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Lance Berkman: Astros' star strives to perfect his versatility; groomed to be a switch-hitter since childhood, Houston outfielder ranks among the majors' top young batsmen.(Houston Astros)(Statistical Data Included)

Baseball Digest

| August 01, 2002 | Johnson, Chuck | COPYRIGHT 2002 Century Publishing Co. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan.  All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)Copyright

WHILE OTHER KIDS WERE AT the movies or playing the latest video game, Lance Berkman spent his Saturdays and Sundays in the batting cage.

Sacrifice wasn't just about moving the runner over but also meant putting in the time and effort to be the best player he could be.

"I've always enjoyed baseball, but even when I was a kid I can remember viewing it with a businesslike approach," the Houston Astros center fielder says.

"I knew it was something I'd like to do for a living. I didn't really have a contingency plan. I figured I'd cross that bridge when I couldn't compete anymore."

At 26, Berkman is seeing his single-mindedness pay off. ...

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Source: HighBeam Research, Lance Berkman: Astros' star strives to perfect his versatility;...

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