Dear Josh Hamilton,
I'm just an Angels fan, one of many, but I wanted to write a public letter today to you,
Last night, we watched the Angels grab a piece of first place in Texas. It has been a long time since this fan base has been this excited about the team, this late in the year. The fan base is really electrified right now, and Angels fans that had turned away in years past, are starting to wake up, tune in, and hope again.
When we watch baseball, we understand that even the best players in the game struggle at times. We understand, on some level, that in this game, nothing is automatic. We know the Angels play in a pitcher's park, and that swings might be home runs elsewhere, but die on the warning track quite a bit in Anaheim.
I was taking a walk last night, thinking about the journey this team is on, and how you fit into the mix. For a good portion of last season, and good portion of this season, you have struggled to find your rhythm in the batter's box. Albert Pujols has experienced similar challenges, and even Mike Trout has had patches of bad luck and frustration in the course of this season.
So as a fan, what I want to share with you is this: Today you wake up on the team, with the best record in baseball. Forget yesterday, forget the numbers, forget the contract, forget the past, and just go out there and play hard. Attack the ball, savor this moment, say a prayer, and let it fly. It's one thing to have faith in God, but part of having faith, is letting go, and trusting that whatever happens, God has faith in you.
I'm adding that religious element, because that's part of who you are. But the lesson rings true for all people, have faith in yourself, take a deep breath, and enjoy this journey. You might strikeout, you might fail, you might not fill up the stat sheet the way you expect yourself to, but if you play with passion, if you let it rip, if you go all out for this moment, this team, and let go of the past, then life is going to throw some light on your Halo.
I was thinking, there is 25% of the season left, and after that, hopefully the playoffs. That's 41 more games. People are not going to remember the first 3/4 of the season, they are going to remember how the team finishes, and how much the players want it, coming down the stretch drive. Essentially, when you step on the playing field, you are one of the most talented players on the field, the only game that matters, is the one that is being played today.
So forget everything, let it all go, say a prayer, and play your heart out on the field. Run hard on every ball in play, swing with your soul behind the bat, make your throws hard and crisp, and just own this next chapter of your life as an Angel.
We all know baseball can be a head game, but really, when it comes down to this finish, you were made to play this game, and to play it with heart. God gave you these gifts, so have faith in yourself, take a big deep breath, and go for it. Rise.
It's not what happened yesterday, today is the only thing that matters, Seize the day, and enjoy this moment in your life for what it is, a blessing.
Good Luck, and all the best,
From the fans, your fans.