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'The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts'
'Chance is a Fool's name for Destiny'
DG
My journey has been extensive and enjoyable, filled with opportunities to travel the world through playing, coaching, and scouting. I’ve gained invaluable life lessons from remarkable individuals, and I express my gratitude daily. I played baseball at a Division 3 college in New York City yet I was fortunate enough to enjoy 7 years of professional baseball, including time in the Major Leagues playing in Yankee stadium with my family and friends cheering me on. With over 35 years in the professional sports world, I firmly believe that anyone can enhance their lives through the right mindset and a dedication to building self-confidence and competence in their chosen field. While it requires commitment and laser focus, it is absolutely achievable. We all encounter obstacles like fear and anxiety, but we can overcome them by using proven techniques to develop the habits and behavioral changes needed to reach our goals.
After my baseball playing career ended I returned to the game as a minor league hitting coach with the San Diego Padres, an MLB scout and Latin American Coordinator with the Milwaukee Brewers. Eventually becoming a front office exec and Special Assistant to the GM, Player Personnel for the Baltimore Orioles. I was fortunate to travel everywhere, Australia, Korea, Japan, and everywhere in Latin America, coaching, evaluating, listening, and observing different cultures and techniques. Academically trained in cognitive psychology, I began utilizing my observational knowledge of how the mind and body work together by helping the people around me improve their mindsets. I’ve come to realize, as Yogi Berra said,
"Baseball is 90% mental and the other half is physical !"
Success and Happiness in Life is the same, its' all in your head.
I was cut from my high school baseball tryouts. After that wakeup call, I began forging my mental strength improving my confidence, skills and self-belief. The following year, I not only made the team but also became captain. I share this story to remind you that in life we all encounter obstacles, whether it’s missing out on a promotion, or being cut from a team. Simply stay focused on your goals. Keep your eyes on your prize.
Foul off the tough pitches life throws at you, keep working hard, and believe in yourself, until you get your pitch, your opportunity. When you do, be ready, and hit it out of the park.
Just be ready... and Always…”Swing for the Stars”
Fasten your seat belt we’re going for a ride ! You can't make this stuff up !
One spring I filled in for a sick friend for 1 week in April, then suddenly the NY Mets
needed an extra batboy for the remainder of the season, and guess who was there.
Sometimes you're just lucky. There I was on the field and in the clubhouse with
Hall of Famers, manager Yogi Berra, Willie Mays, and Tom Seaver.
We went to the World Series in1973, but lost to the Oakland A's in 7 games.
I played baseball at Baruch college NY. summer ball for the 1974 Alaska Goldpanners
We were National Baseball Congress Champions that summer. All 16 players on that team were drafted in the following years including 5,1st round picks. Playing on that team gave me exposure to top scouts who had never heard of my college. 'The UCLA of the East '– University on the Corner of Lexington Avenue!
I was drafted in the 11th round of the 1975 Major League draft #249. What were the KC Royals thinking?!
The Montreal Expos drafted a future Hall of Famer with the 250th pick ! I had the pleasure of meeting him when we were both Special Assistants to the GM – Andre Dawson
My playing life was similar to the movie "Bull Durham" I lived all 3 roles, aspiring player, aging veteran, and minor league coach. Played 7 years in the minors, hitting .320 for Triple A Omaha Royals in1980 before getting a cup of espresso in '81 with the 1980 defending A.L. Champion Kansas City Royals.
Remember what I said about luck, it works both ways.
1981 was a strike year. I remember manager Jim Frey telling me “we’re sending you down to Triple A so you can keep getting at bats, this strike shouldn’t last more than 2 weeks. You’ll be right back." Being an older ‘rookie’ , I said, “Skipper I’d rather be on strike in the Big Leagues, than playing everyday in Triple A !” The strike lasted 2 months! they fired the manager afterwards, and my dream was over, I never saw it again. It was the best “cup of coffee” I’ve ever had, 2 hits, played with Hall of Famer George Brett, went back home a big leaguer, on a championship team, playing right field in Yankee Stadium, exactly where Babe Ruth stood, with my Yankee friends Willie Randolph at 2B, and Reggie Jackson in right field.
As a wise man once said,
For those that have had the experience, no words are necessary. For those who have not, No words are possible”
During these confusing times it's essential to be wise and leave your ego at the door, there is no option B.
" In the midst of chaos, there is always Opportunity" -Sun Tzu
I'm constantly expanding my knowledge in neuroscience, iterative intelligence and success strategies. Through my blog I share the life insights and lessons learned from my professional baseball career, highlighting the parallels between achieving success in both personal and professional realms. The secret lies in having a clear plan, be true to your values, believe in yourself, Live in Acceptance, have faith, remain in a positive mental state ready for your opportunity, and enjoy the ride.
Control Your Thoughts, Control Your Destiny be ready, and “Always, Swing for the Stars !”
*Stay Safe*
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