Veteran’s Performance Soars to New Heights with the Help of Sports Psychologist

Kevin Pillar, outfielder for the Los Angeles Angels, has experienced a resurgence since joining the team in April. His performance was struggling while with the Chicago White Sox at the beginning of the season but has significantly improved since signing with the Angels due to an injury to star player Mike Trout. Pillar started the season with a batting average of .160, an on-base percentage of .290, and a slugging percentage of .360, along with one home run and four RBIs for the White Sox, leading to his designation for assignment.

Instead of accepting the assignment, Pillar opted to become a free agent and found a new home with the Angels. Since joining the team, Pillar has been hitting remarkably well with a .389 batting average, .429 on-base percentage, and .667 slugging percentage, totaling five home runs and 21 RBIs in just four more games. These figures are on pace to be career-best averages for Pillar, who has only hit over .300 once in his career during a shortened season with the Colorado Rockies.

Pillar attributes his improved performance to working with a sports psychologist who provided him with valuable advice. The psychologist’s message of “finishing the race” resonated with Pillar, motivating him to focus on his goals and give his all on the field. This mindset has helped Pillar showcase an impressive performance with the Angels, even as he continues to be a valuable part of the team leading into the remainder of the season. Despite the eventual return of Mike Trout, Pillar’s strong performance suggests that he will continue to be a key player for the Angels moving forward.