Melbourne High

In preparation for baseball session, juniors Edward Verbilla and Zachary Mooney spend almost everyday hitting in the batting cages or they go to the field to work on defense. Baseball has become a huge part of both their lives and became an everyday routine. Tryouts can be stressful and to maintain the right mindset Verbilla talks about what he is doing to prepare, “physically I am practicing everyday along with being in the weight room getting stronger and faster. Mentally I am just trying to have fun and remember it’s just a game and to stay relaxed,” Verbilla said. Maintaining a routine and staying on top of it is very important and definitely pays off, especially for both these outfielders who have to cover tons of field and be quick on their field, playing in the outfield is very important for them and have their reasonings on why they play there.”I play outfield as some of my favorite players like Mike Trout have played it and it is just what grabbed my attention at a young age,” Verbilla said.

Tryouts are the third week of January and can be very stressful but Mooney and Verbilla have found their ways to handle the stress and perform well, they also have certain tasks that help the best. “I am focusing on my running and eye coordination because running will keep me in shape. Eye coordination will help me see the ball more when I am up to bat against the pitcher and when I am playing defense knowing where the baseball is going, but also making sure to rest as much as possible to stay energized and keeping myself motivated,”Mooney said. While Verbilla is working on other activities. “I am focusing on some speed exercises along with strength exercises. I am always working on my swing with different drills as well.

Since this isn’t either of their first years trying out for the baseball team or actually being on the team, they have past experiences and tips for when it comes to showing up on the actual day to step on the field to show off to the coaches and perform the absolute best. “I would give someone the motivation to work harder than anyone else that is trying out and I would tell them to prove to the coaches that you belong on the team,” Mooney said. “Come prepared Physically and play loose. Don’t stress or be nervous the whole time just be confident and act like it is another regular baseball practice,” Verbilla said.