Editor’s Note: This article is part of Peak, The Athletic’s desk focusing on leadership, personal development, and success through the lens of sports. Peak connects readers with ideas applicable to their personal and professional lives. Follow Peak here.
The Overlooked Creativity of Baseball
Creativity is a concept I cherish, yet it’s not something I commonly associate with baseball. Unlike sports such as basketball, football, or soccer, baseball seems to offer fewer spontaneous moments. Its repetitive nature—pitcher versus hitter—allows for easier measurement and analysis.
Mark Canha’s Perspective
When I came across a quote from experienced outfielder Mark Canha discussing the importance of creativity in baseball, I was both surprised and curious. At 36, Canha has played for 11 years in Major League Baseball with six teams, including the Kansas City Royals.
Questioning My Assumptions
I sought to discuss creativity with Canha, as it’s a shared passion. I wanted to determine if my views on baseball’s lack of creativity were misguided. My complaint has been that the game’s quantifiable aspects diminish its conversational fun, yet I love baseball deeply.
The Essence of Creativity in Baseball
Canha recounted a story about how a teammate, Rob Brantly, practices hitting with his eyes closed to enhance his swing’s feel and activate his creative side. This approach represents a broader philosophy: creating personalized drills enables deeper understanding and engagement in one’s work.
Breaking Down Mechanics
While baseball appears mechanical—focused on precise movements—it doesn’t capture the full picture. Canha argues that effective teaching relies on making concepts relatable, emphasizing that creativity plays a crucial role in execution and understanding each player’s unique journey.
Encouraging Individuality
The conversation revealed the importance of fostering a creative environment not just through traditional drills but also by embracing unconventional methods. Canha highlighted that routines, while comforting, can lead to complacency; injecting creativity keeps the game engaging and innovative.
Advice for Creativity
Canha’s overall message is about passion. To cultivate a creative mindset, one must deeply care about their pursuits, viewing them as hobbies or obsessions that drive a desire for improvement. Such passion fuels the journey towards understanding and mastery.
