Looking out a window at the snow piled high, it is hard to fathom that it is time to play baseball.
Pitchers and catchers reported on March 24 and the first countable game of the season is April 17. Hopefully, there will be plenty of sunny days in the near forecast.
But, for now, players are working out in the gyms around The County.
“We spend more time on conditioning and various smaller drills to reinforce quick reaction, proper technique and footwork in various aspects of the game,” said first-year Katahdin varsity baseball coach James Zabierek.
Zabierek can eye his hitters inside the batting cage and gauge their stance, swing and follow through and work on adjustments at the plate, but it is very difficult to judge a player’s fielding ability on a flat, smooth gym floor.
“Ground balls are not quite the same,” said Zabierek. “Fly balls are impossible. Generally being able to accurately assess each player’s performance in the gym and how it will translate to the field is the main obstacle for me so far.”
The Cougars actually were outside last Thursday in the parking lot.
“I was able to get the kids out to take some fly balls and work on relay throws,” said Zabierek. “I expect to get out on the field by the beginning of May, unless we are able to borrow a field in the Bangor area for a practice or two, which is something we have done in the past.”
With a prolonged winter and spring not arriving soon enough, it is tough to keep players focused during the preseason.
“Motivation is something I’m constantly trying to improve on,” said Zabierek. “I try to be very vocal about improvements and (working on) weaknesses that I’m seeing and set up goals for each player to work towards.
“As the season progresses, I’ll be looking to the captains to step up and motivate the rest of the group, as well,” he added. “I think peer encouragement can instill a sense of team and responsibility as well as be a great motivator.”
