Extended Update

Before I left for spring training, over 2 months ago, many people asked me where I would be playing this season. I had hoped to make a full season roster and thought the most likely destination would be on Burlington Bees (low A) roster. That obviously didn't happen as I've been in Phoenix this whole time in extended spring training. This was a disappointment at first, and rightfully so, the goal is to move up through the minor league ranks and eventually make the big leagues. Little did I know that 'extended' might be a blessing in disguise.

Looking back now I don't know if I was ready to make one of those teams and I may have been a backup. Here in extended I have been able to play consistently, and get valuable experience at 3rd base, to the point where I'm comfortable at all infield spots except 1st base. I have made huge improvements in the past 2 months and I think being in 'extended' is a big reason for that. Most weeks we play 5 games and I have been getting consistent playing time. The biggest improvement that I've made is mental and the way I approach the games. I have always loved competition, but sometimes I would 'press' and try to perform too hard, which can negatively affect my play. I'm playing my best when I'm into the game, but also relaxed, both offensively and defensively. I have been able to play aggressively relaxed because the stats don't count here. I still want to do my best at all times, and there's no doubt at times I will be frustrated with my play, but I've become better at forgetting the failures and getting ready for the next play/at bat. When my real season does begin I plan to continue my mental improvements and I really expect that to pay off huge dividends.

Like I've mentioned earlier, there is a chance I will be playing for the Vermont Lake Monsters, starting mid June. But there are no guarantees where I will end up and that is out of my control, so I try not to worry about it. It would be an experience of a lifetime getting to play professionally in the northeast, but if an infielder at a higher level is injured or they decide to promote me, that would be great as well. No matter where I'm playing I'm excited about the summer ahead.

My former high school and college teams finished their regular seasons on a strong note. Torrington High won the Copper Division in the Naugatuck Valley League, with a record of 16-4 and will be playing in the league and state tournament in the upcoming weeks. JMU won the CAA regular season title for the 2nd straight year and this marks the 4th time in the last 6 years that JMU has won either the CAA regular season or tournament championship. Congrats to both THS and JMU baseball programs, good luck..I'll be following both teams closely.

Through the Fence Baseball

Through a mutual friend and former teammate at JMU, Chris Johnson, I was put in touch with the head of a new, up and coming baseball website, Through the Fence Baseball. You can visit the website by clicking the following link: www.throughthefencebaseball.com. I have been reading articles on the website ever since I heard about it over a week ago, it's a great website for baseball fans. TTF Baseball covers everything you can think of when it comes to professional baseball, from fantasy baseball, to trade rumors, to minor league baseball, that's where I fit in. Similar to what I have been doing on my blog here, I am going to have my own column writing for Through the Fence Baseball and sharing my professional baseball experience on the website. I will start posting within the next few days, so be sure to check it out. There is one other minor league player who is currently writing for the site, and they are trying to give fans an inside look into professional baseball. I'm excited for the chance to reach a larger audience.