The Springfield Cardinals are having a solid second half of the season, battling for the top spot in the Texas League.
Also, on the leaderboard, the Spring Birds Mike Antico is in the top ten in the minors for stolen bases.
Before Antico was robbing bases in the minors, he noticed his speed at a young age.
“They just put me out in center field because it just seemed like I was the fastest guy on the team,” said the Cardinals outfielder.
Ever since, he’s been the fastest guy at every level and continues to play center field.
“Obviously his legs help him cover a lot of ground that’s why we have him in center,” said Springfield Cardinals manager Jose Leger.
His legs are just a benefit in the outfield, when he’s on the base paths, the speedster really shows his value.
“He’s very explosive, a very fast guy, he’s been clocked at sub four seconds down the line on ground balls which is elite,” Leger said.
That elite speed has led the 24-year-old to steal more than 50 bases this year, during his time at the A+ and AA levels.
“The one thing he’s got is that base stealer instinct, so he can go out there and read the pitchers. He knows when to go,” Leger added.
That instinct is just as important as the speed itself.
“Guys are fast and can’t steal bases, guys aren’t so fast and can steal bases it’s really about the initial jump you get,” Antico said.
To get a good jump, you need to study.
“He will come in and go over videos and tendencies to see what the pitcher is doing. If he is doing something with his hands, or shoulders, or even the head, his pick-off attempts. He does his homework,” said Leger.
His studies are paying off, helping him get one step closer to home.
“It makes it easier for me to just try to get on base because I know that if I get to first I can steal second, steal third, score,” Antico said.
