Tre' Morgan, a rising star in the Tampa Bay Rays organization, has captivated the baseball world with his exceptional hitting prowess. The 22-year-old left-handed first baseman has been making waves, both in the minor leagues and the prestigious Arizona Fall League, showcasing his remarkable talent and potential. In this exclusive interview, Morgan delves into the intricacies of his hitting approach, revealing the secrets behind his success and the journey that has shaped him into the formidable hitter he is today.
Unlocking the Secrets of a Hitting Prodigy
Embracing a Contact-Oriented Approach
Tre' Morgan's hitting style is defined by his unwavering focus on making consistent contact, a trait he attributes to the guidance of his father. "As a hitter, I'm definitely contact over power," Morgan explains. "Swinging and missing is something that just shouldn't happen too often." This emphasis on putting the ball in play has been a hallmark of his approach, as he strives to be a gap-to-gap hitter, utilizing the entire field and making the most of his natural hitting ability.The Influence of a Football-Focused Father
Morgan's baseball journey has been heavily influenced by his father's background in football. "He played football, mostly — he played college football and had a couple of tryouts for the NFL — but he taught me everything I know about baseball," Morgan reveals. Despite his father's primary focus on the gridiron, he imparted invaluable lessons to his son, shaping Morgan's hitting philosophy and instilling in him the importance of consistent contact.Rediscovering the Comfort of a Familiar Swing
Throughout his collegiate and professional career, Morgan has undergone a transformative process, constantly refining and adapting his swing. "You would see a completely different hitter," he says, reflecting on the changes he has made. After experimenting with different approaches, Morgan ultimately found his way back to the swing that felt most natural and comfortable to him, one that he had honed during his freshman year in college.The Power of Rhythm and Fluidity
At the heart of Morgan's hitting prowess lies a focus on rhythm and fluidity. "I'd say it's a lot of rhythm, movement, kind of always fluid," he explains. This emphasis on maintaining a smooth, consistent swing has been a key factor in his ability to make consistent contact and drive the ball with authority. The reintroduction of a leg kick, a technique he had previously abandoned, has been instrumental in recapturing this sense of rhythm and timing.Mastering the Two-Strike Approach
One of the most intriguing aspects of Morgan's hitting is his ability to thrive in two-strike situations. "I choke up, I spread out, and I kind of just rock," he describes his two-strike approach. This adjustment in his mechanics and mindset allows him to maintain his power and bat control, even with the added pressure of facing a pitcher's count. Remarkably, Morgan's exit velocities remain consistently around 100 mph, showcasing his ability to drive the ball even with two strikes.The Beauty in Overcoming Adversity
For Morgan, hitting is not just about the moments of success, but also the challenges that come with the game. "There's a beauty in when you're struggling," he reflects. "That's when you find out what kind of person you are." This resilient mindset has allowed him to navigate the ups and downs of professional baseball, always believing in his ability to turn things around and emerge stronger.Tre' Morgan's journey as a hitter is a testament to his unwavering dedication, adaptability, and a deep understanding of his craft. From his contact-oriented approach to his mastery of two-strike situations, the young slugger has honed his skills to become a force to be reckoned with in the Rays' organization. As he continues to climb the ranks, Morgan's story serves as an inspiration to aspiring hitters, showcasing the power of perseverance, self-belief, and a relentless pursuit of perfection.