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Legendary Encarnacion relays words of wisdom to young Blue Jays star
Photo credit: Sportsnet
In the dynamic world of Major League Baseball, mentorship often plays a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of budding stars. Recently, veteran slugger Edwin Encarnacion has stepped into the spotlight by offering emerging Blue Jay star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. some words of wisdom.
Guerrero Jr. and Encarnacion's relationship spans back to Guerrero Jr.'s childhood. However, with Encarnacion now dedicating more time to the Blue Jays as a special assistant to baseball operations, their conversations have evolved.
During practice at Rogers Place, the ex-Blue Jays star keeps a close watch as Guerrero Jr. fields ground balls near first base. After drills, Guerrero Jr. takes a seat on a blue bucket near the batting cage, where Encarnacion joins him for a chat.
For instance, they discuss managing self-imposed pressure and navigating the urge to carry the team alone.
"You're gonna feel it, especially when you know you're the guy," Encarnacion said. "That's when you got to think about it and take pressure out and control what you can control. Sometimes you [direct] your attention to things you can't control and that's why I'm here — to talk to him about that. Because it happened to me before."
Encarnacion has discussed with Guerrero Jr. the importance of sustaining such tenacity, and his advice is resonating with the young player.
"The thing that he understands more is just keep working, keep grinding your at-bats,» Guerrero Jr. told reporters this week. «To not give up. Keep fighting. Keep swinging. The hits are going to come. He's been excellent.»
Encarnacion has been emphasizing to Guerrero Jr. the importance of maintaining a consistent level of thoughtfulness. While Guerrero Jr. may feel the weight of carrying the team on occasion, it's crucial to recognize that generating five runs can't rely solely on one at-bat. Will this insight prove beneficial to the young star? Only time will reveal its impact.
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AVRIL 18 | 104 ANSWERS Legendary Encarnacion relays words of wisdom to young Blue Jays star Will these words of wisdom help Vladdy? | ||
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