NJ Vipers

Attention to detail. This is where athletes begin to stand out because they do the small things consistently — the things many players overlook. It looks like: • Sprinting on and off the field • Listening carefully when coaches are giving instruction • Treating every practice rep like it matters • Following up with college coaches during recruiting • Preparing before games and practices • Moving with urgency instead of needing to be told twice None of these things require more talent. They require discipline, awareness, and pride in how you operate.

A lot of D1 freshmen pitchers will figure it out. It's not because of velocity. Control Command Secondary Pitches Holding Runners Fielding Position Moxie Feel A lot were sold an illusion and they believed it. They thought if they threw hard enough they could pitch in D1 baseball. Someone forgot to tell them about the other things they would be required to do to get innings. Velocity will get you an opportunity but the other things will get you on the mound in games. Average velocity which is upper 8's combined with plus control, above average command, plus secondary pitch, average third pitch, the ability to hold runners and field position gets the pitcher on the field in games at any school in the country. If he is a competitor with moxie and feel.

Annual reminder… Freshman in high school should not, under any circumstances, be playing 14u youth baseball. The only exception is if you have the blessing of the varsity head coach. You’re a high school player now. Respect your program, and turn the page.

Leaders. It's OK to call your teammates out. It's OK to hold your teammates accountable. It's OK to hurt your teammates feelings. But. You better be holding yourself to the highest standards. You better be leading by example on and off the field. You better be walking the walk. You better be reliable, dependable and doing everything in your power to be the best player and human you can be.