Control What You Can, Enjoy the Moment

Last Friday, I had the opportunity to chat with MLB star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. before batting practice at Yankee Stadium. Players were going through their routines as the stadium slowly filled up, and I asked him a simple question: what would he tell his younger self?

“Just being able to control the controllables. Knowing what you can control, your preparation, your work ethic, what you do before the game. Then once you go out and play, you’ve already done it. Just enjoy the game.”

In a sport like baseball, that mindset is everything. You can do everything right and still not get the result you want. That is where frustration creeps in for a lot of players. Bobby’s perspective cuts through that. Focus on the work you can control, then trust it when it is time to compete.

I also asked how he keeps things fun when the game gets difficult.

“I just gotta know that I have this opportunity every single day. Just gotta make the most of it. Yesterday is the past. Tomorrow is the future. That’s why today is the gift. It’s the present.”

It is a simple idea, but not an easy one to live out. Even at the highest level, staying present takes discipline. It is easy to think about what is next or dwell on what already happened, and in the process miss the moment you are in.

For younger athletes, there is often a mindset of enjoying it later, once they reach the next level. But that moment keeps moving. The reality is, the opportunity in front of you right now is something you once worked for.

Control what you can, trust your preparation, and do not wait to enjoy it.

Thank you for checking out this edition of the Big League Perspective Newsletter! Be sure to share with a friend, teammate, or kid who may benefit! In the meantime, be sure to connect on social media @billythebatboy. 🙌