Baseball at the major-league level moves at such a high speed that it scarcely resembles the game we all played as kids. The ability to slow the game down — to always be in the right place, throw to the right base or simply perform to your capability in the spotlight — is often a learned skill. But few players enjoy long careers without learning how to do so.

1 OF Ross Gload: There’s a reason that managers always love this guy

2 2B Mark Grudzielanek: Typifies the definition of heady veteran

3 SS Tony Peña: Always knows what to do even if, offensively, he can’t always do it

All successful managers have certain traits in common: a knowledge of the game and the aptitude to think ahead; the ability to communicate with a wide range of personalities; and a simple passion.

1 SS Tony Peña: Knows the game and can bridge the gap between Americans and Latins

2OF Mark Teahen: Bright guy whose ability to play several positions offers perspective

3 1B Ross Gload: Many managers were role players who learned to maximize their skill