Playoff Time

Amateur baseball at every level is winding down throughout the nation. High Schools, Community Colleges, NAIA and NCAA Colleges are all coming to the end of their regular seasons. The top end teams are in a tough battle for league or conference championships; the middle teams are scrambling to get into the playoffs and the bottom end teams are already looking toward next year.

The “Playoffs”, are commonly referred to as, “The Second Season“. A chance to play the game a little longer and compete for a more prestigious championship. However, the prevailing attitude that, no matter what the season has been like - that somehow, “now” a team can turn it around in the playoffs, is usually wishful thinking.

Teams, like individuals, have identities, strengths and weaknesses which have been revealed during the regular season of competition. The playoffs will magnify those characteristics and reveal a teams true leadership, resolve and character. Being successful in the playoffs will always come down to: 1) good pitching, 2) solid defense, 3) timely hitting and 4) coaching that understands the moment. If this truly sounds like your club then good things will happen.

Good luck to all and “May the force be with you“.