Why Cardinals Players Advocate for Young Athletes to Embrace Multi-Sport Participation in Today’s Specialized Era

Playing in the Major Leagues is a dream for many kids, but only a few make it a reality. Statistics show that only 1 in 200 high school baseball players receives a minor league contract or gets drafted into the Major Leagues.

During a recent St. Louis Cardinals caravan stop in Bloomington, young players had the chance to learn from those who have reached “The Show.” Outfielder Michael Siani encouraged youth to participate in various sports. He believes that playing multiple team sports helps build better teamwork skills.

“Playing different sports can really make you a better teammate,” Siani said. He played baseball, basketball, and soccer growing up and is now starting his second season with the Cardinals.

Pitcher Ryan Loutos, who made his Major League debut last June, echoed Siani’s views. He emphasized the benefits of playing different sports for physical development, even if athletes eventually focus on one sport later on.

“Most big leaguers agree: play as many sports as you can,” Loutos explained. He himself enjoyed football, basketball, and baseball in his youth before concentrating on baseball and golf in high school. He also noted how professional sports now rely heavily on analytics to improve player performance. These metrics can track things like pitch spin rates, which are essential for pitchers since higher spin rates generally make pitches harder to hit.

“I find analytics interesting, but during the game, I focus on competing,” Loutos shared.

Fans from across the Midwest came to meet the Cardinals players, including Siani, Loutos, catcher Pedro Pages, and infielder Jose Fermin, along with former player Xavier Scruggs and broadcaster Ricky Horton. Tiffany Allen and her son, Coleton, traveled two hours from Linden, Indiana, to see their favorite team. Allen’s memories of being a lifelong Cardinals fan include watching Ozzie Smith’s famous backflips and attending Game 6 of the 2011 World Series, where she celebrated her son’s first birthday.

Looking ahead, there is uncertainty for the Cardinals in the upcoming 2025 season after two disappointing years. Plans are in motion to trade star third baseman Nolan Arenado, which could open up opportunities for younger players like Siani. “We will see a lot of young guys playing, and that’s going to be exciting,” Siani said.

As spring training approaches, pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report on February 12. Fans are eager to see how the team will shape up this season.

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