SACRIFICE. A word that can define a successful ballplayer on any level.

Hours upon hours of what I have come to call “Lonely Work.” The training put in when no one is watching. Tee work, strength & conditioning. Visualization and video work.

Baseball is a game defined by individual achievement inside a team construct. Sounds a lot like life doesn’t it? What can you do to put your teammates in a situation to achieve success?

As a lifetime number two hitter (back before it was the sexy spot in the line-up) it was my responsibility to set up the middle of the line-up. Whether it was advancing the baserunner or fouling off enough pitches so the batters behind me had the opportunity to see every bullet in the pitcher’s arsenal. It was role I understood and took great pride in.

How can I sacrifice myself for my team? What did I learn from every at bat or play in the field?

It’s a message I preach to every ballplayer I have the honor to work with. Learn how to coach yourself.

This blog will discuss many things, but at the heart of it will be the motto Hard Work Beats Talent.