10 Things That Require Zero Talent – But Win Ballgames

As coaches, we’ve seen a lot over the years—elite athletes with natural gifts, grinders who outwork everyone, and everything in between. But recently, something simple that made us think. We talk a lot about how much work it takes to be great, but what about the things that take no work at all; no effort. The post was a photo from the University of Virginia: a painted wall outside what looked like their locker room. It read:

"10 Things That Require Zero Talent"

1. Being on time

2. Work ethic

3. Effort

4. Body language

5. Energy

6. Attitude

7. Passion

8. Being coachable

9. Doing extra

10. Being prepared

Ten things. Zero talent. But we’d argue these are often the difference between good and great, between a teammate and a leader, between a ballplayer and a winner.

1. Being On Time

It sounds basic, but punctuality sets the tone. Being on time tells your teammates and coaches that you're dependable, respectful, and locked in. Great teams are built on trust—and trust starts with being where you’re supposed to be, when you’re supposed to be there.

2. Work Ethic

Talent might get you noticed. Work ethic gets you results. A kid with average tools but relentless work habits will outlast and outperform the naturally gifted player who coasts.

3. Effort

Effort is one of the few things every player controls every rep, every drill, every inning. You don’t have to be the best player to sprint to first, dive for a ball, or back up your teammates. You just have to care.

4. Body Language

Your body talks louder than your mouth ever will. Slumped shoulders, rolled eyes, walking through drills—it tells us (and your teammates) that you’re checked out. However, good body language shows confidence, readiness, and respect. It can change the vibe of a team.

5. Energy

Energy is contagious. You bring it, you raise the level of everyone around you. You drain it, and the team feels it. We’re not saying you need to be the loudest guy in the dugout, but bring something to the table—enthusiasm, focus, support.

6. Attitude

A positive attitude doesn’t mean pretending everything’s great. It means staying resilient, being coachable, and choosing to respond to adversity with maturity. Baseball’s a game of failure—attitude is how you stay in the fight.

7. Passion

We can’t teach you to love the game. But when you do, it shows. Passion drives the extra reps, the early mornings, the dirty pants and sore arms. It’s what keeps the game fun—even in the grind.

8. Being Coachable

One of the most valuable traits any player can have. Listen. Learn. Take feedback. Try it. You don’t have to agree with everything, but you do need to be open. Coachability isn’t about perfection—it’s about growth.

9. Doing Extra

Championships are won in the unseen hours. Taking extra swings, stretching after practice, reviewing your at-bats, watching film—doing extra isn’t about showing off, it’s about showing up for your future self.

10. Being Prepared

Success isn’t an accident. Be ready. Know the signs. Understand the game plan. Pack your gear. Hydrate. Be mentally locked in before you ever step onto the field. Prepared players make plays. Unprepared ones make excuses.

As coaches, these are the traits we value, often more than raw talent. We can teach mechanics, clean up footwork, adjust swings. But we can’t teach heart. We can’t teach want-to. And we shouldn’t have to.

If you want to separate yourself from the pack, these 10 things will do it. No tools required—just a choice.

And that’s the beautiful part: every single player can choose to be elite in these areas.

Let’s get to work!