I have been away from the group, holding my breath through my son's freshman year of school and summer of collegiate league ball. It was a grind. He struggled, but he survived, and he came out the other side a different person. I can't believe how much growing up my boy did in a year.
As I watched the ups and downs (both athletic and academic), I was preparing myself for the end of the baseball road. College baseball is a huge commitment. Staying eligible, keeping the grades up, staying healthy, putting up with the 6am lifts, all for very few innings in his freshman year.
His old high school teammates were quitting or getting cut from their respective college teams. I never played sports beyond my freshman year of high school, and I can't imagine the mental toughness required to fight through the adversity at this level.
Now in his sophomore year he is more dedicated then ever. New PRs in the weight room and excelling in the classroom. I am trying to give him his space this fall, but my spys are reporting very good outings in fall ball.
He said he wants to take a couple classes over winter break to lighten his coursework for baseball season (who is this kid?).
I recognize this is a very small window of opportunity and I am cherishing every day that I get to watch him play.
