Greg Maddux on the Power of Mental Performance Training

Written By: Coach Danny, MPM

As coaches, athletes, and mentors, we constantly stress the importance of focusing on what we can control. One of the greatest examples of this mindset in action comes from Hall of Famer Greg Maddux, as shared in his MLB Network documentary, One of a Kind. In a candid moment, Maddux discusses how he turned to mental performance training early in his career to elevate his game.

Rick Sutcliffe, reflecting on a conversation with Maddux in spring training of 1988, recalled:

“He came up to me and he says, ‘Hey, I don’t want you to be disappointed in me.’ I go, ‘Never, what are you talking about?’ He goes, ‘I’m seeing a sports psychologist.’ And I went, ‘Why?’”

Maddux’s response reveals a commitment to self-improvement that extends far beyond the physical demands of baseball.

“I mean, how much of this game is mental?” Maddux reflected. “Back then, I’m thinking, well, what am I doing mentally to improve myself? If the mental side of this game is over 60%, shouldn’t I spend 60% of my time practicing the mental part of the game?”

This moment of self-awareness led Maddux to reshape his focus and adopt a process-over-outcome mindset. He realized he had been wasting energy on external factors he couldn’t control—like the opinions of coaches, fans, and friends. Instead, he redirected his energy to the aspects of his performance within his control.

“The biggest thing that I probably learned was just to worry about the things that you can control,” he said. “At the time, I wasn’t doing that. I was worrying about what the coaches thought, what the fans thought, what my friends thought. So I just kind of reshaped my focus on what are the things I can control.”

This insight speaks directly to the core principles we teach at Prime Mental Performance. Whether you’re a coach, player, or parent, focusing on controllables—effort, attitude, and preparation—forms the foundation of success. Maddux’s dedication to mastering the mental game didn’t just make him a better player; it defined his legacy.

Let this serve as a reminder: greatness isn’t just about physical ability. The ability to control your mindset and focus on the process is what separates good athletes from great ones. Greg Maddux embodied that philosophy, and so can you.

Stay mentally sharp, and remember: the best performances happen when you master what’s inside your control.