Meaning: This quote by Dale Murphy, a former professional baseball player, offers some valuable advice for aspiring athletes and serves as a reminder of the importance of mastering the fundamentals of the game. When he mentions Joe Torre, Murphy is referring to a renowned former baseball player and manager who achieved great success in the sport. The advice to "make sure you can hit the ball on the outside part of the plate" is a fundamental principle in baseball that emphasizes the importance of being able to effectively hit the ball regardless of its location within the strike zone.

In baseball, the strike zone is the area over home plate through which a pitch must pass in order to be called a strike if the batter does not swing. It is typically defined as the area between the batter's armpits and the top of their knees when they are in their stance. The strike zone is divided into nine smaller zones, and each pitch that crosses through any part of the zone is called accordingly by the umpire. The outside part of the plate refers to the area on the outer edge of the strike zone, away from the batter.

Joe Torre's advice to focus on hitting the ball on the outside part of the plate is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of discipline and precision in a batter's approach. Hitting the ball on the outside part of the plate requires good hand-eye coordination, timing, and the ability to make contact with the ball using the proper technique. This advice encourages batters to develop their skills and expand their capabilities, ultimately making them more well-rounded and effective hitters.

Furthermore, the ability to hit the ball on the outside part of the plate can be a valuable asset in a player's offensive arsenal. It allows them to cover a wider range of pitches and increases their chances of making solid contact with the ball, regardless of where it is thrown. This not only puts pressure on the opposing pitcher but also makes the batter a more unpredictable and dangerous threat at the plate.

Moreover, mastering the ability to hit the ball on the outside part of the plate can also lead to improved plate discipline. Batters who are proficient in this skill are less likely to chase pitches out of the strike zone, as they are better equipped to recognize and react to pitches that are approaching the edges of the plate. This can result in drawing more walks, forcing pitchers to throw more hittable pitches, and ultimately putting the offensive team in a better position to score runs.

In summary, Dale Murphy's quote reflects the timeless wisdom of Joe Torre's advice and the enduring importance of fundamental skills in sports. By focusing on the ability to hit the ball on the outside part of the plate, athletes can enhance their overall performance, become more versatile and disciplined hitters, and ultimately contribute more effectively to their teams' success. This quote serves as a reminder of the value of mastering the basics and honing essential skills, which are foundational to achieving excellence in any sport.