We are down to our last week of spring training and for me the season can’t start soon enough. The games get more intense at this time and the bell has rung so to speak.

You really can’t tell how the season is going to go from spring training, but I can tell you that I definately have some fuel for the fire. I came across a question and answer that I found interesting and motivating. With a question asking if the Astros “can” make the playoffs … Not even asking if we WILL make the playoffs but if we “CAN.” The answer was “Put me down for a No.”

This fires me up more than anything. I love it when I’m doubted and my team is doubted, because now we have even more to prove. This gives a little extra motivation.

On another note, it’s been good to see Tejada these last couple days. It’s unbelievable how he flipped the switch right after our off-day. I’ll be honest I wasn’t sure about his swing until now, but he is playing a different game than before. That’s what is so amazing about the veterans, they know just how to get themselves right in spring training. Most of them work on things until the last week then amp it up to a new level whenever they want.

Every at-bat early in spring he wasn’t in good rhythm and now all of a sudden, he hasn’t had a bad at-bat in three days. You could say that’s just the ups and downs of baseball, but he literally told us “Now it’s time to get it going.” And that’s just what he has done.

I have learned so much from this spring training, seeing how it’s my first one to be on the major league team. Every year before this has been completely different. It’s nice now, because I can use what I learned this year to better prepare for next year.

My goal is to maximize my strength, speed and baseball feel for the season. If I had it to do over again, I might focus a little less early in spring on hitting and use more of that energy in the weight room, because we have such a long time to let the game sink in.

I was in a rush to feel mid-season form this year and probably over did my cage work. All in all I’m very happy with where I’m at and soon all the talk will be over and the season will be here.

It’s go time! =)

Hunter

Post from: EveryJoe

From Hunter: It’s Go Time!

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Video: Houston Astros Season Preview