The Journal

Notes on mindset

Long-form thoughts on the mental game, mindset, and living with intention — straight from Jay.

The Mental Game of Baseball: A Comprehensive Guide

Baseball is 90% mental — and that's not a cliche. After 17 professional seasons across MLB, Japan, and Mexico, here's what I've learned about the mental game and how to train it.

Jay Jackson·June 26, 2026

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Mental Mindset5 min read

The Pre-Game Routine Every Elite Player Uses (That No One Talks About)

Most players prepare physically. Very few prepare mentally, and that's the gap. Here's the 5-step pre-game routine elite baseball players use to lock in before every game.

Jay Jackson·May 4, 2026

Mental Mindset6 min read

Why Most Baseball Players Struggle Under Pressure (And How to Fix It)

Even elite hitters fail nearly 70% of the time. Pressure is constant in baseball — and most players handle it with the wrong tools. Here's how to train the mental game that actually controls performance.

Jay Jackson·April 17, 2026

Mental Mindset5 min read

The One-Pitch Focus: Why Presence Is Your Most Powerful Tool

Every mistake carries weight — but only if you let it. The players who consistently perform under pressure have mastered one skill above all others: staying present in this single pitch.

Jay Jackson·March 20, 2026

Foundation4 min read

Know Your Why: The Foundation Every Player Needs Before Spring Training

Before you can build toughness, leadership, or consistency — you need to know why you play. Not the answer your coach wants. The real one.

Jay Jackson·March 10, 2026

The Saturday note

Read it first, every week

One honest note on mindset and intentional living — delivered every Saturday.