Spring training is upon us! As MLB players arrive in Arizona or Florida to shake off the rust, claims organizations are doing something similar. Storm season is around the corner, and preparation now determines performance later.
Success comes from having the right people in the right roles. That’s why baseball people talk about “five-tool players.”
Here’s what those tools look like in claims.
Hitting for Average: Consistency You Can Count On In claims, consistency shows up in disciplined inspections, clear documentation, and accurate scoping. It may not grab attention, but it builds confidence with clients and policyholders. Strong fundamentals still win a lot of games.
Hitting for Power: Expertise When It Matters Power hitters don’t define every game, but when the moment calls for it, you’re glad they’re in the lineup. Claims teams need that capability at times: large commercial losses, unique circumstances, or situations requiring specialized technical knowledge. Having the right person step in early often prevents small issues from becoming big ones.
Running: Purposeful Speed and Clear Communication The best base runners aren’t simply fast, they’re intentional. Calling an insured within minutes sounds impressive, but creates little value if the conversation doesn’t set expectations or answer the questions already forming in their mind. Fast is good. Clear is better.
Fielding: Putting the Right People in Position Organizations apply this through component-based handling, filling specific gaps as carriers need them. Field inspection for one client. Estimate writing for another. It’s about supporting where capacity is missing, not replacing the entire process.
Throwing: Judgment and Accountability Technology continues to improve workflows, but it cannot replace professional judgment. AI can assist, accelerate, and inform, but it can’t be accountable.
Fundamentals Still Win Over Time To a policyholder, a claim is never just a process. Efficiency matters, but so do clarity, communication, and steady guidance. Strong seasons aren’t accidental. They’re built through preparation, clearly defined roles, and people who can be trusted when the pressure is on.
Go Cardinals!
