The New York Times took a closer look at the fitness and nutrition camp that Ruben Tejada, Lucas Duda, Juan Lagares, Wilmer Flores, and Domonic Smith attended this offseason.
Tim Rohan writes in the New York Times about the fitness and nutrition camp in Michigan that several Mets players attended this offseason. After reading Rohan's article, it seems like Ruben Tejada, Lucas Duda, Juan Lagares, and Wilmer Flores will each be in the best shape of his life come spring training. The trainer at the camp, Mike Barwis, is quite the character and has worked with college, Olympic, and professional athletes during his career. The article is a quick, entertaining read. Check it out, and here are some highlights:
- Barwis was formerly the University of Michigan football team's strength and conditioning coach and says he raised two wolves. He has a Wikipedia page.
- Duda has lost ten pounds and feels more coordinated.
- Sandy Alderson likes the cold, remote location of the training facility. Fewer distractions for the young men.
- The cost of the program is split between the Mets and each player. Unless the player uses the wrong project code on his expense report -- then it's 100% on the player.
It seems more and more likely that Tejada will be the Mets' Opening Day shortstop, so it's encouraging to read that he is taking fitness seriously. It's baffling to me that a professional athlete would not take fitness seriously but regardless, let's hope it lasts!
