The first asks whether an athlete gets the most out of his innate abilities. There are role players on teams at every competitive level who, while not as physically gifted as their teammates, make indispensable contributions. For example, a mediocre hitter in baseball or softball can help the team by going deep into the count, laying down bunts, executing the hit and run. Another intangible attribute is having a positive influence on teammates. Other intangibles including having a sense of where the action of a game might be.
Some players are invaluable because they make the big plays and thrive in tense situations.
Others are invaluable because they anticipate actions by their opponents, are good listeners, adapt well on the playing field or always shut out opponents.