The Tread Podcast

In this video, we discuss the unique challenges and opportunities for hypermobile athletes, specifically in the context of pitching. We'll emphasize the importance of proper form and technique and building strength and tension throughout a full range of motion. We'll also highlight the value of communication and individualized coaching to help hypermobile athletes develop proprioception and optimize their mechanics.

Inspired by his brother, Luke Bard set off on a baseball career backed by a lineage of baseball enthusiasts, including his dad, grandfather, uncle, and cousin. Navigating his brother's struggles with "Yips" and his own torn hip labrum, Luke's journey hasn't been smooth sailing. Yet, believing in both nature and nurture's impact on athletic prowess, he's keen on visual learning and modeling after successful players. Despite challenges, Luke's positivity, resilience, and commitment remain unshaken. He's all set and thrilled to continue his thrilling journey with the Blue Jays!

1:32 Father was a pro catcher

Daniel Blair takes a trip down memory lane, recalling their high school training days in Georgia, unpacking his elbow surgery journey, and detailing the complex evaluation process leading up to his reconstruction. Get an inside look at his road to recovery, right from post-op to hopping back on the training with Tread. Dive into Blair's determined pursuit of enhanced velocity and command, while also shedding light on the mental game of pitching, emphasizing confidence and execution.

1:33 Surgery

In this episode, we debunk myths about in-season training for athletes and pitchers. We highlight the importance of balancing workout routines and acknowledging different player types, from everyday performers to hybrid-focused players. We emphasize effective workload management, problem-solving techniques, maintaining positivity, and adjusting weight training during the season. Tune in for key insights into optimal in-season training!

Neil Ramirez embarks on a nostalgic journey through his illustrious baseball career, starting from his draft in 2007 and his dynamic stint with multiple teams. Delve into the momentous day of his major league debut and the trials that followed. Dive deeper as he shares invaluable insights on the pivotal role of self-belief and mindset, especially during his post-surgery comeback. Get a glimpse of his training at Tread and his perspective on the fine balance between relentless dedication and the need to engage in diversions to avoid being wholly absorbed by the game.

0:00 Introduction

Alan Carter dives into the subtle nuances between pitching at 97mph vs 100mph. Listen as he shares insights on optimizing his delivery for efficiency, fluidity, and timing. Discover the stark contrast between the adrenaline rush in a bullpen session versus a live game. Alan also recounts his compelling journey from high school through college and his pivotal decision to transfer to Lee University. He discussed his experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, as he researched and experimented with techniques to boost his pitch velocity.

0:00 Introduction

Join us as we explore JT Brubaker's journey, from seeing a spike in pitching velocity during his senior high school year, to his rewarding time at the Pittsburgh Pirates facility. Despite the hurdles faced in the minor leagues, including injuries, Brubaker persevered and showcased remarkable performances, particularly with his slider.

0:00 Offseason Updates

Tread Athlete and Detroit Tigers RHP Will Vest talks with his coach Ben Brewster on his experience in the Big Leagues. He dives into the profound significance of respect and how it's earned in the realm of Major League Baseball. He prompts us to ponder the origins of top-tier player abilities— are they innate or is there a possibility for anyone to ascend to such heights? Vest takes us on a journey through the mindset metamorphosis from the constant struggle of securing a spot to the pursuit of becoming a dominating force in the game. Stressing on the beauty of imperfections, he encourages not to overcomplicate the game. Moreover, he opens up about his own shift from hitting to pitching, shedding light on how his athletic prowess has benefitted his pitching mechanics.

A conversation with Tread Athlete and Pittsburgh Pirates Starter Mitch Keller and his coach Devin Hayes. Starting with a below-draft standard pitch in high school, Mitch Keller remarkably improved his game, earning a spot with the Pirates. After a five-year stint in the minor leagues, he made his MLB debut in 2019. Keller overcame challenges with his pitching mechanics and mindset by working with Tread and incorporating new techniques like the Kikuchi step back and figure eight rocker drills. Adding a sinker to his arsenal, he further elevated his game.

Timestamps:

We sat down with Brian Bannister, Director of Pitching for the San Francisco Giants and former MLB pitcher.  He is known in the baseball world as an expert in pitch design, and he has a number of notable success stories including Zack Greinke and Logan Webb.  He also has spent time coaching little league players, giving him the unique experience of being able to communicate and apply advanced concepts across the lowest and highest levels of baseball.  

You can learn more about Brian here: 

https://brianbannister.co/ 

https://twitter.com/realbanny 

https://twitter.com/ArtOfBaseball