As baseball season approaches, we think about moving from the warm weather of the Cactus League to the stiff, cold wind that blows off Lake Michigan in Chicago. April baseball in the Windy City presents us with added challenges for maintaining the health of our athletes. Having a cold weather plan in place to limit the effects of frigid temperatures is imperative to reduce modifiable risk in athletes.

Wearing proper clothing is an essential part of any cold weather plan. There are three layers that help keep the body warm in cold temperatures.

• Base Layer: The base layer is usually made of merino wool or synthetics and must be moisture wicking.