The New Hampshire Fisher Cats, a Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, are not just focused on the game; they are also committed to the nutritional well-being of their players. At the heart of this initiative is Sabrina Weissman, the team’s nutritionist, who has been instrumental in helping players enhance their performance through diet since joining the organization in May of last season.
Weissman’s philosophy centers around the idea that athletes should not only fuel their bodies for peak performance but also enjoy what they eat. This approach is evident in the snack choices players make during games, such as Dub Gleed opting for a Smucker’s Uncrustable or Alex Amalfi enjoying a strawberry and banana smoothie after pitching. These options are designed to be both enjoyable and nutritionally beneficial.
Before Weissman began working with the Fisher Cats, players had already established a nutritional foundation through the Blue Jays’ Single-A team dieticians. Weissman’s role is to build upon that foundation, helping players find a competitive edge through their dietary habits. "It’s really building a relationship with a player — making sure that you understand what they need first before we just go and try and throw education at them," Weissman explained. This personalized approach is crucial in fostering trust and ensuring players feel comfortable with their dietary changes.
One of the key aspects of Weissman’s work involves creating individualized nutrition plans that cater to each player's specific needs, whether they are looking to gain, lose, or maintain weight. For instance, Amalfi, a 25-year-old pitcher, has learned the importance of maintaining his weight throughout the season, thanks to Weissman’s guidance. She encouraged him to adopt a consistent breakfast routine and introduced him to recovery smoothies that help replenish the weight he loses during games.
Gleed, a 24-year-old infielder, emphasizes the importance of nutrition in overall performance, stating, "Whatever you put in your body is going to carry on to how you feel at the plate, on the field and all that." The Fisher Cats’ nutrition strategy varies between starting players and bench players, with starters typically consuming higher carbohydrate diets, while bench players enjoy more balanced meals that include proteins, carbohydrates, and vegetables.
During games, quick snacks are essential for players to maintain their energy levels. The Fisher Cats provide a range of easily digestible snacks, including fruit snacks, honey sticks, and Rice Krispie Treats, which offer quick carbohydrates for a fast energy boost. Weissman ensures that these snacks are readily available, often checking in with players before game time to confirm their preferences.
In addition to managing snacks, Weissman collaborates with the team chef, Geoffrey Soriano, to design nutritious pregame and postgame meals. The weekly menu often includes staples like chicken and rice, but Weissman also considers player preferences and variety. After a recent game, the team enjoyed a meal featuring Alaskan-baked salmon and carne asada, showcasing Weissman’s commitment to providing balanced and appealing food options.
Recognizing that players also need to indulge occasionally, Weissman follows an 80-20 rule, where 80% of a player’s diet consists of balanced meals and 20% can be less nutritious. This flexibility allows players like Gleed and Amalfi to enjoy their favorite cheat meals without feeling overly restricted.
As the Fisher Cats approach the end of their season, Weissman is preparing to meet with players to discuss their offseason nutrition goals. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent routine during the offseason, which can be easier for players compared to the hectic schedule of the regular season. Weissman’s commitment to player health continues year-round, as she works with the Blue Jays’ player development complex in Florida during the offseason, providing ongoing support and guidance.
Overall, Weissman’s innovative approach to nutrition has made a significant impact on the Fisher Cats, helping players enhance their performance while fostering a positive relationship with food.
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