It’s been a long while since I have played in a full season of baseball, but it is exciting making my comeback. I remember it wasn’t too long ago that I was selling cars in the automotive industry, where I was working from 9 am to 9 pm 4 days a week. I have to tell you, that it was not very fun except for the part about meeting new people.

Anyway, since my decision to get back in the game about 9 months ago, I have been training religiously and putting together the consistent delivery that is going to allow me to dominate wherever I play. I am a left-handed “POWER” pitcher with command of 4 pitches. I throw a fastball, which has been clocked as high as 96mph in my baseball career, and I consistently throw in the 90s. I have an amazing 12-6 curveball, which has been quoted as “a big-league curveball,” by some scouts. And with the recent acquisition of my 2-seam fastball and changeup, I have prepared myself to be a starter, reliever, or closer.

I have to admit, I didn’t always get the job done like I do now. When I was drafted to the Minnesota Twins organization in the 4th round of 2002, I thought I would get to the big leagues on the fast-track. Unfortunately, due to my inconsistent delivery I had control issues, which were minor and could be fixed, but that would take some time to discover.

I learned a lot with the Minnesota Twins organization. I realized that you have to be a man and mature to make the next step into the professional world and that it requires a high level of responsibility and ethics present in your life. I also learned that the support of a good agent and your family are essential to your success and overcoming obstacles in your path.

Recently, I became involved with Matthew Vuckovich and Kyle Dison with Xclusive Sports Management, and it was a great decision for me to join this new and exciting crew of enthusiastic individuals. When I first talked with Matthew, I could feel the energy emanating from him and I could observe that he was truly committed to doing the best for his client. And then, I talked with Kyle (former professional baseball player), and not only was he excited to have me on board with the team, but he had already prepared a workout regimen for me to follow to be prepared for this upcoming season. That’s what made me gain respect for what these two gentlemen were creating. They were both first class and they put my concerns ahead of theirs. Quite frankly, I wasn’t used to being treated like this, but I can see that Xclusive is going to do whatever it takes to guarantee my success in baseball and the Major Leagues.

As a kid in baseball, I was always told that I was lucky to be left-handed. I guess sometimes it takes having the right tools in the right place at the right time. Fortunately for me, being a left-handed pitcher makes me a commodity. On top of being left-handed, I throw the ball incredibly hard and with longevity and consistency. So, continue to watch as the 2008 seasons goes forward because Alex Merricks is the left-hander that is making his amazing comeback and will arrive no less than in the Major Leagues.

- Alex Merricks