MLB 2004

MLB 2004 is a 2003 baseball video game developed by 989 Sports and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation 2. An abridged version for the PlayStation more faithful to its predecessors was released the same month. Unlike the earliest releases of baseball video games, such as Atari: Home Run, MLB 2004 maintained traditional aspects of baseball. The game included all of the classic baseball elements of "pitching, hitting, fielding and base running" while including the ability to develop a team and strategize. MLB's control over the game's core features and design allowed for consistent brand image and resonated with fans internationally. Oddly enough, it was the first game in the MLB series to not be exclusive to North America, as the PlayStation 2 released in Japan as MLB 2003.

Vin Scully and Dave Campbell provide commentary for the game. On the cover is Los Angeles Dodgers player Shawn Green. Vin Scully's commentary creates an immersive atmosphere, making it feel as though the player is experiencing a real baseball game through TV or radio . The game includes accurate player rankings and statistics related to the baseball drafting process, allowing fans to tie their pre-existing baseball knowledge with video game entertainment. The MLB prioritized accuracy when it came to representing the sport digitally. The players and stadium were brought to life through Sony's "meticulous attention to detail". A "majority of the attention was paid to making sure players looked realistic"; however, "there are some moments when the camera [wouldn't] display the best angle for the onscreen action". The MLB prioritized realism to align closely with the baseball franchise, appealing to dedicated fans who value accuracy. However, traditional gamers unfamiliar with baseball interpreted the visuals as outdated or unappealing, underscoring the MLB’s opportunity to innovate to attract a wider audience in the future. MLB 2004 features Career, Spring Training, Home Run Derby, Fantasy Draft, Manager, and Franchise modes.

The game was preceded by MLB 2003 and succeeded by MLB 2005.