Reasonable people know that small clusters of past outliers have no real predictive value in determining the potential success or failure of non-prototypical athletes. But Sports Experts (like us) know that if you can think of at least 2 or 3 past examples, you can argue ’till your face turns blue that Player X is not only capable, but in fact likely to achieve at an exceptionally high level. We’ve made it our mission to identify and catalog each secret Key to Success. This is the first entry in an ongoing series.

The Texas Rangers are off to their best start in years. Fresh of a season-opening sweep of the Cleveland Indians, the present is encouraging and the future looks bright. We don’t want to sour the good feelings, but we do feel it’s essential that Jon Daniels and Tom Hicks not rest on this success. The foundation of a successful franchise is a constantly replenishing core of quality young talent. Where should the Rangers scouts look to find the next generation of top talent?

The Key to Success: Deafness

Ever since Ed Dundon burst on the scene in 1883, Deaf players have been arguably the most powerful secret weapon available to Major League Baseball teams. Overpowering on the mound, in the form of 20 game winner Luther Taylor and his 9 dominant seasons of 116 total wins and a 2.75 era. And multi-purpose offensive threats, in the form of William Hoy, a 14 year veteran who led the National League in steals (82 in one season) and showed amazing plate discipline, finishing in the Top 10 in walks (including two 1st place finishes) in nine different seasons.

Not only did Deaf baseballers preceed the Moneyball era emphasis on plate discipline and on-base percentage, they’ve continued to impose their will on the league. From Dick Sipek to Curtis Pride, Deaf ballplayers have been a Major League force for more than 126 years.

Where to find them: The Gallaudet University Baseball team

Any Rangers scouts looking to harness the power of the Deaf should start their search in Washington, D.C. at Gallaudet University, the world leader in post-secondary education for the deaf and hard-of-hearing.

Led by Head coach and 11 year MLB vet Curtis Pride, the Gallaudet Bison are a Division III squad stocked with potential. The solution to the Rangers’ chronic pitching woes could be John Moore, Jr., a dependable Senior who has posted a stellar 1.12 ERA in limited innings so far this season. If he can translate that ability to the next level and handle the increased workload, he could be a long term answer as a middle of the rotation starter.

The top everyday prospect is Zane Noschese, a Sophomore who splits time between centerfield, shortstop, and third base. Noschese has started every game for the Bison, and is currently raking the ball at a .341 clip. He also has a knack for stealing bases, with 8 swipes in 10 attempts.