The Backpick Podcast

The Backpick Podcast

By Brett ThomasSportsBaseball
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The Backpick Podcast episodes

  • The Details of Catching with Tyler Heineman, Toronto Blue Jays
    Ever wondered what a Major League catcher really thinks about when the ball is flying at 100 mph? Join Toronto Blue Jays catcher Tyler Heinemann as he breaks down the elite art of receiving, blocking, and managing a big league pitching staff from the perspective of a true technician.
    In this episode of the Back Pick Podcast, host Brett Thomas sits down with Tyler to nerd out on the technical side of the catching craft. Tyler shares his unique insights on why he views the game from an over the shoulder umpire perspective and how he adjusts his setup for different pitchers like Max Scherzer, Kevin Gausman, and Chris Bassitt.
    We dive deep into the upcoming ABS challenge system, the mechanics of the one knee down stance, and the selfless mentality required to be an elite backup catcher in the MLB. Whether you are a young player looking to improve your blocking or a fan who wants to understand the nuances of the strike zone, this conversation covers everything you need to know about the most demanding position on the field.
    Chapters
    0:00 Intro and Blue Jays Season Recap
    4:20 The Mentality and Role of a Backup Catcher
    8:45 Defensive Goals and Offseason Improvements
    11:55 Catering Setups to Elite Pitchers
    15:40 Communication with Pitchers and Coaches
    19:30 Receiving Mechanics and the Umpires View
    24:10 Understanding the Umpire Buffer Zone and Hawkeye
    28:50 How the ABS Challenge System Works
    33:40 Game Strategy for Successful Challenges
    38:15 Blocking Techniques and One Knee Down Benefits
    42:45 Lateral Blocking and Pitch Movement Calculations
    47:10 The Mental Approach to Blocking and Relaxation
    49:30 Toronto Food Recommendations and Closing
    If you enjoyed this deep dive into the craft of catching, make sure to like the video and subscribe to the channel. We bring you expert insights from the best in the game every other week. Don't forget to follow us on social media for more tips and drills.
    #baseball #catching #bluejays #mlb #catcher
    52 min
  • How to Coach Catchers with Chase Wullenweber, Seattle Mariners
    Are you an amateur catcher looking to take your game to the professional level? In this episode of the Back Pick Podcast, we sit down with Mariners catching coach Chase Woollenweber to break down the science of elite catching. From mastering the one-knee setup to training for chaos behind the plate, this conversation is a masterclass in modern catching development.
    Chase shares his journey from division two baseball to coaching in the Mariners organization. He emphasizes the importance of building trust with players and simplifying complex concepts, especially when working with athletes who speak different languages. We dive deep into why catchers shouldn't just be placed on a knee but must be taught how to move and react from that position effectively to avoid the common mistakes seen in amateur ball.
    A major focus of this discussion is the idea of training for chaos rather than repeatable solutions. Chase explains how he uses specialized tools like the Traject, e-hack machines, and Marv balls to create unpredictable environments that force catchers to adjust in real-time. We also explore the fine details of glove speed, timing, and how to keep strikes as strikes by adopting a pro-level mindset similar to stars like Patrick Bailey.
    Finally, we touch on the mechanics of blocking and throwing. Chase explains why accuracy is king and how to use trial and error to find the most effective stance for your individual body type. Whether you are a player, coach, or parent, these insights into professional-level training will change the way you look at the position.
    Chapters
    0:00 Intro and Guest Background
    2:45 Coaching Philosophy and Building Trust
    5:30 Simplifying Communication for Development
    8:15 Catching Setups and Individualization
    11:00 Understanding Glove Loads and Pitch Plane
    14:30 Training for Chaos vs Repeatable Solutions
    18:00 Utilizing Advanced Tech Traject and E-Hack
    21:15 Marv Balls and Improving Glove Speed
    25:00 Timing and Pre-Pitch Preparation
    29:30 PVC Pipe Drills for Patience and Path
    33:00 Body Loads and Lateral Stability
    36:45 Keeping Strikes Strikes The Patrick Bailey Mindset
    40:15 Modern Blocking and Glove-First Techniques
    43:30 Accuracy and Throw-Down Mechanics
    45:59 Closing and Favorite Food Spots
    If you enjoyed this deep dive into catching mechanics, make sure to like the video and subscribe for more expert interviews. Let us know in the comments what your favorite catching drill is!
    #baseball #catching #mariners #coaching #backpickpodcast
    46 min
  • Willie MacIver talks Staying Calm Under Pressure
    Ever wondered what it takes to catch at the highest level of professional baseball? In this episode of the Backpack Podcast, Toronto Blue Jays catcher Willie Maciver joins us to break down the physical and mental demands of life behind the plate. From technical stance adjustments to the killer mentality needed in the box, Willie shares the secrets that helped him reach the majors.
    Willie dives deep into his transition to the big leagues, explaining why catching is as much about feel and trust as it is about scouting reports. We explore the technical shift from traditional stances to the modern one-knee-down approach and how it impacts receiving and blocking. Willie also shares invaluable advice on the mental side of the game, including the importance of breathing through high-pressure situations and maintaining a fearless mindset.
    We also talk gear, specifically why Willie trusts All Star Sporting Goods for his protection and performance. Whether you are a young player looking to improve your defensive skills or a fan wanting a behind-the-scenes look at MLB preparation, this conversation is packed with pro-level insights.
    Chapters
    0:00 Intro and Welcome Willie Maciver
    4:10 Adjusting to the Big Leagues
    8:25 Transitioning from Infield to Catcher
    12:40 The Evolution of the One Knee Down Stance
    17:15 Advanced Receiving and Glove Work
    21:50 Throwing Footwork and Arm Slots
    26:10 Insights from Shea Langeliers
    30:45 Managing Pressure and Breathing Techniques
    35:20 The Benefits of Multi Sport Athletics
    39:55 Training vs Game Mindset
    44:30 All Star Sporting Goods Gear Review
    48:50 Baseball Bites and Favorite Food Spots
    51:52 End of Video
    If you enjoyed this deep dive into the art of catching, make sure to hit the like button and subscribe for more expert baseball content.
    #baseball #catching #mlb #allstar #baseballtraining
    52 min
  • Sandy Alomar, Jr - Part 2
    Ever wonder what it was like inside the Cleveland clubhouse during their legendary 90s run? Join us for part two of our deep dive with MLB legend Sandy Alomar, Jr. as he shares incredible untold stories about Manny Ramirez, Jim Thome, and the evolution of the modern game. ⚾️
    In this episode of the Backpick Podcast, host Brett Thomas continues the conversation with Sandy Alamar Jr. Sandy opens up about the unique personalities of his former teammates, including the "addicted to hitting" Manny Ramirez and the quiet dominance of Bartolo Colon. We explore the high-level baseball IQ of Roberto Alamar and the defensive brilliance of Omar Vizquel.
    Beyond the nostalgia, Sandy provides masterclass-level insights into the evolution of catching mechanics. He breaks down the art of framing, the critical difference between command and control, and how modern technology is changing the way pitchers and hitters approach the game today. Whether you are a fan of baseball history or a student of the position, this episode is packed with value. 🧢
    Chapters
    0:00 Intro and the Manny Ramirez Suitcase Story
    2:10 Welcome Back to the Backpick Podcast
    4:30 Manny Ramirez: An Addict for Hitting
    6:45 Bartolo Colon: Power and Effortless Mechanics
    9:15 Albert Bell: The Prolific RBI Machine
    13:00 Jose Mesa: Transitioning to the Closer Role
    15:45 Jim Thome: Stories of a Humble Legend
    18:30 Omar Vizquel and Carlos Baerga: Game Awareness
    22:15 Basketball in the Clubhouse: Lofton and Thome
    24:45 Roberto Alamar: The Smartest Player on the Field
    29:00 The Evolution of Hitting and Pitching Velocity
    33:15 Catching Mechanics: Framing and Target Positioning
    37:00 Pitching Development: Command vs Control
    40:30 Baseball Bites: Favorite Places to Eat
    41:01 Final Thoughts and Outro
    If you enjoyed this deep dive into the mind of a baseball legend, make sure to like this video and subscribe to the channel for more catching content! 🎥
    Check out the Catching Academy merch store before it closes on April 26th! Link in our social media bios. 🛒
    https://turboinkprinting.com/catching_academy_spring_2026/shop/home?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio
    #baseball #catching #mlb #sandyalamar #clevelandguardians
    41 min
  • Sandy Alomar, Jr - 43 Years of Catching Secrets - Part 1
    Ever wondered what it was like to catch a 100mph fastball or a dancing knuckleball from a legend? Join us on the Back Pick Podcast as MLB icon Sandy Alomar Jr. breaks down his incredible 43-year journey in professional baseball. From his Rookie of the Year season to coaching the modern stars of today, Sandy shares the wisdom that only a lifetime behind the plate can provide.
    In this first part of our deep dive, Sandy discusses the massive evolution of the catching position. He explains how the game has shifted from the "wild west" days of umpire relationships to the modern era of biomechanics and one-knee-down stances. You will hear untold stories about catching Tom Candiotti, managing legendary pitching staffs featuring Orel Hershiser and Dennis Martinez, and why he considers Yadier Molina the "Bruce Lee" of catching.
    Sandy also opens up about the physical toll of the position, the introduction of knee savers, and how modern technology like the ABS challenge system is changing the way catchers work. Whether you are a young player looking for catching tips or a fan of 90s baseball history, this episode is packed with golden nuggets of information.
    Chapters
    0:00 Intro and the Joe West cowboy boots story
    2:12 Welcome to the Back Pick Podcast
    4:45 Growing up in a baseball family
    7:10 Catching Tom Candiotti and the knuckleball
    10:25 How catching metrics have evolved
    13:50 The physical toll and using knee savers
    17:15 Biomechanics and identifying player mobility
    20:45 Building rapport with MLB umpires
    24:10 Hilarious stories from behind the plate
    28:30 Thoughts on the ABS challenge system
    32:05 Managing legendary 90s pitching staffs
    35:45 Pitching strategies with Orel Hershiser
    39:20 The most revolutionary catchers in history
    42:45 Conclusion and part two preview
    43:07 Video End
    If you enjoyed this deep dive into the art of catching, make sure to like the video and subscribe so you do not miss Part 2 of our conversation with Sandy Alomar Jr.
    #baseball #mlb #catching #sandyalomarjr #baseballpodcast
    44 min
  • What Makes Players Great with Zac Livingston
    Ever wonder what it takes to develop elite catchers like Cal Raleigh? In this episode of the Backpick Podcast, we sit down with Zac Livingston, the former Seattle Mariners catching coordinator and current Pittsburgh Pirates minor league field coordinator, to break down the modern game behind the dish. Whether you are a coach, a player, or a fan of the craft, this conversation offers a masterclass in catching philosophy and player development. ⚾
    Zac shares his unique journey of transitioning from a college pitcher to a professional catcher in just one year, eventually leading to a successful career in coaching. We dive deep into the technical evolution of the position, specifically the implementation of the one-knee-down stance and how to balance receiving value with throwing efficiency. Zac explains why context is everything when deciding how to set up behind the plate and how he uses data to help catchers maximize their performance. 📊
    We also get an exclusive look at the work ethic and routines of Platinum Glove winner Cal Raleigh. Zac describes the incredible consistency and attention to detail that separates the greats from everyone else. From blocking mechanics like picking versus paddling to the mental toughness required to survive a long season, this episode covers it all. Plus, stay tuned for the end where Zac shares some of his favorite food spots across the country in our Baseball Bites segment! 🍔
    Chapters 🕒
    0:00 Welcome to the Back Pick Podcast
    2:50 Switching from Pitcher to Catcher
    6:15 Starting the Coaching Journey
    10:45 Implementing the Knee Down Stance
    15:20 Balancing Receiving and Throwing Context
    20:00 The Value of Stolen Base Prevention
    24:30 Trial and Error with Minor League Catchers
    29:15 The Art of Blocking and Picking the Ball
    33:40 What Makes a Block Successful
    37:50 Lessons from Cal Raleigh’s Work Ethic
    42:15 The Evolution of Hitting and Batting Average
    46:40 Baseball Bites: Top Food Recommendations
    49:52 End of Episode
    If you enjoyed this deep dive into the greatest position in sports, please hit the like button and subscribe for more episodes every other week. You can also reach out to us at [email protected] for more information or follow us on social media! 👋
    #baseball #catching #mlb #seattlemariners #pittsburghpirates
    50 min
  • High Level Player Development with Ryan Scott, Seattle Mariners
    HOW HAS THE CATCHER POSITION EVOLVED? ⚾️ In this episode of the Backpick podcast, former pro catcher and Seattle Mariners manager Ryan Scott breaks down the massive shift in catching mechanics and player development. Discover the blueprint for preparing young athletes for the next level while prioritizing their long-term health and success.
    Ryan shares his fascinating journey through professional baseball, from being drafted by the Dodgers out of high school to his coaching career with the Mariners. We dive deep into the stubbornness of traditional catchers, why the one-knee stance was initially viewed as lazy, and how the 2020 break forced players into the lab to completely revolutionize the position. Plus, we discuss the rising importance of pure athleticism behind the plate, highlighting modern prospects like Harry Ford.
    Whether you are a youth baseball coach, a high school coach, or an aspiring pro, this conversation offers an incredible perspective on the development-first aspect of baseball and the 24 hours versus 24 months coaching mentality. 🧠
    VIDEO CHAPTERS ⏱️
    0:00 The 24 Hours vs 24 Months Coaching Mentality
    0:42 Welcome Ryan Scott to the Backpick Podcast
    1:35 Ryan Scott Pro Baseball Journey and Coaching Transition
    2:40 The Evolution of the Catcher Position
    4:15 Why Catchers Resisted the One-Knee Stance
    5:30 How COVID Accelerated Modern Catching Mechanics
    6:45 The New Era of Athletic Catchers
    Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to the channel for more expert catching tips and pro baseball insights! 🔔 Drop a comment below with your thoughts on the modern one-knee catching stance versus the old school setup.
    GEAR UP 🛡️ The Backpick podcast is brought to you by AllStar Sporting Goods, revolutionizing gear for the modern day catcher. DM us on any major platform or email [email protected] for an exclusive discount code!
    53 min
  • Control the Chaos: Secret to Elite Catching

    Step up to the plate and unlock the Brewers' secret to elite catching! In this episode of The Back Pick Podcast, host Brett Thomas sits down with Dallas Correa, the Milwaukee Brewers' modern lead catching coordinator, to uncover how they "control the chaos" and transform the way their catchers play. From mastering the mental fortitude required for the position to implementing cutting-edge catching techniques like the one-knee-down stance, this conversation is packed with insights designed to elevate your game.

    Dallas shares his journey from playing baseball in Hawaii to leading at the professional level, offering invaluable lessons on preparation, building confidence, and scaling elite-level training. Get an inside look at how the Brewers are revolutionizing drill work with game-speed training, purposeful variability, situational layering, and decision-making exercises that push catchers to excel under pressure. Learn about the importance of the transfer, the role of smooth and accurate footwork, and how the best catchers optimize their stance for throwing and blocking.

    Discover how team strategy, trust-building, and relentless preparation are the soul of baseball and key to mastering the catcher position. Whether you're a coach, a player, or a fan of the greatest position in all of sports, this episode offers a deep dive into the art and strategy of catching.

    Ready to take your game to the next level? Hit that subscribe button for more insights into the heart of baseball, and stay tuned as we bring you the tools to transform your skills behind the plate! Don't miss out—join us every other week as we celebrate the position that defines the game.

    Step up to the plate and unlock the Brewers' secret to elite catching! In this episode of The Back Pick Podcast, host Brett Thomas sits down with Dallas Correa, the Milwaukee Brewers' modern lead catching coordinator, to uncover how they "control the chaos" and transform the way their catchers play. From mastering the mental fortitude required for the position to implementing cutting-edge catching techniques like the one-knee-down stance, this conversation is packed with insights designed to elevate your game.

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 - Intro

    01:25 - Growing up in Hawaii

    06:00 - Early coaching mistakes

    07:44 - Transitioning to pro ball

    10:09 - Training for game speed

    12:24 - Creating game-like situations

    16:22 - Experimenting with stances

    19:41 - Catchers' approach strategies

    23:36 - Transfer techniques for catchers

    29:14 - Catch Play drills

    32:54 - Hands lead the feet in baseball

    34:21 - Footwork fundamentals

    36:47 - Pregame routines for athletes

    38:40 - Physicality in pregame preparation

    45:00 - Game preparation strategies

    46:40 - Game calling training techniques

    48:00 - Baseball Bites: Milwaukee restaurant

    49:15 - Like & subscribe, see you in 2 weeks

    50 min
  • Practice Environments with Micheal Thomas, Houston Astros

    Step up to the plate and discover how knee-down catching is transforming the way we play baseball! In this episode of the Backpack podcast, Brett Thomas sits down with Michael Thomas, Houston Astros Field Coordinator, for a deep dive into the evolution of catching techniques, including the game-changing one-knee-down stance. From mastering the catcher position to understanding the physical toll of a college season, Michael shares invaluable insights on mobility routines, mental fortitude, and what it takes to excel behind the plate.

    Hear firsthand stories about adapting to new strategies, the importance of preparation, and how today’s game challenges players to push boundaries. Learn how the soul of baseball is found in the art of catching, where physical precision meets mental resilience. Whether it’s the grind of catching 58 games in a college season or preparing for 140 in the pros, this conversation uncovers the secrets to staying sharp, consistent, and ready for every pitch.

    Michael opens up about his experiences coaching during the monumental shift in catching philosophy, and the role of mentors like Tanner in shaping the future of the position. You'll also gain insight into specific drills, mobility exercises, and game-day routines designed to keep catchers performing at their peak. Plus, find out how the one-knee-down technique is revolutionizing defense and preserving players' bodies for the long haul.

    The heart of baseball lies in the details, and this episode delivers all the tools, strategies, and passion you need to elevate your game. Don’t miss this candid and inspiring discussion about the art, strategy, and evolution of catching. Subscribe for more exclusive baseball content and join us in celebrating the soul of the game. ⚾

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 - Intro

    01:11 - College Experience

    04:29 - Physicality in Sports

    10:08 - Importance of Mobility

    13:20 - Pregame Routine for Athletes

    16:22 - Creating Individual Routines

    19:41 - Assessing Body Movement Techniques

    23:10 - Back to Baseball Fundamentals

    25:28 - Body Movement for Young Athletes

    27:00 - Evolving Game Strategies

    27:48 - Adapting to Modern Catching Techniques

    32:01 - Kickstand vs. One-Knee Down Debate

    36:40 - How to Get Centered in Sports

    40:00 - Throwing Techniques from Knees

    44:30 - The Game's Evolution

    46:00 - Engaging the Back Hip in Baseball

    55:35 - Baseball Bites: Best Places to Eat

    57:03 - Coffee Culture in Baseball

    58:05 - Outro

    59 min
  • The Evolution of Receiving with Tyler Flowers

    🎙️ The Evolution of Receiving with Tyler Flowers

    In this episode, we sit down with Tyler Flowers for an in-depth conversation on how catching—specifically receiving—has evolved at the highest levels of the game.

    Tyler breaks down the shift from simply “sticking pitches” to matching speed with speed, creating stability through the ball, and understanding how strength, intent, and common sense play a major role in modern receiving. He shares how small adjustments in mindset and movement can dramatically impact consistency, pitch presentation, and overall performance behind the plate.

    The conversation dives into the balance between receiving and blocking, the importance of strong foundations, and why simplicity and reflection often lead to the best results. Whether you’re a catcher, coach, or player looking to understand the “why” behind elite receiving, this episode offers practical insight rooted in real MLB experience.

    🔑 Key Topics Covered:

    • How receiving has changed at the professional level
    • Matching speed with speed instead of stopping the glove
    • Creating linear depth and stability through the catch
    • Balancing receiving and blocking without overcomplicating mechanics
    • Why common sense and fundamentals still matter most
    1 hr

About The Backpick Podcast

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The Backpick Podcast dives into the catching position and all aspects of the game to help educate players, parents and coaches.  From players, coaches, trainers, mental professionals, anyone…