The Backpick Podcast

Send us a text

Join us on this week's episode of The Backpack Podcast as host Brett Thomas sits down with Jordan Comadena, the Pittsburgh Pirates' catching coach. Dive into Jordan's journey, his insights on catching techniques, and his experiences coaching at the highest level. Discover how one-knee-down stances are transforming the way you play and why mental fortitude is key to mastering the catcher position. Learn from Jordan's experiences working with MLB catchers like Joey Bart and Yasmani Grandal. This episode is packed with valuable tips and stories from the field. Don't miss it!

Send us a text

Join us as we sit down with Todd Coburn, AKA "The Catching Guy," to explore his journey from player to coach. After playing at Cal Poly and the Phillies, Todd transitioned into a coaching career that has spanned over 25 years. Now a recognized catching specialist, Todd shares how his love for the position led him to coach catchers across 40 states. 

Send us a text

In this episode of The Backpick Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Reagan Glanz, a rising star in the world of softball and a catcher for the Coastal Bend Tidal Wave in Women's Pro Fastpitch. Reagan takes us through her incredible journey as she opens up about the highs and lows of the recruiting process, the demands of travel ball, and the mental toughness needed to stay competitive at the elite level.

Reagan also gives us a deep dive into the evolution of catching techniques such as the benefits of the one knee stance, blocking, and receiving. Whether you're a player, coach, or fan, you'll find valuable insights into college and professional softball. 

For more tips and drills from Reagan make sure to follow her own channel, where she shares tons of awesome softball content!

Send us a text

Come listen as Cameron Rupp reveals the secrets to mastering the catcher position and building a winning culture. In this episode of the Backpck Podcast, former MLB catcher and College World Series coach, Cameron Rupp, shares invaluable insights into the heart of baseball. From the technical aspects of the one-knee-down stance to the importance of mental fortitude, Cameron dives deep into how catchers are transforming the way the game is played. 

Hear personal anecdotes about legendary coach Augie Garrido's influence, and discover how mental resilience and strategic thinking can elevate your gameplay. As we explore the evolution of catching techniques, learn about specific drills and strategies that can enhance your performance on and off the field. This episode is a tribute to the soul of baseball—it's about relationships, accountability, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Join us in celebrating the art and strategy of baseball, and subscribe for more expert insights and behind-the-scenes stories. Let's keep the conversation going—follow us on social media and embrace the journey of becoming a better player.

Send us a text

Step up to the plate and dive into the heart of baseball with Dan McCarty, a 21-year-old baseball coach who's transforming the way you play the game. Born with osteogenesis imperfecta, Dan's journey is a testament to mental fortitude and passion for the sport. Mastering the catcher position without ever playing, he's redefined catching techniques, emphasizing the one-knee-down stance and mental resilience. Join us as Dan shares personal anecdotes and insights into working with legendary figures like Jerry Weinstein and the evolution of baseball strategies. From building connections to implementing strategic drills, Dan's story is inspiring and educational. It's not just about baseball; it's about the soul of the game. Subscribe for more insightful content and follow @CoachDanMcCarty for a blend of motivation and technical mastery. Whether you're a player, coach, or fan, this episode promises to enrich your understanding and appreciation of baseball.

Send us a text

Catchers, this one's for you! Today, we pick the brain of Tom Griffin—affectionately known as Griff—a legend in the catching world and head coach at Carson Newman University. Griff brings his unique energy and unparalleled expertise to the table, offering a fresh take on catcher training techniques. We explore his dynamic coaching approach, emphasizing the importance of experimenting with different stances—from primary and secondary to one knee down—and how these variations can foster adaptability and improved movement. Griff also sheds light on incorporating diverse drills and movement patterns from other sports to enhance athleticism and resilience, ensuring that your game is always evolving.

But that's not all. We dive deep into the complexities of catcher development and game management. How do catchers maintain synergy with pitchers and infielders? What challenges arise with different stances, especially when dealing with fake steals and delays? Griff tackles these questions, emphasizing the crucial role of communication and instincts. From managing varied pitching times to maintaining impeccable body language and field presence, we leave no stone unturned. Plus, we discuss the physical and mental tolls of intense tournament schedules on young athletes, offering insights into how these challenges can impact their development.

Finally, Griff shares his wisdom on pitch calling and the vital relationships between catchers and pitchers. Learn how catchers can take ownership of pitch calling to build stronger bonds with their pitchers and hone their leadership skills. We also explore the evolving dynamics in youth sports, the importance of resilience and gratitude, and the impact of the MLB draft's reduction on player opportunities. Whether you're a catcher, coach, or baseball enthusiast, this episode is packed with actionable insights and profound reflections that will elevate your understanding of the game. Tune in for an episode brimming with valuable lessons from one of the best in the business.

Send us a text

Step up to the plate with "The Intangibles of Catching with Dustin Garneau" on the BackPick Podcast! In this episode, host Brett Thomas dives deep into the heart of baseball with former big leaguer and current Colorado Rockies catching and game planning coordinator, Dustin Garneau. From his Southern California roots to his College World Series triumphs at Cal State Fullerton, and his seven-year MLB career, Dustin shares insider stories and expert catching techniques.

Discover how mastering the one-knee-down stance can transform the way you play and why mental fortitude is crucial behind the plate. Dustin breaks down the evolution of catching techniques, emphasizing the importance of moving the baseball, building a strong rapport with pitchers, and the art of game planning. With anecdotes about legendary coaches like George Horton and valuable lessons from sports psychology pioneer Ken Ravizza, this episode is packed with insights that will elevate your understanding of the game.

Whether you're a seasoned player or a young enthusiast, this episode offers invaluable tips on becoming a better catcher and appreciating the soul of baseball. Don't miss out on this engaging, insightful conversation that blends professional wisdom with personal experiences.

Hit that subscribe button for more in-depth baseball content and join our community on social media for exclusive updates and merchandise. Let's step up our game together!

#CatcherGamePlanning #CatchingAcademy #DustinGarneauInterview #CatchingMechanics #CatchersRole

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
00:48 - College Baseball Insights
05:44 - Finding Your Role in the Team
11:59 - Understanding the Game Mechanics
14:44 - Effective Pitch Calling
17:35 - Catcher-Pitcher Relationship Dynamics
21:00 - Mental Approach Under Pressure
23:40 - Ken Ravizza's Impact on You
27:50 - Moving the Baseball Techniques
31:40 - Creating a Clean Throwing Path
35:25 - Building Throwing Leverage
35:55 - Transitioning to One-Knee Down Stance
41:25 - Martín Maldonado's Skills
45:10 - Importance of Accurate Throwing
48:00 - Kickstand vs. Traditional Stance
50:55 - Optimal Catching Stances
53:20 - Best Places to Eat for Athletes
54:57 - Final Thoughts
57:08 - Outro

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets to mastering the catcher position with insights from Nick Dini, a former major league catcher for the Kansas City Royals. Join us on the Backpick Podcast as Nick shares his journey from a multi-sport athlete to a professional baseball player, all while overcoming significant challenges like Tommy John surgery. Discover his unique path from playing various positions to eventually finding his passion for catching, and learn how his experiences now shape his coaching philosophy for young athletes in New Jersey.

Nick opens up about his transformation in understanding the technical aspects of catching, discussing the pivotal moments that led him to prioritize receiving over blocking and throwing. With a deep dive into the modern metrics of receiving pitches, Nick provides invaluable tips for catchers looking to refine their skills. He reflects on the importance of adaptability and continuous learning, sharing personal stories of struggle and triumph that will resonate with players and coaches alike.

We also explore the fundamental mechanics and mental aspects of catching, from the benefits of the knee-down stance to improving overall performance. Nick advocates for a flexible coaching approach that allows young catchers to experiment with different techniques, stressing the importance of results over tradition. We wrap up with a heartfelt shoutout to Ian Miller and the Nine Hole Podcast, highlighting the incredible journey of a fellow baseball enthusiast. This episode is packed with practical advice, inspiring stories, and the latest in catching techniques—perfect for anyone passionate about baseball.

Send us a text

Ever wondered how modern technology is revolutionizing the art of catching in baseball? Tune in as veteran catcher Rob Brantly walks us through his journey from mastering traditional techniques to becoming a proponent of contemporary methods influenced by advanced metrics. Discover how his time with the Chicago White Sox and playing behind Tyler Flowers opened his eyes to innovative framing techniques and the importance of strike rates in reshaping the catcher’s role. Rob candidly discusses the initial pushback within the sport and how embracing these changes has fundamentally altered his approach to the game.

Prepare to be fascinated by the significance of training environments that mimic the chaos of actual games. We dive deep into Brandon Oliver's chaos rounds, exploring how unpredictable scenarios help catchers maintain their skills under pressure. Learn how the Tampa Bay Rays' method of anchoring setups on the plate aids in managing pitches with erratic command, making strikes look effortless for umpires. We also cover essential training insights for younger athletes, ensuring they maintain proper body positioning to handle unintended pitch locations consistently.

Finally, we explore the critical relationship between catchers and pitchers. Discover how communication and trust can enhance game performance, with Rob sharing strategies on tailoring approaches to each pitcher’s preferences. Delve into the transformative impact of structured organization and mentorship on athletic performance, and how transitioning into a teaching role provides new perspectives on the game. Don't miss this insightful conversation that promises to change the way you see the role of a catcher in baseball.

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets of baseball's unsung heroes with the catching maestro himself, Xan Barksdale. Our latest episode is a treasure trove of insights, where Xan chronicles his transformative journey from the diamond as a player to his influential coaching and entrepreneurial adventures. You'll be privy to the wisdom gleaned from his days fostering talent at the University of Louisville and East Tennessee State, and how he shaped his legacy with Catching101.com and the inception of CatcherCon, an invaluable gathering place for the catching community.

Journey with us through the mind of a coach who's redefining the role of catchers, one pitch at a time. Xan lays out his compelling philosophy of tailoring catcher training to individual strengths, the vital role of understanding the 'why' in their regimen, and the fine balance between speed and decision-making. He shares a wealth of knowledge on game-changing training tools and the significance of constructive partner feedback, highlighting how these innovations are propelling catchers to new heights of excellence.

As we close this master class of an episode, Xan reflects on the ever-evolving landscape of catching instruction, enhanced by technology and the power of slow-motion analysis. He celebrates the newfound 'cool' surrounding the position and the rise of strategic thinking among today's athletes, like the agile Gabriel Moreno. Xan's passion culminates with the ethos of CatcherCon, where ideas are pitched, skills are honed, and the future of baseball's catchers is crafted, making this episode an essential listen for anyone with a love for the game.