The Official Site of Mike Maroth

Welcome to the first spring training edition of Mike's Mailbag. I want to begin by thanking everyone for their notes of encouragement and their prayers during this offseason. I read every note that you send in, and it means a lot to know that so many of you take the time to write me.

I also want to say a special hello to all the Kansas City Royals fans! I appreciate all the notes that you have sent, and I'm looking forward to an exciting 2008 season.

And I want to remind everyone to keep submitting your questions by e-mail to mikemaroth@careersports.com. I'll be answering questions each week during spring training!

On to this week's questions:

(From Chris Robbins in Overland Park, KS) How did you become the Major League pitcher that you are today?

My talents in baseball are a God-given ability, and I am very blessed and fortunate to be able to do it. But being successful in the Major Leagues also requires a lot of hard work. I've been playing baseball since I was a kid, and I've always worked very hard to get the most out of my ability. That still holds true today!

(From Drew Osborne) What have you been working on to improve your pitching mechanics during spring training?

Mechanics are a big part of being successful as a pitcher. You have to develop consistency in your mechanics, which comes from repetition. Being consistent with your release point allows a pitcher to throw the ball exactly where you want it.

One of the most important parts of my mechanics is my balance point at the start of my delivery. Early in spring training I fixed a problem where I was landing on my heel. That was causing extra stress on my arm, and not allowing me to extend my arm to my normal release point. That was causing my pitches to not be as effective. Having a soft landing and a good follow through is important to help minimize the stress on my arm.

Stay tuned to www.MarothBaseball.com, and I'll continue to give updates and tips on good pitching mechanics.

(From Daron Kruse) What is your take on the Royals' chances in the American League Central in 2008?

Although I have only been here a few weeks, it's very clear that the Royals' organization is committed to improving the team. To be successful, it takes hard work from everybody. That is the case in Kansas City, from the top of the organization down to the players. We have a lot of very good young players in camp, and I think that with hard work, we have a chance to be very successful this season.

(From Melissa Mazor in Redondo Beach, CA) Each time before you pitch in an inning, you go to the back of the mound and make a letter with your foot. What is the significance?

I am actually making a cross on the back of the mound. I have been doing that since I was in the minor leagues, and I do it before every inning. Doing it reminds me to keep my focus on Christ and that I was given my ability from God. I do everything to glorify Him while on the mound.

(From Chris in Atlanta) How does Arizona compare to Florida for spring training?

I have to admit that I much prefer Florida to Arizona, because I'm from Florida! I was very blessed to have spring training in Florida for the last seven years, and I was able to live at home and commute to the park each day. This year, I am away from my family for the first time, and that has been an adjustment. But Arizona is a beautiful place, the weather is nice, and the travel is much easier between each team's training complex. And my wife and kids are coming out to Arizona next week for the rest of spring training!