Quote Originally Posted by shoeless joe View Post
Very true...but instinct and "feel" for the game do take place only in live game situations. There have been a lot of kids that lack those two intangibles that can't max out because of it. But you're right about reps in regards to physical tool development...just don't over do it.
Live games also get the kids used to the pressure situations of game action. When you are fielding ground balls, it isn't as big of a deal to miss one but in a game the pressure is amped up. That is why teams that are experienced at the big games do better in future big games. It reduces the nervousness if you have had the experience before. You can look at the women's title game this year. We had just come off a big win and we came out flat in the title game. USCe has consistently been in higher level games compared to us. They played a lot less nervous than we did.