See It Before You Do It
Dojo Mindset Series
Visualization is one of the simplest and most powerful tools a ballplayer can add to their routine. The best part? You don’t need a field, a bat, or a ball to use it. By closing your eyes and walking through the game in your mind, you’re building a foundation of confidence and readiness before the first pitch is ever thrown.
See yourself tracking the ball, squaring it up, feeling the rhythm of your swing, or making that smooth backhand play with calm precision. When your mind has already experienced the moment, your body follows with trust.
Mental Preparation: The Second Practice
The best players don’t leave game day to chance — they prepare twice: once physically, and once mentally.
The best players don’t leave game day to chance — they prepare twice: once physically, and once mentally. Visualization sharpens timing, strengthens focus, and creates a sense of familiarity with pressure situations.
When a pitcher imagines hitting a corner on command, or a hitter sees himself staying inside the ball against a tough arm, they’re training their brain to stay calm when the lights are brightest. These mental reps build quiet confidence — the kind that holds up when the game speeds up.
Make It Part of Your Routine
Like any skill, visualization only works if it’s part of your routine.
A few focused minutes before practice, in the dugout, or the night before a game can make all the difference. Picture it clearly. Feel it fully. See yourself succeeding.
The more often you train your mind to lead, the more naturally your body will follow. That’s how good players grow into great ones — not just by working harder, but by preparing smarter.
See yourself succeeding. Your body will follow.
About Josh Paul
Josh Paul is a former Major League Baseball catcher who played nine seasons in the big leagues, including winning a World Series Championship with the Los Angeles Angels in 2002. Known for his exceptional game-calling ability and mental approach behind the plate, Josh caught for some of baseball’s elite pitchers and competed at the highest level of the sport. After his playing career, Josh transitioned into coaching and mental performance training, where he now helps athletes at all levels develop the mental toughness and visualization skills that separate good players from great ones. As a key member of the Florida Baseball Ranch coaching staff, Josh brings real-world MLB experience and a passion for helping players master the mental side of the game.
Ready to Master the Mental Game?
The Florida Baseball Ranch offers elite training programs that combine physical development with mental performance coaching. Whether you’re a catcher looking to elevate your game management or a hitter wanting to develop unshakeable confidence, our DuraCatch™ and DuraHit™ systems will help you reach your full potential.
Train with former MLB players and coaches who’ve been where you want to go. Learn the mental strategies that champions use to perform under pressure.
— Josh Paul