For this project, I got to explore Neil Ramirez’s professional journey as a former Major League Baseball player. I created a interview using using information from public sources and his career. During our conversation, I asked him about his challenges throughout his career and also advice for athletes like myself trying to reach the next level. The answers that he gave helped me have a better understanding of what it truly takes to succeed in sports.

Neil Ramirez is from Virginia Beach, Virginia, and went to Kempsville High School. Kempsville High School is where he will then get drafted out of out in the MLB Draft. Neil was drafted by the Texas Rangers in the first round of the 2007 MLB Draft. He explained to me how the journey to the Major Leagues wasn’t easy, as he would have to work his way in the minors and also dealt with some significant injuries throughout his career. In his career he played for few other teams including the Chicago Cubs and the Minnesota Twins. Which is a good example of showing how he had to adjust during his career as being traded isn’t easy and is a whole process itself.

One of the things that stuck with me the most from talking with him was that talent is not enough at the professional level. He said at that level that all the players are talented, so its the ones that are keeping there work consistent and do the right things and work hard everyday. Neil talked about how he had to change his focus and routine more on preparation after having setbacks in his career.

Neil also taught me and made me realize how important mindset is at the highest level. He said even when things are not going well you still have to believe in yourself and stay confident. As I believe this is a huge part to the game the mental side. This is something that I can apply to my own career as well even when things dont seem they are going my way I still need to be extremely confident and believe in myself.

Another really important thing he talked about was that making into the MLB does not just mean that your spot is secure and safe. He talked about players always competing and are having to prove themselves everyday. Especially since he was a pitcher and the batters he were facing kept adjusting to his pitches and figuring out what he had. So he had to stay consistent with his work and adjust. This helped me understand how important it is to stay ready and keep improving.

Neil also talked about how great connections and relationships are in the baseball world. He said while that skill gets you noticed, building trust with coaches, agents and teammates can help you stay in the game longer.

Overall, this interview helped me grow and learn how to succeed in professional baseball. Not just physically but as well as mentally. As a current college athlete I will be taking his advice and applying it. By staying consistent, making relationships and connections in the sport and lastly working hard. Talking with Neil made me realize and showed me that the journey is difficult and there will be challenges along the journey such as failure, injuries and competition. What makes the good players from the bad is how they respond to those challenges. His story made it clear that staying consistent and believing in your preparation, and continuing to work everyday keeps moving you forward.