MLB 2K series won't be renewed for 2014

2K Sports has elected not to produce an MLB 2K14, and has withdrawn marketing and promotional materials for Visual Concepts' also-ran series.

Prior to issuing a statement concerning the franchise, Pasta Padre noticed that 2K Sports had removed all websites and references to MLB 2K. The publisher then confirmed there will be no MLB 2K14.

"We have decided not to renew our MLB 2K series for 2014," 2K Sports said in a statement issued to Polygon.

"We are very proud of the achievements made by the MLB 2K team and look forward to their contributions to our future titles, including NBA 2K — our industry's #1 rated and #1 selling basketball franchise."

The MLB 2K series was developed by Visual Concepts, which also produces NBA 2K. Unlike its sister franchise, which is a critical and commercial darling, MLB 2K has failed to strike a chord the last few years despite major promotional efforts including a $1 million perfect game competition.

The absence of MLB 2K14 seemingly leaves Sony's MLB The Show as the sole triple-A baseball franchise, which is a bit of a blow for Xbox fans. That said, Superannuation has turned up evidence that Konami is ramping up its sports game development, and it has a successful Japanese baseball franchise.