In this podcast, Mike Brown, the recruiting coordinator at the University of Utah, discusses the details of recruiting players for college baseball programs. Brown shares insights on scholarship allocation, recruiting strategies, and evaluating player potential, emphasizing character traits. They discuss prioritizing key positions like starters, shortstops, catchers, and center fielders for scholarships and recruiting Juco players and transfers. Evaluating high school players involves assessing adaptability and attitude, with a focus on arm action for infielders and hitting mechanics for hitters. The podcast highlights the importance of generating backspin line drives and discusses player development, team culture, and the challenges of competing at higher levels.

Timestamps:

[2:45] Decoding College Baseball Scholarships

[4:35] Scholarships, Juco Players, and Walk-Ons

[7:11] Evaluating High School Players for Division One Baseball

[9:19] Navigating the Shift in College Baseball Recruiting while Balancing Potential vs. Readiness

[11:24] Evaluating High School Baseball Prospects

[12:40] Insights and Lessons Learned from Experience

[16:12] Evaluating Character and Engagement in Baseball Recruits

[20:25] Essential Traits in Evaluating Infielders

[24:02] What Todd Williams Looks for in Hitters When It Comes to Hitting Standpoint

[26:19] The Theory Behind Low-Line Drives

[27:41] What Utah Baseball Teaches Its Players

[29:34] Utah's Two-Strike Philosophy

[35:27] Understanding Pitching Velocity in College Baseball

[37:35] Mike Brown’s College Baseball Recruitment Journey

[44:53] Experience within the SEC while Playing College Baseball

Follow Mike Brown on Twitter: @mikesbrown5

Check Out Patrick's Stuff:

• 📬 Patrick's Weekly Recruiting Newsletter – Get insights on college recruiting, player spotlights, and advice for parents and coaches. Subscribe at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruit

• ⚾ Need Help with College Recruiting? – We help serious baseball players get recruited. Book a 1-on-1 consult at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting

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In this podcast, Micah Franklin, the manager of the Oakland Ballers in the Pioneer League, discusses the team's entry into independent baseball, focusing on winning and the challenges of player recruitment. The team's unique approach to signing players, with an initial emphasis on position players, is highlighted, and the coaching staff, including notable names like Don Wakamatsu and J.T. Snow, is introduced. Micah shares insights into the team's spring training schedule and the importance of a specific directional bat path for hitting success. The conversation shifts to Micah's scouting experience, emphasizing the growing role of analytics in player selection. He discusses scouting notable players like Cody Bellinger and details Bellinger's transformation in hitting approach. Game planning, opponent analysis, and the importance of trust between players and coaches are key themes. The rarity of hitting coaches reaching out is mentioned, underscoring the significance of effective communication in player development.

Timestamps:

[03:35] The Manager’s Independent Baseball Journey

[05:39] The Unconventional Approach to Roster Recruitment in Independent Baseball

[08:35] A Hitter's Evolution from Net Practice to the Big Leagues

[12:16] Rediscovering Success by Going Opposite Field

[13:50] 7 to 22: Crafting the Perfect Swing Path

[16:23] A Journey through the Majors and Back to the Cage From Scouting to Swinging

[19:13] Decoding the Art of Hitting through Scouting Insights

[21:00] Spotting Future Stars in Scouting

[23:13] Cody's Journey in Baseball

[28:33] Mind Games in Baseball

[30:28] The Secrets Behind Simple Drills

[32:17] Simple Strategies for Young Hitters

[34:41] Getting Better in Practice and Why Perfect Isn't the Goal

[38:41] Efficiency in Swings

[44:10] Mastering the Effective Batting Drills

[47:13] Game Planning

Follow Micah Franklin on Twitter: @micahf56

Check Out Patrick's Stuff:

• 📬 Patrick's Weekly Recruiting Newsletter – Get insights on college recruiting, player spotlights, and advice for parents and coaches. Subscribe at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruit

• ⚾ Need Help with College Recruiting? – We help serious baseball players get recruited. Book a 1-on-1 consult at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast, Dr. Laby discusses sports vision, its accidental entry during his UCLA fellowship, and the sports vision pyramid. He emphasizes starting from the base and individualized care in training. Dr. Laby addresses improving vision from 20/20 to 20/15 or better. He emphasizes the importance of personalized evaluations, and recommending contacts or glasses for focus improvement. He also highlights the complexity of achieving optimal vision, involving considerations of the eye's focus, retina, and brain function. He suggests a careful refraction process to find the right lens and advocates for athletes to seek specialized attention for enhanced performance. Dr. Laby also mentions the significance of the on-deck circle for hitters, emphasizing the need for predictive skills and knowledge about pitch types. The conversation covers various aspects of vision training, including specific drills, the "Quiet Eye" concept, and emerging technologies like VR systems. He also discusses the potential advancements in vision research and technology, mentioning the role of systems like Reflection Go and synaptic glasses in enhancing visual skills for athletes.

Timestamps:

[2:19] Getting into Sports Vision with Dr. Daniel Laby

[4:06] Building the Sports Vision Pyramid

[7:30] Tailoring Sports Vision Training to Individual Needs

[9:12] Strategies for Self-Improvement in Sports Vision

[11:29] Anecdotes, Insights, and the Truth about 20/20 Vision

[15:15] Mastering Predictions for Batting Success

[18:25] The Real Score on LASIK Surgery for Baseball Players

[23:41] Strategies for Perfecting Your Eyesight

[25:37] 20/20 to 20/15 Vision for Players

[27:43] The Art and Science of Hitting - From On-Deck Insights to Predictive Vision at the Plate

[30:34] The Quiet Eye Guide in Baseball

[32:38] Navigating Advances in Vision Tech - From LASIK Hopes to the Next Decade's Insights

[35:26] A Guide to Vision Training from Reflection Go App to Synaptic Glasses

Dr. Daniel Laby's Website: sportsvision.nyc

Check Out Patrick's Stuff:

• 📬 Patrick's Weekly Recruiting Newsletter – Get insights on college recruiting, player spotlights, and advice for parents and coaches. Subscribe at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruit

• ⚾ Need Help with College Recruiting? – We help serious baseball players get recruited. Book a 1-on-1 consult at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast, Albert Gonzalez, a veteran with over a decade of experience in independent baseball, sheds light on Indy Ball Jobs. Topics discussed include player recruitment, placing talent in various leagues, challenges undrafted players face, and intricacies of player salaries. Gonzalez, the bench coach for the High Point Rockers in the Atlantic League, emphasizes the unique aspects of independent baseball as a legitimate route to the majors. He discusses the cutthroat nature of the game, success stories of undrafted players reaching the big leagues, and his role in player recruitment for the Rockers. The conversation touches on financial aspects like salary caps and housing arrangements, and Gonzalez shares his journey from college cuts to playing professionally in Puerto Rico and Europe. The podcast provides valuable advice for players, emphasizing perseverance, networking, and the global opportunities Indy Ball Jobs offers, including winter ball leagues.

Timestamps for ALBERT GONZALEZ:

[2:13] Understanding Independent Baseball

[3:15] From Undrafted to the Big Leagues

[6:18] The Cutthroat World of Independent Baseball

[09:04] Navigating Opportunities Across Independent Baseball Leagues

[11:37] Bert’s Journey from College Cut to Coaching Success

[14:05] The Art of Building Winning Teams in Independent Baseball

[18:59] The Pay Scale in Independent Baseball Leagues

[21:29] Ages in Independent Baseball Leagues

[25:44] A Guide to Effective Emails for Independent Baseball Opportunities

[27:42] Pitching Dreams and Managerial Aspirations

[32:11] Exploring Winter Ball Leagues

[38:15] The Varied Backgrounds and Motivations of Independent Baseball Managers

[40:10] Opening Doors to Opportunities in Independent Baseball and Beyond

Follow Albert Gonzalez on Instagram: indyballjobs

Check Out Patrick's Stuff:

• 📬 Patrick's Weekly Recruiting Newsletter – Get insights on college recruiting, player spotlights, and advice for parents and coaches. Subscribe at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruit

• ⚾ Need Help with College Recruiting? – We help serious baseball players get recruited. Book a 1-on-1 consult at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast episode, Patrick Welcomes Ryan Johanson, a recurring guest, to discuss his experiences as a coach in both the private sector and professional baseball. They delve into the challenges of scaling coaching efforts and building effective hitting development systems. Ryan emphasizes the importance of simplifying complex information and understanding how to communicate with players at different levels. The conversation touches on utilizing technology like force plates and 4D motion, as well as the shift in approach when working with youth players versus professionals. Ryan also shares insights into creating a positive coaching environment and adapting coaching styles based on individual player needs. They also discuss considerations for working with parents and the significance of qualifying conversations to ensure effective communication. The conversation concludes with Ryan's thoughts on coaching philosophy, encouraging coaches to prioritize how they coach over what they coach, and advocating for more player-driven learning experiences.

Timestamps:

[2:31] Navigating the Hitting Coach's Journey in Player Development

[5:06] Decoding Hitting Metrics for a Balanced Path to Player Development

[7:35] Mastering the Art of Hitting Development with Just an iPhone

[9:01] Breaking Down Metrics for Better Hitting

[12:06] The Shift from Pro Baseball to Private Sector

[17:45] Crafting a Culture of Growth and Wisdom in Baseball Development

[19:03] The Parent-Coach Partnership in Player Development

[26:25] Player Goals as a Continuous Journey in Baseball

[32:01] The Mental Game of Hitting

[34:55] Helping Players Thrive by Letting Them Lead

[38:13] Streamlining Player Development for High School Success

Follow Ryan Johanson on Twitter: @RPJ1317

Check Out Patrick's Stuff:

• 📬 Patrick's Weekly Recruiting Newsletter – Get insights on college recruiting, player spotlights, and advice for parents and coaches. Subscribe at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruit

• ⚾ Need Help with College Recruiting? – We help serious baseball players get recruited. Book a 1-on-1 consult at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast episode, Corey Ritter, a guest with eight years of experience in professional baseball as a strength and conditioning coach and sports science coordinator for the Dodgers, discusses various aspects of player development. The conversation covers topics such as the importance of a global perspective in training, the need for continuous improvement, the role of workload management, and the integration of strength and hitting programs. Ritter emphasizes the significance of assessing athletes over an extended period to tailor training programs effectively. He also touches on the challenges and benefits of implementing motor preference assessments in player development. Throughout the discussion, Ritter highlights the interconnection between strength conditioning and on-field performance, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to player development.

Timestamps CORY RITTER:

[2:10] A Journey from the Majors to the Private Sector

[4:49] Training Insights on Baseball Athlete Workouts

[6:31] Essential Workouts for Baseball Success

[09:15] Navigating the Science Behind Hitter Training

[11:10] Workload Management

[15:20] The Art of Player Evaluation in Sports Training

[20:27] Understanding the Complex World of Motor Preferences in Athlete Training

[23:55] Bridging the Gap Between Weight Room and Field Performance

[25:45] Strengthening the Hitter's Foundation for a Solid Swing

[28:47] Crafting Time-Effective Baseball Workouts

[34:12] The Significance of Grip Strength in Baseball Performance

[36:29] Diverse Approaches to Generating Hitting Power in Baseball

[37:44] The Role of Plyometrics for Young Baseball Players

[39:10] Movement Mastery in the Strength Side

[41:53] Recovery Revelations

Follow Cory Ritter on Twitter: @crittfit7

Check Out Patrick's Stuff:

• 📬 Patrick's Weekly Recruiting Newsletter – Get insights on college recruiting, player spotlights, and advice for parents and coaches. Subscribe at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruit

• ⚾ Need Help with College Recruiting? – We help serious baseball players get recruited. Book a 1-on-1 consult at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast episode, Patrick welcomes Jordan Stampler, Assistant Coach and Director of Player Development at Campbell University. They discuss the integration of technology in player development, focusing on how coaches can effectively implement it into their programs. Jordan shares his background, emphasizing how his experience at various levels of baseball led him to embrace technology more fully at Campbell. He highlights the importance of metrics and measurements, emphasizing that they are tools for improvement rather than something to fear.

Timestamps:

[3:26] Navigating Baseball's Tech Evolution

[8:34] Player Preferences and Tech Integration in Baseball Coaching

[11:51] Player-Driven Development

[13:53] A Deep Dive into Player Development with Cutting-edge Tech

[18:47] The Art of Recognizing and Reacting to Pitch Shapes in Baseball

[23:11] Competitive Energy in Baseball Practice at Campbell

[26:19] The Campbell University Baseball Recruitment Blueprint

[32:52] Decoding Loyalty in Coaching

[36:36] Avoiding Common Pitfalls in the College Baseball Journey

[42:01] College Baseball Recruitment in the Era of the Transfer Portal

[49:22] A Passionate Journey on and off the Field at Campbell University

Follow Jordan Stampler on Twitter: @TheRealJStamp

Check Out Patrick's Stuff:

• 📬 Patrick's Weekly Recruiting Newsletter – Get insights on college recruiting, player spotlights, and advice for parents and coaches. Subscribe at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruit

• ⚾ Need Help with College Recruiting? – We help serious baseball players get recruited. Book a 1-on-1 consult at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan Harrison has been helping athletes ‘see better’ for over 20 years. Ryan has a degree in exercise physiology from the University of California at Davis. Ryan has worked with 100s of MLB players since he started working with his father, Dr. Bill Harrison, who had over 50 years of experience in vision training. In this episode, we’re talking everything VISION!

What affects vision?

How can we help players improve their vision?

How can we help hitters see the ball better?

If you want to connect with Ryan, head to slowthegamedown.com

Timestamps for RYAN HARRISON:

[3:35] Decoding Baseball Vision and Light Sensitivity

[5:23] The Art and Science of Baseball Sunglasses

[6:56] Understanding Players' Vision and Perception on the Field

[08:59] The Complexities of Vision in Baseball

[11:13] Hitters' Vision Strategies and Tools for Success

[14:23] Training Baseball Vision for Precision and Focus

[16:50] Exploring the Connection Between Vision, Breathing, and Peak Performance in Baseball

[21:59] Navigating the Mental Landscape of Hitting with Visionary Techniques

[24:47] Debunking Misconceptions and Mastering Vision in Sports

[29:39] Pitch Recognition

[37:06] Hitter's Eye Movement and Success

[43:37] The Vision Advantage Beyond the Swing

[48:24] The Evolving Landscape of Sports Vision Technology in Baseball

[51:55] Practical Tools and Training for Coaches in Baseball

Follow Ryan Harrison on Twitter: @SlowTheGameDown

Check Out Patrick's Stuff:

• 📬 Patrick's Weekly Recruiting Newsletter – Get insights on college recruiting, player spotlights, and advice for parents and coaches. Subscribe at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruit

• ⚾ Need Help with College Recruiting? – We help serious baseball players get recruited. Book a 1-on-1 consult at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Cuddyer, a retired Major League Baseball player with 15 years of experience, two-time All-Star, Silver Slugger Award winner, NL batting champion, and inductee in the Minnesota Twins Hall of Fame, is the guest in this week's episode. The episode focuses on Cuddyer's approach to hitting, making adjustments, and his perspective on statistics for game planning against pitchers.

The episode wraps up with Cuddyer’s thoughts on the current state of baseball coaching and development, offering advice for coaches and players.

Timestamps:

[2:13] Data, Anecdotes, and Individualization in Baseball Development

[6:37] Reflecting as a first time Manager

[10:31] Learning to compete

[13:07] Data-Driven Game Planning

[15:02] Balancing Personal Strengths and Tactical Awareness in Hitting

[18:03] Approach Based on Pitcher Tendencies and Game Situation

[25:11] Sitting Speeds for Timing Consistency

[29:19] Dealing with fear

[35:03] Helping high school kids with the mental side of the game

[37:35] Lessons learned from Survivor

[47:14] Hitting Insights from Influential Minds

[50:41] Adapting Beliefs in Hitting Philosophy

Follow Michael Cuddyer on Twitter: @mcuddy23

Check Out Patrick's Stuff:

• 📬 Patrick's Weekly Recruiting Newsletter – Get insights on college recruiting, player spotlights, and advice for parents and coaches. Subscribe at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruit

• ⚾ Need Help with College Recruiting? – We help serious baseball players get recruited. Book a 1-on-1 consult at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Barkett is a former professional baseball player and coach. He has coached at various levels of the game, including the big leagues, college, and the minor leagues. With a passion for the mental side of the game, Barkett has developed a mental skills program called COre, which focuses on helping athletes develop a championship mindset, own their process, maintain a relentless desire, and approach the game with enthusiasm.

Summary:

Andy Barkett, a former professional baseball player and coach, discusses the importance of the mental side of the game and how it is often overlooked in baseball coaching. He emphasizes the need for players to develop mental techniques just as they practice physical techniques. Barkett shares his experience as a hitting coordinator and how he developed a mental skills program called COre to address the challenges of the mental game. He also highlights the impact of technology in the game and the need for players to trust their routines and training. Barkett discusses the role of anticipation in hitting and the importance of game planning and understanding pitch characteristics. He also touches on the concept of pitchers tipping their pitches and the mental warfare in baseball.

Timestamps:

[2:01] Mastering the Mental Game in Baseball

[9:28] Building Mental Resilience in Pro Players

[15:26] Transformative Drills and Routines for Player Success

[24:41] Balancing Practice and Play in Hitting Routines

[30:04] Insights on Vision Training

[32:24] Growth Journeys and Coaching Reflections

[33:57] Game Planning

[37:53] Anticipation and Facing the Unexpected

[40:48] Pitcher's Tipping and Strategic Advantage

[43:44] The Frequency of Pitchers Tipping Pitches

[44:26] Understanding Tipping Tactics

[48:48] Moving from the Big Leagues to College Game

Follow Andy Barkett on Twitter: @abarkett17

Check Out Patrick's Stuff:

• 📬 Patrick's Weekly Recruiting Newsletter – Get insights on college recruiting, player spotlights, and advice for parents and coaches. Subscribe at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruit

• ⚾ Need Help with College Recruiting? – We help serious baseball players get recruited. Book a 1-on-1 consult at https://www.patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.