Ex-Mets catcher Mackey Sasser reflects on his past, discusses T.J. Rivera
Mackey Sasser, a name synonymous with baseball in New York, is more remembered by fans as his former college coach than for his throwing issues as a catcher. Sasser, who retired as a .267 career hitter after nine big league seasons, struggled with a unique challenge during his playing days - throwing yips.
The root of Sasser's throwing yips can be traced back to a plate collision with Jim Presley in 1990, which injured his ankles and limited his rock back mobility. This incident, coupled with childhood trauma, contributed to the development of his yips. Post-retirement psychotherapy revealed that Sasser's throwing yips were not just a career-ending injury, but a complex issue rooted in his past.
Despite the yips, Sasser's strength during his playing career was hitting and playing multiple positions. His throwing yips were not present when throwing to bases, but only when trying to throw back to the mound. This discomfort made him a target for base stealers and fans, who often criticised his performance.
Sasser's career-best season was in 1990, a year marked by his false throwing starts that made him a target for base stealers and fans. However, his career was not all doom and gloom. He is proud of his former player, Ronny Rivera, who recently reached the majors.
Rivera, on his second stint with the Mets this season, has a batting average of .355 in the majors this season. He entered the major leagues this month after hitting .323 over six minor league seasons. Rivera's achievements are a source of pride for Sasser, who compares his work ethic to that of Tony Gwynn.
Rivera had a standout game on Aug. 16 against the Diamondbacks in Arizona, where he recorded a four-hit game. Sasser, who enjoys activities like hunting, fishing, and teaching his players to overcome adversity, often thinks about what could have been, yips aside.
After his active career, Sasser worked as a baseball coach in the minor leagues. He is currently serving as head coach at Wallace Community College for 19 years. Sasser's dedication to the sport and his players is evident in his long-standing career as a coach.
Despite the challenges he faced during his playing career, Sasser remains a respected figure in the world of baseball. His resilience and dedication to the sport, as well as his pride in his players' achievements, are testaments to his enduring love for the game.
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