Brandon Pfaadt graduated from Trinity in 2017; however, his legacy still carries on in the halls of Trinity to this day. Pfaadt’s journey from high school baseball player to pitching in the World Series explicates the ability to grow and change through one’s experiences. Reflecting on his experiences, he credits the lessons learned along the way for shaping him into the person he is today—a man of character prepared to face the challenges of his demanding profession. 

During his time at Trinity, Pfaadt realized the significant role that baseball played in his life. It was not merely a sport but a pillar for personal growth. He valued the relationships he built and the experiences he gathered, all of which contributed to his understanding of hard work and dedication.  

Pfaadt faced several challenges in his development, including struggles with time management and being coachable. Pfaadt acknowledges that if he could speak to his younger self a decade ago, he would stress the importance of being coachable. “My ability to be coachable, take a little bit from each coach and grow my game tremendously as a result,” he noted, highlighting how feedback and adaptability are key to his ongoing success. 

“When I think of hard work, I think of my body as a temple,” he shared, emphasizing that the realization of having one body and one mind can contribute to the foundation of working hard. When talking about growth he said, “I was just checking boxes in high school, showing up without applying myself,” a stark contrast to his current mindset. Now, as he prepares for “game 162,” every start matters, and he approaches each day with intention. “Staying present is crucial; I focus on the light at the end of the tunnel and take it one day, one start at a time,” he explained.  

Pfaadt is a professional athlete, the top 1% of his sport. However, when talking about being a rookie and facing the people he grew up watching, he explained that he is human the same as Freddie Freeman, and this is what helped settle him into the big leagues: “You’re playing the same game that I’m playing.” Everybody is playing the same game of life; it is how you approach and accept this challenge that matters.  

Ultimately, Pfaadt’s journey highlights that the lessons learned off the field are just as vital as those on it. He emphasizes that life parallels the game. With a strong foundation of character, accountability, and an open mind, Brandon Pfaadt emphasizes that anybody can succeed in their endeavors whether on the field or in the game of life.