The four best coaches/managers I've ever seen, George Allen (look him up), Chuck Knox, Pete Carroll and Lou Pinella all had different ways of playing the game, but they were exactly the same when it came to their passion for winning. And their visceral hatred of losing. And losers. There was absolutely no room in the clubhouse, sideline/dugout or field for anyone who wasn't totally committed to winning. No time to take a blow or sulk or do anything but focus on winning.
That's my biggest concern for these Mariners. I believe DiPoto is correct in his idea of taking a step back and reimagining this team. With one warning.
While starting the process of learning to win, take care that you don't teach players and coaches to get accustomed to losing.
Where was Marco last night? Four innings, 8 runs (two unearned, but still)? Are DiPoto and Servais on top of this? Do they realize the damage that's done by letting the team play bad baseball?
I watched Beckham walk away from a strikeout in a critical moment a couple of games ago. He didn't look at all upset. Just a neutral look on his face. Another K. No surprise there. Just part of another losing losing game.
Stop it! Wake up. Now!
I once heard someone say, maybe Wyman, that Chuck Knox would stand and look each player in the eye when they came off the field into the tunnel after losing a game. All these years later the thought of the look on his face was still terrifying. Losing is not okay!
I don't mind losing if it motivates getting better. Mallex is showing me that. So has Seager. But if Mitch and Marco are the heart of this reimagined team they better show it in every at bat and every pitch. And I expect Servais to expect, no, demand that and DiPoto to back him up.
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