We have our youngest guest ever on the "Run The Race" podcast, which you really should subscribe to, for chats like this one with a young baseball star who's learning to put God first in his life while also learning from failure.

(2:08) 19-year-old Columbus Chatt-A-Hoots (collegiate summer team in GA) 1st baseman and catcher Conner O'Neal is talking about how he keeps his competitive passion for the game of baseball. He's also focusing more on nutrition, sleep, building muscle to hit more homers - like the one he hit earlier this week when he was a triple short of the cycle. He has meditation/prayer before every game, to help give him peace in front of thousands of fans.

(8:44) His superstitions include drawing a cross in the dirt before every at bat. Now, the team is playing for a ring, hosting a postseason game tonight (Friday July 29) at Golden Park in Columbus GA. (11:46) We also talk about the World Series champs Atlanta Braves, where his other brother played with their AA team,

(13:43) As for fitness and nutrition, Conner has 4-5 meals a day,but what and when is he eating? You might be surprised. And the intense workouts are only when it's not a game day.

(16:49) He also is focused on being spiritually fit, his family reminding him that his value does not come from baseball, but from the Lord - who doesn't promise an easy life. Facing temptations and other parts of life, Conner prays "let your light shine through me." Hoots teammates also open up to each other, pray together. (23:01) How does he handle adversity? This longtime catcher got a broken thumb while playing for GA State, but has since switched to 1B.

(26:48) Conner talks about his favorite things to do in baseball, unique celebrations on the bases, amazing fans, what it's like signing autographs for fans. (29:29) Could he make the major leagues? And how could that dream become reality? Plan B is still in baseball, but as a coach. This almost-20-year-old also has a message for parents about kids enjoying sports like baseball. After a baseball-themed "Parting Gift" motivational quote, I close out in prayer.

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