Dr. Faceoff or: How Chad Gilbert Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Game

[Fire_In_Babylon 35]

You would think San Diego Marlins Center Chad Gilbert was feeling pretty about himself these days. He’s 18 years old and already 2^nd in the league at Face Offs at 63% (for players over 1000 FOT).

Turns out, he’s not. He’s actually pretty upset.

Gilbert isn’t exactly known for his brains but it seems he’s finally figuring out that his game needs to be more about winning the puck drop.

“I need to contribute more to this team. We’re turning a corner, winning more games and climbing in the standings, but if we’re gonna keep that pace I need to do more than 7 points in 30-something games. It’s embarrassing.”

Watching practice this week its clear Gilbert is serious improving his overall game. He’s taken extra drills in passing and defense. He was even seen talking to teammate Frobe about defensive strategy, much to Frobe’s dismay,

“I mean, I wanna help the kid but it takes a ton of patience getting through to him about back-checking. He thought it meant hitting people with his back. I mean… c’mon.”

His teammate’s frustrations aside, it’s clear they appreciate his commitment. However, only time will tell if Gilbert’s renewed focus will translate come game time. Still, Gilbert believes in himself

“I’m not gonna end up a Pantene Pro, that’s not my game, but I don’t wanna be another pylon either. I’m young, I got that going for me. Plenty of time to sort myself out.”

[diamond_ace 3,112]

I like the reference in the title