Former MLB pitcher and outfielder Rick Ankiel has a unique new role in the Washington Nationals organization – life skills coordinator. Now, what exactly *is* a life skills coordinator? Here’s how the Nationals explained the position.
Washington also welcomes back to the organization Ankiel, who will serve as the Life Skills Coordinator. Ankiel retired in 2013 after playing parts of 11 Major League seasons with six different clubs, including the Nationals (2011-12). He will draw on his vast experience as a player to help mentor Nationals farmhands.
Huh. Well then.
Ankiel went through a lot in his career, and his case of the yips that forced him off the mound is one of the more sad stories we’ve seen on the field in recent years. Hopefully, Ankiel can help Washington’s minor leaguers stay strong, keep their heads up, and make good personal decisions as they get closer and closer to The Show.
[MLB.com]
