Zac Veen's newfound sobriety offers a glimmer of hope for his Rockies career and a healthier life, according to Renck & File. Players often arrive at spring training boasting peak physical condition, but Veen's transformation might have saved his life. He's gained weight, weighing 245 pounds, a dramatic increase from the previous season, which raised suspicions in a sport plagued by performance-enhancing drugs. However, Veen, a former top Rockies prospect, provided a plausible explanation.
He revealed that he had been abstaining from marijuana and alcohol since 2021, marking a significant change in his lifestyle. "I had a significant substance abuse problem for a few years," Veen admitted. "But I'm completely clean and sober. There were times last year when it got out of hand. Looking back, I realize I was smoking weed every day, and if I couldn't find weed, I was drinking daily." Veen's newfound focus and discipline, coupled with a deeper connection with God, have motivated him to strive for excellence in all aspects of his life.
Veen, the ninth overall pick in the 2020 draft, finally made his MLB debut last April but faced challenges. He struggled with hitting, managing only four hits in 34 at-bats with 14 strikeouts. Veen's journey took a turn for the better when he was sent back to Triple-A, prompting a period of self-reflection and growth. He recognized the need for improvement beyond his appearance, adopting a crewcut instead of his previous purple and blond hair.
An offseason spent in Florida with friends, former coaches, and a renewed spiritual connection helped Veen regain control. Assistant hitting coach Jordan Pacheco praised Veen's transformation, both visually and mentally. Veen's story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of idle time without discipline and direction, drawing parallels to the journey of Josh Hamilton, a generational talent who battled addiction and drug suspensions.
Veen's path to the big leagues, whether with the Rockies or another team, relies on maintaining his newfound sobriety and routine. At 24, he embodies hope, having demonstrated the courage to seek help and improve his life, both on and off the field.
