I love the game of baseball. It’s a great combination of individual skill and team chemistry. Being a pitcher is a lot of fun because I’m involved in every single play. There’s nothing more satisfying than being able to dig deep into a game and throw the ball exactly where you want to. It becomes a puzzle that you have to figure out. When you do every step well, you end up with a great game—it’s almost like a work of art. Though the work is very methodical, the end result is beautiful.

Baseball carries a lot of special memories for me. I’ve been able to share some incredibly meaningful moments with friends, family, fans, and teammates through this game.

Growing up in Houston I often went to Astros games with my family. I fell in love with the sport at a young age. I loved running around with friends on the field, I loved getting a run and rounding the bases, I loved meeting new friends each season, some of whom are friends for life. My love for this game has only grown since.

Getting drafted by the Astros was a dream come true—I’ll never forget that moment being surrounded by family and friends. Every time I remember that moment it puts a smile on my face.

There are many moments like that for me. My favorite memory is of my grandfather—one of the most Godly men that I knew, who I always looked up to—coming to my little league games. He passed away thirteen years ago, but I still specifically remember being twelve years old, playing in my championship little league game, with my grandfather in the stands. That was the last game that he saw me play—and I hit a home run. Even though we lost that game, it’s such a sweet memory for me because I knew he was there watching me and cheering for me. I’ll never forget that moment.

—Mark Appel

Mark Appel is a regular contributor to The Increase, providing monthly articles and opinions.

View Mark’s Increase Profile here: http://theincreasebaseball.com/author/markappel/

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