Wolf Pack

The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

We’ve all heard this phrase, and we instinctively agree.  It makes sense, in theory.  Yet, players everywhere are training to become better individual “parts” without necessarily focusing on becoming better teammates.

The current baseball environment makes teamwork even harder to develop.  If you’re playing for a high school team—plus a couple of travel teams on the side—you’re constantly adjusting to new teammates as rosters turn over from tournament to tournament.  College baseball isn’t much better.  With the transfer portal essentially turning every player into a free agent each year, many athletes are always searching for greener pastures.  Loyalty to a single program for more than two seasons is becoming rare, especially with schools constantly seeking better players elsewhere instead of investing time developing their own.  With all this movement, how can you truly learn to be a great teammate?

The answer is simple: decide to be one.

“The strength of the Pack is the Wolf, and the strength of the Wolf is the Pack.”

— Rudyard Kipling

The “wolf pack” mentality is a powerful commitment to mutual support: I’ve got your back, and you’ve got mine. Winning teams operate as a unit.  They think, speak, and act as “we” instead of “me.” They aren’t just a collection of skilled individuals; they are something greater—a true team.

But what if you don’t feel that sense of commitment on your current team?  What if you’re not part of a wolf pack?

Then start one.

Team chemistry is contagious—especially when someone steps up to lead.  A random group of players can transform into a true team.  A collection of parts can unite into a whole.  A gathering of wolves can evolve into a pack.  All it takes is a leader.

Be the one who sets the tone.

Become the alpha.