You’re not a shortstop

Your current position does not define you. It’s a lesson that players and parents need to learn before it’s too late.

I hear it from parents all the time when they’re looking for a team. “He’s a shortstop,” they say. “Are you in need of a shortstop?” Or it’s catcher, or third base. You get the point…

I understand the pride of having a position — it means you beat out other kids on your team to play there. But you aren’t a shortstop. If that’s how you define yourself, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment.

Let’s say I add you to my roster. Whoops, there’s a better shortstop on the team (maybe two). Then what? Now you may be a third baseman, or an outfielder. How will you handle that? Have you ever played anywhere else, and do you know the responsibilities?

The higher up the ladder you go, the more players there will be who have always been the shortstop. The odds that you stay one aren’t good.

When I’m filling a roster, I’m not looking for a shortstop. I’m looking for athletes who will play anywhere and understand why.

I want players who know the backup, relay and cutoff responsibilities of every position, not just their own.

You’re a baseball player. Be the best one you can be, wherever they put you.