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Seemed Like A Good Idea At The Time
John Smoltz coming to the Red Sox seemed like a good idea. I liked the potential of having a veteran who could give you a handful of quality starts. He may have been more successful in another division or back in the National League but just can’t get it together in Boston. He is in good shape and still throws pretty hard but his fastball is flat.
I feel bad for a few reasons. It must be extremely frustrating to have such a great career and struggle. Watching him pitch poorly and get hit all over the park I don’t get mad or frustrated as I would watching other hometown pitchers. I would like to see him turn it around but at the same time I would like to see the Red Sox win more games.
It’s hard to be at the end of your career. Esspecially when you feel like you can physically still perform at a certain level. Sometimes our expectations don’t match our physical output.
(see in today’s NY Times: The Sad Fall of a Pitching Giant. Sums up how a lot of fans probably feel.)
As The Pitcher You Are In Control
Controlling momentum can be very difficult in sports and especially as a pitcher in baseball. One wrong pitch can extend an inning, lose a lead, or even give the other team hope and confidence. The question is how can a pitcher overcome this potential momentum swing? The answer to this problem is applicable to other sports and situations and can be broken down in three basic steps.
First, as the pitcher you can dictate the pace of the game and the time you take between pitches. Make sure to slow down and calm yourself. You want to be able to think clearly and rationally, make sure that you are choosing pitches that are appropriate and not trying to do too much.
Second, make sure you are using relaxation techniques. You want to be in control of your breathing and calm, you can’t perform your best if you are breathing hard and shaking. Take deep breaths and clear your mind.
Third, be positive that all of your routines are being done and being done at a comfortable pace. Nothing can lead you to being more out of control than rushing or not complete your routines. Your routines are what focus and center you before the pitch, so don’t let them go away.
For more information about mental performance as well as overall athletic performance enhancement check out our websites. The links are on the right of the page.
