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“They’re all talented. You see what I’m saying? And they all have their own style and way of doing things. ... So that’s what [I’m] looking for is how consistent[ly] can you show your talent?”
- Ron Washington, Braves 3rd Base Coach
As the Braves 3rd Base Coach, Washington has much to say about who earns the Braves’ last available roster spots for the 2023 season.
And Washington was obvious that CONSISTENCY is at the top of his priority list. Players who can’t demonstrate consistency will likely be sent packing.
And he’s not alone in this philosophy. This approach has helped Washington fit right in with the Braves who have been one of the most consistent teams in baseball recently. (They made it to the post-season in 5 of the last 5 years!)
But as we all know, consistency in baseball is “easier said than done.”
So What is the Braves’ Secret to Consistency?
How are they so good at it?
The Braves Manager revealed their secret during his very first spring training meeting with the team this year
He stood in front of a room full of professional baseball players, including superstars and hungry hopefuls, and he spilled the beans in the first 30 seconds of his speech.
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“First of all, I want to welcome everybody.
Here we are in spring training. While you’re here, we’re going to work smart and hard.
We’re not going to keep you here long, but when we do the fundamentals, we do the drills, we do everything that makes us a really good fundamental team. ”
- Braves Manager Brian Snitker
Baseball Fundamentals?
Did you catch that?
His very first meeting of the year.
Filled with experienced Major Leaguers.
And less than 30 seconds in he’s already talking about the importance of baseball fundamentals!
This is no youth league team.
He’s not talking to inexperienced youngsters.
But this is probably much different than most people imagine a Major League team meeting going.
It’s not uncommon for some players and even some coaches to underestimate the importance of baseball fundamentals over time …
…as if they’ve progressed beyond them to "bigger and better" things!
Other times, hitters and coaches simply forget to make them a priority.
But those who have enjoyed success at the highest levels know the truth.
Here’s how Michael Jordan, the basketball legend himself, put it…
“The minute you get away from fundamentals – whether its proper technique, work ethic or mental preparation – the bottom can fall out of your game, your schoolwork, your job, whatever you’re doing.”
―Michael Jordan
Consistency and a relentless focus on baseball fundamentals go together like thunder and lightning… You can’t have one without the other.
They’re two sides of the same coin. Inseparable.
Let’s learn from Ron Washington, Brian Snitker, and Michael Jordan.
To be the best, work hard on the fundamentals.
And if you need any equipment for your practice sessions, we’re here for you.
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