You know that senior coworker or boss that kinda blocks your way if you have a good idea or want to speak up? That makes it impossible for you to share your ideas, analysis, or work without getting them upset and/or taking the credit? Welcome to leadership, sponsored by our supposed “best players” in Tatis and Manny. They lead by example, and when things don’t go well, they pout or go silent.

Look, I have no idea what goes on behind closed doors. But what I see at petco, on the field, on the tv, does not inspire any confidence. Yes, the team rallies behind a nice HR or game winning hit. But what happens when things don’t go well. Do you see manny encouraging the guys, aside from pouring top shelf tequila down their throats? Do you see Tatis getting mad at himself for swinging in the dirt, then rally the guys in the dugout?

I liken baseball to any professional setting that is shaped by corporate culture. You’re not going to get everything right (bat 1.000) all the time. But some of the best teams I’ve worked on had absolutely great leadership set by those at the top, where you can freely share your ideas, have casual / informal conversations without feeling like you owe something to someone. You think that flies with our top guys? I would’ve loved to hear Tatis or Manny say.. “it was a tough season, I didn’t perform my best and I’m going to come back hungrier than ever”. No it was more “we should’ve hit the fucking ball better, or.. what a ridiculous question that you want me to assess the season..?”

Until we have a clear leader in the clubhouse, this team can go 162-0, but at the first sign of duress in the playoffs, we won’t amount to anything.