Forging the Future: Why June is the crucible of player development

We’re now entering the second week of June—a critical stretch in the Application Phase for my hitters. May, June, and July aren’t just about games and stats. They’re about putting to use everything we’ve discovered through failure and frustration. What didn’t work in the Assessment Phase (August, September, October) now fuels what will.

You see, we don’t just swing bats. We forge weapons.

The Phased Approach to Development

There’s a reason I lead my hitters through a phased process:

• Assessment (Aug–Oct): This is where we experiment. We try new techniques, test mental approaches, and tinker with mechanics. We ask hard questions and make honest evaluations.
• Engagement & Empowerment (Nov–Apr): This is the grind—building routines, increasing reps, developing strength and refining approach.
• Application (May–July): Now, it’s time to apply. No more theories. No more hypotheticals. If it didn’t work in the Assessment Phase, we leave it behind. If it did work, now we sharpen it until it’s second nature.

This process is vital—especially for hitters who are serious about performing at a professional level. Too many hitters, myself included at one time, have tools—bat speed, raw power, willpower—but lack a system. And without a system, there’s no sustainability.

Application Is Everywhere

This summer window isn’t just about travel ball for youth. It’s deeper than that:

• High schoolers are showcasing for scholarships.
• College players are competing in summer leagues to prove their draft readiness or prepare for next season.
• Major Leaguers are distinguishing contenders from pretenders.

From the grassroots to The Show, May through July is when it all gets applied.

And what sets my hitters apart isn’t just what they do—it’s when they do it. That’s the power of a phased approach. That’s when to win.

Forged Like a Sword

Let me leave you with this short story.

A blacksmith begins with raw steel.
In the Assessment Phase, he tests it—heating it, striking it, folding it—to see where it bends and where it breaks.Then comes the Engagement Phase, where he sharpens it, hammers it with rhythm and intention, building edge and balance. Finally, in the Application Phase, it becomes a weapon—tested in battle, proven through use.
That’s what a hitter becomes through my system. Not just a kid with tools—but a weapon, forged to perform.

Let’s work. Let’s apply.

Remember: Intelligence tops being smart.

For more information, visit www.diamonddirectors.com today.

If you found this inspiring and thought-provoking, or if you have any questions, comments or concerns, add me on Discord and let’s go deeper.

C.J. Stewart has built a reputation as one of the leading professional hitting instructors in the country. He is a former professional baseball player in the Chicago Cubs organization and has also served as an associate scout for the Cincinnati Reds. As founder and CEO of Diamond Directors Player Development, C.J. has more than 22 years of player development experience and has built an impressive list of clients, including some of the top young prospects in baseball today. If your desire is to change your game for the better, C.J. Stewart has a proven system of development and a track record of success that can work for you.