AboutTom O`Leary Expertise I am am best suited to answer questions regarding minor league baseball prospects.
Experience Originally, i started doing this because i became engrossed researching prospects for a fantasy league. Back then all i really wanted to do was answer questions about baseball prospects.
Funny how time flies but twelve years later i have been asked questions regarding the negro leagues, what minor leaguers get paid, why players don't rub their injury when they get hurt, and how players can tryout for the minor leagues to name only a few. i was recently in correspondence with a father of a marine who lost several fingers while in Iraq; he was later drafted by the padres and is playing in their minor league system. additionally, i get a lot of questions from guys asking me if i think they can be successful at these tryouts or if they should tryout at all.
I do my best to answer every one's question without overstepping my bounds of knowledge. *sometimes i have to tell people that i just can't answer their question.* And sometimes i have to tell people that they just aren't good enough to be a professional ball player.*
most recently i have received two negative feedbacks from people who didn't like my response. one 30 year old guy who hadn't played since he was a teenager asked me if he really had a shot at making the tryouts. realistically, i said no. i guess he didn't appreciate my bluntness but what would you have wanted me to say?
i am not really an 'expert' in anything. i just answer people's inquires, give some conservative advise or tell them 'i don't know.' after twelve years i have realized that i do fulfill most most questioners satisfactorily which keeps me doing this.
Question QUESTION: Hi Tom,
Im 6'1, about 180. Ive want to take my game to the next level, whether it being
college ball or for some independent league or low minor league baseball. I had
the chance to go to college and play ball but I didnt. I was wondering if Im ready
to take the next step
ANSWER: Chris,
that's a good question. it's good that you're not asking me what it will take to play in the major leagues.
it really comes down to your desire and love of the game.
why wouldn't you be ready? is anything stopping you besides you? then go for it!
good luck.
tom
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Well I just dont know where to play at? Im guess im partly intimidated by the
other players of where i will play at
Answer Chris,
it has nothing to do with the other players. you need to have the confidence that you are doing the best you can. even the best hitters fail 7 times out of 10.
just go out there, have fun and enjoy yourself. this isn't kick boxing do you don't have to worry about getting your head bashed in if you lose. have fun!
