From Minor Leagues to MLB Stardom: How Brandon Kintzler Defied the Odds to Become a Top Close
- Addison Thom
- Oct 7, 2024
- 6 min read
When we think of success stories in Major League Baseball (MLB), the names that come to mind are often the celebrated first-round draft picks and highly touted prospects groomed for greatness from a young age. But for every baseball superstar, countless players battled against the odds, clawing their way to the top with relentless perseverance and sheer grit. One of the most compelling MLB success stories in recent history is that of Brandon Kintzler—a player who went from being a 40th-round draft pick to one of the league’s top closers.
His remarkable ascent is a testament to determination, resilience, and the mindset needed to thrive in professional sports. With a career path many deemed unlikely, Kintzler not only carved out a spot in the majors but also became a leader and a role model for others striving to achieve their dreams, proving that hard work and perseverance can transform an underdog into a star.
In this article, we’ll explore Kintzler’s journey from the minor leagues to MLB stardom, highlighting the lessons in perseverance, mindset, and leadership that he shared on the podcast Anyone Have a Pencil. This story is more than just a narrative of one man’s baseball career—it’s a blueprint for overcoming adversity and succeeding against the odds.
The Humble Beginnings: Drafted in the 40th Round
Brandon Kintzler’s journey began in the shadows of doubt. Being drafted in the 40th round is hardly a promising start for any aspiring MLB player. Many players drafted so late never see a day in the major leagues. For Kintzler, however, the low expectations only fueled his fire.
Despite his talent and determination, he was plagued with injuries early on. When the San Diego Padres released him in spring training in 2006, it looked like the end of the road. Yet, instead of giving up, Kintzler took the release as an opportunity to prove everyone wrong. He kept pushing forward, playing in independent leagues to keep his dream alive and staying committed to his vision of making it to the majors.
“It was hard,” Kintzler admits. “But I knew I had to push through if I was going to have any shot.” The release by the Padres was devastating, but for Kintzler, it became a turning point. He developed a sense of urgency and a chip on his shoulder, which propelled him forward when others would have walked away.
Perseverance in Independent Leagues: Grit and Resilience in Action
Playing in independent leagues can feel like a dead end for many players, but for Kintzler, it was a proving ground. He joined the Winnipeg Goldeyes in Canada, pitching for a contract barely covering his expenses. “You’re just playing to get back, just to have another chance,” Kintzler recalled. Despite the grueling conditions, he viewed it as an investment in himself. Clearing only $200 a month after paying for his hotel, Kintzler practically paid to play.
During this time, he started refining his signature pitch—the sinker. With a shoulder still healing, he knew he needed to adapt his game if he ever wanted to make it back to the pros. This period was crucial for developing his pitching skills and building the mental toughness to carry him through the most challenging parts of his career.
The turning point came when he asked to be traded from Winnipeg to the St. Paul Saints in Minnesota. “I asked for a raise because I was a starting pitcher, and they didn’t want to give me a raise,” Kintzler said. His push for better opportunities paid off when he became the starting pitcher in the All-Star Game. It wasn’t long before the Milwaukee Brewers took notice and signed him, bringing him one step closer to his MLB dream.
During his time in independent leagues, Kintzler learned to navigate the harsh realities of the sport—minimal pay, grueling schedules, and constant uncertainty. Yet, he stayed true to his goal, trusting that if he kept performing and improving, he’d eventually get his shot. This period shaped his identity as a player who refused to back down, no matter the odds.
Breaking Through to the Majors: Climbing Against the Odds
Getting to the major leagues was an uphill battle, but Kintzler’s perseverance finally paid off. He made his MLB debut with the Brewers in 2010, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career. While many players would be content just making it to the big leagues, Kintzler had bigger aspirations.
His first few years in the majors were marked by ups and downs, with injuries threatening to derail his career once more. He faced several stints on the disabled list, but he returned more vigorously and determined every time he was sent to rehab or the minors. “I wasn’t going to let another injury take me out,” Kintzler shared. “Each time I went down, I ensured I returned better than before.”
This resilience paid off when he transitioned into a bullpen role, eventually becoming one of the top closers in the league. His experience taught him that success is not just about talent but how you handle setbacks.
“I got knocked down a lot, but every time I got back up,” he said. “That’s what separates those who make it from those who don’t.”
The Mindset of a Champion: Perseverance, Routine, and Leadership
Perseverance Through Setbacks
Throughout his career, Kintzler repeatedly faced rejection and doubt. Whether he was released by the Padres or dealt with recurring injuries, he encountered more setbacks than most. But instead of letting them define him, he used them as motivation.
“If that doesn’t piss you off, you probably shouldn’t be in professional sports,” Kintzler said about his early struggles. This attitude—taking rejection personally and using it as fuel—made him successful. He turned every “no” into an opportunity to prove people wrong, showing perseverance is critical to overcoming even the most challenging obstacles.
The Power of Routine
One of the most valuable lessons Kintzler learned came from Trevor Hoffman, a Hall of Fame closer who mentored him early in his career. “You have to have a routine, and you have to stick to it—good or bad days,” Hoffman advised.
This wisdom stuck with Kintzler throughout his career. Regardless of his performance, he developed a daily routine that kept him focused and mentally sharp. This consistency became his anchor, helping him weather the inevitable highs and lows of a long MLB season. For Anyone striving for success, having a solid routine is crucial—it keeps you grounded when everything else is in flux.
Leadership: Beyond Talent
As Kintzler grew into his primary role, he also became a leader in performance and character. His leadership style was heavily influenced by the veterans he played alongside early in his career, like Prince Fielder.
“Leadership is not about being the best player; it’s about being the most consistent and caring person on the team,” Kintzler shared. Authentic leadership, he learned, isn’t just about what you say but how you show up for your teammates day after day. It’s about setting a positive example, being a source of encouragement, and stepping up when the team needs you the most.
Brandon Kintzler’s journey from the 40th round of the MLB draft to becoming one of the league’s top closers is a powerful reminder of the value of perseverance, mindset, and leadership. His story is a masterclass in turning setbacks into comebacks, showing that hard work and resilience can defy even the steepest odds.
For aspiring athletes, business professionals, or Anyone chasing a dream, Kintzler’s experience offers invaluable lessons:
Embrace the grind.
Stay focused on your routine.
Lead with consistency and empathy.
His path to success wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. It proves that even the most unlikely dream can become a reality with the right mindset and unwavering determination.
Ready to Achieve Your Success? Take the First Step Today!
Does Brandon Kintzler’s journey inspire you? Whether pursuing a career in sports, business, or any other field, the key to success lies in perseverance, discipline, and a winning mindset. If you’re ready to take your game to the next level, set clear goals and commit to a daily routine to help you reach them.
Want to hear more about Kintzler’s journey and his invaluable insights? Listen to the full podcast episode on Anyone Have a Pencil and get inspired by the mindset and determination it took for Kintzler to rise against the odds. Share your story in the comments below and let us know: What obstacles are you currently facing, and how are you overcoming them?
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