![](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmVbEgKS3vPsZaFRE66Qz6hmq4WzLr985VYHNqpDgPy2mZ/image.png)

Here's a pic from this past Sunday where I had 3 hits in 7 at bats, with 1 Run and 2 RBI. 

I was the winning pitcher in our second game, ending the contest on a difficult catch of a foul ball near home plate, where I completely ran over our catcher without even feeling it. I was that focused and determined to win that game with the tying run on second base.

#### Through 15 regular season games (12 to go), my offensive stats are:
####
Plate Appearances: 55
Official At Bats: 47 (Minus Walks, SAC Fly, HBP)
Hits: 18
Batting Average: **.383**
On Base %: **.440**
Runs: 11
RBIs: **17** (third in league)
Doubles: 3
Home Runs: 1
Walks: 5
Sac Fly:  2
Strikeouts: 12 (mostly bad timing swinging too early on slow pitchers)
Hit By Pitch: 1 (left thigh)
Fielding Errors: 1

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#### Pitching:
####
I've pitched 29 innings so far and have a record of 3 wins and 2 losses. I usually pitch exceptionally well for 3-4 innings, but then hit a wall when the lineup faces me the third time. This has cost me in ERA and WHIP, which is currently higher than previous years, but I have plenty of time to correct it. 

Two seasons ago, I had an ERA of 2.15 over the full season and was a league leader in the stat. 

I've struck out 12 batters and walked 8 this year. Since I mainly throw a knuckleball, I'm essentially begging hitters to make bad contact with the ball, so strikeouts aren't as common. Getting them to swing and miss three times at a knuckleball isn't easy, but at least I usually make everyone look stupid a few times during their at bats, even if they eventually get a hit.

The opposing bench often has fun watching me and is complimentary with lots of respect for being able to effectively throw a difficult pitch they struggle with. We have fun jawing at each other when I challenge them to take one for a ride if they can.

My ball looks so easy to hit (their eyes light up), but it has sharp late movement to it that leaves people baffled when the umpire calls it a strike. Additionally, this makes it hard for them to make solid contact. 

Most batters look silly when swinging, but they eventually get mad after the embarrassment/team prodding, and move up in the batter's box with a vengeance to eventually get a hit (which usually isn't a good one as an ugly late swing sometimes drops a ball somewhere in the field). I do get a ball crushed off me once in a while, but that's part of the game.

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#### Looking Forward:
####
For offensive comparison, I had 18 RBI in 25 games last year and led my team by 50%. I really want to get to 30 RBI this year and be in the MVP talks. Right now, I'd say that it's within reach for top 5, but there are 3 other players who are also having monster seasons, who are a decent click above me. If they slump, I may be able to catch them, but if they continue on their torrid pace, I'll be behind. I just have to keep up the pace and not miss opportunities to produce. 

At any rate, I'm pretty much a lock for another All-Star game appearance. I'm in great shape for ball right now and still have plenty of season left.

I'd really like another home run and to have a .375+ batting average with 20+ runs and 30+ RBI. Our team is doing well in third place with a powerful offense I'm right in the heart of, so these numbers are possible.

I credit my offseason lifting and simple batting practice 2-3 times a month to stay sharp with the elevated results. I have a lot left in the tank and am ready to bring my offense to the next level I know I can reach when I'm focused and healthy.

Thanks,
@steemmatt