I have a very simple and yet profound recommendation. End the entire tie-in between player attribute scores and equipment, and as a result make all pieces of equipment available upfront. RTTS isn't an online competition mode, it is a versus CPU mode, so equipment should work just like it already does in Franchise. The idea that woefully outdated equipment is worn by MiLB players is utter nonsense. The finest equipment is available for all minor league teams.
All increases in attribute scores should be based entirely on quality of play on the field. Make a good play, get a bump in that attribute. Make a bad play and it gets deducted. You start off at a lower level consistent with where you were drafted, and you have to earn your promotion, not buy it with equipment, perks, or other such phony means.