In a captivating assembly that transformed Fesler Junior School’s cafeteria into a hub of inspiration, Matt Sauer, a remarkable Righetti High School alumnus and current professional baseball pitcher, shared his journey and the accompanying pressures that define a career in competitive sports. Speaking to a captivated audience of seventh graders, Sauer intimately peeled back the layers of a life marked by relentless demands and unwavering faith.
“Stepping into the world of professional baseball eight years ago was a whirlwind of expectations—perform, win, exceed,” he explained, his voice echoing the gravity of the challenges he faces daily. The pressure, he reflected, comes not only from the game itself but also from media engagements and the rigors of travel that often leave him grappling with personal adversities.
Yet, amid the weighty expectations, Sauer found solace and strength in his faith. “The camaraderie I shared with teammates Gary Whitlock and Glen Otto during our time with the Yankees was a source of joy that anchored me,” he remarked, revealing how their shared belief in Jesus Christ forged an unbreakable bond that influenced him profoundly.
As a second-round draft pick by the New York Yankees in the 2017 MLB draft, Sauer’s trajectory has not been without its twists and turns. Recently, as a free agent after pitching for the Kansas City Royals, he shared the swirling possibilities of his future—teams like Kansas City, Miami, and Pittsburgh are in his sights, with a decision on his path looming on the horizon.
Last season, he clocked in 16 innings of relief for the Royals, showcasing an impressive start that ultimately gave way to struggles, as evidenced by an ERA of 7.71. “Baseball is a game of highs and lows,” he cautioned the eager students, highlighting not only the triumphs but also the inevitable obstacles players face.
The assembly, coordinated by Elizabeth Paulus, an influential teacher and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) advisor at the school, gathered a multitude of seventh graders—many of whom are FCA chapter members—eager to extract wisdom from Sauer’s experiences. “I’ve known the Sauer family for years, and seeing Matt inspire these students is extraordinary,” Paulus expressed, her pride in the event palpable.
Sauer’s high school legacy is etched in memory; he was the ace during a glorious 2017 season, culminating in a CIF Southern Section Division 3 semifinal victory where he struck out an impressive 10 batters. That year, the Warriors achieved their storied championship appearance, a moment still cherished by fans and players alike.
In response to a question about his childhood favorites, Sauer revealed his allegiance to the Los Angeles Angels, a passion ignited by watching his older brother, Nick, play. Nick, a former athlete himself, now fires up young basketball minds as a beloved coach at Righetti.
The path of an athlete is fraught with challenges—none more daunting than the specter of injury. “Mentally, being sidelined is the toughest aspect,” Sauer confided, emphasizing the importance of resilience and hard work in the face of setbacks. “Putting in the work is essential; failure to do so risks injury’s return,” he added, the gravity of his words resonating deeply with the impressionable audience.
Ultimately, this enriching encounter left the students with an invaluable lesson on the significance of confidence: “Believing you can succeed is half the battle,” Sauer articulated, a simple yet profound truth that transcends the realm of sports, echoing the life lesson that passion and perseverance are indispensable.
As the assembly drew to a close, one enthusiastic student boldly proposed, “I’ll give you $2 if you join the Dodgers!”—a light-hearted moment that perfectly encapsulated the excitement surrounding Sauer’s visit. In the room, dreams were ignited, and for a fleeting time, the complexities of professional athletics melded seamlessly with the aspirations of young minds poised to chase their own dreams.
