Any current players in here, from low-level recreational to more competitive e.g. high school, college or pro?

Hey man, thanks for the great interesting response to my question. It's pretty plain to see that you're a die hard in love with the game of baseball, I respect you.

In high school I was about the size that you are now. I loved the game and always tried to play the right way, but unfortunately for me, I figured out when I was 17 or so that I really didn't belong on the same field as the serious guys. Coaches always considered me "good", so I started digging myself and underestimated the amount of dedication required within the relatively short, two or three years of time I had available to me, to get where I needed to be not only with my size, but more importantly, the mental stuff. As soon as you tell yourself you know the game inside out, next thing you know you'll be around guys who put in more work than you thought was possible, and who know a shit load more than you do. It's not fun when you get shown up by guys like that, and the experience can leave you feeling pretty inadequate. The important thing though, is to never compare yourself to other guys or let stuff cripple your own confidence and drive in any way. You've got to study more and make some sacrifices. If you get overwhelmed, just say to yourself, hey, this is what I love doing, so let's not allow anything to interfere with our passion.

Anyway, apologies for rambling a little there, that was my spiel on working hard to get the most out of it. Long story short with me, after dropping out of college and going to community college, bored and hating my life, I decided to get with a trainer and went through an intensive 6 months of lifting with the goal of transforming my body. My body did not transform (lol), but I did put on enough weight to get to a point where I wasn't being confused for a cross-country runner anymore. Showed up to the tryout, not afraid of looking silly and not giving the slightest damn what people's opinion of me were, and my friends who thought I was a dreamer for trying out. I dove for every ball hit near me, made the team, and got a grand total of three at-bats (zero hits). I sometimes wish I got humbled at a younger age and understood the work aspect, but it's hard to be too disappointed after giving it 110%.

Keep throwing with your brother, and not skipping out on any preseason work. You sound like you know what you're doing, but regardless, good luck man. I'm sure the game will reward you if you keep up the hard work.

/r/baseball Thread Parent