Chapter 10: How You Do Anything Is How You Do Everything
By Adam Sparks, Pensacola Blue Wahoos Athletic Trainer (Miami Marlins AA Affiliate)
Tales of the Tape: My Journey as a Double-A Athletic Trainer is a behind-the-scenes look at what it truly takes to support a professional baseball team through a grueling Double-A season—told through the eyes of Adam Sparks, the athletic trainer for the Pensacola Blue Wahoos, Double-A affiliate of the Miami Marlins. While players chase their big-league dreams, Adam is working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep them healthy, prepared, and on the field. From early mornings in the training room to late-night treatments after walk-off wins (or tough losses), this series pulls back the curtain on the day-to-day life of a minor league athletic trainer—the routines, the challenges, the unexpected moments, and the heart that goes into a job most fans never see. We hope you enjoy following the journey. Now, let’s get started.
Consistency. That’s the theme of this week—consistency in routines, communication, and care. Whether managing a return-to-play plan, prepping for another road trip, or sneaking a few precious minutes on the field with my son, this week reminded me that showing up with the same energy and focus every day truly matters.
Monday, June 2 – Follow Up & Family Time
Met one of our players at the doctor’s office for a follow-up with our team MD. After the appointment, I updated our directors on the findings and the new plan of care. I spent the rest of the day at home with my family, recharging and prepping for the week ahead.
Tuesday, June 3 – A Full Day, On and Off the Field
Arrived at the stadium around 10 a.m. Rehab players came in early to get their work in. From there, it was the usual flow—checking in with the staff, EAP review with the visiting ATC, activation programs, bullpens, and game prep. One player was removed mid-game, and our team MD, who was in attendance, did an immediate evaluation. I coordinated imaging and follow-up, then wrapped the night with treatments, notes, and a few special moments on the field with my family before heading home.
Wednesday, June 4 – Next Steps
Same start, same steady rhythm. Rehab work, pregame prep, fatigue monitoring, and post-throw care. Our MD followed up with imaging results from Tuesday’s injury, and I updated the directors and coaching staff on the new plan. Another player reported discomfort postgame and I jumped into evaluation mode. These moments are reminders that staying locked in and steady keeps everyone moving forward.
Thursday, June 5 – Routines & Reassessments
Later arrival today meant a little more time with family in the morning. At the stadium, we kept it rolling—rehab players, daily care, and reevaluation of the player from Wednesday night. Updated the directors and stuck with the rhythm of bullpens, post-throw arm care, and gameday routines. Another night, another few minutes on the field with my son before postgame work and notes.
Friday, June 6 – Game Interruptions & Game Faces
The day began at 10 a.m. with rehab and routine pregame care. During the game, we had an on-field injury that required evaluation and removal. I quickly notified our directors, managed the player’s care, and prepped the next steps. Postgame, we got back to the usual: arm care, treatments, cleanup—and just enough time for a quick run-around on the field with my son.
Saturday, June 7 – Treatment First, Everything Else Follows
Started early again to get rehab rolling for our injured player. Reassessment showed progress, and I updated our directors on the care plan. The rest of the day followed our usual cadence—preparation, bullpens, treatments, and gametime routines. Wrapped the night with notes and more of those treasured postgame family moments.
Sunday, June 8 – Eyes Forward
Sunday morning began with rehab and pregame setup. We got the team ready for a 4:05 start, with pitchers stretch, bullpens, arm care, and treatment all on schedule. After the game, we started packing for our next road trip—Rocket City is on deck. These nights always remind me: being calm, focused, and prepared helps everyone feel supported.
Looking Ahead
This week, I kept coming back to one of my guiding mottos: How you do anything is how you do everything. Whether I’m helping a player rehab from injury or putting my son to bed, being intentional, thoughtful, and steady makes a difference. Next stop: Madison, Alabama.