In Goodyear, Arizona, the Cincinnati Reds are incorporating an unconventional training method to prepare their young talent for the upcoming season. First-round draft picks Cam Collier and Sal Stewart have been introduced to boxing by Hall of Fame shortstop Barry Larkin. Initially skeptical, these promising players have discovered that this rigorous activity offers more than just physical conditioning; it also enhances mental focus and coordination. Larkin, who has long recognized the benefits of boxing in his own career, now shares this knowledge with the next generation of athletes. The unique training regimen includes speed bag exercises and sparring sessions, all aimed at improving players' overall performance on the field.

Larkin first encountered boxing during his playing days and quickly realized its potential to improve athletic performance. Now, as a mentor, he brings this experience to spring training, helping Reds players prepare for the grueling baseball season. The team has set up boxing equipment near their weight room, ensuring safety measures such as hand wrapping are strictly followed. Collier, ranked among the top prospects in baseball, found his first boxing session to be unexpectedly challenging. "It's the most exhausting thing I've ever done," he remarked, marveling at how boxers manage to go 12 rounds.

Stewart, another highly-ranked prospect, had already been exposed to boxing during his middle school years. His familiarity with the sport made him a natural fit for Larkin's training sessions. When Collier saw Stewart effortlessly executing combinations, he was both impressed and intimidated. "I thought it was his first time, but he made it look so easy," Collier admitted. Stewart's agility and strength, honed through years of practice, serve as a valuable example for Collier, who is eager to improve his skills.

The connection between boxing and baseball is not lost on Larkin. He explains that throwing a punch mirrors the mechanics of swinging a bat or throwing a ball. "It really helped me understand how my body works," Larkin said, demonstrating the similarities between the two sports using a fungo bat. By mastering the rotational and linear dynamics involved in boxing, players can enhance their performance on the diamond. Since retiring in 2004, Larkin has seen the evolution of athlete training, yet he believes that the simplicity of boxing provides invaluable insights into body mechanics and movement.

Both Collier and Stewart were drafted in the first round of the 2022 draft and played third base last season. Despite being known primarily for their hitting abilities, they are now exploring new positions. Collier is getting work at first base this spring, while Stewart previously played second base as well. Their experiences with boxing have not only improved their physical conditioning but also provided them with a fresh perspective on their game. As they continue to develop under Larkin's guidance, both players are optimistic about the positive impact this training will have on their careers.