Will the Phillies prepare differently for Game 7? Here's what the team's medical director says
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- There's a lot on the line on Tuesday night in Game 7 of the National League Championship Series between the Philadelphia Phillies and Arizona Diamondbacks.
Win and you're in the World Series. Lose and your season is over.
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But despite the high stakes, the medical director for the Phillies said Tuesday's game day preparations for the team are not much different than for most games.
Dr. Michael Ciccotti, with Roman Orthopedics, has been working with the Phillies for 30 years. He said this group is special and the key to success is being conditioned physically and mentally.
"They've gotten to this point because they are so well-conditioned," Dr. Ciccotti said. "Their ability to come back and play well in spite of adversity is testimony to who they are. They have such grit, so I'm very optimistic and excited."
Dr. Ciccotti said it's all about consistency, even before a make-or-break game.
"It's just a matter of stepping out of the emotion," Dr. Ciccotti said. "Everybody has their own routine some people do meditation, some like to listen to music."
"Consistent programs they've had from spring training on in terms of stretching, strengthening, cardio," he added.
Dr. Ciccotti said there's one more critical element -- the players are united for each other now with a single focus.
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"They feel they had unfinished business from last year and they want to finish that business and they clearly have the talent to do that," Dr. Ciccotti said.
Dr. Ciccotti said fortunately the team hasn't had many big injuries this season – he has a good feeling about Game 7.