Perez and ADD

Lou Di Falco — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 09:58:47 -0400

Is it possible that Oliver Perez's difficulty has nothing to do with mechanics or a full moon? Could Ollie possibly be suffering from Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)?

ADD is a common affliction in millions of people. These days it is generally diagnosed at an early age in school. I can almost assure you that had the diagnosis capabilities been in place when I was a youngster, I would have very likely been diagnosed with the malady.

The symptoms of ADD is the inability to stay focused for an extended period of time. The mind wanders. More often than not, it effects people who are very bright and possess talent in one or more areas. Some cases, people with ADD also have hyperactivity (ADHD).

In Oliver Perez's case, you have someone who is extremely gifted. His stuff is electric. The problem is, he seems incapable of being consistent over an entire game. For two innings yesterday, Ollie pitched fine. Then after the Mets scored three runs, he fell apart. This is not uncommon. We have seen this with Perez many times before. Did his mechanics change or did he lose focus? Did his mind wander?

ADD is so common, millions of children take medication to curtail it's effects. Several different medications (available through prescription only) have helped school children thrive in the classroom where before, they would have been labeled as poor students who just don't pay attention.

I'm certainly no physician and admittedly, I have know idea how it is diagnosed or treated in adults. But I have dealt with and know others with similar symptoms who have ADD. And unless he is hiding an arm injury, ADD is at least a possibility.

Never Forget 69

Perez and ADD