #Ad #MLBTSPartner pic.twitter.com/Ez3ypzgHXr
— Jazz Chisholm Jr (@j_chisholm3) January 30, 2023
Flores then reviewed the buzz words teased on social media that provided clues as to the cover athlete’s identity: tropicool, superbly sleek, and high voltage. Then the reveal: Miami Marlins’ center fielder Jazz Chisholm was announced as the cover star of this year’s installment of MLB The Show. Flores then interviewed Chisholm to discuss his Eurostep celebrations, moving from second base to the outfield, and his life in the Bahamas.
Chisholm’s selection is a bit of an unconventional choice. Whereas most cover athletes have thoroughly proven themselves as players, Chisholm is a bit less accomplished and plays for a team that isn’t exactly a franchise juggernaut. Chisholm as cover star speaks more to baseball’s efforts to promote the athletes of tomorrow, who are more colorful, exciting, and charismatic.
Of course, in addition to his persona and youth, Chisholm is also an asset on the field, finishing last season with a .860 OPS and making his first appearance in an All-Star game. By gracing the cover of MLB The Show 23, his profile is now higher than ever, but Chisholm seems like a player who can stay cool under pressure.
