Who knows what burr got under Electronic Arts' saddle, but the biggest name in sports games is really sharpening its act. The publisher of such megahits as "John Madden NFL Football" and "FIFA Soccer," EA has always kind of stunk at baseball. Not anymore.

With the launch of its new baseball franchise, "MVP Baseball," EA has entirely abandoned its old chestnut, "Triple Play Baseball." The earlier series sold well but never lived up to game play expectations.

As baseball games go, "MVP," which is available for Xbox, PlayStation2 and PC, is an impressive amalgam of proven game techniques and new innovations.