Jeff Hoffman thrives in high leverage — because SEALs have taught him to breathe

Jeff Hoffman is one of the Phillies’ best relievers. (Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire)

ANAHEIM — Nick Castellanos and Johan Rojas had just provided perhaps the most thrilling moment of the Phillies’ young season and Jeff Hoffman had to calm down. So he channelled his inner SEAL.

“SEAL-type breathing” is a method the 31-year-old reliever employs before high-leverage outings, a tool he’s picked up from guest speakers — including Navy SEALs — over the course of his career.