Preparation Precedes Performance (2)

We previously posted an item on a SF Giants backup catcher who spent most of his time, preparing and waiting for his chance to play.

"I try to act like I'm a starter because I don't want to be put in a situation where I'm not prepared. ... That's the last thing I want to do." - Eli Whiteside, S.F Giants backup catcher

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/03/03/SPNF1I2COF.DTL

This past Friday, he made the most out of his opportunity.

" ... With the throw coming from left field, Whiteside could see the entire picture. The throw was so quick getting home, and the hop so high, Whiteside also could remain upright and prepare for Fielder. Whiteside was right on the plate, too, so Fielder had no option but to slam into the catcher, which he did with a fierce shove. Whiteside then showed a side not seen before, in public, anyway. With his bare hand holding his glove shut, he slammed his hands into Fielder's chest.

After the "out" call, Whiteside tossed the ball past Fielder toward the mound dismissively, with attitude. Fielder walked away wearing a sly smile.

"If he's coming at you, you can come at him a little," Whiteside said. "There's no rule in the book that says you can't take it to him."

If Crawford's slam allowed the Giants to exhale, Whiteside's tag let them exult. Or in Aubrey Huff's words, 'That fired us up.' ..."

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/05/28/SP301JMMCE.DTL

Classic Strategy Rule: Proper planning and preparation prevents pissed, poor performance.