Unlike its predecessors, the game was licensed by Major League Baseball in addition to the Major League Players Association license, so that not only the players but also the teams are represented by their real names.

[4] New features of the game include a multi-season mode and amateur player drafting.

[7] The game was originally due for release in the second quarter of 1997, with the work on the three-dimensional engine delaying it for a year.

[5] The game's voice commentator is Greg Papa, who replaced Al Michaels.

[8] The game's cover features San Diego Padres third baseman Ken Caminiti.