Full Tank

I feel like we are finally catching our breath. Before the start of yesterday's game we had practically 24 hours of rest which really allowed us to recharge our batteries. And it showed last night, easily winning the game 7-1, making the series 2-3. Going into yesterdays game we had to win three and Xalapa only needed one win to advance. It reminded me of the "Tiawanese Little League World Series".
This is the greatest game ever. I use to play it with my dad in the huge field next to our house when I was a kid. It went like this. My dad would hit me a ball, either a grounder or a pop up. Sometimes he would hit it hard. Sometimes he would hit it soft. Sometimes to my left and sometimes to my right. He would even occasionally hit it over my head. As soon as he hit it, he would start counting down from 10. "10, 9, 8 ,7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1," and if I made the play and threw it back to him in time it was considered an out. It took me three outs to score one run. Now the tricky part was if I made a mistake and didn't make it back to him in time the other team would score. So, it took me three correct plays to score a run and only one mistake for them to score. This is the same game I'm having to play with Xalapa. Thanks for preparing me so well Pop. haha.
We have off today, which will allow us to be even fresher going into tomorrow's game. It's do or die right now and I can feel us really digging deep to stay around. We are the better team in this series, but haven't had the juice to play like we can. I have good feelings about the next two games. We leave tonight for Xalapa and play tomorrow night. We'll be playing with a full tank tomorrow, it should be exciting.

A Much Needed Breather

It's been a while since I've had a chance to write about life or baseball. We finished off Mendoza and have advanced to the quarter finals against Xalapa. We started the series on Wednesday in Xalapa and lost 15-4. Then we turned around today and played a two o'clock game and lost 8-6. After playing Mendoza so hard and not getting a day off we had limited energy in these two games. Our pitching staff was shot and our hitters were tired. The good news is we have a day off tomorrow which will hopefull allow us to catch our breath and recover. This series is the best of seven with the next two here in Cordoba. When I get more energy I'll share more. Have a Merry Chirstmas and enjoy each other.

Rain Out!

We've been rained out the last three games and it's not looking too good today. Last night we watched AVATAR at the cine. It was a good time. Hopefully we'll get these playoffs going again. I hear everyone is out of school. Enjoy the holidays.

Playoff Dinner

Man! We just finished up an awesome pump up dinner before the start of the playoffs. The owners, manager, coaches, players and everyone involved in the team was present. After grubbin' on some ribs, chicken, lasagana, vegetables, fruit, and drinks we passed the mic around the table and everyone stood up and said a little something about themselves. It was a good experience. I felt like the team came together tonight, different than it has been in the past. Everyone had a little something special to add and afterwards we all celebrated when they told us each round we advance the salary goes up. If we win the championship we get a whole months extra pay. We'll see how well it works. We play Mendoza starting tomorrow. The series is best of five. I'll keep yall posted.

Can't Give Up

We got swept last series and won the first game last night against Veracruz. The series in San Andres was rough, we really didn't have much going for us, but last night we played much better. I figure the only way to go about the last part of this season is to play hard and give it all I got. I've really been trying to pick the team up. I just can't give up and I'm doing my best to help the team get up and play hard. The good thing about the playoffs is you never know what can happen. It's a whole new ball game. I was talking to Felix Jose yesterday and he said that it was better to be cold now than in the playoffs. He's so right. We're gonna keep fighting.
The playoffs are going to be interesting because of the six team bracket. Out of the six teams entering the playoffs, three will advance because they won their series and one one team will lose the first round and still advance to the next round. Haha! CRazY! As much as I would love to enjoy the holidays with everyone I gotta let everyone know I'm gonna give it my all and probably won't be seeing you guys for the holidays. Gotta go finish up these last two with Veracruz.

Christmas Miracle?

Mendoza. They always play us extra hard and dirty. The first two days, freezing. The third day, scorching. Always a challenging series.
Game one we tested out the new players and ended up coming back in the ninth down by four to win it 7-6. After the game I was thinking this was the push we needed.
Game two was hideous. Errors, injuries, bad pitching, and not much offense. I got smoked in the head with a grounder right above my temple and had to come out of the game. Both seasons down here I've gotten hurt when playing in Mendoza. Last year it was the ankle. I came out of the game and just took it easy.
Game three I didn't go to because of the blow to the head. Instead I went to probably the weakest doctor's visit of my life. He asked a few questions, took my blood pressure, weight, listened to my heart, then pushed on my head where I got hit, sat back down and started writing a prescription. No tests and I was out the door. I was expecting that kind of treatment. I got the prescription and rested in my room the rest of the day. When the team got back they told me a little about the game, it didn't sound too pretty.
So another series lost to Mendoza , putting us in third place for the second half. We have one more week of the regular season. We start with San Andres tomorrow, the best team in the league, and finish with Veracruz, probably the worst team in the league. Hopefully we can have a good week and build some momentum heading into the playoffs.
I am usually very optimistic about playoffs and championships, but through the years I have learned to be more realistic. As of now I don't see the team having that urge to fight for a championship. We don't seem very close, because of late additions and roster changes. We've been treated poorly by the ownership. And the holiday season is around the corner.
On one hand I am excited to think of being home for the holidays and ending another challenging season. On the other, I think of the awesome playoff spirit and atmosphere. Who knows what the playoffs will bring, maybe a Christmas with the family or maybe a Christmas Miracle.

Slow fade or can we get up?

The series with Minatitlan was a bust. We played the first game hard, had a 2-1 lead going into the ninth and blew it. We ended up loosing 5-2. The next day we tried to play an hour late because of rain and then got rained out after the first two innings. And then yesterday we waited for three hours at the park to start the game and then they decided to call it.
So not much baseball the last couple of days really allowed me to catch up on some much needed rest. I've been reading, eating, and resting. We pick things up today with Mendoza, our rival. We got some new players in last night, an ex big leaguer, Felix Jose and a guy I know from the Can-Am League, Jeremy Acey. We'll see how these additions affect the team. Right now the team doesn't seem to be playing together. In my opinion we need to find something to play for as a whole. It seems like most are getting tired of the season. Hopefully we can come together and make a strong push in the playoffs and find the right motivation to keep us playing. Last years team kind of fizzled out at the end also. The Holidays cause some of these feelings, people want to be home with their families. I would love to be home for the holidays, but will welcome playing just as much. Either way I'm gonna keep enjoying the challenge. Hope all is well.

Good and Productive Week

It's been a while since I posted last. Last week was full of good baseball, busy days, good food, and a lot of rest. We played Xalapa early in the week and finished with Cosomaloapan. We took 2 of 3 from both series. I hit a homerun on Thanksgiving day against Xalapa, and tried to steal home against Cosomaloapan. The homerun was big because it was game three of the series, the rubber match, and we were tied 5-5. The homerun put us up 8-5 and we never looked back. Stealing home was awesome! I just felt it and luckily had a veteran player at the plate that protected me. I had been paying close attention to the pitcher all game and noticed his slow delivery to home when he went form the wind up. I started walking, walking, walking, and then he stepped back to start his wind up and I was off. I was movin and I knew I had it. My eyes were fixed on homeplate and all I could see was the ball crossing the plate. I couldn't believe the ball was crossing the plate so quick. But then out of nowhere I saw Macias stick his bat out, putting down a beautiful bunt. I slid headfirst into home. I was safe and so was Macias at first. It was a blast. I couldn't stop laughing after it happened because I knew how crazy and fun it was. Everyone was looking at me with excitement and suprise in their faces. I started asking what happened, and the guys told me the pitcher sped up his wind up and just kind of threw the ball home real quick. They told me the first base umpire called a balk. The play ended up working all the way around, even though it probably wasn't the best time to do it. We still needed another run to win the game, but things like that get you remembered. Hopefully it will help my chances for this summer.
Just like stealing home I have really been trusting and accepting my feelings. I go through a wide range of feelings and emotions through the games and life. Sometimes I feel great, ready, and locked in. Other times I feel tired, out of it and hungry. Occasionally I feel like taking a huge swing. During some AB's I don't feel like swinging. Last night I stayed up till three looking at Graduate schools. I read what I want when I want. This week I have really been in my Bible and listening to the life of Einstein. Even reading a little of Mother Teresa, MLK, and LBJ last night. I am trusting where I am at each point and letting life turn out like it is supposed to. Just becoming who I am supposed to be. It seems to be working. Overall last week was very productive for the team and myself and I can feel it transitioning into this week. It seems things are going well back at home also. Gonna go head to lunch and start another series against Minatitlan in Cordoba. We have about two weeks of the regular season left and then the playoffs start. As of right now we are in first place in the second half. We'll see how the last four series go. We lost Murphy, the big league middle infielder yesterday and are going to be getting some new players. We'll see how the change affects the team. Time to finish strong. See yall in about a month.

All-Star Weekend

We started out last week with Veracruz. We took two of three from them and I was dancing through the games, really feeling in the zone. I looked at my swings from the games and noticed something else I could get better at. When I make my stride sometimes I bend at the waiste a little, which causes my bat path to be longer or more indirect to the ball. The taller I stay the more direct and simple my path to the ball is. Beautiful.
I used the idea in the All-Star game and had success with it, driving in the first run for our team. The game ended in a 5-5 tie. Both teams played hard and the overall experience was good. I really enjoyed talking with the other players about ball or just joking around. I had a really cool conversation with a 37 year old Japanese player about hitting. During the few times we've played Mendoza I noticed he and I have similar swings and probably philosophies. I got a chance to speak with him before yesterday's game. After telling him I much how much I enjoyed watching him swing and agreeing upon a few things, he started to share with me some of his key points. He recommended visually seeing the ball as long as possible. In your mind it has to be slow to see it for a long time. Also at contact the swing should be at 100%, but not before. He and I both agreed many players start swinging at 100% too early which cause them to miss hit pitches. He also told me he noticed sometimes I overstride, but only sometimes. I listened and tried not to get too excited. I love talking about hitting, especially when it's someone who is so effortless and efficient with their swing.
Probably the best part of All-Star weekend was the publicity I got. This morning my coach was telling me how well they were speaking of me on TV last night. The were saying I could play in the Mexican League during the regular season. Just last week I was asking him how I could land a job here in the summer. He told me it would be difficult because I am a middle infielder and a foreigner with not a lot of experience at the higher levels. In my heart I know I could play at that level, but just need the opportunity. All weekend I was talking to everyone I could; managers, scouts, and radio to help my chances of finding a job here in the summer. Who knows what the future holds, but the Lord has his hand in all of this. Knowing that gives me peace, joy and thanks.
I've been thinking of my plans after this winter and next season. Hopefully I'll be able to come home and transition into training and lessons ASAP. I would like to have a facility and a schedule ready to go as soon as I get back to Texas. I'll be working on that the last month or so I'm in here in Mexico. Hope all is well there. Enjoy Thanksgiving with family and frieds. Eat a plate for me. Momma save me some pie. MMMM!

Feelin "it"

We ended up taking two of three from Soledad. The second game ended in a tie because the sun was setting and they don't have lights. The first two days were so hot and I woke up on the third day praying for clouds. There were clouds the whole day on Sunday. It was great. Saturday's game was awesome becuause I felt something in my swing that I haven't felt in a long time. It allows me to be so simple and direct to the ball. I've been feeling this feeling for the last three games. The hardest part is trying to describe the feeling, but I know it's right. It feels like a simple push when I'm swinging, one move forward. No pulling, no spinning. I probably still turn, but the focus is a relaxed simple move straight to the ball. This feeling transitions into my running, throwing, fielding, really everything I do on the field. In the past when I feel "it" I play great baseball. It allows me to focus more on the game, instead of thinking of what I'm doing. I don't have to worry about my moves or reactions as much, I trust them and the game becomes more of a dance. The feeling isn't as crisp and accurate as it has been in the past, but I have a good feeling it will continue to become more and more consistent. If it grows into what I have felt before, it's going to get real exciting.
On monday I went to Veracruz to change it up a little on the off day. We went to the mall, ate, and came back to Fortin. Yesterday we played Veracruz. There were a lot of emotions flying around, it was really intense. Some of our players from last year and this year were playing for Veracruz. Victor, our manager in Cordoba last year was managing Veracruz. It was great to see him, but not many people in Mexico like him. Everyone really wants to beat him bad. One of our players wasn't dressing out because he hasn't gotten paid. I started at short. We got a new ex-big league infielder. And it was raining. All that wrapped into a game causes a tense and chaotic atmosphere. We ended up loosing the game 5-4, but I was happy with the way I competed. It's always a little challenging for me to compete against people I have played with before. The team played OK. We play them two more times, it should be interesting.
After this series we have the All-Star break. Seven of us are going. It should be a good time. Check out the new swings. See if you can see a difference

You get what you get

A couple of days ago we finally got to play the Brujos after being rained out the first two games. We played a double header and they smoked us both games. That was the end of the first half. If we could have won one game we would have finished in 2nd or 3rd, but because we lost both we dropped to fifth for first half standings. It's crazy how much we jumped down, but because we had so many rainouts it really affected our winning perctage. So after loosing those two games the ownership met with the management of the team and released five or six guys. It's business. We'll see who comes in and how it affects the team.
Yesterday we took off to Soledad to play the first game of the second half. It was a 2 o'clock start and the sun was shining bright in center field, causing a shadow on the side of the ball we were seeing at the plate. Some of the guys were complaining about not being able to see the ball. It is what it is and we figured out a way to pull out a victory. We have two more games there at the same time, today and tomorrow. That sun aint' goin' nowhere.
Personally I've been struggling offensively the last few games. It's frustrating because I know what I want to do, but can't seem to find it. It happens. I looked at the film from last night and noticed during my stride my front hip coming up a little, which makes it hard to be direct with the barrel. It causes a upward swing, which makes it long and causes a lot of foul balls and pop ups. I'll see if I can make the adjustment. I have peace knowing I'm doing the best I can. It will turn out like it's supposed to. I haven't had energy to put up the swings from the last few games. When I feel it, I'll put em up.
One frustrating thing that has been on my mind is the respect everyone gives this big leaguer. Just because of his accomplishments they hold him so high. In my opinion a man isn't defined by his successes. I've been playing a second base for about five games now and they moved me because he asked to play shortstop. That's fine, but I still feel a little mistreated. I was handling short just fine, 0 errors and making every play. This happened to me once before when I was in Lowell, my first year in pro-ball with the Red Sox. I respect the peoples decision and do my best to move on and not let it affect me. I don't hold hard feelings towards the kid or the coaches, I understand why they did what they did. But, what ever happened to loyalty. It's things like this that really frustrate me because this is the way the world operates.
After writing the last paragraph I want to share something with everyone. Something a little more encouraging. I went on a beautiful run yesterday morning. I woke up at 7 and just felt like taking a run. I took off and started to try and run, but my heel was hurting so I just kept walking down the road. I came to this winding downhill road. It was awesome. I just let it take me. It felt like I was in the middle of the rainforest. I could feel the crisp air filling my lungs. Springs were dripping down the side of the moutain. Vegatation, green and bright flowers were everywhere. It was awesome. I got to the bottom of the hill and saw a river/stream just rolling down stream. There were huge rocks in the way and the water would gracefully move around the rock and continue along it's path downstream. Some of the water was being brushed by the tall grass leaning over the bank. It looked like the grass was dancing. As I looked at this wonderful stream I remembered Bruce Lee's saying, "Be like water, my friend". I realized that the water doesn't try and force it's path. Each piece of water has no expectation, it goes where it is supposed to go, with no tension and without fighting. Easy grace. I feel for a long time I have tried to force becoming something. It has caused a lot of strain and stress. I really like the idea of becoming what I am supposed to become. I am really living right now with no expectations. I'm just letting my feelings take over, letting the road take me where it is supposed to. Who knows what the future holds, or what I'll become. God knows.

2 in Mina and another rain out

That's right we won both games yesterday in Minatitlan. The day was challenging and enjoyable. It always feels good when there is a challenge and you find success, putting your best foot forward, giving all you have even when faced with adverstiy. We left at 9 a.m., arrived at 1 thinking the game started at 2. Mina thought the game started at 4. That's right, just adjust, "be like water my friends" - Bruce Lee - So we started around 4 and were playing in front of maybe 3 fans, it was hot and the other team was not that good. The games were slow, but the team did a good job respecting the game. It was challenging for us all because of the conditions. These are the hardest games to play sometimes. We did well. After the two, slow paced, long games we stopped off at a taco joint before we left for Fortin. We got in around 4 a.m. this morning. I got into my room, stretched out and did a little work out. Took my time waking up and had an easy day today. The game was cancelled tonight, which doesn't hurt anyone's feelings, considering the long day yesterday. I've been reading, studying, and eating in my free time today. We play the Brujos tomorrow, best team in the league. We'll see what happens. Cubiertos, the word of the day, utencils.

Mendoza II

We finished up the three game series with Mendoza today. We took the second game, loosing the first and third. It was a fun series. Each game had its ups and downs, always a good rivalry. Right now I'm tired and need some rest. We play a double header tomorrow in Minatitlan on what is supposed to be a day off, but because we got rained out all three games earlier this week we are going down there tomorrow. It's gonna be a long day. Four hours there, about five or six hours for the two games, and four hours on the way back.
My body's feeling good in the games. I feel strong, healthy, efficient and fast. I would like to be more accurate with my barrel and I think the lack of consistancy comes from too much tension. I think I need to relax everything a little bit more, which will help me see the ball better and allow my body to react much more accurately. It sounds good in theory, but doing it is another story. Hopefully the consistency will come. Keep enjoying the challenge.

Rain out

We've been rained out the last three games. I have had a lot of time to read, hang out with the guys, and do my excersizes. Yesterday we practiced at our stadium and I tried to hit like Chase Utley and Jason Werth and it felt pretty good. Have you seen them swing? Their follow through is cut short, it is bebut really cause they really try and put the barrel on the ball, instead of pulling the bat through the zone with their body. They really attack the ball with the barrel. It's hard to explain what I see, but I hit the ball hard yesterday. It was a blast focusing on something new and being able to do it successfully. I was driving balls off the wall and hit a homerun. The barrel was hitting the ball exactly on the sweet spot, not every time, but enough to show me that the swing has value. Taking grounders was a blast also. I worked on being efficient and keeping the moves as simple as possible. I was bouncing around out there. The ball would come into my glove, smoothly transfer into my throw, and out of my hand, right into the first baseman's chest in one smooth, effortless, efficient move. Man! Can you hadle it? Haha. I wish I could explain what I feel and see when hitting and feilding better so I could share it with everyone. In time it will become more concrete.
Congratulations Yankees. The Phillies looked scared.

Phillies staying alive

Yeah baby! The Phillies pulled it out tonight. I love the way they move. In my opinion they are the most efficient team in the league. I know that's a different reason to like a team, but that's me. Watch em, pay close attention to their movements compared to the Yankees. The only hard part is their facing the Yankees strong team. I went and watched the Yankees earlier this season and they looked horrible. I'm sure you all remember. To see them where they started and to see them today shows me a lot. They reallly have come together as a family after fighting through those hard and hopeless days. And that's something that is hard to ignore. I really respect them for that. Either way it is turning out to be a fun series.
We had an off day today. It sure was nice. I got a chance to sleep in, go to the gym and eat at a Japanese Restaraunt in Cordoba. Yeah! It was nice to mix up the diet a little. We took 2 of 3 from Cosomaloapan. The team is really starting to be explosive.
I'm really enjoying myself down here. There is something about being on my own right now that is really empowering. I get to study, read, write, analyze video, and just come and go as I please. It's always nice when baseball is going like I see it in my head. Right now when I go up to the plate I know exactly what I want to do and have a very confident feeling. The video analysis has really helped me with that. Check out the videos on youtube. I update them after every game. Give feedback and let me know how everything is going out there. Later

Through no way is way

Some nights the game gives you four hits. We jumped out to an early lead, scoring two in the first and five in the second. The hits were just coming for the whole team. I think we had back to back to back doubles at one point. It's fun to be playing like this.
The game was great, but probably the best part of my day was reading Tao of Jeet Kune Do, by Bruce Lee. Cosomoalapan is about three hours away and it's a perfect time to read. Last winter I was able to read his book and it really helped me continue to find a simple, relaxed approach to the game. I can't say I am as simple and relaxed as I was last winter, but just reading it relaxes my thoughts and reinforces, "through no way is way".
Bruce didn't like naming his way or thoughts because it is limiting. He used the word Jeet Kune Do. I have replaced Jeet Kune Do with Freedom ball to show you how easily these ideas can transition into baseball. "[Freedom Ball] favors formless form so that it assume all forms and since [Freedom Ball] has no style, it can fit in with all styles. As a result, [Freedom Ball] utilizes all ways and is bound by none and, likewise, uses any techniques or means which serve it's end."
You see how awesome reading this is!
I wish I could explain more of my thoughts, but I have to get ready to catch a bus. Let me know what you think.

Sweep

That's three games in a row against Xalapa. We are really picking up steam. The team is pitching, playing good defense, hitting, and just enjoying the game.
Yesterday we got a big league/AAA ball player, Donny Murphy, and he seems to be a good addition. He's like a breath of fresh air. I notice he plays the game faster than other players I've been around. It's good because being in independent and Mexican leagues for the last three years I've gotten use to the relaxed atmosphere. At the top the game speeds up and the players are sharper. I wonder where I would be if I was in that type of atmosphere. Man, I would eat it up. If I could play and learn in that type of atmosphere. Sounds great. I'm going to do my best to pick up my game and Murph will be a good influence.
Murphy being here also reminds me of being in the Red Sox Organization. There's guys out there fighting for the job and some are better some are worse. In the past when there was a player that I respected or thought had skills equal or better than me, I would kind of shut down. I would start questioning my ability and it would take away from my game. I don't like that about myself, but it's the truth. I felt it happening a little yesterday. It's a good challenge. Another something to work through.
Today the sun is shining and the pool is calling my name. Check out the videos from the games. The videos on the right are the most recent, but there are about thirty videos. Later

Unnatural Naturalness or Natural Unnaturalness

During this week of baseball, video has been a great tool. First, I looked at swings from the past week and compared them to swings from last winter. I realized I was stepping open, also know as not staying square. The video allowed me to reckognize this when I wasn't able to feel it. I knew something was off, but couldn't put my finger on it.
After realizing this I decided to watch some other big leaguers and noticed the same thing. The best hitters do the best job of keeping that front side closed as long as possible. Once the foot is down correctly the hitter is able to move in all directions, or attack any pitch. If this front foot is opening before it is down the hitters ability to get pitches is limited dramatically. I'll try and explain this a little more concretely later.
I also noticed how much the major league hitters were using their hips. In the past I found success with just a positive move, without much focus on hip action. I found a lot of succes like this, but it is very challenging to keep up. I had to be very relaxed and aware of my body at all times. It was a little mechanical. So after seeing this hip action from other big league hitters, while still keeping thier front side from flying out, I decided to give it a try.
So, once I realized my new focuses I went to the park and started working on it during batting practice (BP). It was amazing. I was able to encorporate two new focuses and do them successfully (square front side, and more hip action). It worked in the game also.
Unnatural Naturalness or Natural Unnaturalness. I get those words from Bruce Lee. Bruce thought the athlete was at thier best when natural and unatural abilities were equal, not too much of one. Learned ways (proper mechanics) and natural ways (thoughtless movements or reactions). Too much of either puts a ceiling on the athlete.
The last few years I have really studied hitting and broke down the mechanics. I felt at times it was a little too mechanical, but allowing my hip action again really makes me feel this unatural naturalness. It's fun. I'm learning. I'm sure there is still much to understand, but video this week has been a big key. I have uploaded some of my swings to the website. Enjoy. I'm going to keep making the site easier to follow. It's still underconstruction.

That's how you play the game

That's what I'm talking about. That's how you play baseball. Last entry I talked about our team gaining a more competive spirit. I spoke with a few of the guys about creating a better atmoshpere and they seemed to be on board. It is a difficult thing to do here because the players are more relaxed, living conditions are not ideal, and we don't get paid much. But last night we played the game right. We had good pitching, offense, and defense. The game was a blast last night.
Before the game I studied swings of myself and major league hitters, focusing on the front side staying square or closed. I was looking forward to testing it out during BP, but couldn't take BP because it rained earlier, so all we could do is soft toss. And man it felt good, free explosive and efficient. I was a little unsure going into the game how much success the swing would have in the game. Just because you have a good practice doesn't mean you are going to have a good game. I thought I may need a little more focus or stay relaxed more because it just seemed so easy during soft toss. I really just kept the good feeling and walked up to the plate ready to execute the swing like I saw it in my head and had practiced. The first pitch was a ball and the second pitch I hit a lazer to left. I usually take a strike the first AB, but I guess because I was so ready, my body just took over and crushed the ball. Man it felt good. OK so that worked. Let's see what happened next AB. There were runners on second and third with one out. I was feeling it and swung at the first pitch. It was a little down and in and I fouled it off. It was a bad pitch to swing at, but I was ready for the next pitch. He threw a curveball, the first I had seen and my body handled it just fine. I saw it, reacted, and drove it to right center, the runner tagged up and scored. Again, that felt really good. The thing I liked about this AB was my ability to see the curveball for the first time and be able to drive it. I felt I could hit any pitch at any time. I wasn't really looking for him to throw me this or that. I was ready for everything and when I am in the zone that's what happens. I can see all the possibilities in my head and see myself hitting all the pitches. My third AB I got hit in the back. The fourth AB I hit a single to left. The pitcher tried to come inside on an inside fastball and I turned on it. I was a little early and got it off the end a little, but it was still a nice line drive. If I would have hit it on the sweet spot it may have been another linedrive out. hahaa. My last AB I was facing a side arm pitcher with a two seamer that comes back in on my hands. He tried to bring it and I was there. Another linedrive to left. 5 quality AB's. As you all probably know, hitting is contagious. Every guy seemed to have quality AB's throughout the game, driving in runs, moving runners, and scoring runs.
That's how you play baseaball. Days at the yard like this are awesome because it seems like all the studying, dry swings in the mirror, and video work seems to be paying off.
My mentality was great yesterday. During a season I go through many different feels; sometimes really in the zone, other times like I'm not there, and everywhere in between. I always do my best to respect the game and stay in the zone, but it's not always that easy. The goal is to be where I was mentally last night as much as possible. I think the video work gave me a real focus and that helped. Also I took it pretty easy the first half of the day. I'll keep working to maximize myself on the field and life. I gave you guys a lot today. A lot of those thoughts can really help you parents and players understand the game a little better. Use it and I welcome your feedback. Time to finish up breakfast and go to the gym. Have a good day. Oh yeah I started at shortstop yesterday.

Just OK

I just met a couple from Alaska. They are here to climb Mount Orizaba, the tallest point in Mexico. Orizaba is about twenty to thirty minutes away. It's a special place, they say once you get to the top you can look down into the valcano. That would be so cool to see. They say it takes a couple days to get to the top because the body has to get use the change in altitude. Cool couple, enjoying life and it's always nice to talk to someone from the States.
Today was a much needed off day. I woke up, ate breakfast and did my normal routine, checking my e-mails, reading a little and just enjoying myself. After breakfast we took off to the gym for a little work out. I was suprised at how weak I am right now. I haven't lifted in a while and I guess life and last season has kind of kept me from working out as much as I'm use to. I really didn't like to see the strenght I've lost, but it's all good. I got a nice start today and will continue to get my strength back. After the workout I took off to Wal-Mart with my roomate Jose Torres. Torres is from Cali, he's a cool cat, they call him Daddy Yankey around here. Haha. He's a good person and is always trying to look cool with the latest fashion trends. We just grabbed a few snacks, mostly fruits, vegetables, nuts, along with some hygene stuff. We came back relaxed, hung out with the guys and ate dinner.
Last series we played Los Toros de Soledad. Their team is much better this season than last and our team is weaker. Sooo, as you probably could predict we had a tough time with them. We were lucky to walk away with one victory out of three. Every game it looked like I would have a chance to pitch because our pitching is so slim right now. I would love to get on the bump and get some people out. The third game we were getting slaughtered in the fifth and didn't have anymore pitchers. I was next in line. Then the rain came. It was perfect timing. They called everyone off the field and after about thirty minutes in the rain delay they called it. It really was a blessing because I don't think I could have thrown four innings, my arm was soar from the two previous days warming up in the bullpen and I haven't pitched since my shoulder surgery.
It's still difficult playing with this team and under these conditions. We've only been together as a team for about two weeks, the fields aren't that good, we don't eat great, and the fans are just OK. I spoke with a few guys about how they were feeling and they mentioned how much easier it is to play at a high level when everyone around has the same competitive drive. But, when the level is down it is really difficult not to play down to that level. I'm sure all of you can relate in some way. Idealy we would like to create an environment where we could play to the best of our ability. If the players all get on the same page I bet we could make it a more competitive environment, which would make the game a whole lot more fun and we would probably start winning more. So the team has many challenges right now; pitching, hitting, fire, passion, and we're still getting use to each other. We'll see how these issues are handled as the season progresses.
Personally I have been playing just OK. I'm averging about a hit every game, but still don't feel quite in the groove. I compared video from last season to this season and I noticed my front foot has been opening up a little, which causes my whole front side to leave early. This slight move causes a lot of things to go bad. First my head can't stay on the ball like I would like, so it's hard to keep my eyes locked in on the flight. Second, the outside pitch seems like it's a hundred miles away. Third, my barrel drags. And fourth, I am out in front of everything because I can't see it and my barrel is behind so I over compesate. But last game was much better because I analyzed the film. The game slowed down and it seemed much easier to see the ball and react like I know I can.
I've been solid defensively, the sticks OK, and I'm a little out of shape right now. I had a good day today with the workout and rest. It was a step in the right direction. One step at a time for myself and the team. We'll start picking up some speed and eventually I'll be able to write about exciting baseball in Mexico. Oh and the mosquitos are loving some of my sweet Texas blood, they are killin me right now.

The seasons under way. We got rained out the first two games against Mendoza and lost the season opener to them pretty bad. We got no hit and we looked pretty sloppy. I guess that's what happens when you get the team together just two days before the start of the season. It's been pretty hard for us to get going. It took us like 40 AB's to get our first hit. Yeah that means we got our first hit as a team about mid way through the second game. The good news is we just finished playing a three game series against Veracruz and we won two of three, but it was still slow and sloppy baseball. The team had much more fire last year, but it's still early. We'll see what happens.
Personally, the last couple of days has been very challenging on the field. The level of baseball is not as high as I'm used to and it's hard to stay focused. Last winter my teammates were high quality ball players which made it easy to stay up. If you didn't show up on last years team you would sit the bench. The competitive spirit was there and I do well in that kind of atmosphere. So far this season, the team has been a real layed back; new coaches, different players, and hot weather. Hopefully the tempo will pick up. Every season presents different challenges and before coming down to Mexico one of my main objectives was to work on my mental game and it looks like this is the perfect test.
There are times when I ask myself if I should keep fighting this battle. It's a challenge to show up everyday and keep fighting to bring out the best player possible. I've also thought about maybe getting back up on the mound again. Who knows what the future holds, but as for now I'm gonna continue to face the challenge of this season like I always have, giving it my all.

Back In Mexico

I finally have a chance to sit down and write about my first few days here in Mexico. It's been non-stop ever since I left Austin. My flight left at 6:30pm, connected in Houston and arrived in Veracruz around 11. On the flight to Veracruz I met and sat next to an owner of the best Rock and Roll bar in Veracruz, Dawson's. He and his buddy were getting ready for a big night in Veracruz. Chuck was trying to convince me to stop off at his bar before I caught the bus to Fortin. Once we landed and got through customs I got a taxi as quick as I could to the bus station because I knew the last bus was leaving soon. I was too late, the next bus would leave in the morning, so I asked the taxi to take me to Dawson's. I got to the bar dropped off my bags and sat down with Chuck and the band. A few minutes later the crew flying the plane showed up. We had some wings and then the band started playing. I'm not big on Rock n' Roll, but these Mexicanos could play. It was pretty amazing. They were singing all the best Rock n' Roll songs you all love and know. I had a good time hanging out, but really just wanted to sleep and get to my destination. I hung in there as long as I could and eventually left the bar around 4:15 and caught a taxi to the bus station. I just missed the 4:30 bus because I didn't have enough pesos. I went to an ATM to pull out some pesos and by the time I got back it was too late. I had to wait for the 6 O'clock. The next hour and a half I sat in a daze, falling in and out of sleep, waiting for the next bus. Once I got on the bus I slept the two hours to Cordoba. Once I got to Cordoba I caught a Taxi to Fortin. My head was down the whole fifteen minute ride to Fortin as well. I got to the Hotel at 8am and was so happy my journey was coming to an end. I was ready to grab some breakfast and head to sleep, but as soon as I put my stuff down I was told we had practice at 9. I sucked it up, ate breakfast and made sure I had a cup of coffee and went to practice. It was good to get back out on the field and move around, but after practice I took a four hour nap. It was probably the worst conditions to take a nap in, but it didn't matter. The heat, sweat and loud noise from my roomates didn't bother me a bit. I was out and woke up ready to go. I went down stairs grabbed some dinner and then headed to a pro basketball game with the team. It was some pretty good ball, Cordoba won and they introduced the baseball team to the fans.
Day two, which is today was eventful as well. We started with a 9am practice. It went pretty smooth, it looks like I'll be playing secondbase and leading off. The team has new ownership this year which is exciting because Cordoba is a baseball city with a rich history and the ownership is really doing a lot to stur up support. After practice we went to the Owner's ranch. It looked like a "novela", a mexican soap opera. There were horses, a big house with open breeze ways, an out door patio, pool and workers catering to the owners needs. We ate and the owner spoak to us. I'm able to pick up a lot more spanish this year, but it's still a little choppy. He pretty much told us he was happy to have us playing for Cordoba and he was looking forward to bringing good baseball back to the city, Championship ball. We left the ranch came home, showered up, then took off to downtown to be introduced to the city. Each player was introduced one at a time. The people cheered, took pictures, and seemed to be in good spirits about this season. After the little presentation we came back to the hotel ate, and I just finished signing my contract.
We start the season tomorrow against Mendoza, the same team that knocked us out of the playoffs last year. They are talking about a capacity crowd. We'll see. Cordoba, Cordoba, Cordoba!!!