There is trend that goes around high school baseball and college programs also. When pitchers down on the depth chart realize that they are not a part of the original ‘A squad’ plans to start the season, they make a suicidal shift. Rather, then keep working and putting forth the effort necessary to improve, they just want to be one of the boys. Since their roster spot is secured on the team, they respond to the demotion by merely showing up to do the bare minimum. Basically, wishing and hoping for things to get better. Expecting playing time to just fall into their lap. All without hesitating to badmouth their coaches and teammates along the way. These pitchers, are Sheep. Sheep vs Lions
Sheep vs Lions
Baaaa…
The sheep choose to remain ignorant as to why they don’t pitch more. They are entitled and uncoachable. The game has no room for them, as they are a cancer. Especially, when they are the clique leader.
It’s unbelievable how quickly this regression can happen. Whether it be their natural personality or the power of peer pressure to submit to the timeless misery loves company, which plagues the rest of the heard. At this point, all the sheep care about is being a part of something, without contributing. It’s pathetic!!! Consequently, when the team starts winning, they get very bitter!
Sheep vs Lions
King of the Jungle
In going the other direction when faced with adversity and setback, the one who overcomes by staying focused and relentlessly outworking his teammates, is the LION. The lion betters himself by sharpening his physical tools and his mentality. Pitching is more than just have velocity or STUFF. You have to know how to use it.
It is all about the attack. Therefore, the Lion understands the necessity of the survival instinct. That’s why he gets the first pitch strike. The sheep fall behind to hitters. In large part, because they did not accumulate enough repetitions to pitch with any conviction. They don’t know enough about themselves. Don’t know their own strengths. When it is time to attack, the lion purges the opposition. In going for the kill, their is only 1 option, VICTORY!!!
Sheep vs Lion
The Transformation
Now pay attention. Because this is important.
If you are in the sheep category when you know you are better than that. Walk away from the heard. Denounce the sheep! Shame them if you must! You are who you associate with! Therefore, let the lions know that you are ready to run with them. It’s going to be a rough adjustment. Plus, you have to earn their respect.
Put in the work and pay attention to what the lions do, how they act and why they behave as such. Naturally, apply what you learn.
To find your identity, you first have to know your strengths. Whatever they are, they must have concrete conviction in your mind. What you can go to when in doubt and be fluid in the movement to execute. Mastering this step not only builds self awareness, as the other lions will also notice that you mean business. There is a reason why the lion is at the top of the food chain in the jungle. He doesn’t pass on opportunities to have his way with hitters.
Keep Dominating!!!!
About The Author
Brad Kirsch is the Owner/Creator of Slider Domination. He is a former professional pitcher who blogs about all things Pitching. Brad has also authored the AudioBook, 7 Reasons Why YOU Should Throw a Slider. If you haven’t done so already, you can Download the AudioBook Here
