"he was the best in the outfield; he was the best at the plate; he was the best as a teammate" is an example of

This is an example of repetition.
Repetition is an important literary device since it allows a speaker or a writer to put emphasis on items they choose to be significant. it is an important tool for authors and speakers in developing style, tone, and rhythm. It tells the audience or the reader that the words that are being used are central enough to be repeated, and also lets them know when to pay a special attention to the language. 

Crossing over creates new combinations of genes in the gametes that are not found in either parent contributing to genetic diversity