The Mental Game of Baseball: A Guide to Peak Performance

by H.A. Dorfman, H.A. Dorfman

In this book, 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.

Genres: Baseball, Sports

360 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2016

About the author

Harvey A. Dorfman (May 21, 1935 – February 28, 2011) was best known as an mental skills/sports psychology coach who worked in education and psychology as a teacher, counselor, coach, and consultant. Prior to starting a business as a mental skills coach, he lived in Manchester, Vermont. He also wrote for a local paper, taught English, and coached basketball at Burr and Burton Semi­nary (now Academy). He earned World Series Championship rings by serving as a mental skills coach for the 1989 Oakland A's and the 1997 Florida Marlins. In 1999, Dorfman became a full-time consultant teaching the skills of sport psychology and staff development for the Scott Boras Corporation, an agency that represents professional baseball players. He also worked as a freelance journalist and lectured at major universities and corporations on psychlogy, self-enhancement, management strategies, and leadership training. Through his books and his teaching experience, he helped thousands of people get more of what they wanted from life through his tough love and clear insight. Some baseball greats give him credit for their success in life as well as in baseball. He died on February 28, 2011

Reviews

[Kristine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was recommended to me by a sports psychologist that worked with the Baltimore Orioles in preparation for the "Mindset of a Champion" final project I did with the TC Williams boys baseball team for my Positive Psychology certification. The topics aligned nicely with the program I put together, great applicable stories and overall a valuable resource to the importance training the mind like we train the body. The best athletes get this and practice it regularly, it's a natural part of their preparation - notice the difference!

[Skywalker Hu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here’s what I think of this book. This is a sports psychology book, a great self-help book (there are many terrible ones and I think most are actually terrible), and a must-read book if one wants to become a better man or woman.
The author offers so many little details that will get you moving. That is very special because the coverage is simply comprehensive. A lot of things I wasn’t sure would make sense, make sense.
Reading this book AND implement recommended tactics will get me far. I know that and I will do.

[Adam Krajewski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bible for ballplayers... Great insight into goal-setting, visualization, attitudes and approaches in both practice/game scenarios. Filled with applicable exercises and tid-bits to assist in the greatest game inside of the game--learning and controlling your own mind.

[Lifespicer Tapps · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book certainly taught me lots, but it wasn't the most interesting or engaging read. I'm gonna try some of H.A.'s advice and tips and implant them into my regular playing. Hope they work!

[Maddux DeGraffenried · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book it talked about the mental aspect of baseball and how you can overcome it, sometimes the book can kind of be boring just because there's not action.

[Davis O'Brien · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book provided some interesting concepts on ways to approach being a good baseball player on the mental side of things. Fun to read during the twilight days of my baseball career

[Andy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been playing baseball my whole life, and this book opened up a whole new world to me. A must read for anyone who wants to get the most out his ability.