#301: Clingstones' Fast Kevin Kilpatrick Jr Swings Away, From Braves Baseball To Putting God 1st

Hoping to be a future Atlanta Braves outfielder, Kevin Kilpatrick Jr. is just a few steps away from it. The CF for the baseball organizations AA affiliate Columbus Clingstones is this week's guest on "Run The Race." And he runs...fast, to catch balls and around the bases! The Georgia native talks about being drafted...fitness training that helps him hit homers and steal bases...making God and prayer a priority...support from fans, teammates...and how explosive jumps in the gym helps him with speed. (2:44) Earlier this month, it was a first for "Kevo" as he was named Southern League Player of the Week, out of hundreds in their section of the minor leagues, thanks to batting over .600 with 3 homers in 3 games and 9 RBI. We talk about how the College Park GA kid started in baseball, chose it over football. And how about that moment being selected by his favorite Braves team as their 17th round pick in the 2022 MLB draft? He describes that, including an almost dead phone battery. (13:28) We also dive into his typical day as a Columbus Clingstones player, including practice and recovery (ice baths) and training - from muscle memory reps to weight lifiting. Gotta stay in shape for a long season! (18:05) Kilpatrick's goal is also to "keep God first." He opens up about praying and trusting, trying to do the right things, leaning on his faith during long road to MLB, growing up in church but not being able to attend as much during the baseball season . (22:48) He also loves baseball and the fans encouraging him to keep his head up. He's not giving up on his dream of playing for the Braves, but for now, he's on a journey with his Stones' teammates which he describes as a brotherhood, including new top prospects recently added to the squad. Who would he pick in a fantasy draft of Braves or Clingstones players? (31:49) Kevin also gives us insight on ways he avoids injuries on the field...making decisions on stealing bases with instincts...exercises that help with speed like explosiive jumps, with weights too...and what he does for fun with his girlfriend. (42:35) Closing out the episode in prayer. THANKS much for listening to the podcast! Make sure you subscribe/follow "Run the Race," and tell your friends about it.