I get hundreds of emails per week from college baseball player's across the country. They all want to know how to run faster, throw harder or hit better. Of course, I help the best I can. But because Fall baseball is, or has already, started on college campuses across the country I decided I need to touch on this subject.
So for everyone reading this who is playing a baseball "season" you are taught doesn't necessarily "count", please pay close attention as this may be one of the most important thing I will ever tell you...
Stay Hungry, Don't Get "Fat"I saw it every year when I played and have seen it every year since. There are at least 2 (and usually more) players who emerge in the Fall and take the place of a would-be starter come Spring time.
Typically the player who lost his position got lazy, or "fat." Sometimes they get an injury and someone is ready to step in and never give back the position. They thought their position was writen in stone...and usually the news hits them like a ton of bricks. Very few rebound.
It's quite simple...Player A (the original starter) didn't work as hard as he should have, partied too much, didn't do extra work, skipped workout sessions, etc. While Player B (new starter who nobody really thought of as a threat before the Fall season started) busted his butt everyday. He tried to get better at every aspect of his game. he put in the time. He hustled. The coaches noticed it and rewarded him with a starting position.
No matter what a coach tells you he will usually (not always) play the guy who gives the team the best chance of winning. Think about it...their livelihood depends on it!
Sure there are exceptions, but this rule holds true most of the time.
I don't care if you are All-American or the last guy off the bench. Don't get fat. Continue to work and continue to improve, helping your team in any way possible.
Because if there is anything I've learned about this game is an opportunity will present itself to you if you put the work in...The question is will you be ready?
