Book Review: The Way of Baseball By Shawn Green
By: Mike Reisman
Recently, I was offered a pre-release of the book The Way of Baseball By: Shawn Green
in exchange for reading and writing a review of the book. So here is the first official book review by Phighting On,
hopefully it won't be the last.
Over 13 full seasons, Shawn Green compiled stats most major leaguers could only dream of: 328 home runs, 2003 hits, two all-star games, a silver slugger, a gold glove, and three times being in the top 10 for MVP voting. However, Green's autobiography doesn't discuss his achievements on the field, but what he did off the field to stay calm and sane while living the life as a big league baseball player.
Whether it's fixing his swing with the help of a batting tee, or getting out of a slump with a simple change of mind-set, Green takes readers behind the scenes, proving that the way you think, not just the way you play, is a huge factor in the success of a professional baseball player. Green talks about things like being in the zone, managing your ego, and not becoming attached to material items, all of which led him not only to a great career; but also, to a happy, and calm life.
However, this book isn't just about baseball, but the impact that baseball had on Green's life and relationships. Green gives an in-depth view on how he managed his relationships with his future wife Lindsay, fellow players like Carlos Delgado and Alex Gonzalez, and even his relationship with himself. This book really tries to focus on the connection between a proper mindset, and being truly happy, not just on the field, but off the field too.
Quotable: "The book gives readers an incredibly vivid view into the life, and mind of a professional athlete, showing how even the slightest changes in mindset can lead to a huge improvement, not only statistically, but also emotionally. It really makes you think about the hard work and strength it takes to be in the MLB, both physically and mentally."
The book comes out tomorrow, June 7th 2011, and is available on Amazon, and Barnes and Noble.