The Mental Game of Baseball: A Guide to Peak Performance [Paperback]

H. A. Dorfman (Author), Karl Kuehl (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 16, 2002

Without a doubt the classic guide to mental performance enhancement for baseball. Here in the third edition, authors H.A. Dorfman and Karl Kuehl present their practical and proven strategy for developing the mental skills needed to achieve peak performance at every level of the game. The theory and applications are illustrated by anecdotes and insights from major and minor league players, who at some point discovered the importance of mastering the inner game in order to play baseball as it should be played. Intended for players, managers, coaches, agents, and administrators as well as fans who want a more in-depth look at the makeup of the complete baseball player.

Editorial Reviews

Review

This is the most helpful book I've ever read. I, along with several of my teammates refer to Mental Game of Baseball as the 'Baseball Bible.' (Al Letier, New York Mets )

Coaching the Mental Game is a must for managers and coaches at every level. (Peter Gammons ESPN Magazine )

About the Author

H.A. Dorfman was a noted sports psychologist as well as a sports psychology counselor with the Scott Boras Agency. Recognized as a leading sports psychologist across the world, Dorfman was also a columnist and freelance journalist with articles appearing in The New York Times, The Boston Globe, and The Miami Herald. He has authored three other books: Coaching the Mental Game, The Mental ABC's of Pitching, and The Mental Keys to Hitting.

Product Details

• Paperback: 360 pages
• Publisher: Taylor Trade Publishing; Third Edition edition (May 16, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1888698543
• ISBN-13: 978-1888698541
• Product Dimensions: 6.1 x 0.9 x 9.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (43 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #10,043 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #10 in Books > Sports & Outdoors > Miscellaneous > Sports Psychology
  • #41 in Books > Sports & Outdoors > Baseball

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

61 of 63 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars A must read for serious baseball players March 27, 2001

By A Customer

Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase

I have three boys who play ball from little league to college teams. When they are in high school, I give them a copy of this book. More than any new glove or bat, more than 100 hours of cage time, more than any clinic, this book is the single most influential thing I can do to help them get better. The concepts in this book are applicable to most facets of life, but are set in the context of baseball. Look, I've seen the inflated ratings for books here, but I believe this one really deserves a 5. A lot of books on sports psychology seem like fluff to me. You've heard it: "Take a deep breath, focus, sharpen your vision, control your emotions." Huh? This book is meaty and informative. It tells stories that illustrate not only why it is so critical to improve mentally, but gives proven examples of how. The book is full of testimonials and examples from major league players. I couldn't say it is the first and last word on the subject of mental baseball, but it is BY FAR, the single best source I've read. I agree with the review above that this book is a MUST read for anyone serious about improving in baseball, and certainly for anyone hoping to play at the higher levels.

43 of 48 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars BUY THIS BOOK BEFORE ANY OTHERS! August 7, 2001

By A Customer

Format:Paperback

My son is an 11 yr old travel baseball player. While fundamentally sound, recovery from a mistake, a bad at-bat, individual focus and concentration have always been challenging. This comprehensive, insightful book on the mental aspect of performance is simply amazing -- I couldn't put it down. Immediately after reading I began implementing the mental tips provided in this book. The results were instantaneous! His concentration, visualization, focus and relaxation improvements translated directly into improved performance. Batting avg sored and pitching performance increased dramatically. Through visualization of proper techniques, written goals and the ability to relax, he was 2nd on the team in BA during 2001 USSSA world series w/ .483 avg and was winning pitcher in the championship game against Puerto Rico. Without the techniques in this book, I have no doubt his performance would not have been as successful. I take the book with me every where to use as a reference -- pages are highlighted and becoming frayed. Make no mistake....if you have an established player looking to improve, buy this book before any other. In my opinion, this book will benefit even the most advanced player!

19 of 22 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Very practical guide to understanding self doubt July 25, 1999

By [e-mail]

Format:Paperback

I was given this book as a freshman in college where I played for a Division I school. Actually, every player on the pitching staff was given the book. Understanding my own self doubt and being able take advantage of the situation clearly helped me become one of the top 5 ERA leaders in the country my junior year in college. I have read the book every year to understand and manage the self doubt I feel when the pressure of a situations mounts. Reading one chapter of the book will allow any serious ballplayer to recognize the principles and words the book is portraying. This book is a must read for any competitive spirit, whether it be sports or professional life, because it incorporates all those fears you have always encountered and shows you how to control them and use them to your advantage. In fact, as a litigation lawyer, I often read a couple of chapters of the book before going to trial.