Introduction - Chad Pinder Chad Pinder is a versatile Major League Baseball player who has spent the majority of his career with the Oakland Athletics. Known for his defensive flexibility, Pinder has played multiple positions, including outfield, second base, and third base, making him a valuable utility player. Drafted by the A's in the second round of the 2013 MLB Draft out of Virginia Tech, Pinder debuted in the majors in 2016. He has built a reputation for his clutch hitting, power, and ability to step up in key situations. Over the years, Pinder has become a fan favorite due to his work ethic, leadership, and commitment to the team. What are you currently up to? Intro story (Jim) I have witnessed you giving hitting lessons, last weekend, what stood out for me was your conversation with a 12 yr old hitter. You stated, 80% effort under control with good balance and posture at contact is better than 100% effort while falling all over the place.” Can you explain what your goal was in this conversation? Who in your past was an influence on how you played the game and now how you teach the game? Person, program, philosophy…etc….. Influences in high school, college at VT, minor leagues and MLB Which lesson(s) that you have learned do you think is most important for young ballplayers? In our current environment at all levels of baseball instruction, where are the positives and negatives as you see it? When I see a pitcher being led down the wrong path in his instruction and workouts, it is difficult to remain silent, especially with the possibility of injury. Weighted plyoballs, long toss, improper mechanics in order to produce force…….. What are your thoughts when you see such things with position players. On the topic of strength and conditioning, when did you first start working on strength and power? Since you were a versatile quality defender were there things you avoided? Can you explain your thoughts on hitting and what type of things do you focus on with 9-12 yrs old? 13-15 yr olds…..etc…… Program Goals: 9-12 yrs old - Develop functional movement patterns through primal movements - Improve coordination, balance, and agility - Build a foundation for athletic performance - Encourage teamwork and fun Program Goals: 13-18 yrs old - Enhance strength, power, and speed using primal movement patterns - Refine coordination and agility - Build endurance and stamina - Prepare athletes for more specialized and sport-specific training Age appropriate drills, exercises and workouts. You were thought of as a quality all around player on and off the field; with the rise in showcase and travel baseball do you see the type of environment that creates all around quality ballplayers. Here are a few topics, above: The goal is for you to take the conversation where you want, this is a platform for you get your message across The above topics are what we encounter here on the podcast and in the day to day life of parents, coaches and young players.