During the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown in Maine, Jake Rainess faced a challenge when his usual workout facilities closed down. Attempting to find an alternative, Rainess and his teammates were stopped by police when trying to work out. Fortunately, infielder Joey Bramanti suggested they remain in Maine, where they could continue training outdoors. Among the teammates was Jeremy Peña, then a relatively unknown player in the Astros’ minor league system. Rainess reminisced about their daily routine of outdoor workouts, which included hitting, fielding, running, and weightlifting. They even incorporated dragging a tire, a technique introduced by Peña to improve speed.
Rainess adopted Peña’s tire regimen, considering it essential to his training. Their makeshift gym in an apartment, where they combined activities like video games, cooking, and weightlifting, further strengthened their bond. Rainess absorbed Peña’s teachings, which contributed to his success at the University of Maine, where he hit 16 home runs and stole 38 bases last season. His transfer to the University of Houston came with the honor of being named preseason All-American.
Rainess credited Peña not only for his baseball skills but also for instilling a love for the game and a strong work ethic. As Rainess arrived in Houston, he couldn’t help but notice Peña’s prominence, symbolized by billboards featuring his face.
