The transition from stud to mud is traumatic for all involved. Most go through it. My S had over a 14.3 era over 27 innings pitched with 39 walks while leading the team in wild pitches as a freshman. The next two years were little better.
He had been drafted out of HS.
It's never fun watching our kid fail; but it's not the failure that is important - it's the reaction. A true sense of character emerges best when a person is on their knees and rising from the beat down.
Finding an identity apart from baseball is critical - whether it's in the classroom, in a frat, in a club, in a robust social life. It sounds like you've given him a good resilient foundation; now be patient (so very hard to do because we would all bear the pain for our children), and watch the amazing growth which will follow.
To be sure it is an unpredictable journey with wild twists and turns. It's a roller coaster ride offering a taste of what the real world will bring.
Excellent advice. I like that expression, stud to mud, very true!
Here is a story. Mine had a great freshman fall, early spring a disaster. But instead of coming to us, he went to his coach. That's why they have coaches and you have to encourage him to do that. What you should be worrying about is how he does in school and you guys need to talk about other stuff. I can tell you that you will wate a lot of time worrying about how he is doing on the field. I know I did and he turned out OK. Let him know you love him for who he is, not because he plays baseball.
Disregard the comment about its normal for moms to worry, I know dads that have driven themselves and everyone around them nutey because they worry.
Sit back and enjoy the ride, make sure to buckle your seat belt because its often very bumpy.
Most importantly he will be fine, listen, don't give advice, let him seek out his coach for help.