Daniel Vogelbach, the designated hitter for the New York Mets, showed up at spring training looking leaner. The slugger said he shed around 20 to 25 pounds during the offseason.
Table of Contents
- Daniel Vogelbach’s Weight Loss Journey
- What Did Daniel Vogelbach Do to Shed Pounds?
- Daniel Vogelbach Sheds Pounds Before to Open Up More Opportunities
Daniel Vogelbach’s Weight Loss Journey
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Upon arriving at spring training, Vogelbach, the first baseman and designated hitter for the New York Mets, presented a noticeable transformation. The power hitter, now visibly slimmer, shared that he shed approximately 20 to 25 pounds during the offseason.
This significant weight loss reflects his commitment to personal fitness and raises anticipation for how this physical change might positively impact his performance on the field during the upcoming season.
“I just feel good,” Vogelbach said. “I’m ready for a season, a little different coming into a clubhouse this year where everybody’s expectations are high, and just trying to make sure that I’m ready to do my part to contribute.”
What Did Daniel Vogelbach Do to Shed Pounds?
During the previous season, Vogelbach’s official weight stood at 270 pounds. However, his recent sight at spring training, having shed around 20 to 25 pounds over the offseason, signals a notable shift in his physical condition. “Obviously, watching what I eat, but just working out and doing my routine,” he said.
Vogelbach’s approach wasn’t narrowly fixated on a specific aspect. Instead, he emphasized a comprehensive readiness for the season, ensuring he entered the training period in optimal shape. The primary goal was to be prepared and game-ready right from the outset.
“I wasn’t really that focused on one particular thing. Just coming in and making sure that I was in shape and ready to play from day one.”
This broader focus indicates a commitment to overall fitness and a desire to contribute effectively across all facets of play as soon as the season commences.
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Daniel Vogelbach Sheds Pounds Before to Open Up More Opportunities
In 2014, reports suggested that Vogelbach was not athletic enough for first base, potentially limiting him to a designated hitter role. However, a look at Vogelbach’s performance would challenge those early assessments.
At the time, he showed up at the Cubs’ Minor League mini-camp 30 pounds lighter than the previous year, geared up for a successful follow-up to last season. During that time, he played a crucial role in Class A Advanced Daytona’s journey, culminating in winning the Florida State League championship.
“A lot of people have given me compliments,” Vogelbach said. “It makes you feel good that your hard work paid off. In the long run, I didn’t do it for compliments, I did it to help me with baseball. The season this year is big, and I’m ready to roll.”
How did he shed the pounds? Having his brother, an athletic trainer, as a guide was a big help. Vogelbach incorporated one hour of cardio into his daily routine. During a Cubs mini-camp, he also consulted with a nutritionist.
Vogelbach lost 15 pounds in the first month, another seven, and an additional 10 during the holiday season. His strategy included cutting out bread, increasing water intake, and loading up on grilled chicken, black beans, and rice.
Not a big fan of vegetables, he compensated with recommended vitamins from the nutritionist. He opted for a hard-boiled egg or a protein shake for breakfast. “It’s easier when I’m home with mom cooking,” Vogelbach shared. “On the road — it’s easier than you think. There are ways to eat healthy.”
Cardio was crucial to his routine. He stayed active on an elliptical machine or treadmill or ran with his sister in their Florida neighborhood. He also incorporated a yoga workout, contributing to improved flexibility. “It’s easy to find an excuse — ‘Oh, I’ll do it tomorrow.’ That was my goal, to wake up and do something to make yourself better today.”
He didn’t neglect baseball. Vogelbach focused on enhancing his arm strength through targeted exercises. He then intensified his hitting practice. The main worry was that losing weight might impact his power, especially considering his impressive track record of hitting 17 home runs in the Minors in 2012 and 19 in the last season.
“I think I gained power,” Vogelbach said. “I got a lot stronger with Doug [Jarrow, Cubs strength coach] and being home lifting a lot. I’m a lot looser with losing the weight. I can move better, not only in the field but swinging. I actually feel better at the plate than I usually do.”