MLB player makes big mistake but shows impressive resilience

Editor’s note: This article is part of Peak, The Athletic’s section focusing on leadership, personal development, and performance in sports.

When Trevor Hoffman faced setbacks, he always looked at himself first. Despite being the National League’s all-time saves leader and a Baseball Hall of Famer, he felt the weight of failure. Hoffman emphasized the importance of taking responsibility, especially in front of the media.

During a recent game in Los Angeles, Phillies reliever Orion Kerkering made a crucial mistake that led to his team losing Game 4 of the National League Division Series to the Dodgers. Kerkering admitted his error in a candid post-game interview, acknowledging his blunder and the impact it had on the outcome.

In a tense moment with bases loaded and the score tied, Kerkering mishandled a play, resulting in a costly error that ended the series. Despite the disappointment, Kerkering recognized his mistake and expressed determination to learn from it and move forward.

Mistakes in sports can be relatable to anyone, as seen in Kerkering's experience. Accepting accountability during challenging times is a common theme in sports. Athletes like Chris Jones and Tyrique Stevenson have also faced public scrutiny for their errors but have shown resilience in owning up to their mistakes and using them as opportunities for growth.

Athletes often have to confront their failures publicly, as Hoffman highlighted the importance of taking ownership of mistakes and learning from them. Kerkering’s honest acknowledgment of his error and commitment to improving his skills demonstrate the power of accountability in sports and personal development.