What This Royals Pitcher Did Before the AL Division Series Will Give You Goosebumps

Cole Ragans took a unique approach to preparing for the American League Division Series. Instead of sticking to the confines of his hotel or the familiar surroundings of a baseball stadium the Royals left-hander decided to take in some fresh air and get a taste of New York City culture.

On Sunday the Kansas City Royals pitcher embarked on an 11-minute stroll from his team’s midtown Manhattan hotel. His final destination wasn’t a high-intensity gym session or a team meeting but rather the picturesque setting of Central Park.

Ragans arrived at Central Park and made his way to the Heckscher Ballfields where he spent some time playing catch. For those who stumbled upon the informal workout session it must have been surreal to see a Major League Baseball pitcher going through his motions in a public park especially considering the high-stakes environment of the AL Division Series.

While Ragans’s decision to play catch in Central Park may have raised some eyebrows the method behind his madness is rooted in the importance of staying loose and focused. In the world of professional sports even the smallest details can make a significant difference and it’s clear that the Royals left-hander is willing to think outside the box to get an edge.

The Heckscher Ballfields where Ragans played catch is a six-diamond complex that hosts a wide range of baseball and softball games throughout the year. Its picturesque surroundings and bustling atmosphere must have provided a welcome change of pace for the Royals pitcher.

Ragans’s ability to stay focused and adaptable will undoubtedly be put to the test as the AL Division Series heats up. With the stakes higher than ever it will be interesting to see how his unconventional preparation pays off on the mound.