In the world of baseball, it’s not uncommon for players to develop unique hobbies or rituals to help them unwind and stay focused. For Jarren Duran, the young outfielder for the Boston Red Sox, that unexpected passion comes in the form of crossword puzzles. Surprising as it may seem, this newfound interest has had a positive impact on Duran’s mental well-being and performance both on and off the field.
Discovering a Shared Interest
During a recent matchup against the Minnesota Twins, the spotlight was on Duran, as he faced off against talented pitcher Pablo Lopez. While their on-field rivalry drew attention off the field, they shared an unexpected common interest – an affinity for crossword puzzles.
Duran’s teammate, Red Sox pitcher Richard Bleier, hailed Lopez as the best crossword puzzle player he had ever encountered, admiring his ability to complete puzzles in record time, even as a non-native English speaker.
Joining the Crossword Puzzle Community
While the presence of crossword puzzles in baseball clubhouses is not new, it continues to captivate players. Inspired by his teammates’ enthusiasm, Duran quickly integrated crossword puzzles into his routine. Upon entering the clubhouse, he sought out printed copies of the USA Today crossword puzzles, which Bleier and a few other players had made a habit of solving.
Duran uses these mind-engaging games to unwind and quickly focus. They give him an opportunity to feel intellectually stimulated and, in his own words, “act like I’m smart for a little bit.”
Completing puzzles offers a sense of accomplishment and serves as a mental exercise that keeps the brain sharp. The puzzles provide both challenge and entertainment, fostering a culture of camaraderie and intellectual growth within the team.
Benefits and Progress
Engaging in crossword puzzles provided Duran with a much-needed mental break from the game, allowing him to unwind and embrace the feeling of:
Intellectual accomplishment
Relaxation
Mental clarity
Duran admits he hadn’t noticed his teammates’ crossword puzzle sessions the previous year but became captivated by the activity after being called up. Turner, who took a mentoring role, sat down with Duran, offering guidance and teaching him strategies to crack the clues.
The shared experience fostered friendship among teammates, with each puzzle becoming a mini-competition and a topic of discussion.
The Benefits Beyond the Game
While crossword puzzles are not new in major league clubhouses, their impact on players’ performance remains subjective.
Dave Bush, the pitching coach for the Red Sox, who was immersed in crossword puzzles during his playing days, emphasizes their ability to engage the mind. Players find them:
Addicting
Challenging, yet enjoyable, and
Satisfied when they complete them
Duran echoes this sentiment, expressing how the puzzles helped him relax better, even taking them home to complete before bedtime. With a touch of humor, Duran muses about the hypothetical absence of crosswords and the curiosity it would evoke.
Impact on Duran’s Performance
As Duran continues to embrace crossword puzzles, he has experienced a noticeable transformation both in his game and personal life. This season on the field, the 26-year-old outfielder boasts an impressive batting average of .300 and a .827 OPS, showcasing increased confidence and performance.
Off the field, Duran’s infectious smiles and overall comfort have caught the attention of those around him. The daily ritual of engaging with crossword puzzles has undoubtedly contributed to his growth, providing a sense of relaxation and intellectual stimulation that enhances his overall well-being.
Embracing the Unexpected
When reflecting on his journey with crossword puzzles, Duran admitted that he never expected them to become a significant part of his life. He truly appreciates the unexpected benefits it has brought him both personally and professionally.
This unexpected passion has not only enhanced his mental well-being but has also contributed to the positive atmosphere within the team.
Jarren Duran’s evolution extends beyond his performance on the baseball field. By embracing the magical world of crossword puzzles, he has discovered unexplored ways for relaxation, mental stimulation, and personal growth.
As Duran continues to excel in his baseball career, his love for crossword puzzles serves as a reminder, that progress often comes from exploring new avenues and embracing unexpected passions.
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