Pitchers Nightmare

“What Type of Hitter Are You?”

2011-01-25T18:14:00.000-08:00

One way to help your players have a very successful season this year is by taking a moment to ask them, “What type of hitter do you think you are?”

Most young hitters have never slowed down long enough to consider such a thought. Typically, they run from hitting lessons to practice to games, with no consideration to the gifts they have blessed with and strengths they may have.

There are only three “types” of hitters: Singles Hitters, Power Hitters, and “Line Drive” Hitters, and in scouting young players, they all typically fall somewhere within these three categories. None are more or less important that the other, because in truth, a line-up needs all three to be successful.

A “Singles hitter” is typically a player who has a very short swing, terrific hand eye coordination, a small strike zone, and good to great speed. This player also usually exhibits a low finish to his swing in order to 1) create more ground balls, and 2) help them get out of the box quicker. If your son or daughter is small, and blessed with quickness, becoming this type of hitter this spring could really help them 1) get more playing time, and 2) help their team to accomplish their pre-season goals. This type of hitter is usually found in the 1st, 2cd, and 9th position in their respective lineups, and is typically known as a “table setter” or the “second leadoff.”

The second type is the rarest of the breed, the “Power Hitter”. There are very few true power hitters in the game today, which is why they demand the highest salaries at the Major League level (supply and demand). Typical attributes include big body types with long arms, a swing and miss mentality (meaning high risk/high reward), a flair for the dramatic, and a high finish (which encourages more fly balls). Everyone loves to see this guy hit, because he puts on a show that few forget. Typically, he is responsible for driving in runs for the team and can usually be found in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th spots of the lineup.

The third and final type of hitter is a “Line Drive hitter”, and is the most common of the types. In scouting young players, most kids fall into this category. Typical attributes include medium to normal body size and speed, good hands defensively, and great discipline at the plate. In other words, they are just “good baseball players”; i.e. “doubles” power, very few strikeouts, and an innate ability to situational hit (meaning they hit and run very well, they drive in runs, move guys over, etc...) If you son is this type of player, he usually fits into a lineup best in the 6th, 7th, and 8th spots, and there is no shame in that. Always make sure to remind him that each and every lineup in America has a 6th, 7th, and 8th spot in it, and they all need great “baseball players” in order to fill those slots.

In taking a moment to discuss which of the three types your young hitter might be, in truth, you are asking him or her in the short-term, “how best do you help your team?” and in the long-term, “in what capacity are you going to maximize your talent?” As Coaches, we all need table setters, grinders, and someone who swings for the fence, so have this conversation with your players in order to help them find out what they can do best to 1) help them have a very successful spring, and 2) help their team win a championship!

Rubber Band Theory.

2010-09-27T17:33:00.000-07:00

Whenever kids have trouble understanding the concept of "separation" at the plate, it always helps me to use the Rubber Band analogy.

If you were to take a Rubber Band and barely pull it back, the impact or "pop" of the Rubber Band is going to be very, very small (or in other words, with very little power.)

Now, if you take that same Rubber Band and pull it back to where there is an extreme amount of tension in the band (or in other words, through the torso of the hitter), the "pop" is going to be much more explosive (or in other words, with power.)

In truth, the distance between your young hitter's front toe down position and back hand position at the trigger is the definition of "separation".

Now, does your young hitter separate? Or could he or she use a Rubber Band?

Are Maple Bats Dangerous?

2010-09-27T17:17:00.000-07:00

As a result of Tyler Colvin's most recent accident in which he was struck in the chest by a shattered bat, baseball pundits again are rearing their ugly heads calling for a ban on all bats made of Maple in Major League Baseball.

Jim Anderson, Vice President of MaxBats (and a close, personal friend) responded in this way when I asked him, "What in the world is going on with all these Maple Bats shattering?"

"The bat (not a MaxBat) that Wellington Castillo was using was a Model 243 (large barrel) with a -3 weight drop. In order to make that model, the manufacturer is forced to use a light billet of wood (light wood = weak wood). Couple that with the -3 weight drop, and you're going to have problems. This is one reason I don't advocate anyone using a large barreled bat with a weight drop of greater than -2. As someone who is in the industry, it didn't take long to realize that the bat in question is a bat with bad slope of grain."

So it's not just Maple then?

"Over the course of the last 2 1/2 years, MLB has collected broken bat data that has been categorized by manufacturer, player, model, wood species, etc. Interestingly enough, such info reveals that Adam Dunn had 24 multi-piece failures last year.....12 of those failures were with maple, and 12 were with ash. So, can we just continue to blame maple bats when we see a bat break in 2-pieces on t.v.? No. Obviously the incident on Sunday between the Cubs and Marlins was very unfortunate, and I can only wish Cubs rookie OF Tyler Colvin a speedy recovery, but to simply blame it solely on the wood species (maple) is a bit of a stretch."

So after talking with Jim, perhaps manufacturers should be forced to impose certain dimensions (length, width, weight) on the bats they produce, rather than worrying about what type of wood it is.

What do you think?

Baseball (Cards) Blog.

2010-09-14T03:53:00.000-07:00

Check out this Baseball (Card) Blog that I was interviewed for back on Sept. 8th!
http://borosny.blogspot.com/
Very cool site, (and it's always fun to talk about your childhood!)

Winning Baseball: "What Is a Two Strike Approach?"

2010-07-12T12:53:00.000-07:00

Chinese Arithmetic...That's what kids hear now whenever a Coach tries to teach (and explain) a Two Strike Approach to young hitters. But this "Dinosaur of the Diamond" is a very important part of what winning teams do at the plate.

Winning Teams keep an inning going by poking a ball the other way. Winning Teams lay off balls and work a walk in order to keep an inning going. Winning Teams find a way to put pressure on their opponent by forcing them to make plays. Simply put, Winning Teams find a way to win, and having a Two Strike Approach is one of those ways.

At the plate, a Two Strike Approach is nothing more than moving two inches closer to the plate (to take away the outside pitch), moving two inches up in the box (to take away the curve ball), and choking up two inches on the bat (to have better bat control). In other words, "2-2-2-2 (two strikes means two inches in on the plate, two inches up in the box, and two inches up on the bat)."

Physically speaking, it's also spreading out in the box (in order to keep your weight back), flattening out the bat (in order to hit line drives more consistently), looking the other way (to let the ball get deeper), and being quick with your hands (in order to be short to the ball).

Mentally speaking, it's finding a way to get on base, it's competing at the plate, and it's putting pressure on your opponent.

And it's playing Winning Baseball.

Winning Baseball: "The Disappearing Two Strike Approach."

2010-07-07T10:50:00.000-07:00

In the summer of 2010, there have already been two Perfect Games registered (well...actually, three, if you count the Armando Galarraga effort where Jim Joyce's bad call with two outs in the ninth cost him a Perfect Game as well), and two more No-Hitters. And what makes this even more remarkable is the fact that prior to this season, there were only 18 Perfect Games recorded in the history of the game! So what in the world could cause this remarkable change of events; a new pitching philosophy, a new pitch no one has seen, more velocity, more control? No, the truth is these Perfect Games have become possible due to the extinction of a (former) staple of the game: the Two Strike Approach.

When I speak to players today about having a Two Strike Approach, I often get a look of absolute befuddlement. Players today do not understand how to move up in the box, how to move in on the plate, how to flatten out their bat, how to punch the ball the other way, and God forbid, choke up, in order to become a tough out at the plate. They would prefer to swing for the fences at balls in the dirt while their batting averages suffer (and their teams suffer the consequences.)

In studying and teaching the Two Strike Approach, no one personified the ability to drive the ball early in the count, while "shortening up" and "putting the ball in play" better than Joe Dimaggio. In 1941, the year Joe D. hit in 56 straight, few people know that he also hit 30 Home Runs that year, while striking out only 13 times! He also had similar numbers in 1939 as well when he hit 30 more Home Runs, while striking out only 20 times that season. And by the way, he was also named the American League M.V.P. at the conclusion of both seasons (and the Yankees also won the World Series both of those years!)

So how do we, as Coaches and Players, become better two-strike hitters? Find out next week, when we discuss the "2-2-2-2" Principle at the Plate!

Winning Baseball: "Being Aggressive At The Plate."

2010-06-21T10:37:00.000-07:00

Each and every week, I hear Coaches screaming from the third base box for their young hitters to, "Be Aggressive And Swing the Bat!" But really, what does that mean? (And remember, teen-age ears hear differently than we do, and may not understand exactly what you, as a Coach, want them to accomplish)...

Next time out there, do me a favor. Rather than yelling "Be Aggressive!" to your hitters from a distance, explain to the boys (and girls) prior to the game that you would like to see them "Be Aggressive on the Fastball in the Zone." And let them know you are going to track their performance, not their results. In other words, you're not concerned with whether they get a hit or not. You are more concerned with their approach.

With today's kids, just "Being Aggressive" is not enough. Adding "on the fastball" to your direction helps narrow down the pitch you are expecting them to jump on, and "in the zone" encourages plate discipline and the first rule of hitting from Ted Williams (always get a good ball to hit!)

This simple explanation of what you are really looking for from them at the plate will help you to better communicate the approach you would like to see (and as a result, help your team to hit the ball harder and help your hitters to become better as a result.)

PNST User Delino Deshields, Jr. Goes In The First Round!

2010-06-08T07:11:00.000-07:00

Last September, I received an on-line order for two Pitcher's Nightmare Swing Trainers from a very familiar name in the Baseball World; Delino Deshields, former Big League Second Baseman for the Expos, Dodgers, Cardinals, Orioles, and Cubs (and current Minor League Manager for the Reds).

Last night, I saw the very same name (with the addition of a Jr. suffix) taken as the #8 pick by the Houston Astros in the Major League Draft (besting his Dad, who was picked with the #12 pick in 1987.)

Delino Deshields, Jr. played high school ball for Woodward Academy in Atlanta and I am proud to say the War Eagles are PNST users mainly as a result of Delino Deshields, Jr.'s influence.

Coach Chris Reed of Woodward Academy told me over the phone (as he placed an order for the War Eagles) that "Delino Jr. swings it everyday and loves it!"

Congratulations, Delino Deshields Jr.! Keep swinging the PNST and may God bless your path as you make your way to the Majors!

Winning Baseball: "The Three Run Theory."

2010-06-01T05:16:00.000-07:00

There is a theory in Baseball Coaching that is widely known as the "Three Run Theory."

Basically, what this theory means is if you have a Great Coach, your team begins the game leading 3-0, due to practice preparation, playing the game the right way, teaching proper technique, etc. If your team has a Good Coach, the game is 0-0, and unfortunately for some, if you have a Bad Coach, your team is already losing the game 3-0 before the first pitch is thrown.

This rule also has a multitude of possibilities due to match-ups. If a Great Coach meets a Great Coach, 0-0. But if a Great Coach meets a Bad Coach, 6-0 before the first pitch. Good Coach, Bad Coach, 3-0. You get the idea.

Now, how does this theory help? Think about your own team. As we all know in baseball, numbers don't lie. Are you a Good Coach, a Bad Coach, or a Great Coach? The scoreboard will usually let you know.

Winning Baseball: "The Cardinal Rule."

2010-05-05T19:22:00.000-07:00

One huge difference between "winning" baseball teams and "losing" baseball teams is the ability of winning teams to score runners from third with less than two outs.

In a game that could ultimately be decided by one run, making contact in these R.B.I. situations is crucial. And one of the best teams in baseball at performing this skill is the St. Louis Cardinals.

Tony La Russa and his staff have a system and there is no doubt their system works; be it in Chicago, Oakland, or St. Louis. One mainstay, or tenet, of his system is the Cardinal Rule of "NEVER TAKE A FASTBALL FOR A STRIKE IN AN R.B.I. SITUATION."

In order to be a St. Louis Cardinal, you have to swing the bat in this situation. The Cardinal Rule forces the St. Louis hitters to attack the fastball early in the count and avoid "pitcher's counts" and/or "strikeout situations."

And the same rule can work for your team as well. Adopt the "Cardinal Rule" in R.B.I. situations, and you will be amazed at how much better your team becomes at plating those runners from third with less than two outs!

Winning Baseball: Where's Your Ring?

2010-04-27T07:55:00.000-07:00

Next month, after more than 1,000 wins and induction into the ABCA Hall of Fame, my Collegiate Coach and Mentor, Dusty Rhodes, is retiring from coaching. And even though the man who "taught me how to play (and coach) the game the right way" may be riding off in the sunset; his ways, his philosophies, and his system will continue to grow and prosper through all of us who had the good fortune of playing for him.

I'll never forget my first day with Coach Rhodes. We had gathered as a team in the stadium bleachers behind the plate waiting for him to speak. Today was to be our first practice. Our first chance to show what we could do. Our first step towards winning a National Championship. And as Coach Rhodes paced back and forth at the base of the stairs, we all sat anxiously waiting to get on the field and start practice, when finally, he spoke.

"Real quick, guys, before we get started...How many of you have Championship rings?"

Silence permeated over the bleachers. We all looked around at one another, wondering, "where's he going with this?" Two guys eventually raised their right hands and Coach pointed them out, "Yes?"

One of the young men who had raised his hand announced that he had won a State Championship with Sarasota High School last season. "Good...good." Coach Rhodes said, "Excellent program...And you?"

The other young man let us all know that he had been a member of the past summer's American Legion State Championship team in Deland. "Excellent." Coach Rhodes said, "Now, what about the rest of you?...Where's your rings?"

As he so often did back in those days, he built up the moment with quiet intensity. He paced before us and asked again, "Well, where is your ring?...You don't have a ring?" And as our heads shook in answer and our eyes fell down in disgrace, Coach then asked "Well, do you know want to know why you don't have a ring?"

Immediately, every young man looked directly into his eyes. Longing for the answer. Wanting to win a ring. Wishing to be a part of a Championship team.

"BECAUSE THEY DON'T GIVE THOSE THINGS AWAY!!! YOU HAVE TO EARN THEM!!! AND YOU BEGIN TO EARN THEM TODAY!!! ON THAT FIELD!!! RIGHT HERE!!! RIGHT NOW!!! SO LET'S GO!!!

I don't know if I ever ran onto a field as hard as I did in that moment. Coach Rhodes had found a way to speak to all of us and inspire us to reach for those rings. And looking back now as a man who owns three Championship rings (two as a player, and one as a Head Coach), it is true. They don't give them away. You do have to earn them. And you have to realize that the ring should be your goal from Day One. Just as Coach Rhodes taught us, so many years ago.

Winning Baseball: "Slow the Moment Down"

2010-04-23T07:09:00.000-07:00

The other night, I made a trip to the mound to try and calm down one of my younger pitchers. The game was tied, there were base runners everywhere, and the pressure was mounting. The umpire was squeezing the zone (no doubt feeling the pressure himself) and the crowd had become a factor.

As we stood there together on the bump, I told the young righty to take a deep breath, and gave him some of the best advice I ever received as a professional: "Now, slow the moment down."

If you, as a Coach or as a Player, ever get "caught up" in the moment, you will more than likely make a hasty decision based on emotion, rather than rational, you will feel "out of control" and "tight", and as a result, you usually make a mistake.

By "slowing the moment down", you are able to calm down your heart rate, clear your head, and relax in high pressure situations. You are able to think, to process information and to make wise decisions. And more than anything, you are able to go "back to the basics", "throw to the mitt", and ultimately, perform at your maximum ability in the most crucial of situations.

This same advice also works for hitters. By "slowing the moment down", hitters can see the ball longer, can understand their zone better, and as a result, quiet down the noise that surrounds them on all sides with the game on the line.

So the next time you find yourself having to come through in the clutch as a player, or making a game-changing decision as a coach, remember..."Slow the moment down" and you will no doubt come through and make the right move!

Winning Baseball: "Shoe Leather"

2010-04-19T07:53:00.000-07:00

When I was the Head Coach of Vienna Post 202 (2003 Georgia State Champions), one of the most difficult tasks we faced as a Coaching Staff was taking kids from 12 different high schools who have been taught to despise one another all year and make them into a team in only a few weeks. I'm sure others may have theories on how to do this best, but there is only one way I know: "Shoe Leather".

When you break Baseball and Softball down to the bare bones, it is an individual sport played by a team. If each player does his job, you will have a good team and a successful season (you see this often in the professional ranks). However, in order to have a "Championship" season, you, as a Coach, need to find a way to give your players a common experience, a "group" experience to share that will help your players "find a way to win" when the going gets tough and they need to come through in the clutch, not because he or she wants a hit or an RBI, but because there is no way he or she would ever let their teammates down.

When I was a player at the University of North Florida, we had a tradition known as "Hell Week". Each year, when we returned to school after Christmas, we would run at 6:00 AM in a parking lot through the dead of winter for an entire week. This week did more than get us in shape after the holidays. It made us find a way to keep moving our feet when the pain was unbearable and we couldn't take another step. It made us reach down deep to block out the voice telling us "no" and replace it with a voice who repeatedly said "yes". And looking back, it made us become a team.

Proverbs 27:17 reads "As Iron sharpens Iron, so one man sharpens another." You, as a coach, must provide that method or moment where your young men and women can bleed together, sweat together, and puke together so they can also become sharp as Iron, and "find a way to win" when the going gets tough.

How to Play Winning Baseball: Divide the Season into Thirds.

2010-04-16T12:15:00.000-07:00

In order for your club to "peak" at the right time, you, as a Coach, need to look at the season as a process or an "evolution" of thirds.

The first third of your season should be a time where everyone plays, everyone gets an opportunity, and everyone has a chance to show what they can do. If you have a young kid you would like to try in a certain situation, this is the time to do it. If you have a lineup in mind, but aren't quite sure whether it will be the right combination or not, this is the time to try it out. If you need to learn if a kid is better in a starting role or in relief on the mound, again, this is the time to run him out there. Do not emphasize winning as much in this time period, because it is more important that everyone is given a chance to show what they can (or can't) do (which will serve you well later when you have to explain to "little Johnny's parents" why he doesn't play as much as he used to.)

The second third is when you, as a Coach, begin "tightening the bolts". You now know who can run, who can handle the bat, and unfortunately, who is a liability in the lineup and on the field. Your defense should be set and everyone should understand their position and role in the lineup. You now know who can throw strikes, who can't, and more importantly, how everyone on the team fits into the plans to make it to the Championship. Be it as a pinch-runner, someone who bunts well, or as a left handed relief specialist, you have to find a way for everyone to contribute (even if it's just coaching first), and this is the time to do that.

The third third is when winning is emphasized. Each and every player should know exactly what is expected of them, and your team should be prepared for every situation. You should know if and when the hit and run will work, who can come through in the clutch, and who can get that much needed strikeout with a runner at third with one out. You should now be able to relax and enjoy the harvest of your hard work; A championship team who is peaking at the right time and "rolling" into the playoffs ready to win a ring!

The Face of Courage: Jackie Robinson.

2010-04-15T11:42:00.000-07:00

Every April 15th, Major League Baseball honors the only man whose number is retired by all 30 teams: Jackie Robinson. On this date back in 1947, Jackie Robinson broke the "color barrier" and became the first black man to play in the Major Leagues in the modern era. But even more so than that, Jackie Robinson gave Courage a face and a name we could all relate to (and remember).

The Georgia native overcame obstacles that in today's day and age are hard to believe. (Did you know the St. Louis Cardinals threatened to strike if Jackie was allowed to play?) Along with death threats, rough play by his opponents (he once received a seven-inch gash in his leg while turning two), and a constant barrage of insults from the stands (and the other dugouts) calling him every name in the book, Jackie personified professionalism while playing the game at the highest level.

Thank God for us all, Jackie chose to beat 'em "on the field" rather than "in the stands". We all need Heroes to look up to and to admire in life. Jackie Robinson and the courage he exemplified was (and is) heroic in turn, and no doubt helped us as a nation to overcome prejudice, to create more opportunity, and in the end, become better people.

How to Play Winning Baseball: Chapter One: One Great Play, One Great Pitch!

2010-04-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

In the first inning of most games, the score almost always becomes 2 to 0. Whether it is a Big League game or a Little League game, pitchers almost always give up two right away and this dynamic is the result of several different things.

It could be the pitcher having trouble making an adjustment from the bullpen to the mound. It could be the adrenaline of facing a worthy opponent. It could be a wind shift (you may not be aware of this, but if the wind is in your face, your curve ball breaks more and if the wind is to your back, your curve ball breaks less, but your fastball is better). It could be your defense being caught off guard.

None the less, there is only one way to prevent these two runs from scoring (and it's not throwing a simulated game in the pen)! The winning way: One great play, One great pitch.

Tell your defense before they take the field that someone will have to make a great play in the first to keep the other team from scoring. Then the thought is first and foremost on their mind and more than likely, they will deliver in helping you to win the first inning!

Automatically, your pitcher will also know at some point in the first, they will have to make a great pitch, and again, if the thought is first and foremost in their mind, they will make that pitch and they will prevent the other team from getting the upper hand.

And as a result, with the shoe on the other foot, your opponent will now be faced with the very difficult task of making one great play and one great pitch and preventing you from winning the first and going up 2 to 0!

How to Play Winning Baseball: Chapter One: Win the First Third!

2010-04-07T07:13:00.000-07:00

This Spring, I agreed to serve as the Pitching Coach for a local High School. What I thought would be a stress reliever and a whole lot of fun has in fact turned into the opposite. And the simple reason is the guys don't know how to win. They know how to play (and many of the players have quite a bit of talent), but they don't know how to win. And winning, just like anything else, is something that has to be taught, has to be practiced, and has to become part of your daily routine.

As a result, I have decided to outline steps necessary in order to become a winning baseball team. I hope the guys (and others) will enjoy reading this, and perhaps learn something along the way.

Chapter One: Win the First Third!

When you break the game down, Baseball is a game of threes (more on this later). Rather than having your team think and prepare for Nine Innings or Seven Innings, have them break the game down into Thirds. (3 inns., 3 inns, 3 inns, for a Nine Inning game or 1 inn, 3 inns, 3 inns, for a Seven Inning game.) This is a much easier concept for your players to grasp and he (or she in fast pitch) can and will then work to win a much shorter game (thus, playing with the intensity and the desire to immediately win that third!)

Now, here is where it gets interesting. This is true, whether it is in travel ball or the Big Leagues...The team that wins two out of the three thirds will win the game. (The next time you watch a Big League game, take note of this...It's mind boggling and is further proof, the Baseball Gods are real and they are in control (LOL)!)

So if your team has a bad inning, so what? Chalk that up to a bad third (you are allowed to lose one anyway) and then work your tail off on winning the other two! By dividing the game for your players, it makes the game shorter, more intense, and encourages hustle, attitude, and desire to WIN THE FIRST THIRD!

A Class Act.

2010-03-11T11:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, the Boston Red Sox performed one of the classiest acts I have ever seen.

Nomar Garciaparra, the former Six-Time All-Star Shortstop, Two-Time A.L. Batting Champion (1999, 2000), and 1997 A.L. Rookie of the Year, signed a One-Day Minor League Contract with the Red Sox in order to throw out a ceremonial first-pitch to his former teammate (at both Georgia Tech and with the Red Sox) Jason Veritek, and then retire as a member of his old club, the Boston Red Sox.

In a day and age full of "what have you done for me lately", it is so nice to see General Manager Theo Epstein, Owner John Henry, and the entire Boston Red Sox organization understand that there is in fact, a heart underneath all those uniforms, and do what is right in remembering one of their greats with this fitting farewell.

What Are "Power Stations" and Why Are They Important?

2010-03-05T08:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I was working with a young hitter who had a tendency to hit the ball off the end of his bat. The reason...His middle "Power Station" was out!

"Power Stations" (simply put) are a hitter's front shoulder, front hip, and front knee. If any of these three are "out" (or pulling away from the pitcher), then the hitter loses power.

Take a look at this picture of the Mick. This is what lining up your "Power Stations" for maximum power looks like.

If a hitter's front shoulder pulls out, so does their head. If a hitter's front hip juts out (or in South Georgia terms, his or her fanny), so does his or her direction and momentum back to the pitcher. And if a hitter's front knee takes off, so do their hips.

Make sure your young hitter understands how important his or her "Power Stations" are. And let 'em know, if they get all three lined up, there is no doubt they'll "LIGHT UP" the next pitch!

What are "Power Planes" and Why Are They Important?

2010-02-22T15:58:00.000-08:00

Power Planes are extremely important in creating a powerful swing at the plate! And yet, very few hitters understand and do it correctly.

The best way to understand and explain this "Principle" of Power Hitting is to show you the below photo of Alphonso Soriano.

If you'll look (now hang on...this is dealing with Geometry), draw a straight line 1) through Alfonso's shoulders and 2) then his hips. As you can see, Alfonso's back shoulder is higher than his front shoulder and as a result, his back hip is higher than this front hip. (Or in coaching terminology, his backside is higher than his frontside.) This is what allows Alphonso to drive down "into" the baseball, rather than "collapse" with his back side as his swing begins.

When you are teaching a young hitter how to set up in the box, make sure to take the time to teach proper "Power Plane" Positioning if you have a young hitter who is looking to 1) increase his power or 2) fix "collapsing" with his back side or "dipping" with his back shoulder.

Is It Okay to "Guess"? YES!!!

2010-02-11T02:54:00.000-08:00

Ted Williams, the greatest hitter of all time, said the exact same thing in The Science of Hitting (p. 29) and yet, hardly anybody does it. I very rarely run across a kid who is willing to "sit on a curve" or "set a pitcher up." And now, looking back on my own pro career, I really wish I had done this more.

A hit is a hit whether you were sitting on a curve or waiting for a fastball. And yet, hitting coaches everywhere teach their kids the old tenant "sit on the fastball, adjust to the curve."

Looking for a certain pitch in a certain zone is "guessing", or if you would like a better term that makes more sense with today's hitters, "anticipating". Simply put: If the pitch is there and you're looking for it, you crush it. If it's not, you take the pitch and wait for another. This is what we all do in 2-0, 3-1 counts. We look for our pitch. Well, if that's true, then why don't we sit on a curve in a curveball count?

Because we, as hitters, are afraid to look bad...Once upon a time, I had an old coach who used to say "you can't play this game scared." Amen, brother. Remember, you get THREE strikes in this game, not ONE. Walk up there, look for your pitch, and take a chance on being great! As hitters, we can always "sit on the fastball, and adjust to the curve" later in the count if and when we get two strikes.

How do I change my kid's "Spinner" into a "Hammer"?

2010-02-08T08:50:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, most kids who think they are throwing curves today, throw "spinners". Their elbow drops and they "cast" the ball towards the strike zone, in an effort to throw the breaking ball for a strike.

Problem is...The best hitting coaches in the game today teach their hitters that if the ball "pops" or goes "up" out of the hand, it is a "hanger" or a "spinner" and will soon find a nice resting place over the outfield wall!!! (BTW, if you are teaching your own son hitting, that is the ONLY pitch that moves "up" out of the hand and is easily recognized, once you know what to look for. All other pitches have a "downward" or "straight out" action.)

In order to teach your son how to convert his "spinner" into a "hammer" (and have much more success with his breaking ball), show him this picture of John Smoltz at release.

John's chest is directly over his front knee at release. This is THE key. And the easiest way I have found to teach this is to have your young hurler mentally picture "pulling a string" attached to the middle of his chest at his release point.

This way, the chest almost always extends over the front knee once they "pull the string", and the breaking ball will break hard and down in a "straight out" of the hand manner!

And your son will now be known for having a "Hammer" for a breaking ball and can put the "Spinner" back where it belongs...(in the tackle box!)

A Terrific Start!

2010-02-04T10:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I was lucky enough to be able to attend Jamie McMillan's very first Collegiate game.

If you aren't aware of who Jamie is, he is the Big Guy featured on the Pitcher's Nightmare Swing Trainer Instructional DVD.

Here's a great shot of him warming up with the PNST On-Deck last night.

His team, Georgia Perimeter College, won the game 11-5, and J. Mac went 3 for 4 with 3 RBI's in his very first game!

Not a bad way to start what looks to be a terrific Collegiate (and hopefully, Professional) career.

Way to go, kid!

Why Are Some Hitters Great in B.P. and Gross in a game?

2010-02-01T08:08:00.000-08:00

Today, I want to introduce many of you to the "Yes, Yes, No" Principle, or thought process.

When the pitcher releases the ball, each and every hitter's initial thought should be "Yes" or "Swing". This will allow him or her to flow into their trigger in a very aggressive state of mind, or in other words, "hitting" rather than "analyzing".

At the half-way point, the hitter should still be focused on "Yes" or "Swing". This will allow him or her to continue into a transfer of their weight (through their heels) and ready to fire the hands and hips (initiating the swing process), again, aggressively, rather than from a position of indecision.

It is at this point the "No" or "Don't Swing" of the thought process is utilized. If the pitch is a poor pitch to hit, the hitter should immediately (internally) think, "No" or "Don't Swing" and take the pitch. However, if the pitch is a great pitch to hit, he or she will be in an aggressive position, and will think "Yes", or "Swing", with the result being a perfectly timed, terrific swing on a perfect pitch to hit!

Without you realizing it, your kids do this already in Batting Practice. They are relaxed. They are programmed to be aggressive, and their timing and thought process is "Yes, Yes, Yes or No." However, once the game begins, more often that not, I see kids thought process become the opposite or "No, No, Yes", meaning they are not aggressive in their initial thought process, they analyze rather than cut loose, and unfortunately, make their decisions late on balls they should be crushing.

And that is why some kids are great in B.P. and gross in a game.

Take a moment to teach your kid(s) the "Yes, Yes, No" principle. The smile on his or her face will be worth it.

What's the difference between "Wrap" and "Curl"?

2010-01-28T03:58:00.000-08:00

"Wrap?" "Curl?" You may be wondering what in the world I'm talking about, (and no, it's not a new hairstyle!)

"Wrap" and "Curl" refers to a hitter's positioning of the bat prior to the swing process initiating. Or in English, where the barrel of the bat is once the hitter is ready to swing.

Almost all Major Leaguers use "Curl" to encourage what is known as "hinging" the wrist. This creates whip through the zone and creates power in the process. (See above pic of Ryan Howard.)

However, many young hitters misinterrept this action in imitating their favorite MLB Hitters and in trying to create "Curl" actually create "Wrap", which quite simply means the barrel assumes a position behind the hitter's head.

In other words, from a side view, you can't see your young hitter's barrel at all times (i.e. "wrapping" around your young hitter's head.)

In coaching your youngster, please take a moment to teach the difference in the two. It could be the difference between night and day!

When should I try to pick a guy off at First?

2010-01-26T11:41:00.000-08:00

Sunday, one of my catching students asked me, "when is the best time to try and pick a guy off at first?"

The answer is actually three-fold.

The very best time for a Catcher to pick a guy off at first is when your pitcher is in trouble, the bases are juiced (which would cause your first baseman to be behind the runner) and you need to do something to help him get out of the inning. In college, my first baseman (Todd Wodraska, now Vice-Mayor of Jupiter, Florida...And one of the best first basemen I ever played with) and I could look at one another and "just know" when he would creep in behind the runner to set up the pick. However, if you don't possess this higher level of communication, a simple "open glove" sign from the first baseman, followed by a rub of the cleat by the catcher should do the trick.

The second thing you should look for is you should identify the "slowest" guy on the team (meaning, more often than not, he is a poor baserunner) and the "fastest" guy on the team (meaning, he'll take chances trying to get a big jump) immediately. Both of these types are excellent candidates for a pick, and should be noted by the catcher and first basemen as possible targets. Normal, middle-of-the-road type runners are usually very conservative on the basepaths and as a result, very hard to pick.

And the third and perhaps most important thing you should look for (pay attention: this is more advanced, professional type instruction) is a "Bunt and Miss", or a "Swing and Miss" with a Left Handed Hitter at the plate. In these two situations, the baserunner will "lean" setting up the quick pick from behind the hitter due to the fact his sightline of the catcher will be blocked by the hitter at the plate. This situation, (with respect to the score, the inning, the dominance (or lack thereof) of your pitcher) is the perfect situation for a pick. And both Catcher and First Baseman should anticipate the moment, and once it happens, "carpe diem" or "Seize the day!" and pick that runner off!

When should my son begin to throw a curveball?

2010-01-25T08:59:00.000-08:00

This morning, a reader asked me, "when should their son begin to throw a curveball?" The kid in question is 14, and had just attended a pitching clinic in which he was taught how to throw a breaking ball correctly. As a result, his Dad wanted to know, "did I feel he was ready to begin throwing this pitch regularly or should he wait until a later age?"

My general rule on when to begin learning a breaking ball is based on the physical maturity of the youth. And the basic rule is "if they are shaving, they can learn and throw a breaking ball."

However, I'm a much bigger fan of the slider or a cutter (which is a pitch with an arm action very similar to the fastball) rather than the curve (which puts a lot of torque on the elbow.) But if you/he do decide to begin working on a breaking ball, bear in mind, I recommend he only throw it with two strikes for now (that way, he will continue to develop his fastball/change early in the count), or bookend it (meaning throw it as the first pitch and last pitch to their best hitters). This way, he can learn the breaking ball successfully, pitch well, and still continue to develop his fastball (extremely important to long-term development) and his change-up.

The ABCA Convention in Dallas, TX.

2010-01-12T13:41:00.000-08:00

Here's a clip from the ABCA Convention in Dallas, TX with Terry Pendleton signing autographs and speaking with other coaches about the features and benefits of the Pitcher's Nightmare Swing Trainer!

http://sharing.theflip.com/session/33f661a3d48660b510fd07340f7c6ba2/video/9218014

Check it out and be the next to add the PNST to your team's pre-season hitting workouts!

Good Trade for the Braves??? Time will tell...

2009-12-23T10:03:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I was very surprised to learn the Braves had traded Javier Vazquez (who, if you need to be reminded, finished fourth in the N.L. Cy Young Voting this past season and won every game he pitched down the stretch) to the Yankees for basically, with all due respect, a Career .269 Hitting Outfielder in Melky Cabrera.

However, the more I study the trade, the more I think GM Frank Wren might have made another terrific move in the Braves favor for three reasons.

1) Vazquez's salary was $11.5 million a year...Cabrera's $1.4 million...Hocus Pocus...The Braves just created an extra $10 million dollars to re-sign Adam Laroche at first , and replaced the old man in left, Garrett Anderson (who by the way, made $2.5 million last season...Add this money to the mix and you have $12.5 million to re-sign Laroche with...if you maintain last year's salary numbers), with a switch-hitting pair of very good defensive, 25 year old legs in Cabrera.

2) Arodys Vizcaino and Mike Dunn...These two power arms reportedly stay well in the mid-90's with their fastball and help the Braves maintain their organizational approach of running as many arms as you can to the bump so one or two can eventually become great (see the 1990's if you question this approach). In other words, there is strength in numbers when looking for pitching.

3) John Smoltz...I'll never forget when the Braves traded away Doyle Alexander to the Detroit Tigers in '87 and he went 9-0 with a 1.53 ERA to help the Tigers win the A.L. East Title, and the Braves just continued to suck. Little did I know, patience is a virtue at such a young age, and the GM for the Braves at the time (a guy by the name of Bobby Cox) knew exactly what he was doing in acquiring a AA Righty in that trade who would become the all-time winningest pitcher in post-season history named John Smoltz.

In other words, trades are very hard to read right away. Like a fine wine, give them a little time, and then the truth will be known. Frank Wren deserves that...as does Melky Cabrera, Arodys Vizcaino, and Mike Dunn.

Bryce Harper's Swing!

2009-12-18T07:09:00.000-08:00

If you haven't had an opportunity to see Bryce Harper's amazing swing in action, check out this clip from the Home Run Derby earlier in the year in the 2009 Power Showcase at Tropicana Field (P.S. This is where he hit a ball 502 ft.!!!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liS3kGvQ9Bk&feature=player_embedded#

Life to the Max!

2009-12-16T10:39:00.000-08:00

Check out this terrific clip from a TV Show in Minnesota called "Life to the Max!"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFmZCCiawkA

The clip outlines my good friend (and host at the Winter Meetings) Jim Anderson and his partner, Paul Johnson, and their terrific bat company, Max Bats!

P.S. If you look closely, I make a cameo appearance in two of the clips from the Metrodome. (Luckily, I didn't break the camera (LOL)!!!

Technorati Today!

2009-12-03T14:22:00.000-08:00

"You never stop learning."

Apparently, Technorati is the place to be in the blogging world (NMZ7YKYKCTJT), which is good to know since I'm working on a learning curve. (A big thank you to Claire Druga of HHB Advertising for all the help she continues to provide me with!)

When I went to college, we had to go to the library and read books to do research papers. We had to know the Dewey Decimal System and the "computer room" was that...A room full of computers.

I don't know if technology has made everything better in our lives (I do miss the days before cell phones invaded our privacy, and before GPS, when getting lost meant stumbling across something new that you never would have seen otherwise), but I do know the fact I can share my thoughts on the great game of baseball with so many people across this great nation is absolutely mind-boggling and amazing.

A Hall of Famer Returns.

2009-12-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Voice who described such October Miracles as Kirk's Drive into the Night, the Ball Through Buckner's Legs, and Larsen's Perfect Game is returning to the microphone in Los Angeles.

On Tuesday, the Dodgers announced that 82-year-old Broadcasting Legend Vin Scully will return to the booth next year to begin his 61st season with the club. With a voice that paints a masterpiece with each passing inning I, for one, am so glad he decided to continue in the Broadcast Booth.

When I was playing in the Cal League in '96, occasionally fans would have the Dodger games on the radio while we were playing. (The reason I could hear it...Because I was sitting in the Pen!) One night, I heard Vin describe a play at the plate. His voice never rose in excitement. It never became shrill as the runner raced to the plate and he casually told us (who were sitting hours away from Chavez Ravine) that "the runner was out from you to me." A smile eased across my face as I could picture the image in my head. An image created by one of the best (if not, the best). An image created by the ebb and flow of a performing artist singing a song about the summer game I love so much.

Welcome back, Vin. Here's wishing you many more.

Cuban B.P.!!!

2009-12-01T10:05:00.000-08:00

Kirk Quasebarth wrote me on http://www.checkswing.com/ with the following question: "What drills do you have your hitters repetively do in order to acheive understanding and mastery of hitting the inside of the ball? Do you do anything different as you teach older players? (high school... college)?"

Do I have drills??? (LOL) Absolutely, Kirk. Here are two you will really like.

1) When your hitters are doing tee work, have the ball always turned with the "horseshoe" facing the hitter. In this manner, the hitter will focus on the inner half (or to simplify it, I like to say the part closest to him or her...), rather than the "back" or the "top". For smarter/older kids, (and this relates to the part of your question referring to older players), have the hitter picture a "Dot" on the inside of the baseball. (or if you would prefer, just draw a dot inside the horseshoe on your cage balls. That way, the dot is there and the kids will have a visual aid to reinforce the technique you are teaching.

2) Cuban B.P. (One of my all-time favorites!!!) If you are performing front flip or regular B.P. with your hitters, take the L-Screen and turn it where you are located between first and second base for Rightys and between second and third for Leftys (a severe opposite field angle to the hitters). This is the way the Cuban National Team regularly takes B.P. and it really works! This severe angle makes it very easy for your hitters to learn how to "stay inside the ball" because, due to the angle, they have no choice!!! The inside of the ball becomes the only part of the baseball the hitter can make direct contact with (in other words, he or she can't "cast out" and "hook around" the baseball.)

Also, Kirk. Please remember to remind the hitter to hit the part of the ball closest to them, and as a result, you will see their hands follow a truer path to the ball, you will see the hitter accomplishing "fade" on the ball as it carries into the gaps and you will see your hitters create more line drives due to the fact they regularly hit the inside half...Side benefit, once you return B.P. to the mound area/middle of the field, you no longer have an angle on the hitter (which is BTW, as I'm sure you well know, one of the secrets to being an effective pitcher...Creating angle) and the ball will look HUGE to your hitters! (This makes this drill extremely effective in Pre-Game B.P.)

Try it out with your club and please let me know if you have any other questions. I'm always ready to help.

What is Bat Lag and what is the easiest way to teach it?

2009-11-29T19:18:00.001-08:00

The simplest definition of Bat Lag is that the hitter’s hands go through the zone first, thus causing the barrel to lag or follow the hands throughout the zone. The complex part is teaching your young hitter how to establish Bat Lag and incorporate it into a consistent short, professional-type swing.

Usually, when I begin teaching Bat Lag to young hitters, I get the look. You know the look. The one where their head is nodding yes, but their eyes are saying no. Or to be more exact, the look that says, “You might as well be teaching me Chinese Arithmetic in Latin, because I don’t have a clue what you are talking about”. This is where you, as a coach, cut to the chase and ask a question most young hitters have never considered. “What part of the ball are you trying to hit?”

Most young hitters will say (albeit incorrectly), “the back of the ball.” A few will even tell you, “the top of the ball.” The answer you want to hear in order to establish bat lag and as a result, a short, professional-type swing is “the Inside Half of the baseball.” (Quick Side note: Many Big Leaguers actually focus even more specifically on the Top-Inside Quarter of the ball, rather than the Inside Half, but remember, these are Big Leaguers!!!)

If you take a young hitter and do a simple side flip toss drill with him, with emphasis on where the point of contact is established on the baseball, you will see the fallacy of a young hitter making contact with the back of the ball (and the subsequent lean-back, lazy fly ball or ground ball with top spin) and/or the top of the ball (and the resulting lunging chopper/hard ground ball into the turf, or lazy line drive settling harmlessly into the netting of the cage), and the benefits of establishing contact on the inside half of the ball (and the consistently hard line drives which will ride through the back of the cage one swing after another!)

At the conclusion of this drill, sit down for a moment with your young hitter and ask him, “Now, if you could take all your ground balls and your fly balls from last year, and instead create line drives this year simply by hitting the inside half of the baseball, how much higher do you think your batting average would be?” Trust me. The look of confusion will disappear and instead, it will be replaced by a new look; the look of a young man who is dreaming about having a great season at the plate!

Tim Lincecum's Recipe for Success!

2009-11-20T10:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Tim Lincecum won his second straight N. L. Cy Young Award, narrowly beating out the Two-Headed Ace from St. Louis, Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright. "The Freak" twisted and lunged his way into a repeat of last season's award, despite still only standing 5'11" and weighting 172 lbs (Side note: There are probably still Major League Organizations today that would not draft him because he doesn't "Project".) So how does he do it, you might ask? And is he an arm injury waiting to happen?
Tim Lincecum's recipe for success is based on two very important factors that all pitchers can learn from (not just guys who throw 94 mph). Lincecum's repertoire includes a two-seam fastball that he throws predominantly for movement, rather than radar gun numbers, mixed with a devastating change. He does possess a good curve. However, he tends to only use it against the very best of major league hitters, (and sparingly at that.)

Why is that recipe so important, you might ask? All great pitching coaches (and I have to put his Dad in this class...That's who taught him to pitch) understand "develop the fastball first, then the change up, then the curve." There is much less stress on the arm in throwing fastballs and in essence, in throwing the change, due to the fact, you use the same arm action as the two-seamer, with a adjusted grip. And yet, if you turn on the Little League World Series every August, you see one young boy after another throwing curve after curve in an effort to win at all costs...including the long term development of their arms.

By utilizing a pitching style that stands in complete contrast to the yearly spectacle in Williamsport, this recipe for success has served Lincecum well. I had the opportunity to see him pitch in person in July, and was amazed at the amount of Big League hitters who were reduced to Guessing Changeup at the plate because it was a facsimile of his two-seamer with a 10 to 15 mph differential, and how very few breaking balls he actually threw over the course of a game.

And it is for this reason alone, I predict Lincecum will pitch relatively free from arm injury for many years. His pitch selection puts very little wear and tear on his arm. He uses his lower half better than most (if not all) of Major League Pitchers. And he understands over the course of a game when to get the strikeout, when to get the groundball, and this time of year, when to collect another Cy Young Award.

Hot Stove: Atlanta Braves.

2009-11-18T08:38:00.000-08:00

What would you do if you were Frank Wren this off-season? The Braves are close (evident by their wild finish in '09), and there is no reason to dismantle the group of great players they have. So what do you do?

And hold on, Cowboy. First, you have to think Payroll. A GM's job is not only to put the best team possible on the field, but also to make money for in this case, Liberty Media (Current Owners of the Braves...Oh, for the days back when it was ole' Ted.).

You need a first baseman. You need a Outfielder (at least until Heyward is ready). And you need a Closer. With the re-signing of Tim Hudson, you have a bit of SP depth (a luxury in today's world). You have one of the best in the business in McCann behind the plate. You have a solid keystone combo with Prado and Escobar, and a Hall of Famer in Chipper at third. You have a former All-Star in McLouth in Center, and Pure Grit with Diaz in Left (and people in the South, love grits).

And on top of everything else, it's Bobby's last year. You need to send the old man out the right way (which is on top of the baseball world!)

RF: Although there are attractive RH hitting options out there, (mainly Bay and Holliday) their price tag is "too rich for my blood." I think the perfect alternative for the Braves would be Xavier Nady. I think he would add a much needed RH power bat to the middle of the lineup, and I don't know if you remember or not, but when this guy was healthy (he is recovering from Tommy John surgury...Something that won't affect his swing in the least), he had serious thunder in his bat (especially the opposite way!)

1B: I'm a loyal guy, and I believe the Braves will do the right thing here and re-sign Adam LaRoche. He did a terrific job for the Braves after coming over from Boston and his improved play was very evident. Case closed, he deserves to come back.

Closer: This is very things get sticky. I don't feel re-signing Gonzalez or Soriano would be good moves. Letting both go, frees up the necessary money needed for LaRoche and Nady. So a possible trade could be in the works here. We do have pitching depth (something other clubs would love to have), so this is where the wheeling and dealing comes into play. Last year, Wren got Vazquez from the White Sox (and looked like a genius doing it). Let's see what rabbit he pulls out this year!

Let me know what you think. What would you do if you were Frank Wren?

Cliff Lee's Mechanics.

2009-11-16T11:35:00.000-08:00

Another interesting post on Pitching Mechanics by Chris O'Leary. (www.chrisoleary.com/projects/Baseball/Pitching/ProfessionalPitcherAnalyses/CliffLee_001.html). Check it out.

Food for Thought...

2009-11-11T07:24:00.000-08:00

Last week, a very good friend of mine, Chuck Franzago, forwarded me this article to review, (http://www.chrisoleary.com/projects/Baseball/Pitching/RethinkingPitching/Essays/DeathToTheInvertedW.html), and after reading the article, I think there could be something to this.

In studying (and teaching) fundamentals, you could not produce a more perfect prototypical pitcher than Mark Prior. Unfortunately though, Mark has had nothing but arm injuries since becoming a professional. His one bright shining season of '03 has been overshadowed with one injury after another and a career that never lived up to expectations. But again, with fundamentals a smooth as silk, a million dollar arm, the makeup of a champion, and the label of a "can't miss" prospect, how could this happen?

Perhaps it is the Inverted "W" position of his arm action...I don't know. But I do know if I had a young son who was learning to pitch, I would pay special attention to this.

Let me know your thoughts.

The Best Team Money Can Buy!

2009-11-03T04:45:00.000-08:00

Late in the summer of 2008, Yankee fans and Columnists from all over New York were screaming from the rooftops for Brian Cashman to "tear the Yankees apart!" (www.nysun.com/sports/these-yankees-need-to-be.../84323/). Deemed old and overpaid, the Yankees missed the playoffs for the first time since '93 ('94 doesn't count due to the Strike). And yet, despite their disappointing finish, Brian Cashman had the insight to instead build up, rather than tear down.

Armed with an open checkbook, Cashman (have you ever noticed the irony in that name?) went wild in the market finding upgrades at first base (Mark Teixeira to the tune of $20 million a year + a $5 million dollar bonus), a #1 starter to replace the retired Mike Mussina (C.C. Sabathia for the surprising low total of only $14 million a year...oh, but don't forget the $9 million dollar bonus) and a Strong #2 Starter, A. J. Burnett (for only $16.5 million a year...No bonus...Sorry A.J.)

Cashman also made a very shrewd move acquiring Nick Swisher from the White Sox to replace Bobby Abreu in Right, (and giving the Yanks a little personality or "flavor" in the process). And 2009 saw a healthy return of two of the best clutch hitters in baseball and RBI producers in postseason history, Jorge Posada and Hideki Matsui.

But Cashman's best move (and without a doubt, most efficient) has been the building of a $840,225 bridge. The signing of Sabathia and Burnett allowed the Yankees to move Joba Chamberlain ($432,575) and Phil Hughes($407,650) into the pen, and in essence, create a bridge to the best closer in baseball, Mariano Rivera ($15 million a year and worth every penny) and that bridge (as well as $208,097,414 total greenbacks) is the reason the Yankees are the best team money can buy!

Bob Chandler.

2009-10-23T04:21:00.000-07:00

I just found out that an old friend of mine passed away this week. Bob Chandler was 73 years young on Tuesday when God decided He needed him more in Heaven than we did here on Earth. Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend the funeral, but I'm sure it will a worthy rememberance of this wonderful man. A moment in time where his family, his friends, and his lovely wife, Tookie, of 51 years can pause and reflect on all the goodwill, laughter, and positive energy this wonderful man created in his short time here with us.

I wish I could be there to say thanks for the memories.

You see, way back in 1994, I was playing for the Erie Sailors and Bob Chandler threw out the first pitch one night. As I caught the pitch and jogged out to the mound to give him the ball, he shook my hand and told me "You're going to hit a Home Run for me tonight!"  Modestly, I laughed, and replied, "Well, that would be great, but I wouldn't bet on it."  At that point in my career, I still did not have a Professional Home Run to my name, and I didn't see any reason for that to change on that particular night. But again, this older gentlemen patted me on the back as we walked off the field towards the dugout and said, "Trust me. Tonight, you are going to hit a Home Run for me tonight! Just watch and see." Needless to say, later that night, I hit my first Professional Home Run. I still have the ball to prove it.

Some people in life have the ability to inspire, lead, and "get more" out of others. Bob Chandler was that type of fellow. He always saw the glass as half-full, and it usually was, because he was the one who had poured the water in.  He would have made a terrific Coach, but God saw fit to put him in a suit and tie rather than spikes, where when I met him, he worked tirelessly for the Erie Chamber of Commerce, always the promoter of the city he loved so dear.

I will miss Bob; his smile, his laughter, and his presence. And I know many others who will too.

Thanks again for the memories.

Baseball Tonight, Today, and Tomorrow.

2009-10-21T07:21:00.000-07:00

All things in life have a Ying and a Yang. When ESPN debuted Baseball Tonight way back in 1990, being a life-long student of the game, I thought I had died and gone to Heaven. I'll never forget because at the time, I was playing American Legion ball in Albany, Ga. and every night when I came home from my game, I could catch up on what happened that day in the Big Leagues.

Within a few minutes I could find who won their game, who made a great defensive play, and of course, who hit a bomb that night! ESPN had found a way to compress a 3 hour game into a 3 minute highlight and it was perfect, (or so I thought). It was only years later before I could first see the damage this "briefing of baseball" was causing.

Today, kids play more baseball games than any other time in history. With the continued growth of travel ball, it is not rare for a kid to play anywhere between 75 to 100 games a season. And yet, if you talk to these same kids, you will learn that even though their skill level/ability is better than ever, their Baseball I.Q. is unfortunately, (in my opinion) lower than ever.

It is very rare for a kid to sit and watch a Major League Baseball Game in it's entirety. I don't know if you know this or not, but Baseball is a 2 and a 1/2 hour game with 20 minutes of action. And now that we have become a culture of quick, our kids are not learning the ebb and flow of pitching in early so you can pitch away late, the ying and yang of a lead-off walk (which scores 90% of the time), and the give and take of trading a ground ball for an out with the infield back in the fifth.

The solution...I don't know. I just know it makes websites and forums like http://www.checkswing.com/ that much more important because the little things have to be passed on for our game to survive in a world full of Ying, and not enough Yang.

Wanted: Tablesetters!!!

2009-10-19T07:14:00.000-07:00

When is the last time you saw a truly great Lead-Off Hitter in action? I'm not talking about a guy batting in the lead-off spot. I'm talking about a Brett Butler. I'm talking about a Lead-Off hitter who bunts, runs, takes pitches, draws throws, uses his legs as a weapon, turns walk into doubles and keeps the ball out of the air. Anyone...Anyone...Bueller...Bueller...

Exactly. Kids don't want to be this player anymore. They all want to DROP BOMBS. Unfortunately though, if you talk to scouts, power is a precious commodity (especially left-handed power)(in other words, not everyone has it).

A great tablesetter can change everything. Did you know most pitchers lose 2 mph off their fastball as soon as they go to the stretch? Did you also know it takes most pitchers 2 pitches to make the adjustment from moving from the windup to the stretch? (check this out the next time you're watching a big league game...the first hitter once the pitchers moves to the stretch almost always has a 2-0 count) Did you know most pitchers tend to rush to the plate causing their pitch to move from the unhittable "high rent" district (meaning they'll make lots of money if they pitch down there) to the "low rent" district (waisthigh...the place where extra base hits are born) once a base-stealing threat is on base?

There are college scholarships out there for kids like this. Only this kid, like the bald eagle, became an endangered species many years ago. And the main culprit...ESPN. I'll explain more tomorrow.

Congratulations and Good Luck to Grayson Ivey and Team USA!

2009-10-15T08:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Grayson Ivey, one of the kids that I have been lucky enough to coach this fall for Team Elite, was named to the 2009 Team USA 14U's Squad!

Grayson, a 6'1, 175 lb. third-baseman, from Winder-Barrow High School in Winder, GA, was the only player selected from the state of Georgia (that's quite a statement considering the talent level in our great state!) and now heads with the other 17 young men selected to Portoviejo, Ecuador to play in the 2009 COPABE Pan Am A Championships this weekend (Oct. 17-24)!

You can learn more about Grayson and Team USA at (http://web.usabaseball.com/teams/index.jsp?team=2496&content=roster).

Go Grayson and Go Team USA!

What Makes Someone a Great Coach?

2009-10-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

There are many theories in the World of Coaching. One that I have found to be true is the Three Run Theory. This theory is based on the belief that if your team has a great coach, your team will begin the game winning 3-0 based on preparation, practice organization, teaching methods, etc. If you have a good to average coach, 0-0, and if you have a bad coach, your team will start the game down 3-0, which we all know is a very difficult starting point to overcome.

But what makes someone a great coach? Is it experience? Is it his or her ability to communicate well with their players? Is it their innate ability to motivate, both through hugs for some and a kick in the rear for others (and knowing when and with who to use both methods)?

The truth is in order to be a great coach, you only have to accomplish three things. 1) Always prepare your team for any and all situations that could arise in a game, 2) Always put your kids in a position to succeed, and 3) Always be fair and honest. If you accomplish these three things, wins will follow and your reputation as a coach will grow.

We are all products of our environment, which basically means in the baseball world, we coach the way we were taught. If you were fortunate enough to play for a Hall of Fame Coach, odds are you understand the game on a totally different level than someone who didn't. I would be willing to bet your practices are well planned, your teams are prepared, and your won-lost record is impressive.

Unfortunately though, most parents, players, and coaches are not able to draw on experience beyond the high school level. Their heart is in the right place, but they may not know tips and drills which can be both fun and educational. As a result, I wanted to recommend a product for those parents who want the best for their sons and daughters, but again, may have limited experience in the Coaching Box.

http://www.coachdeck.com/ is a 52-card collection of excellent drills that any coach from Little League to High School would consider an asset. You don't have to be Tommy Lasorda to correctly teach swing fundamentals, how to turn a double play, or how to be a great coach. You just need to be willing to adapt, willing to listen and willing to understand that in this game, we can always learn something new.

The Three Tee Drill!

2009-10-13T08:07:00.000-07:00

Would you like to learn a drill that can automatically create more line drives for your young hitters? Of course, you would! What hitting coach wouldn’t? The drill I’m referring to is what I like to call, the Three Tee Drill. Now, even though most people would think I’m suggesting you drag three batting tees out to the cage today and line them up accordingly, you actually only need one in order to do this drill properly.

One of the quickest ways to becoming a better hitter is to learn to stay in the zone longer. Now, what does that mean? Basically, that is Hitting Coach mumbo-jumbo for “keeping the barrel of your bat on a level plane through the strike zone for as long as possible.” And one of the most effective ways of learning this skill is called the Three Tee Drill. This one drill (which I first heard of being used by Alex Rodriguez) is terrific for teaching your young hitter how to keep their bat in the zone longer. To begin the drill, set up a batting tee with the ball placement directly over the front edge of the plate. Have your young hitter drive the ball through the back of the cage a few times to get the feel of going to the ball and staying through the ball. If your young hitter is not hitting the back of the net consistently in this ball placement position, then they are “rolling over” (i.e. letting the barrel beat their hands to the ball.) Please make sure they understand the term Bat Lag and how to lead with their hands, rather than with their barrel.

Next, move the batting tee forward about three inches, but do not allow your young hitter to change their foot positioning. They should stay in the exact same spot in the box. However, now your young hitter will have to extend their hands even further to make sure they can still drive the ball through the back of the cage. Do this a few times until again, your young hitter can drive the ball through the back of the cage with some consistency.
Finally, (and this is where the drill becomes really difficult) move the ball three more inches away from its original placement (six inches in total) with their foot positioning still remaining the same. Now, your young hitter really has to stay in the zone with their hands leading the way in order to hit the ball through the back of the cage. Coaches, this is also an excellent time to reinforce the previous discussions on Bat Lag and how it can help your young hitter develop that short, professional-type swing we all wish to possess.

This one drill is terrific for correcting so many Swing Plane issues and I can’t recommend it enough. It’s also an excellent drill to use with young hitters who have trouble with off-speed pitches. If he or she can keep their swing plane consistently level throughout the entire zone, they will be fooled less. They will be able to create more line drives, and ultimately, they will become better hitters!

Torre's Troops!

2009-10-09T09:38:00.000-07:00

Miracles do happen! Last night at Chavez Ravine, when the Dodgers seemed as good as dead, a dropped fly ball breathed life in their ninth-inning comeback. Then in order, a Casey Blake Great AB, a Ronnie Belliard Frozen Rope, a wild pitch on the way to loading the bases and a Mark Loretta vintage "hit it where they ain't" chinker proceeded to give the Dodgers their (pardon the pun) "Hollywood Ending"!

I can tell you from spending so many nights in dugouts, this loss will cost the Cardinals more than just a Game Two loss. Nobody understands momentum, until they either gain it or lose it. In a game where Adam Wainswright dominated the Dodgers and the Redbirds outhitters the Bums 10-5 (with 2 of the hits coming in the ninth), Ryan Franklin, Matt Holliday, and the rest of the Red Army lost momentum in this series (and their post-season quest) last night.

Now up 2-0 over the Cardinals, It is my opinion that Torre's troops will march into St. Louis Saturday night and continue to "Part the Red Sea" on their way to the Fall Classic!

Metrodome Magic!

2009-10-07T06:46:00.000-07:00

Turns out, the Dome wasn't ready to be done after all! Game #163 (as it will forever be known) will be, without a doubt, an Instant Classic to be shown and shared for many years to come. The emotional tug-of-war finally ended in the bottom of the 12th as Carlos Gomez raced around third to score on Alexi Casilla's base hit to right, but Twins fans (and Tiger fans) will tell you that was just the tip of iceburg on a night that will never be forgotten.

The line-drive double play in the Ninth. Nic Punto's running throw Home. Brandon Inge's diving stop at Third. Cuddyer's Triple. Ryan Raburn's throw to the Plate. All incredible moments that will forever be a part of baseball lore.

And now, the Second Season starts. 11 wins. That's all it takes to be a World Champion. 11 wins on a path that winds directly through the hills of Hollywood, the bright lights of Broadway and right past a Dome that refused to go quietly into the night.

Dome, Sweet, Dome!

2009-10-06T07:38:00.000-07:00

Tonight, the final post-season playoff spot comes down to two teams, one game, and quite possibly, a Dome-field advantage. At 5:07 ET, the Detroit Tigers will battle the Minnesota Twins in a game where if the Tigers were to win, would be the last Twins game ever played in the Dome. Next season, the Twins will run around in the outfield of Target Field, but today...Today (for maybe one last time) the Twinkies will race around in front of the Baggie, take their positions on the Turf, and create deafening decibles of sound as their fans beg for a first-round trip to New York.

34 Kirby Puckett Place has always provided a distinct home-field advantage for the Twins. Just ask the '87 Cardinals. Or my own beloved '91 Braves. Or perhaps after tonight, the '09 Tigers. The '09 Tigers are only 7-11 against the Twins this season and an even worse 2-7 in the Dome. The Twins are 48-33 at home this season, while the Tigers...a lowly 35-46. And on top of everything else, Detroit's starter tonight, (a rookie)Rick Porcello, is 0-2 with a 6.30 ERA in his two starts in the Dome.

But the pitches still have to be made. The runs still have to score, and the outs still have to be recorded. That is one of the many beautys of baseball. What should happen often doesn't. What is clear on paper isn't always the same in person. But no matter what, one thing is for sure. What we will see tonight between the Twins and the Tigers is baseball at it's highest intensity, it's highest level, and it's highest volume. (on a stage that I'm hoping is not hosting it's final act.)

More on Don Larsen's Perfect Game.

2009-10-05T05:39:00.000-07:00

Little did I know as I wrote my blog last Friday that there is a brand new Baseball book out which details everything I saw during Don Larsen's Perfect Game and more!

"Perfect: Don Larsen's Miraculous World Series Game and the Men who made it happen" by Lew Paper just came out and if you are interested, a review by Chuck Klosterman with Esquire Magazine is on-line (http://www.esquire.com/features/the-game/perfect-don-larsen-book-review-1109).

Any book that can help us to peek inside the long-lost world of Willie, Mickey, and the Duke and listen to the stories behind the story of Don Larsen's Perfect Game is a book worth considering if you are a true baseball fan.

Don Larsen's Perfect Game

2009-10-02T12:25:00.000-07:00

Imagine my surprise as I flipped through channels this afternoon and found a replay of the only no-hitter (let alone a Perfect Game) in World Series History! For those of you who don't know, on October 8, 1956, journeyman pitcher Don Larsen threw a Perfect Game in the 1956 World Series for the New York Yankees against their archrival Brooklyn Dodgers and thanks to the MLB Network, today I had a chance to watch the beauty unfold for myself.

Even though I had a pretty good idea of the outcome, it was still amazing to watch history in the making. Complete with a generous strike zone (you think today's umps are bad), a Diving Catch by the Duke, a Homer through the shift by the Mick (he later also ran down a sure double in the left center gap for an out), and of course, Larsen's famous No-Wind-up Delivery (makes you wonder why pitchers don't try it today?), being able to watch all this happen in real time was a truly amazing experience.

A young Billy Martin backpeddling out there at second. Yogi and Campy behind the plate. Jackie Robinson down at third. Hall of Famers everywhere, and Larsen on the bump. Did you know Joe Torre was also there? It's true. He was sitting in the left field upper deck as a 16-year-old spectator! (you can look it up on Wikipedia)

It's always amazing to see the heros and legends of my youth racing around the diamond enjoying their day in the sun. Thank you so much MLB Network for replaying this game heading into October for all of us who never had the chance to see such an unbelievable moment in World Series History!

Are Today's Hitters Better Than Yesteryear's?

2009-09-29T11:44:00.000-07:00

This is a question I often ask myself. As a student of the game, I have no doubt, today's hitters are better athletes, have better instruction, better technology, and better swing fundamentals. But are they better hitters?

Hitting is more than just the swing. It's having a plan at the plate. It's understanding when to pull the trigger on what pitch and when to shut it down. It's relaxing while the whole world is watching. It's competing and winning a battle of one vs. nine.

Young hitters today understand terms like "hand load", "toe down", "short to long" and "inside half". But does that make them better? I argue old timers knew better how to relax at the plate, how to guess on the pitch, and how to be the hitter (style-wise) God intended for them to be. (lead off, line drive/gap, or power...Everone falls in one of these three categories.)

With technological innovations like Don Slaught's RightView Pro, a young hitter can now study their swing vs. A-Rod or Jeet's. With videotape analysis, a young hitter can see if he or she "chicken winged" between at-bats.  Nike even developed contact lens a few years back that helped hitters pick up the ball better at the plate!  But even with all these advances, one piece of advice is always heard out of the dugout.

"Hey kid, relax up there, pick out a good one, and be quick..."

Advice which is no doubt just as useful in today's world, as it was in 1845 for the New York Knickerbockers.

Tigers and Twins Mano-a-Mano Tonight!

2009-09-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

The Playoffs start tonight!!! (Not really, but close to it.) The Tigers and the Twins match up tonight at Comerica with a trip to October on the line. Four games head to head, with only seven total left to play.

It’s Rick Porcello against Nick Blackburn in the opener. Blackburn is 1-1 against the Tigers this year and Porcello is 1-2 against the Twins.

And here's the math. Game one tonight...Tigers up by 2 games...If the Twins win, you have a one game lead (in other words, serious sweating can commence in Motown)...If the Tigers win, three game lead with six to go (in other words, make your hotel reservations for a first round showdown at Yankee Stadium Oct. 7th.)

I had an old coach in the minors who used to say "There's nothing better than baseball when the leaves are changing." And going into tonight, the air will be crisp, the jackets will come out, and the baseball will definitely be intense!!!

Remembering Mike Coolbaugh.

2009-09-25T07:05:00.000-07:00

I never had the good fortune of meeting Mike Coolbaugh, but from what I hear, I would have liked him alot. You have to admire guys who grind in the minors and one day get to reach up for that cup of coffee. To finally be able to say they made it and eat from the crumbs at the edge of the table we as ballplayers all yearned to eat at. And even more so, even though I am sure it is no consolation to his family, to die doing something he loved.

Mike Coolbaugh was coaching first base one mid-summer's night in the Texas League when a line drive off the bat of Tino Sanchez hit him in the neck, killing someone who was known ironically in the baseball world as a "lifer". This is his story...His wife and three young son's left behind story...And Tino Sanchez's story.

Heart of the Game: Life, Death, and Mercy in Minor League America, by S. L. Price is a baseball book we all should read. Please check out the terrific review by James Bailey, former associate editor at Baseball America, at http://www.hardballcooperative.com/?p=1546. And help honor a man who gave his life to the game by never letting us forget who he was.

10 Things that didn't exist before Bobby's reign!

2009-09-24T07:17:00.000-07:00

Here's a list of 10 things that did not even exist when Bobby Cox took over as Braves manager back in June of 1990! Check it out!!!

10. Disposable Contact Lens.
9. DVD's.
8. GPS.
7. Wii/Playstation/XBox.
6. Hybrid Cars.
5. Facebook/Twitter/Blogging/Social Networking.
4. Viagra. (LOL)
3. Google/Ebay.
2. The Florida Marlins/Tampa Bay Rays/Colorado Rockies/Arizona Diamondbacks.
1. Cell Phones!!!

See if you can think of some more!!!

Thanks for the Memories, Bobby!

2009-09-23T20:59:00.000-07:00

When I was a young boy, I can remember listening through static on a transitor radio to the Braves running off a 13 game winning streak to lead off the '82 season. I also remember learning as I grew older that the same group of ballplayers that I idolized that summer (who went on to win the 1982 N. L. West title) were put together and developed by a gentlemen by the name of Bobby Cox.

As you all know, he later returned to the Braves dugout (in 1990, shedding his G.M. tie for his own Skipper's spikes), and made winning a way of life for the Bravos. World Series appearances in '91, '92, '95, '96, and '99. Four time Manager of the Year (three times in the National League, once in the American). A remarkable 14 Consecutive Divisional Titles, and of course, one World Championship Ring ('95).

Of course, Bobby also has one infamous record. He has been ejected more times (159) than any other manager in the history of the game. But is that anything to be ashamed of? That he backs his players. That he has a passion for the game and that he demands the ump make the right call. Certainly not. It is that same fire and brimstone which has made him the fourth winningest manager of all-time, and the winningest manager in the Braves long history.

Ultimately, we, as fans, have been the fortunate ones to be able to be a part of his long run. His professionalism is and will remain unsurpassed and his ability to get his players to respect the game and play it the right way will be missed.

Thank you so much for the memories, #6. I have no doubt, your jersey will be the next to never be worn again with a Tomahawk emblazened across the chest.

Astros fire Cecil Cooper with 13 games to go in '09.

2009-09-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

If you've had an opportunity to watch the Astros this season, you would know they haven't really been a factor in the N.L. Central Division all year. And on Monday, General Manager Ed Wade added to this season's misery by firing Manager Cecil Cooper. Now, one has to ask, is this season's underachievement ultimately Coop's fault or G.M. Ed Wade's fault?

There is no doubt the Astros needed to make a change. Coop was no managerial genius and could not be described as a "people person". And how can we forget the night he posted the wrong lineup in the dugout back in May, causing Michael Bourn to be called back to the plate after leading off the game with a hit!
However, there's an old saying, "you can't win the Kentucky Derby with a Donkey", and Houston has one of the oldest rosters in the Big Leagues and has had to deal with injuries all season (something that does hand in hand with having an older team). In other words, you've got to have the players to win.

The Astros are in a rebuilding phase. Everyone can see that. And someone with the credibility and history of Cecil Cooper deserves more respect. The Astros only have 13 games left to play and then it's curtains on this miserable season. And while agreeing with the Houston Astros decision to make a change, I wish the calendar had read October, rather than September.

Little League Elbow.

2009-08-23T17:15:00.000-07:00

It amazes me that more can't be done in limiting the amount of curve balls young men throw in Little League All-Star Competition! Basically, if you can throw curve balls for strikes, you have a ticket to go far in All-Star competition. However, you also guarantee yourself limited velocity in the future and first hand knowledge of who Tommy John was and why his surgery has become so prevalent.

Did you know Rick Knapp, pitching coach of the Detroit Tigers, does not even let his pitchers throw curves for three weeks once they report to camp in February? And that all great pitching coaches will tell you it is better to learn how to "spot up" your fastball and throw a change-up for strikes before learning Uncle Charley and his deceptive ways. But time and time again, as I watch the Little League World Series, I see one young man after another in the process of ruining their arms.

The rule used to be "don't throw a curve until you are a teenager." I think the rule should actually be "don't throw a curve until you can shave." (the reason I say that is I've seen teenagers who don't need to shave!!! I should know, I used to look at one in the mirror!) Ultimately, if you wait until you can shave, you are more advanced physically and you are further along in your development as a young man (puberty) and can handle the workload a curveball demands of your arm.

Dr. Andrews addressed the major problems with pitch counts in Little League back in 2007. (the whole presentation can be found at www.littleleague.org/learnmore/rules.) And now that Little League has learned to abide by those rules, I recommend Dr. Andrews take it one step further and limited the number of curves a young man below the Little League Age Limit can throw! In my opinion, deciding quality rather than quantity should be without a doubt, the next step in youth pitching development!

Santa Claus, The Tooth Fairy, and Williamsport.

2009-08-20T08:49:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, the Dog Days of Summer become a little brighter with the start of the Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA. Fathers and Sons alike look forward to the yearly event where a group of children are crowned World Champions and memories are made for a lifetime.

My wife has such a hard time with the little ones crying when they lose...I'll let you in on a little secret...I cried too when my team lost it's final All-Star game...It's hard to let go...That's part of growing up and part of the magic of the years you get to play Little League Baseball...Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, and Williamsport.

I would like to congratulate each and every team on making the 16 team field (including our own sister city representative, Warner Robins American). Best of luck to all in Williamsport. A very special place deserving of a World Championship!

International Baseball Holds It's Breath!

2009-08-12T05:42:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow is a very big day for International Baseball. In Berlin, Germany, the IOC Executive Committee will announce which two of seven sports (which also includes Golf, Karate, Roller Sports, Softball, Squash, Rugby) will be put forward for a vote for inclusion for the 2016 Olympics. That vote will then later take place in Copenhagen, Denmark (Charlotte's hometown!) in October, but all indications are that the two sports put forward tomorrow will be the only ones considered for 2016.

Sounds great, right??? Wrong. First of all, Tiger Woods has promised to play in the '16 Olympics if Golf is included. This is like having Frank Sinatra promise to sing at your wedding even though he is dead!!! Translation: Star Power. In other words, a done deal.

Golf also has another very important benefit of great value to the IOC Executive Committee. It is a sport also played by women, and Gender Equality is extremely important to the IOC. (Let me explain...The IOC Executive Committee is mostly made up of Europeans and politically correct inclusion takes on a whole new meaning if your country flies under the banner of the blue and gold circular stars...

And for that reason and that reason alone, I look for Karate to gain the other recommendation. Men and women practice Karate alike, over 10 million people in the world participate in the sport, and it almost achieved Olympic Status in the most recent vote held in 2005.

Side note of interest that all fans should know: Softball chose to petition the Committee alone, shunning the International Baseball Federation for a joint bid. It seems they felt a joint petition would have made them appear to closely aligned with Baseball, and the United States. In response, the International Baseball Federation announced it would include Women's Baseball in their bid (something that really hasn't been done since WWII and immortalized in the film starring Tom Hanks, Rosie, and Madonna, "A League of Their Own". And that's sad really. I think this decision alone will cost both Baseball and Softball ultimately. The IOC Executive Committee are no doubt, Shakespeare fans, and as we all know, a house divided against itself can not stand.

The Passing of the Guard.

2009-08-07T19:49:00.001-07:00

2009 has been hard on died-in-the-wool Braves fans. First, the travesty of not resigning John Smoltz, to the releasing Tom Glavine and now, watching from afar as John Smoltz is designated for assignment in Boston (aka, released). Two of the most amazing hurlers in history, who are still trying to show they can pitch on the Major League level because their competitive spirit tells them they can but their arm shows them they can't, are riding off into the sunset to join yet another former Brave, Greg Maddux, to eventually also have their number retired and their day in the sun in Cooperstown.

It's really sad to realize, but at some point in time in every young man's life who plays the great game of baseball, eventually they come and take the ball away. In other words, it's time for someone else. For many, it's after High School. For others, College. For myself, after struggling for years in the minors. But it will eventually happen to everyone. From Babe Ruth to Barry Bonds, and now, John Smoltz and Tom Glavine. Calendars continue to turn and fresh arms and legs replace (in this case) legends.

It has been a joy to watch those two work over the years, and I feel lucky to have seen them in their prime. Dane (my 5 year old son) even got a chance to meet Tom Glavine last year in the Braves dugout during Pre-game one Saturday afternoon, and Tom was such a great guy to Dane and treated my son wonderfully. And for me, that's the memory I'll always carry with me of Tom Glavine. Not his World Series Winning effort in Game Six of '95 (although I could never forget that), but the way he made my son smile hanging around with him on the bench. Now if Dane and I could only be so lucky as to meet John Smoltz in the future as well. From what I hear, he's just as much a Hall of Famer off the field than he is on! Congrats John and Tom, on a terrific career, and thanks again for the memories!

Brandon Inge's All Star Appearance.

2009-07-16T07:43:00.000-07:00

Watching the All-Star Game and Home Run Derby over the past two nights, I couldn't help but think back to when I had the chance to meet Brandon Inge this past February at Spring Training. He was sitting next to Matt Treanor getting dressed for a day at the park, when Matt introduced us and showed him my hitting aid. Jim Leyland, (the skipper), then came over to me and said, "Hey, did you invent this thing?" And after gulping, I said, "Yes sir." He then looked at me and said something I'll never forget. He looked over the lockerroom and said, "Hey guys, this thing is awesome! One of the best things I've seen in years. You all need to hit with it." And then he turned to Brandon and said, "Hey Brandon, you need to hit with this thing. It will help you." And Brandon looked up and replied, "Sure, skip." and the rest is history.

The Detroit Tigers later ordered seven Pitcher's Nightmare Swing Trainers from me and instantly became my favorite American League team (sorry guys, the Braves will always be my favorite team overall, but you guys definitely rule in the A.L.) and Brandon became one of my favorite players. Check out this great story on him from his Home Town newspaper, the News and Advance, http://www.newsadvance.com/lna/news/local/article/lynchburg_buzzes_over_brookvilles_all-star_inge/17660/.

And here's hoping he keeps tearing 'em up in the Second Half!!!

2009-07-13T07:36:00.001-07:00

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Chris Coste.

2009-07-13T06:48:00.000-07:00

The other day as I was eating breakfast, I happened to notice Chris Coste was picked up on waivers by the Houston Astros, or in other words, was no longer a Philadelphia Philly. (Old habits die hard. Ballplayers always check the transactions as you eat breakfast, because you never knew when your own name was going to be in there!)

I had the pleasure of meeting Chris this past Spring Training. The perennial back-up Catcher, who after spending 11+ years in the minors finally got the call up to the Bigs back in 2006, is an inspiration to all who never, ever give up! In fact, he wrote a book about his exploits, "The 33-Year-Old Rookie", which is available through Amazon.com, or through his website, http://www.chriscoste.com/.

Undrafted out of college, Chris began his minor league career in Independent ball, in a league that folded before even completing one season! After that, he kicked around for four more years in Indy ball, before finally signing a minor-league deal with the Cleveland Indians in 2000, and making it to the Bigs with the Phillies in 2006.

When I met Chris, I asked him, "why didn't you give up?" Was I asking this rhetorically? Probably...Because I remember the struggles of being a back-up catcher...Of watching the other guy play while catching bullpens...Of batting once in a while and catching Day games after Night games, so the other guy could rest...

And his answer was simple. "Chance, I never had a Plan B." Amen, brother. "Burn the boats. That way, you can never go back!"

Best wishes to you, Chris Coste. Here's hoping this unusual twist of events in life which have now made you a Houston Astro turn out to be a wonderful blessing. You deserve it.

Don't Ever Give Up!

2009-07-02T07:39:00.000-07:00

The other night, I got a phone call from one of my students. He had just participated in the first of two games after being named to the Top 100 Underclassman by the Georgia Dugout Club, and unfortunately, to put it in his words, he had done "awful", "embarassed himself" and "wasn't going back." Now how many times do we all feel like that? I know there are times in life when I do.

My student had struck out twice, and popped up on the infield in three at-bats. He also committed the cardinal error of not hustling down to first on the popup, due to his digust with himself (something College Coaches will write you off quickly for). He also played briefly in the outfield, but luckily, with the night he was having, no one hit a ball to him.

After listening, I asked him, "Ok. So how were they pitching you?" He said "inside." And my reply was "Perfect. Now you know what to look for." So many times in life, we get lost in the moment, and we have trouble stepping back and seeing what we can learn from the situation. I also told him, "Remember, if a hitter strikes out four times, but hits a home run to win the game in his final at-bat, what does everyone remember?" Of course, the home run.

Finally, to reenforced my thoughts with him and said, "Now remember, if you don't go back, it says volumes about you. And if you do go back, it also speaks volumes about you in another way." Luckily for him (and me), he went back the next day, and played a much better game.

Rashad Eldridge's Demotion

2009-06-27T07:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Rashad Eldridge texted me to let me know he had been sent down from Durham to Montgomery. Starting today, he will be a Biscuit again. I know the Montgomery Biscuits fans will be glad to see him again (He was a 2008 Southern League All-Star), but the ultimate goal of a ballplayer is to play in the Big Leagues.

At the time of the demotion, Rashad was hitting .301 with 25 hits in only 21 games. Unfortunately though, the Tampa Rays are Outfield Heavy, (which means they have a ton of outfielders in their system). He also had an OBP of .731 and was playing a solid outfield for them. However, the minor league system is such that with limited time and limited resources, certain players are going to be pushed (or lifted) to the Big Leagues. Rashad does not appear to fall in that category.

His demotion pulls at my heartstrings in two ways. 1) He is also a user of the Pitcher's Nightmare Swing Trainer and I'd love to see him play in the Bigs, but more importantly, he is a very, very good friend. And I understand his frustration with the game we all love so dear. It is part of being a professional. Trust me, I know. I was demoted, shifted, benched, and ultimately released several times. Unfortunately for Rashad, as the Manager from Bull Durham says before releasing Crash in the 1988 movie Bull Durham (required movie watching for ballplayers...of a certain age..., "this is the toughest job a Manager has". It's also the toughest part on the players.

Notes on Game One of the CWS Finals.

2009-06-22T18:04:00.001-07:00

Watching Game One of the Finals tonight. ESPN: Take Note: Orel Hershiser is worth every penny for his analysis on Coleman's (the LSU pitcher) problems in the stretch. He is absolutely right, and without a doubt, the best pitching analyst who is not sitting somewhere in a dugout.

Just saw a Home Run float out to left. Not a big deal except for the fact, the ball was MISS-HIT off the barrel opposite field!!! Omaha is a very bad combination for pitchers: Normal fence lengths on top of a hill (FYI, most Mid-western ballparks are much larger in terms of distance to the fences, due to the thin air), space-age aluminum bats, nobody pitching inside, hitters looking just as comfortable as they do in B.P...Did I mention the Thin Air? In other words, Home Run Derby.

Quick note: the announcers keep discussing the heat and how the umpires are dripping with sweat, the pitchers are cramping, etc. Next year, the tourney has been moved back even further into the month (June 19-30). Think it's hot this year, wait 'til next.

Fun Off the Field in Omaha.

2009-06-18T02:53:00.000-07:00

Looking back on my time in Omaha, there are so many things going on that you, the viewer on TV, can't see that make this place so much fun. Example: There are so many beach balls being bounced around in the outfield that in between innings they often fall on the field. At which time, a security guard will race as hard as he can to grab it and pop it (before one of the players can run over and throw it back up in the stands), with a shower of boos being rained down on him from the crowd. This tug of war goes on the whole game, with balls being bounced all around throughout the outfield stands, as the people laugh and cheer when the frustrated security guards just can't quite seem to grab the ball before it bounces back into the crowd, or booing crazily when they do somehow manage to catch one.
Another fun feature of Rosenblatt is the ballgirls behind the plate (again, something you can't see on TV). When a foul ball goes back, it will more often than not (unless it goes over the roof and outside the stadium) roll back down the protective netting and fall back onto the field. If you look carefully on TV, the ballgirl is inside a door right behind the plate. As soon as a ball is fouled back, she will race out of the door and run full-speed to where she believes the ball will fall. At which time, people in the front row will start pulling on the net to change the trajectory. Needless to say, in front of 25,000 people, wearing no glove, on a full sprint, with people pulling the net, this is not an easy task. However, as a fan, it is so much fun to watch! The girls will make routine catches to a nice golf clap, but more often than not, they will miss the ball, and get booed and teased incessently by the fans as they make their way back to the door behind the plate. Side note: During the LSU game, one ballgirl made a running one-handed catch just in front of their on-deck circle and it drew the greatest applause of the night! There is no doubt, it would have made the Top 10 Plays for that night on ESPN!
Finally, and who knows how this tradition started, but during the games, one group of outfield stands will begin to compete with the other to see who can tell the other group which one sucks the worst. Left field will yell, "one, two, three, RIGHT FIELD SUCKS!!!" At which time, right field will regroup and yell even louder, "one, two, three, LEFT FIELD SUCKS!!!" And this goes on the entire game. In fact, there are some times when they yell, it catches you by surprise because it is SOOO LOUD!!! There are even T-Shirts for sell in the souvenir stands that you can buy that read "Left Field Sucks" or vice versa. All the more fun if you are there.
I hope all of you readers who have read these blogs get a chance to one day see these things for themselves. There is no doubt I consider myself lucky to have had a chance to experience Omaha and Rosenblatt for myself, so tomorrow, I will give you some tips on travel should you ever get a chance to see the College World Series for yourself. Until then.

The LSU Faithful

2009-06-16T06:26:00.000-07:00

Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler! Or Let the Good Times Roll! LSU fans did just that last night as their beloved Tigers steamrolled through Arkansas 9-1. They came early (some Tiger fans were standing in line down the hill at 1:00 in hopes of getting tickets for the 6:00 game) and no doubt, stayed late! Lucky for them, a few brought their own crawfish in a cooler for everyone to suck on while they waited to climb the hill!

Their campers line the parking lot of Rosenblatt, and their fans start chanting "L-S-U" long before the first pitch is thrown. They have on their Tiger gear (check out the guy wearing the Tigger suit) and all are decked out in Purple and Gold. This makes Rosenblatt feel just like a SEC Saturday in the fall, only without the changing leaves and the tossing around of the pigskin.

Funny thing is, residents of Omaha told me last night that even on the very rare years LSU does not make the CWS, their fans still come on to Omaha anyway! Their campers roll into town and they still spend their vacations in the parking lots of Omaha and the bleachers of Rosenblatt. Amazing!

You really grow to love the Tigers after seeing their fans in person (unless of course, you are rooting for the opposition). They have a intense love for their Tigers and they know how to cheer their boys on to victory. And the way their boys looked last night, they could be cheering them on all the way to the CWS Finals!

Omaha!

2009-06-15T20:06:00.000-07:00

Tailgaters gathered around the grill. The smell of burgers and bratwurst in the air. Roadside stands full of souvenirs. Open debates on who's the best. Welcome to the College World Series. Welcome to Omaha.

Rosenblatt is not a place. Rosenblatt is an event. The atmosphere is electric. Two and 'que hangs over the day game participants. The Driver's Seat awaits the night game participants. And the Diamond Vision continuously reminds everyone year after year, dreams can come true.

But unfortunately, Rosenblatt and what it represents is coming to a close. I found out today that next year is to be the last for this majestic place. The City of Omaha is building a new stadium (the trade off was the NCAA agreed to continue to play the CWS in Omaha for 25 more years) and will be moving the CWS downtown. Rosenblatt will be leveled and the zoo will be able to expand (the big bubble you see on TV behind the fence is part of the zoo). And one of the most amazing championship tournaments in the world will no doubt for all, be different.

There was not one person I spoke with today who is looking forward to Rosenblatt moving into extinction. And after drinking in the moment for myself, I wholeheartedly agree. Each and every Coach, Player, and Fan who enters this sacred place makes memories that last a lifetime. And today that happened for me.

A Royal Beauty!

2009-06-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

Today, when I landed in K.C., I decided to catch the Cincinnati Reds/Kansas City Royals Sunday afternoon matinee. Growing up as a baseball nut, I used to wear my George Brett White "#5" cleats with pride (as did everyone else my age in Little League). I remember him charging out of the dugout during the Pine Tar game. I remember him swaying back in the box, and ripping line drives. I remember him playing the game the right way. And I remember the Royals being winners.

Needless to say when I walked in today, I saw a photograph of him kissing home plate after a game at Kaufmann Stadium (the Royals home), and I knew I was in a special place. I have always heard that Kaufmann Stadium is one of the most beautiful stadiums in baseball, and the new "K" (it has been renovated this season) did not disappoint me. From the water fountains in the outfield, to the statue of ole' Georgie boy loading up (see my pics), this stadium is an absolute gem. And if you look real carefully down the left field line, you can't help but notice the flag reads "World Champions 1985".

Twenty-four years ago...Where in the world does it go? It only seems like yesterday George Brett and Bret Saberhagen were hugging and celebrating their miraculous upset of the St. Louis Cardinals in the I-70 Series (that's what it was called). But that flag doesn't stand alone. Others include American League Champs, 1980. Divisional Champs 1976,1977, 1978. 1984. Memories of Whitey, the Quiz, Smooth, and the turf. Unquestionably, a very rich tradition of winning from a long, long time ago. One of which I hope will soon be revived by another group of talented home-grown young stars (Billy Butler, Mark Teahen, Mike Jacobs, Zake Grinke, and others) who are trying in their own way to revive '85 in what is in my opinion, a stadium worthy of a champion.

More Reflections on the Draft.

2009-06-13T07:16:00.000-07:00

Well, now the draft is now officially over. From Stephen Strasburg (the first pick) to Alibay Barkley (the last pick), I would love to wish each and every player picked all the luck in the world and I hope to see you all play in the Big Leagues! But the reality of the situation is entirely different.

In my very first meeting after reporting to Mini-Camp in 1993, our manager, Norm Sherry, walked into the room and shouted "Congratulations! You are the draft class of 1993 for the San Francisco Giants! Give yourselves a big pat on the back!" And as we all strained to pat ourselves on the back like a bunch of class clowns, he said, "Two of you will play in the Big Leagues. The rest of you are here so those two will have someone to play with as they develop into Big League Ballplayers."...You could have heard a pin drop in that room as we all looked around and realized THAT really is the reality of the situation.

Looking back, Norm was right. There were two future Big Leaguers in that room. Bill Mueller, 2004 A.L. Batting Champion for the World Champion Boston Red Sox that year (he has since retired with leg problems) and Chris Singleton (who enjoyed a solid Big League career and is now best known as one of the analysts on Baseball Tonight (ESPN)). And the rest of us, although great ballplayers, were there so they would have teammates, games, crowds, and coaches to learn and play with as they became Big Leaguers.

Folks, I'm here to tell you it's tough to make it. Professional Coaches call it "attrition". In other words, life gets in the way. Some guys get homesick. Some guys can't adjust to playing everyday. Some guys just eliminate themselves through bad habits. But when all is said and done, the cream of the crop rises to the top. And that is who gets the honor of wearing a Major League Uniform.

Tomorrow morning, I leave to go to Omaha! So make sure you log on and see what's going on at the CWS!!!

Reflections on the Draft.

2009-06-11T16:35:00.000-07:00

Following the news about the 2009 MLB Amateur Draft reminds me of the day when I was drafted. The phone rang about 1:30 in the afternoon on that fateful Saturday and the voice on the other end asked, "Is this Paul Reynolds?" Now, for those of you who don't know me so well, my legal name is Paul Reynolds (although I go by Chance). My Dad is also Paul Reynolds (Jr...I'm the III, or turd, as my Mom used to say), so when people would call our house and ask for Paul Reynolds, the call was usually for my Dad. So I asked in return, "are you looking for Paul Reynolds, the Dad or Paul Reynolds, the Son?" And the unknown voice on the other end said, "I'm looking for Paul Reynolds, the Catcher." Once I heard that, I knew my dream of playing professional baseball had come true.

I looked at my Mom and gave her a thumbs up and listened to the voice on the other end of a phone call I had waited my whole life to hear say, "Paul, this is Bobby Gardner and I'm calling to tell you, you were just picked in the 54th round by the San Francisco Giants." The rest was a blur as my Mom cried, and I tried not to. My mind raced with excitement. I was to catch a plane the very next day and report to Everett, Washington, where I would be joining my new teammates and we would all begin an even crazier journey to one day try to play in the Big Leagues.

Draft Day is a very emotional moment in a ballplayer's life. Some guys never get the call, and their dreams usually end with the silence. But the ones that do, can always say "I was drafted." And it's a small fraternity of ball players that can say that. We all ran around on a Tee-Ball field together, but eventually the bottle has a neck, and the MLB Amateur Draft is the beginning of that neck.

Congratulations to each and every player who was drafted. I wish you all the success in the world!

What Not To Say!!!

2009-06-09T18:29:00.000-07:00

I'm watching the Braves game tonight and the first base coach for the Pirates, Perry Hill, got to take an early shower due to something he said. Reminds me of a funny story. The very first game my oldest son, Dane, ever got to see me coach...I got tossed!!! Long story short, there was a pickoff play at second in which the ball got away and rolled into center. My baserunner jumped up and got interfered with by the shortstop as he started to run to third. The umpire did the correct thing in immediately calling "Interference!" and then he did something I did not quite agree with. He said, "The runner gets second."
Now, I called time, like a nice guy, and proceeded to make my way to second to explain to this older gentlemen how entirely wrong he was. Unfortunately for me, it turns out the umpire was right! After I got an early exit from the game, turns out the ruling was correct. The rule book reads that on such a play, the umpire awards the base that he feels the runner would have been safe at. The ump told me he awarded second to my runner (of which he already had) due to the fact, he felt my runner would have been thrown out at third. And long story short, I told him that he was full of something else that I'm sure you can figure out! (LOL)
Needless to say, the ump didn't change his call. I got thrown out at my son's very first game watching Daddy coach, and Jack Leggett, Head Coach for the Clemson Tigers, who was at the game recruiting my shortstop, also told me later, he would have gotten tossed over that call too!!! I guess it's true what they say. We're always learning something new in this game!

My Bio

2009-06-08T13:42:00.000-07:00

Chance Reynolds, the inventor of the Pitcher's Nightmare Swing Trainer(http://www.pitchersnightmare.com/) and author of (http://www.pitchersnightmare.blogspot.com/) has dedicated his life to studying the science of hitting and the beauty of baseball. Named American Legion Coach of the Year in 2003 and 2000 for the State of Georgia, Chance is well respected as a clinician and an expert teacher of the game. Chance spent six years of his life as a Professional Baseball Player. He was drafted by the San Francisco Giants Organization in 1993. He spent a season and a half with the Pittsburgh Pirates Organization (1995-1996) and the Milwaukee Brewers Organization (1996). Chance also spent two seasons with the Canton, Ohio and the Erie, Pennsylvania Independent Organizations (1994, 1998) where he was a two-time Frontier League All-Star Selection. Chance also spent a season in Europe with the Paderborn, Germany club (1999 European Champions). Prior to his minor league experience, Chance played collegiately at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, Florida under legendary coach Dusty Rhodes. Chance has also worked as an Associate Scout with the Florida Marlins, Seattle Mariners, and the Philadelphia Phillies Scouting Departments. When asked how and why he has become such an excellent coach, Chance is quick to say, "I've been lucky enough to be around some of the best teachers of the game and God has blessed me in so many ways."