By: Isabella Areyano
Division 1 baseball players are often recognized solely for their on-field achievements—their batting averages, stolen bases, and strikeouts define them to most fans. But off the field, these athletes have stories that are as compelling as their game. Join me as I dive into the life of Fresno State catcher Maxwell Shor, uncovering the personality and passions that fuel his athletic journey.
Max grew up in Palm Desert, California, an only child with a love for sports. From golf and tennis to football and basketball, he found joy in almost every game. His outgoing personality thrived in team environments, where he built lasting friendships. But at age 12, he decided to focus on his true love: baseball. By high school, he chose to specialize as a catcher, hoping this strategic role would maximize his impact on the field.
Before he committed to Fresno State University, Max played at Riverside City College, an experience he considers a turning point in his life. “It was the best thing that ever happened to me,” he says, crediting his JUCO coaches for instilling a dedication and work ethic that shaped him as both a player and a person.
“They just pushed me every single day,” he recalls. “Those guys are like my other dads.”
But his biggest supporters, Max emphasizes, are his parents. “It’s my parents. My mom and dad—big time. I’m a huge mama’s boy. I call them every night.”
In baseball, the highs can be incredible, but the lows can be brutal. Max has learned to stay grounded and optimistic, despite the inevitable ups and downs. “You have to learn that with every good game, there’s going to come a bad game,” he explains. “If you keep riding the highs and lows, you’re going to be miserable.” His perspective is refreshing: “Baseball is a game. It’s supposed to be fun. You’re going to fail. You’re going to succeed.”
One story from his summer in the Northwoods League sticks out. Battling back from an injury, Max went seven consecutive games without a hit. Frustration crept in, but he took a mental step back to see the bigger picture. “I get to play baseball every single day. It’s just a game—roughly two and a half hours to go out there and have fun.”
Max is clear that baseball is only part of who he is. He’s adventurous, talkative, and eager to try new things. He loves spending time outdoors and playing golf with his friends. His curiosity extends to books as well; some of his favorites include Discipline Equals Freedom by Jocko Willink, Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins, and How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.
“There are so many great messages in books that people miss because they’re always on their phones,” he says.
Max also shared his immense passion for music, indulging in both listening and playing (drums, guitar, piano).
“Music is huge for me. I’m obsessed with music. I like listening to every type of music.” he shares.
Max has big dreams beyond baseball. He hopes to establish a foundation for Parkinson’s Disease research, honoring his mother, who’s been battling the illness for years. “She’s always been my biggest supporter, and I’d love to give back to her in that way.” He also hopes to go skydiving and one day conquer Mount Everest with friends after college.
For Max, having interests outside of baseball is crucial. “I’m obsessed with baseball, but I think it’s key to have hobbies,” he says. “If I’m 100% baseball all the time, I forget why I’m doing it.”
To conclude, Max shared a simple yet profound quote that keeps him grounded: “Be where your feet are.” It’s a reminder to stay present, enjoy the moment, and appreciate each step on his journey.
While Maxwell Shor is a standout catcher for the Bulldogs, he is far more than an athlete. He’s a dedicated son, an avid reader, a music lover, and a young man with ambitions far beyond the field. Through his story, we get a glimpse of how a life balanced with passion, purpose, and perspective can make athletes stronger.
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