Joe Maddon

As a huge fan of Joe Maddon's personality and strategies, as well as the writing of Tom Verducci, I was amped for this book.

And in many ways, it doesn't disappoint. Joe's telling of his biography is fascinating--especially in how young he transitioned to coaching and the financial woes he had as he started out. What's also cool is how he cultivated his interesting approaches he used in games. From things like batting practice, lineup construction, to even in game plays, it's fun.

I also liked how he was very open with how his tenures with both the Cubs and the Angels ended. I still believe he was done wrong with the Cubs (and personally believe that the front office took away the culture he created). And the Angels decision is as mystifying to me as it is him.

I do wish he was the bigger focus of the book, though. I would've liked to know more about his social and political understanding (seeing as how big his charity and hometown are to him). And I think some backstories on other coaches who worked before him could've been trimmed down.

Still, this is a great read for anyone with even a passing interest in baseball. And like Moneyball, I could see the lessons being used in business in general.… (más)