Practice — and superstition — makes perfect
It seems the words routine and superstition blend together for the Winnipeg Goldeyes. While the players have a set pre- and post-game timetable — whether or not they label all […]
The Winnipeg Goldeyes, a minor league baseball team, have a unique blend of routine and superstition in their pre-game rituals. Pitcher James Bradwell, while not claiming to have any crazy pre-game rituals, sticks to his personal order of putting his right sock on before his left and his cleat on before his left. Handstands and cartwheels on the field are not daily occurrences for Bradwell, but he enjoys staying loose before each game.
The pitcher has a go-to playlist featuring The Beatles' greatest hits, with "Hey Jude" being his number one choice. Bradwell needs a new piece of gum, specifically Hubba Bubba, every inning he pitches, resetting for the next three outs. Once the game is over, the superstitions disappear from his mind. Fellow righty Kevin Vaupel also follows a routine stretching and card game routine, accompanied by music to get him game-ready.
He enjoys playing games like Pluck, Blackjack, or Poker with the team to distract himself from any upcoming stress. Post-game, Vaupel avoids dwelling on the outcome. bullpen closer Arij Fransen prefers Welch's fruit snacks to avoid hunger and has a specific way of setting down his gear. Fransen no longer follows a superstition about matching the color of his underwear to the jersey.
Catcher Kevin Garcia has a game-day routine that includes seeking his parents' blessing, sending messages to his family, and drawing a fish symbol in the sand to represent his faith. Garcia also makes sure to call his wife before and after the game, ensuring he sticks to his routine for success.
Written by urgent.news from Winnipeg Free Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
