Throwing Errors - Physical Or Mental?
By Jim Bain
Are throwing errors the result of a physical miscue... or a mental lapse? That, of course is a trick question because both or correct. However, do you know it's a proven fact throwing errors are the result of a mental issue more than a physical miscue?
Teaching players "How" to throw begins at Tee-ball, but learning "Where" to throw the ball does not occur until much later, possibly four or five years, into a player's career.
This makes a difference? A resounding "Yes". When players are taught situational strategy and conditioned on where to throw the ball defensive blunders, due to bad throws, drop dramatically.
To explain, let's look at the pitcher, who has to throw every ball over a rubber plate that is 17" wide and within the strike zone, as far as up and down, which could be different for every batter and every umpire. Add this control issue to the pitcher being restricted, by rules, on how and where he must throw the ball from, the pitching mound, this becomes a daunting task.
Yet he is expected to achieve this pinpoint control on the greater percentages of his throws.
Now look at an example of the second baseman. The greater percentage of time this infielder, after catching the baseball, has the ability and time to move his feet in order to get into proper throwing position.
He is throwing to a target, first baseman, which could be 6 feet tall or more, with an arm span of three to four feet on either side of the base. In addition, the first baseman is permitted to move from the base, then return, in order to catch the ball. In other words, the fielder is throwing to a target which could measure 10 feet high and 14 feet wide.
Hitting a target 17 inches wide vs. one 14 feet wide, and at times thrown from the exact same distance. Based on this scenario, should there ever be a wild throw to first base created by a pure physical miscue? The answer is most likely, "Not normally."
Yet they do occur and based on proven statistics, mainly from mental mistakes. So how do we stop these mental miscues?
1. Knowing the situation and how you will react is the single most important method in eliminating mental related throwing errors. Number of outs, inning, score, speed of runners, where are force plays and numerous other factors must be analyzed and action assigned to each scenario "Before" the play.
This may seem a daunting task at first, but after obtaining experience the average player will perform this task in a matter of seconds, but it must be a mental action, it's not automatic.
2. Don't compound errors by throwing foolishly. The more throws a play involves the greater the chance of an errant throw. If the infielder muffs the play and has no chance of throwing the runner out at first, why throw it? Sometimes the smart play is to simply hold the ball and limit the damage.
3. Turning long throws into short throws reduces the risk of errors. Ever see a major league shortstop throw to the second baseman for a force out while only beating the runner by a couple of feet, when he could have thrown the batter out at first by yards and wondered why?
The throw to second was shorter. It's just that simple.
Throwing errors created by mental lapses can nearly be eliminated if the player keeps his head in the game, always analyzing, thinking ahead and asking what if this happens.
Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player and member of "Baseball Coaches of America" shares his advice on baseball coaching baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com
Be sure to check out his 2 books on Amazon, "The Pitch" and "Season of Pain". Great reading about baseball.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain
Thanks to these sponsors:
Baseball2u.com
HurricaneMachineParts.com
Welcome to the Baseball Coaching and Training Blog. We strive to supply our baseball readers with the very latest articles, tips and drills related to baseball coaching and training including free baseball drills, free baseballl tips and free baseball coaching articles.
Showing posts with label coaching baseball. Show all posts
Showing posts with label coaching baseball. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
How to Improve Your Baseball Hitting Techniques by Proper Baseball Training
How to Improve Your Baseball Hitting Techniques by Proper Baseball Training
By guest author: Chris Moheno
Many people think in order to become a great baseball hitter they must work with a trainer to get the best results possible. Although if you get the opportunity, take it but many people can only do things on their own. Realizing this there are a few simple things you can do on your own to get the baseball training necessary in becoming an efficient hitter.
The most important thing is to be yourself. Seriously, it sounds odd but the next time you go to the batting cages watch all the Alex Rodriguez, Albert Pujols, and Ichiro Suzuki stances used by others around you. Yes those three are great hitters, but with all do respect the way they bat may not work for you. Effective hitting doesn't mean trying to hit it out of the ballpark every time either. You will need to have patience, good vision, quick hands, strength, and the ability to take criticism while learning. Then of course you will need to find a bat that fits your size and arm length. Once you have all this you can interact with certain baseball drills to fine tune your batting.
Don't be afraid to experiment with everything. For instance staying away from "hitting the ball off of tee" because it´s boring. Make it fun, and remember if players like former batting champion Tony Gwynn did it while he was a pro then so can you. It will help you learn to hit the ball cleanly and hit line drives which will only increase your overall batting average. There are a few major things to remember about how to train yourself to be a better hitter; practice, practice, practice. However, keep in mind if you are practicing drills without tweaking your batting stance to become better or bringing a heavier bat along with you to hit as far as you can then your not really practicing.
If you are going to take baseball training seriously it would be in your best interest to make a schedule, and keep it. In doing so you will begin to get in a routine that between such and such an hour this is what is practiced throughout the week. Add different things for each day of the week so you won't be burnt out quickly. Its definitely hard work to become a better hitter, but when it happens the rewards are exciting and fun. Here are a few more things to think about when getting up to the plate.
When you take your swing at a pitch be sure to keep your stride short and sweet. This will allow your body to move in one fluent motion. If your strides are long you have a greater chance of throwing your balance off in the process. Keeping your head still is another solid point to remember during every swing. It allows you to focus on the ball, what kind of pitch, and helps your plate discipline deciphering if its good or bad. If your head is moving to the left or up to the sky you'll know that you can't see the pitch hit off the bat which can take away from your strengths becoming more luck than skill.
While many of these are basics of the game and have been told over and over again they are the most important parts to your baseball drills. Once you have mastered these you will see it in your overall offensive statistics during the season. Just remember to keep it fun, and learn to try new things if what you're doing now isn't working or you've hit a slump. The smallest change may make all the difference in becoming a true baseball hitter.
Discover more about how to improve your baseball hitting techniques on baseballtrainingsecrets.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Moheno
=========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
By guest author: Chris Moheno
Many people think in order to become a great baseball hitter they must work with a trainer to get the best results possible. Although if you get the opportunity, take it but many people can only do things on their own. Realizing this there are a few simple things you can do on your own to get the baseball training necessary in becoming an efficient hitter.
The most important thing is to be yourself. Seriously, it sounds odd but the next time you go to the batting cages watch all the Alex Rodriguez, Albert Pujols, and Ichiro Suzuki stances used by others around you. Yes those three are great hitters, but with all do respect the way they bat may not work for you. Effective hitting doesn't mean trying to hit it out of the ballpark every time either. You will need to have patience, good vision, quick hands, strength, and the ability to take criticism while learning. Then of course you will need to find a bat that fits your size and arm length. Once you have all this you can interact with certain baseball drills to fine tune your batting.
Don't be afraid to experiment with everything. For instance staying away from "hitting the ball off of tee" because it´s boring. Make it fun, and remember if players like former batting champion Tony Gwynn did it while he was a pro then so can you. It will help you learn to hit the ball cleanly and hit line drives which will only increase your overall batting average. There are a few major things to remember about how to train yourself to be a better hitter; practice, practice, practice. However, keep in mind if you are practicing drills without tweaking your batting stance to become better or bringing a heavier bat along with you to hit as far as you can then your not really practicing.
If you are going to take baseball training seriously it would be in your best interest to make a schedule, and keep it. In doing so you will begin to get in a routine that between such and such an hour this is what is practiced throughout the week. Add different things for each day of the week so you won't be burnt out quickly. Its definitely hard work to become a better hitter, but when it happens the rewards are exciting and fun. Here are a few more things to think about when getting up to the plate.
When you take your swing at a pitch be sure to keep your stride short and sweet. This will allow your body to move in one fluent motion. If your strides are long you have a greater chance of throwing your balance off in the process. Keeping your head still is another solid point to remember during every swing. It allows you to focus on the ball, what kind of pitch, and helps your plate discipline deciphering if its good or bad. If your head is moving to the left or up to the sky you'll know that you can't see the pitch hit off the bat which can take away from your strengths becoming more luck than skill.
While many of these are basics of the game and have been told over and over again they are the most important parts to your baseball drills. Once you have mastered these you will see it in your overall offensive statistics during the season. Just remember to keep it fun, and learn to try new things if what you're doing now isn't working or you've hit a slump. The smallest change may make all the difference in becoming a true baseball hitter.
Discover more about how to improve your baseball hitting techniques on baseballtrainingsecrets.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Moheno
=========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Youth Baseball Training - Pitching Drills for Little Leaguers
Youth Baseball Training - Pitching Drills for Little Leaguers
By guest author: Jake Wyatt
In youth baseball training, the coach shouldn't wait until problems develop to use pitching drills. Pitching baseballs should be practiced all the time to promote good pitching habits and fundamentals. Here are some pitching drills that can be used by Little League coaches.
Before beginning pitching drills, you must know pitching mechanics. The type of pitching drills and number of throws depends on the age and strength of the player. Every coach should teach the mechanics first. This will be boring for the players but the coach must require proper mechanics of all his pitchers to prevent injuries.
Here are some great pitching drills for young players:
1. Balance Drill. This involves the pitcher "playing ball" from the mound, to get the feel of compensating for the slope of the mound. Have a "catcher" set up in front of the plate, giving a good target to the pitcher. Since the distance is shorter, the pitcher can work on his mechanics while not using his arm as much. This drill helps reinforce the wind up and throw, with balance, while throwing strikes.
2. Stay-closed Drill. This is another drill that helps reinforce good mechanics. Again, the catcher will position himself six or so feet in front of home plate. After warming up, have the pitcher stand sideways on the mound with his feet spread the approximate width of his stride. Next, have the pitcher shift his weight to his back foot to throw the ball to the catcher. You want the pitcher to develop good tempo by smoothly transferring his weight from back to front. The goal of this drill is to make sure the pitcher's head stays on line with the target and to have his head down as he finishes the pitch (have him take his hat off and pick it up at the end of the drill to reinforce this). The goal is to throw efficiently, not hard, in this drill.
3. On-your-knee Drill. This drill reinforces the hip and trunk rotation needed for a mechanically correct delivery. Have a right-handed pitcher place his right knee on the ground, with his left shoulder closed and pointing toward the catcher. Have the catcher set up in front of the plate to make the drill easier. Have the pitcher "rock back" and throw the ball. Make sure the pitcher keeps his head in line and finishes the delivery properly. This drill is good for developing curve balls and changeups.
Making pitching drills part of your regular practices will improve your team's pitching consistency and help prevent injuries as well!
In order to be the best possible baseball player, training should happen year-round and be a joint effort between the coach, the player and the parents. Get more free tips to improve baseball performance, reviews of e-products related to baseball, and links to training resources at http://youth-baseball-training.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jake_Wyatt
======================
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
By guest author: Jake Wyatt
In youth baseball training, the coach shouldn't wait until problems develop to use pitching drills. Pitching baseballs should be practiced all the time to promote good pitching habits and fundamentals. Here are some pitching drills that can be used by Little League coaches.
Before beginning pitching drills, you must know pitching mechanics. The type of pitching drills and number of throws depends on the age and strength of the player. Every coach should teach the mechanics first. This will be boring for the players but the coach must require proper mechanics of all his pitchers to prevent injuries.
Here are some great pitching drills for young players:
1. Balance Drill. This involves the pitcher "playing ball" from the mound, to get the feel of compensating for the slope of the mound. Have a "catcher" set up in front of the plate, giving a good target to the pitcher. Since the distance is shorter, the pitcher can work on his mechanics while not using his arm as much. This drill helps reinforce the wind up and throw, with balance, while throwing strikes.
2. Stay-closed Drill. This is another drill that helps reinforce good mechanics. Again, the catcher will position himself six or so feet in front of home plate. After warming up, have the pitcher stand sideways on the mound with his feet spread the approximate width of his stride. Next, have the pitcher shift his weight to his back foot to throw the ball to the catcher. You want the pitcher to develop good tempo by smoothly transferring his weight from back to front. The goal of this drill is to make sure the pitcher's head stays on line with the target and to have his head down as he finishes the pitch (have him take his hat off and pick it up at the end of the drill to reinforce this). The goal is to throw efficiently, not hard, in this drill.
3. On-your-knee Drill. This drill reinforces the hip and trunk rotation needed for a mechanically correct delivery. Have a right-handed pitcher place his right knee on the ground, with his left shoulder closed and pointing toward the catcher. Have the catcher set up in front of the plate to make the drill easier. Have the pitcher "rock back" and throw the ball. Make sure the pitcher keeps his head in line and finishes the delivery properly. This drill is good for developing curve balls and changeups.
Making pitching drills part of your regular practices will improve your team's pitching consistency and help prevent injuries as well!
In order to be the best possible baseball player, training should happen year-round and be a joint effort between the coach, the player and the parents. Get more free tips to improve baseball performance, reviews of e-products related to baseball, and links to training resources at http://youth-baseball-training.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jake_Wyatt
======================
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Monday, October 10, 2011
Baseball Drills - Staying Motivated While You Practice
Baseball Drills - Staying Motivated While You Practice
By guest author: Nate Barnett
One of the biggest challenges a coach faces is to successfully instill a long-term motivation and vision in practice during the typical lengthy baseball season. It's not uncommon for a high school player to spend February through August doing baseball drills, workouts, training, and of course participating in games. So the question must be asked, how can you create a sense of urgency and long-term focus during the hundreds of hours of baseball drills throughout the season?
This is where goals come into play. Though I will say, be careful how you use the term "goals", the reaction of your athletes may be less than excited. I prefer the term, "road map". Whether it be to play in high school, college, or professionally, you will be much more likely to find your athletes will perform the baseball drills and workouts you create efficiently if you help them continually expand their road map. Without a clear and defined road map, you'll end up wasting a lot of practice time and will most certainly find it tough to help your players stay motivated throughout the duration of the season.
I'm sure you've agreed with me thus far that a road map creation process is vital to the success to an athlete. But let me give you one tangible and practical way to help enlarge the thinking of your players.
Think of it this way. If the goal is to get to the Big Leagues, there are some serious rewards that come with the title of Big Leaguer. One of the benefits of course is economic. Lets say a talented and successful player makes one million dollars annually playing professionally. Broken down over a career of practicing and working hard on baseball drills, that's about 20 grand per practice! Obviously it largely depends on the age of the athlete whose dream is to play in the Bigs, but I'm sure you can do the math and figure out the amount of money per practice. Have the athlete deposit the money in his mental bank account only if he's worked hard during his practice.
The mind is an amazing thing. Help your athletes develop it so they may achieve their full potential.
Nate Barnett is owner of The Pitching Academy and improves the mental game of baseball in athletes. Help your game by improving your pitching.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nate_Barnett
==============================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
By guest author: Nate Barnett
One of the biggest challenges a coach faces is to successfully instill a long-term motivation and vision in practice during the typical lengthy baseball season. It's not uncommon for a high school player to spend February through August doing baseball drills, workouts, training, and of course participating in games. So the question must be asked, how can you create a sense of urgency and long-term focus during the hundreds of hours of baseball drills throughout the season?
This is where goals come into play. Though I will say, be careful how you use the term "goals", the reaction of your athletes may be less than excited. I prefer the term, "road map". Whether it be to play in high school, college, or professionally, you will be much more likely to find your athletes will perform the baseball drills and workouts you create efficiently if you help them continually expand their road map. Without a clear and defined road map, you'll end up wasting a lot of practice time and will most certainly find it tough to help your players stay motivated throughout the duration of the season.
I'm sure you've agreed with me thus far that a road map creation process is vital to the success to an athlete. But let me give you one tangible and practical way to help enlarge the thinking of your players.
Think of it this way. If the goal is to get to the Big Leagues, there are some serious rewards that come with the title of Big Leaguer. One of the benefits of course is economic. Lets say a talented and successful player makes one million dollars annually playing professionally. Broken down over a career of practicing and working hard on baseball drills, that's about 20 grand per practice! Obviously it largely depends on the age of the athlete whose dream is to play in the Bigs, but I'm sure you can do the math and figure out the amount of money per practice. Have the athlete deposit the money in his mental bank account only if he's worked hard during his practice.
The mind is an amazing thing. Help your athletes develop it so they may achieve their full potential.
Nate Barnett is owner of The Pitching Academy and improves the mental game of baseball in athletes. Help your game by improving your pitching.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nate_Barnett
==============================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Baseball Tips - Catchers - Just Let 'Er Rip!
Baseball Tips - Catchers - Just Let 'Er Rip!
By guest author: Chico Reese
Did you ever get to a game and as you're watching the players warm up you notice that the catcher seems to have a pretty good gun? He's snapping throws off to other players and throwing ropes in long toss. He just looks good.
Then the game starts. Well, inevitably, a guy with half descent speed gets on first and gets the steal sign and takes off on a following pitch. The catcher pops out of his crouch and throws an absolute rocket towards second base. However, it's too high and sails into centerfield.
The next thing you hear is the coach yapping away with things like:
•"Hey! Get it down! No one can do anything with that throw!"
•"Hey! Follow through!"
•"Hey! Throw down, not up!"
•"Hey! Get it down! I'd rather have it in the dirt instead of out there!"
All of the above is true, for the most part. If you've ever caught, you've probably heard good advice during a game and many times heard bizarre things that leaves you shaking your head. This is very true if you have a coach that doesn't know that much about catching and has never caught before either.
Later in the game, another guy gets on and steals. The catcher pops out of his crouch and fires off a...well, not a rocket, but a medium fast, arcing throw towards second.
Safe.
It got there, but there was nothing on it. It didn't, however, end up in centerfield did it? But, how good is that throw anyway? And that's how the rest of his throws go. The catcher has been reduced from a kid throwing rockets before the game to a catcher who is taken a great deal of velocity off his throw and is now "aiming" his throws. It looks like he's throwing darts at times.
Here are a few baseball tips for you catchers, especially the young ones. Also, coaches should be thinking about these also.
First, catching is an explosive position. There are no big wind ups, long strides, and so on. Watch the pros. When someone steals the catcher fires up and just puts everything into a short, fast motion. The mask is usually flopping all over the place and the chest guard is flopping around. It has to be this way. That's how momentum is built up and released.
What can stop this explosiveness and produce crappy arcing throws?
Fear.
Fear of what?
Well,
•There is a fear of failure.
•There is a fear of looking bad or stupid.
•There is a fear of getting yelled at during the game by a coach.
If you are a catcher and you have a fear of throwing , you better fix it and get over it because when the time comes, you "gotta let 'er rip"! Don't worry about overthrowing because of your velocity. Always, always, always throw hard!
What you need to do is focus on your footwork and your release and try not to aim or "throw darts", which will kill your velocity. You need to understand correct throwing mechanics and footwork. Learn them. Find someone knowledgeable who can teach you these things. The best thing is to get your hands on catching videos and DVDs showing proper throwing techniques. These are produced by college coaches and pros who know what they're talking about. You only need one or two. Watch them and then watch some major league games on TV and you'll see that the pros are doing exactly what you've watched on your tapes and DVDs.
So, learn and practice...over and over. You can never practice footwork too much. Once your footwork is correct and your release is correct you won't worry about overthrowing. Your velocity will still be there, probably better now. And as a catcher there are times when you do overthrow. Big deal! But, you have to feel what you just did, feel that your feet were too fast or too slow or feel that you were too far in front too fast, and so on. This comes only with knowledge and practice. Don't blame yourself for throwing too hard!
Overthrowing second base has nothing to do with throwing hard. You must know that as a young catcher. As a coach you should always encourage hard throws. Don't yell about the overthrow...make the catcher think about his feet and delivery. Go over it after the inning is over. If you've trained the catcher with proper footwork and delivery he should be able to tell you what went wrong with that throw. And it should never be, "I threw it too hard."
So keep your catchers throwing hard. You can prevent full potential by yelling about overthrowing. Remember, you overthrow second base by having bad mechanics for that particular throw, not throwing hard. That's as silly as telling a traffic cop that the reason you drifted through the stop sign was because you were going too slow.
On rare occasions, excessive thinking or fear of throwing can lead to the most devastating throwing "afflictions" you can ever witness or go through. This is the Steve Blass Disease or Sasser Syndrome. Sasser was a catcher for the Dodgers. There are other names for this but the most notable case in recent years was young pitcher Rick Ankiel of the St. Louis Cardinals.
So catchers and coaches, consider the baseball tips above for a little bit. Learn proper footwork and delivery and practice it over and over and over. Then you'll be very confident and not afraid to "just let 'er rip!" when you know someone just got the steal sign and is taking off on the very next pitch.
Chico Reese has been closely involved in youth baseball, softball and High School Baseball over the last twelve years and enjoys working with young catchers.
For excellent Catching instruction, drills, training and other valuable baseball tips, consider the following sources:
Catcher Instruction, Training and Tips To Make You A Better Catcher
http://baseballcatcher.baseballgloverestore.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chico_Reese
========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
By guest author: Chico Reese
Did you ever get to a game and as you're watching the players warm up you notice that the catcher seems to have a pretty good gun? He's snapping throws off to other players and throwing ropes in long toss. He just looks good.
Then the game starts. Well, inevitably, a guy with half descent speed gets on first and gets the steal sign and takes off on a following pitch. The catcher pops out of his crouch and throws an absolute rocket towards second base. However, it's too high and sails into centerfield.
The next thing you hear is the coach yapping away with things like:
•"Hey! Get it down! No one can do anything with that throw!"
•"Hey! Follow through!"
•"Hey! Throw down, not up!"
•"Hey! Get it down! I'd rather have it in the dirt instead of out there!"
All of the above is true, for the most part. If you've ever caught, you've probably heard good advice during a game and many times heard bizarre things that leaves you shaking your head. This is very true if you have a coach that doesn't know that much about catching and has never caught before either.
Later in the game, another guy gets on and steals. The catcher pops out of his crouch and fires off a...well, not a rocket, but a medium fast, arcing throw towards second.
Safe.
It got there, but there was nothing on it. It didn't, however, end up in centerfield did it? But, how good is that throw anyway? And that's how the rest of his throws go. The catcher has been reduced from a kid throwing rockets before the game to a catcher who is taken a great deal of velocity off his throw and is now "aiming" his throws. It looks like he's throwing darts at times.
Here are a few baseball tips for you catchers, especially the young ones. Also, coaches should be thinking about these also.
First, catching is an explosive position. There are no big wind ups, long strides, and so on. Watch the pros. When someone steals the catcher fires up and just puts everything into a short, fast motion. The mask is usually flopping all over the place and the chest guard is flopping around. It has to be this way. That's how momentum is built up and released.
What can stop this explosiveness and produce crappy arcing throws?
Fear.
Fear of what?
Well,
•There is a fear of failure.
•There is a fear of looking bad or stupid.
•There is a fear of getting yelled at during the game by a coach.
If you are a catcher and you have a fear of throwing , you better fix it and get over it because when the time comes, you "gotta let 'er rip"! Don't worry about overthrowing because of your velocity. Always, always, always throw hard!
What you need to do is focus on your footwork and your release and try not to aim or "throw darts", which will kill your velocity. You need to understand correct throwing mechanics and footwork. Learn them. Find someone knowledgeable who can teach you these things. The best thing is to get your hands on catching videos and DVDs showing proper throwing techniques. These are produced by college coaches and pros who know what they're talking about. You only need one or two. Watch them and then watch some major league games on TV and you'll see that the pros are doing exactly what you've watched on your tapes and DVDs.
So, learn and practice...over and over. You can never practice footwork too much. Once your footwork is correct and your release is correct you won't worry about overthrowing. Your velocity will still be there, probably better now. And as a catcher there are times when you do overthrow. Big deal! But, you have to feel what you just did, feel that your feet were too fast or too slow or feel that you were too far in front too fast, and so on. This comes only with knowledge and practice. Don't blame yourself for throwing too hard!
Overthrowing second base has nothing to do with throwing hard. You must know that as a young catcher. As a coach you should always encourage hard throws. Don't yell about the overthrow...make the catcher think about his feet and delivery. Go over it after the inning is over. If you've trained the catcher with proper footwork and delivery he should be able to tell you what went wrong with that throw. And it should never be, "I threw it too hard."
So keep your catchers throwing hard. You can prevent full potential by yelling about overthrowing. Remember, you overthrow second base by having bad mechanics for that particular throw, not throwing hard. That's as silly as telling a traffic cop that the reason you drifted through the stop sign was because you were going too slow.
On rare occasions, excessive thinking or fear of throwing can lead to the most devastating throwing "afflictions" you can ever witness or go through. This is the Steve Blass Disease or Sasser Syndrome. Sasser was a catcher for the Dodgers. There are other names for this but the most notable case in recent years was young pitcher Rick Ankiel of the St. Louis Cardinals.
So catchers and coaches, consider the baseball tips above for a little bit. Learn proper footwork and delivery and practice it over and over and over. Then you'll be very confident and not afraid to "just let 'er rip!" when you know someone just got the steal sign and is taking off on the very next pitch.
Chico Reese has been closely involved in youth baseball, softball and High School Baseball over the last twelve years and enjoys working with young catchers.
For excellent Catching instruction, drills, training and other valuable baseball tips, consider the following sources:
Catcher Instruction, Training and Tips To Make You A Better Catcher
http://baseballcatcher.baseballgloverestore.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chico_Reese
========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
Friday, September 9, 2011
Dustin Pedroia Baseball Training Tips
Dustin Pedroia Baseball Training Tips
Uploaded by StackBaseball Dustin Pedroia of the Boston Red Sox, provides a baseball training how to, addresing the importance of hard work and the difference between high school and college training. Pedroia: ""I went to Arizona State, and in the fall there, when we weren't playing, it was always, get as strong as you can as fast as you can for the season. I try to take that into professional baseball as well. That's why I train at ABI and get ready for the season, because I feel like it's the best fit for me, and makes me become the better athlete that I can be. I trained in high school too, but it got more advanced when I got to college. I think in high school, you just go in there and any time you can, you just go in there and lift weights any time you can, but once you get to college they have people that prepare you and they have strength coaches where in high school it was just our baseball coach telling us what to do and to lift weights. I think once you get to college, you'll understand that there is a program that you need to be on.""
========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Check out these coaching articles at the Softball Coaching Digest:
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
• Articles from the Youth Softball Coaching Clinic Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Hitters Blog
• Articles from the Tips for Fastpitch Softball Coaches Blog
• The Fastpitch Softball Training Equipment Blog
Monday, August 8, 2011
Youth Baseball Training - Three Tips to Increase Baserunning Speed
Youth Baseball Training - Three Tips to Increase Baserunning Speed
By guest author: Jake Wyatt
Youth baseball coaches spend a lot of practice time focusing on batting, throwing, and fielding skills. Speed training often consists of just having the kids run the bases as fast as they can a few times. Coaches that take the time to work with their players on their base running speed will make their teams more competitive.
Here are some specific tips to use to help your players run faster. Working with each player individually to help them increase their speed will have the most benefit, as each player will need different improvements.
1. Arm position. The runner's arm position should be close to the body at a 90 degree angle and about waist high. As the player runs, the arms should be moving front to back. Sideways movements will slow the runner down. The shoulders and hands should be relaxed. Have players practice the correct movements in slow motion until they develop the appropriate muscle memory.
2. Focus. The runner should be looking at his destination, not at the ground in front of him. For baseball players this means the next base. However, the player does need to be aware of what's going on around him, so he doesn't get tagged on the baseline or run into another player.
3. Foot position. Keep runners OFF their heels. The proper foot position for the fastest speed is to land on the ball of the foot and push off, rolling forward to the toes. Professional running shoes have the cleats only on the front of the shoe, because this is where a runner's power comes from.
If a coach spends a few minutes every practice working with his players on their running form, his team will be faster overall. And a faster team wins more baseball games!
In order to be the best possible baseball player, training should happen year-round and be a joint effort between the coach, the player and the parents. Get more free tips to improve baseball performance, reviews of e-products related to baseball, and links to training resources at http://youth-baseball-training.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jake_Wyatt
=====================
Thanks to our sponsors:
XtenderBattingCages.com
Xtender Batting Cages For Home & Youth Baseball
Heater Combo Pitching Machine and Batting Cage Package
Heater Pitching Machines
Heater Baseball Pitching Machine
Heater Pro Baseball Pitching Machine
Heater Jr Baseball Pitching Machine by Trend Sports
By guest author: Jake Wyatt
Youth baseball coaches spend a lot of practice time focusing on batting, throwing, and fielding skills. Speed training often consists of just having the kids run the bases as fast as they can a few times. Coaches that take the time to work with their players on their base running speed will make their teams more competitive.
Here are some specific tips to use to help your players run faster. Working with each player individually to help them increase their speed will have the most benefit, as each player will need different improvements.
1. Arm position. The runner's arm position should be close to the body at a 90 degree angle and about waist high. As the player runs, the arms should be moving front to back. Sideways movements will slow the runner down. The shoulders and hands should be relaxed. Have players practice the correct movements in slow motion until they develop the appropriate muscle memory.
2. Focus. The runner should be looking at his destination, not at the ground in front of him. For baseball players this means the next base. However, the player does need to be aware of what's going on around him, so he doesn't get tagged on the baseline or run into another player.
3. Foot position. Keep runners OFF their heels. The proper foot position for the fastest speed is to land on the ball of the foot and push off, rolling forward to the toes. Professional running shoes have the cleats only on the front of the shoe, because this is where a runner's power comes from.
If a coach spends a few minutes every practice working with his players on their running form, his team will be faster overall. And a faster team wins more baseball games!
In order to be the best possible baseball player, training should happen year-round and be a joint effort between the coach, the player and the parents. Get more free tips to improve baseball performance, reviews of e-products related to baseball, and links to training resources at http://youth-baseball-training.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jake_Wyatt
=====================
Thanks to our sponsors:
XtenderBattingCages.com
Xtender Batting Cages For Home & Youth Baseball
Heater Combo Pitching Machine and Batting Cage Package
Heater Pitching Machines
Heater Baseball Pitching Machine
Heater Pro Baseball Pitching Machine
Heater Jr Baseball Pitching Machine by Trend Sports
Monday, July 18, 2011
Baseball Coaching Digest - Can You Name 20 Ways to Score From Third Base?
Baseball Coaching Digest - Can You Name 20 Ways to Score From Third Base?
By guest author: Nick Dixon
How many ways can you think of that a runner can score from third base.
I am a firm believer in the strategy of getting the runner to third base with less than two outs any way you can. Below, I have listed 23 ways of scoring a runner from third base that do not score the same runner from second base.
I am sure that there are more than 23. That is all that I could think of today.
1. Pitcher throws a wild pitch.
2. Catcher allows a passed ball.
3. Pitcher commits a balk.
4. Batter hits a sacrifice fly.
5. Batter properly executes a squeeze bunt.
6. Catcher commits interference.
7. The pitcher allows a base on balls.
8. Runner steals home.
9. Baseball hit ground ball that is fielded quickly by an outfielder.
10. A "bounce away" error by an infielder which requires the infielder to make a move to recover the ball.
11. Fly ball misplayed or dropped by an infielder in fair territory with 2 outs.
12. Fly ball misplayed or dropped by an outfielder in fair territory with 2 outs
13. Short fly ball hit in the outfield that is misplayed or dropped.
14. Soft line drive hit over the infielders head.
15. Pitchers hits batter with bases loaded.
16. The catcher makes an errant throw back to the pitcher. The pitchers misses the ball thrown back to him by the catcher.
17. With no outs, the batter hits a double play ground ball, with runners on 1B and 3B and the opposition turns the double play.
18. An infielder while attempting to make a play to first on the batter makes an errant throw.
19. Catcher throws the ball into center field attempting to throw out a runner trying to steal second base.
20. Middle infielder misplays and drops the throw from the catcher on a runner stealing second base.
21. Pitcher throws the ball away at third base while attempting a pick off.
22. Pitcher throws the ball away at first base while attempting a pick off.
23. Catcher throws the ball into left field while attempting to pick the runner off at third base.
The CoachesBest Baseball Store has over 1400 BASEBALL PRODUCTS. Check out the BatAction Hitting Machine baseball pitching simulator. This high speed training machine is 100% Guaranteed to raise Batting Averages and has a full year warranty.
Make sure to visit Blog4Coaches and the Baseball Coaching Digest for free coaching articles, drills and tips.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Dixon
==================
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
By guest author: Nick Dixon
How many ways can you think of that a runner can score from third base.
I am a firm believer in the strategy of getting the runner to third base with less than two outs any way you can. Below, I have listed 23 ways of scoring a runner from third base that do not score the same runner from second base.
I am sure that there are more than 23. That is all that I could think of today.
1. Pitcher throws a wild pitch.
2. Catcher allows a passed ball.
3. Pitcher commits a balk.
4. Batter hits a sacrifice fly.
5. Batter properly executes a squeeze bunt.
6. Catcher commits interference.
7. The pitcher allows a base on balls.
8. Runner steals home.
9. Baseball hit ground ball that is fielded quickly by an outfielder.
10. A "bounce away" error by an infielder which requires the infielder to make a move to recover the ball.
11. Fly ball misplayed or dropped by an infielder in fair territory with 2 outs.
12. Fly ball misplayed or dropped by an outfielder in fair territory with 2 outs
13. Short fly ball hit in the outfield that is misplayed or dropped.
14. Soft line drive hit over the infielders head.
15. Pitchers hits batter with bases loaded.
16. The catcher makes an errant throw back to the pitcher. The pitchers misses the ball thrown back to him by the catcher.
17. With no outs, the batter hits a double play ground ball, with runners on 1B and 3B and the opposition turns the double play.
18. An infielder while attempting to make a play to first on the batter makes an errant throw.
19. Catcher throws the ball into center field attempting to throw out a runner trying to steal second base.
20. Middle infielder misplays and drops the throw from the catcher on a runner stealing second base.
21. Pitcher throws the ball away at third base while attempting a pick off.
22. Pitcher throws the ball away at first base while attempting a pick off.
23. Catcher throws the ball into left field while attempting to pick the runner off at third base.
The CoachesBest Baseball Store has over 1400 BASEBALL PRODUCTS. Check out the BatAction Hitting Machine baseball pitching simulator. This high speed training machine is 100% Guaranteed to raise Batting Averages and has a full year warranty.
Make sure to visit Blog4Coaches and the Baseball Coaching Digest for free coaching articles, drills and tips.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Dixon
==================
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Baseball Playing & Coaching Tips : How to Pitch a Ball
Baseball Playing & Coaching Tips : How to Pitch a Ball
Uploaded by expertvillage
Pitching a baseball is done by stepping towards the target and stepping forward with the opposite foot of the throwing hand. Throw a baseball accurately with tips from a professional baseball instructor in this free video on baseball.
Expert: Mickey Hiter
Bio: Mickey Hiter played baseball at Lipscomb University.
Filmmaker: Dimitri LaBarge
======================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com and CoachesBest.com is your online super store for baseball batting cages, pitching machines and protective screens and nets. This fully licensed company has a full time staff to help you from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. You may order securely online or by phone, toll free, at 1-877-431-4487.
Check out these categories that are featured at Baseball2u.com.
Jugs Complete Packages
Batting Cages
60' Portable Batting Cage
55' Portable Batting Cage
70' Portable Batting Cage
Extender Batting Cage 30'
Jugs Pitching Machines
Iron Mike Pitching Machines
BATA Pitching Machines
Heater Pitching Machines
Granada Pitching Machines
Phantom Pitching Machines
…and if you are looking for Youth Training Equipment, Advanced Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, and Pitching & Throwing Trainers, or Portable Mounds, they have those too!
Plus, they have one the internet's largest selections of Baseball Training and Coaching DVDs and Books. Make sure to chweck our their CLEARANCE DEPARTMENT for rock bottom prices on top quality equipment.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Coaching Baseball - Two True Base Running Blunders That Teach a Lesson
Coaching Baseball - Two True Base Running Blunders That Teach a Lesson
By guest author: Nick Dixon
We all know the importance of good base running. We know that "solid" base running scores runs and wins games. We also know that poor base running can easily cause a team to lose a game. The following two stories are true stories of base running mistakes that cost the team a win. All the team had to do to win was to have the base runner advance to the next bag. These two stories are great stories that you can tell to your players to teach young players two important rules of base running:
1) Always hustle and run everything out and never assume anything when you are running the bases.
2) On a game winning base hit, always advance to and touch the next bag.
Coaching Baseball Base running: The stories of two base running mistakes that teach a lesson
It was a high school game. The home team was batting, down 3-1, with bases loaded and two outs. The #6 hitter, with average speed was at third, #9 hitter, a fast runner, was on 2nd and lead-off hitter, a super speedster, was on 1st. The count was 3-2, with bases loaded and all three runners were moving on the pitch. The #2 batter was the batting for the team trailing by two runs. He was expecting a fastball on the outer half of the plate that and he got "all of it"! He ripped a hard line drive right at the second baseman. The second baseman leaped into the air and the ball hit his glove. The batter seeing the ball go into the glove immediately slumped in disappointment about a 3rd of the way to first. He goes down to his knees with his face in his hands. He was basically "feeling sorry for himself". In the meanwhile, he was unaware that the ball went completely through the webbing of the glove of the second baseman and landed 15 feet behind the fielder. The second baseman had to go get the ball and make the throw to first for the out. The second baseman was quick as a cat so it did not take long. The batter realized what had happened, tried to beat out the throw, but was out by a step at first base.
However, if the batter had he been running, he would have been easily safe at first. The saddest fact of all is that the runners on 3rd and 2nd scored easily what would have been the two tying runs. Plus, the runner at 1st, the super speedster, crossed the plate during the play to score what was the winning run. But, the team lost the game. If the batter had simply run the ball out, his team would have won the game. A hard lesson learned and one that will never be forgotten.
The Great Base running Mistake in Baseball History
The following is the story of what is commonly called Merkle's Boner. It is the most costly mistake ever made by a baseball player running the bases. It happened in September of 1908, in NY City. The Cubs were facing the Giants with the pennant on the line. Each and every game was a must-win situation. The score was tied 1-1, in the bottom of the 9th inning; the Giants had runners on the corners with two outs. Fred Merkle, a 19 year-old rookie, was the runner on first. The next batter lined a single. The runner at third came home. It appeared to be a Giants victory, they had won the game and taken the lead for the pennant, and the cheering fans swarmed the field.
Merkle looked toward home plate and saw his teammate cross the plate. Merkle was startled as he saw the huge crowd pour out of the stands and onto the field. In his excitement, he simply stopped half-way to 2nd base. Thinking the game was over, Merkle sprinted off the field. But, he had forgotten an important rule of baseball; he did not go touch second. With him on first, there was a force out at second if the defense can get the ball to second base before he touches second base. The Cubs retrieved the ball, went and touched second. The game was declared at tie because order could not be restored because the fans could not be removed from the field. The two teams went on to finish the season in a dead tie for the pennant. They had to play a one-game playoff. The Cubs won and went to the World Series. One loss, the loss, that day knocked the Giants out!
Merkle was never forgiven by the NY fans for that blunder. He went on to have a solid career of 14 years and a lifetime average of 273. However, everywhere he went he always was reminded by fans of his terrible mistake on that day of his rookie season. This is a major league mistake that will always be called, Merkles Boner. I hope these two stories are useful to you. I appreciate your interest and you taking the time to read my writing.
Visit the Baseball Coaching Digest Blog for daily post and articles on every aspect of coaching baseball. The Baseball Coaching Digest Blog. Check out the Bat Action Hitting Machine baseball pitching simulator. This high speed training machine is 100% Guaranteed to raise Batting Averages and has a full year warranty.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Dixon
======================
Thanks to our sponsors:
www.BatAction.com
---BatAction Machine at CoachesBest.com
---BatActionMachine on Ebay.com
---BatAction Machine Video Clips
---BatAction Trainer - 15 Reasons Why You Must Own This Machine
---Message to Parents From Coach Nick
---If you are looking for BatAction Replacement Balls or Power Bands Click Here
By guest author: Nick Dixon
We all know the importance of good base running. We know that "solid" base running scores runs and wins games. We also know that poor base running can easily cause a team to lose a game. The following two stories are true stories of base running mistakes that cost the team a win. All the team had to do to win was to have the base runner advance to the next bag. These two stories are great stories that you can tell to your players to teach young players two important rules of base running:
1) Always hustle and run everything out and never assume anything when you are running the bases.
2) On a game winning base hit, always advance to and touch the next bag.
Coaching Baseball Base running: The stories of two base running mistakes that teach a lesson
It was a high school game. The home team was batting, down 3-1, with bases loaded and two outs. The #6 hitter, with average speed was at third, #9 hitter, a fast runner, was on 2nd and lead-off hitter, a super speedster, was on 1st. The count was 3-2, with bases loaded and all three runners were moving on the pitch. The #2 batter was the batting for the team trailing by two runs. He was expecting a fastball on the outer half of the plate that and he got "all of it"! He ripped a hard line drive right at the second baseman. The second baseman leaped into the air and the ball hit his glove. The batter seeing the ball go into the glove immediately slumped in disappointment about a 3rd of the way to first. He goes down to his knees with his face in his hands. He was basically "feeling sorry for himself". In the meanwhile, he was unaware that the ball went completely through the webbing of the glove of the second baseman and landed 15 feet behind the fielder. The second baseman had to go get the ball and make the throw to first for the out. The second baseman was quick as a cat so it did not take long. The batter realized what had happened, tried to beat out the throw, but was out by a step at first base.
However, if the batter had he been running, he would have been easily safe at first. The saddest fact of all is that the runners on 3rd and 2nd scored easily what would have been the two tying runs. Plus, the runner at 1st, the super speedster, crossed the plate during the play to score what was the winning run. But, the team lost the game. If the batter had simply run the ball out, his team would have won the game. A hard lesson learned and one that will never be forgotten.
The Great Base running Mistake in Baseball History
The following is the story of what is commonly called Merkle's Boner. It is the most costly mistake ever made by a baseball player running the bases. It happened in September of 1908, in NY City. The Cubs were facing the Giants with the pennant on the line. Each and every game was a must-win situation. The score was tied 1-1, in the bottom of the 9th inning; the Giants had runners on the corners with two outs. Fred Merkle, a 19 year-old rookie, was the runner on first. The next batter lined a single. The runner at third came home. It appeared to be a Giants victory, they had won the game and taken the lead for the pennant, and the cheering fans swarmed the field.
Merkle looked toward home plate and saw his teammate cross the plate. Merkle was startled as he saw the huge crowd pour out of the stands and onto the field. In his excitement, he simply stopped half-way to 2nd base. Thinking the game was over, Merkle sprinted off the field. But, he had forgotten an important rule of baseball; he did not go touch second. With him on first, there was a force out at second if the defense can get the ball to second base before he touches second base. The Cubs retrieved the ball, went and touched second. The game was declared at tie because order could not be restored because the fans could not be removed from the field. The two teams went on to finish the season in a dead tie for the pennant. They had to play a one-game playoff. The Cubs won and went to the World Series. One loss, the loss, that day knocked the Giants out!
Merkle was never forgiven by the NY fans for that blunder. He went on to have a solid career of 14 years and a lifetime average of 273. However, everywhere he went he always was reminded by fans of his terrible mistake on that day of his rookie season. This is a major league mistake that will always be called, Merkles Boner. I hope these two stories are useful to you. I appreciate your interest and you taking the time to read my writing.
Visit the Baseball Coaching Digest Blog for daily post and articles on every aspect of coaching baseball. The Baseball Coaching Digest Blog. Check out the Bat Action Hitting Machine baseball pitching simulator. This high speed training machine is 100% Guaranteed to raise Batting Averages and has a full year warranty.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Dixon
======================
Thanks to our sponsors:
www.BatAction.com
---BatAction Machine at CoachesBest.com
---BatActionMachine on Ebay.com
---BatAction Machine Video Clips
---BatAction Trainer - 15 Reasons Why You Must Own This Machine
---Message to Parents From Coach Nick
---If you are looking for BatAction Replacement Balls or Power Bands Click Here
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Beginner Baseball Training Tips For Coaches
Beginner Baseball Training Tips For Coaches
By guest author: Sameep Shah
A proper training and coaching is very important no matter what level of game you need to success at. Therefore you will first have to find a qualified baseball coach who can teach you some essential fundamentals of the sport. If you are looking for some serious training through a professional coach then it is advisable to find a good local instructor or purchase videos and books or even find a reputable baseball institute. If you cannot afford to join the schools then you can read the books about the game or get some good DVDs. You can even find plenty of free information on the internet to help you get going with the game.
As the old saying goes practice makes you perfect, therefore the biggest tip in training would be keep on practicing. You need to focus on just 1 or 2 areas of the game when you are a beginner in the game. You should also work on getting the basics done perfectly for baseball and should bare in mind that the more you practice the better you can be in the game. You can even move further to expand your capabilities to advanced baseball training. One of the best ways to master in the game is to participate in the game. Therefore get yourself playing the game as much as possible. Apart from baseball fundamentals there are also other fields that you should work on.
Strength training - One important thing is to maintain your flexibility and strength when playing baseball. This training will help you avoid injuries and enhance performance.
Mental toughness - You will also have to work on the mental aspects of the game as it is evenly important to be a successful player. This means that you should learn team spirit, to be positive, skill to handle failure and criticism with the right courage. Always make sure the game is fun to play for you as it will keep your courage lasting long and when something negative happens you just shake it off and you are back to the game.
Diet - The diet you intake also plays a crucial role in your baseball training. Apart from strength and exercise training it is also important that you eat healthy. You need to have a balanced diet that includes all the vital vitamins, minerals and proteins.
These are some basic and important fundamentals for beginners that will help you build up as a successful baseball player.
For more information visit Sportscapers University at basketball training Houston - You can also find more information and online training videos to help you improve your skills at basketball training Katy.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sameep_Shah
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2589018
========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
www.BatAction.com
---BatAction Machine at CoachesBest.com
---BatActionMachine on Ebay.com
---BatAction Machine Video Clips
---BatAction Trainer - 15 Reasons Why You Must Own This Machine
---Message to Parents From Coach Nick
---If you are looking for BatAction Replacement Balls or Power Bands Click Here
By guest author: Sameep Shah
A proper training and coaching is very important no matter what level of game you need to success at. Therefore you will first have to find a qualified baseball coach who can teach you some essential fundamentals of the sport. If you are looking for some serious training through a professional coach then it is advisable to find a good local instructor or purchase videos and books or even find a reputable baseball institute. If you cannot afford to join the schools then you can read the books about the game or get some good DVDs. You can even find plenty of free information on the internet to help you get going with the game.
As the old saying goes practice makes you perfect, therefore the biggest tip in training would be keep on practicing. You need to focus on just 1 or 2 areas of the game when you are a beginner in the game. You should also work on getting the basics done perfectly for baseball and should bare in mind that the more you practice the better you can be in the game. You can even move further to expand your capabilities to advanced baseball training. One of the best ways to master in the game is to participate in the game. Therefore get yourself playing the game as much as possible. Apart from baseball fundamentals there are also other fields that you should work on.
Strength training - One important thing is to maintain your flexibility and strength when playing baseball. This training will help you avoid injuries and enhance performance.
Mental toughness - You will also have to work on the mental aspects of the game as it is evenly important to be a successful player. This means that you should learn team spirit, to be positive, skill to handle failure and criticism with the right courage. Always make sure the game is fun to play for you as it will keep your courage lasting long and when something negative happens you just shake it off and you are back to the game.
Diet - The diet you intake also plays a crucial role in your baseball training. Apart from strength and exercise training it is also important that you eat healthy. You need to have a balanced diet that includes all the vital vitamins, minerals and proteins.
These are some basic and important fundamentals for beginners that will help you build up as a successful baseball player.
For more information visit Sportscapers University at basketball training Houston - You can also find more information and online training videos to help you improve your skills at basketball training Katy.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sameep_Shah
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2589018
========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
www.BatAction.com
---BatAction Machine at CoachesBest.com
---BatActionMachine on Ebay.com
---BatAction Machine Video Clips
---BatAction Trainer - 15 Reasons Why You Must Own This Machine
---Message to Parents From Coach Nick
---If you are looking for BatAction Replacement Balls or Power Bands Click Here
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Baseball Hitting Mechanics 101
Baseball Hitting Mechanics 101
By guest author: Jeffery A Wise
The first thing any baseball player should learn is the proper baseball hitting mechanics. The earlier a player learns these mechanics, the better they will do when they step up to bat. It's not necessary for new players to learn complicated advanced hitting techniques. That will come in time, so they should just focus on the basics until they feel completely comfortable to move on. There are several simple steps you should know for the basic hitting mechanics.
How to stand in the batter's box
Where to look and the best way to position your head
How to position the rest of your body
How to hold the bat
How to swing the bat
When to swing the bat
What to do after you hit the ball
Anyone who loves playing baseball has a desire to be the best they can be, even at an early age. When I was young I asked my parents to buy me several baseball hitting books so I could learn how to be the best. I couldn't wait to crack them open and learn everything possible to improve my hitting.
If you are a parent of a young player, be willing to help your child advance and learn as much as the desire. Take it one step at a time, though, and don't rush them into anything. Some kids will ask a lot of questions, though, so be ready to move fast if necessary. Be prepared to answer any questions they have and help them both on and off the field.
It would be a good idea if you as the parent start studying before they even begin playing. Play to cover one hitting tip with them each week. Be sure they are comfortable before moving on to the next tip.
There are several tools you'll need to start helping a child learn the basic hitting mechanics. You'll need a bat, ball, helmet, tee and a field to practice on. You may want to also keep a notebook handy so you can document the progress of kids you're assisting, whether it's your child or a team of ballplayers.
If you stick to the basics of hitting, children will learn the proper steps necessary to hit a baseball. They must get plenty of practice and their skills are sure to develop. They will be excited as they seem self improvement. Even if a child seems to pick up the basics pretty quickly, they should never stop practicing these hitting mechanics. Even professional baseball players practice them on a regular basis.
Remember that the reason to practice baseball hitting mechanics is to give you skills and talent to become the baseball player you want to be. Download free hitting videos with tips and instructions you need to get started quickly by visiting Baseball Hitting and learn how to hit the baseball better.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffery_A_Wise
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6118987
=================
Thanks to our sponsors:
www.BatAction.com
---BatAction Machine at CoachesBest.com
---BatActionMachine on Ebay.com
---BatAction Machine Video Clips
---BatAction Trainer - 15 Reasons Why You Must Own This Machine
---Message to Parents From Coach Nick
---If you are looking for BatAction Replacement Balls or Power Bands Click Here
By guest author: Jeffery A Wise
The first thing any baseball player should learn is the proper baseball hitting mechanics. The earlier a player learns these mechanics, the better they will do when they step up to bat. It's not necessary for new players to learn complicated advanced hitting techniques. That will come in time, so they should just focus on the basics until they feel completely comfortable to move on. There are several simple steps you should know for the basic hitting mechanics.
How to stand in the batter's box
Where to look and the best way to position your head
How to position the rest of your body
How to hold the bat
How to swing the bat
When to swing the bat
What to do after you hit the ball
Anyone who loves playing baseball has a desire to be the best they can be, even at an early age. When I was young I asked my parents to buy me several baseball hitting books so I could learn how to be the best. I couldn't wait to crack them open and learn everything possible to improve my hitting.
If you are a parent of a young player, be willing to help your child advance and learn as much as the desire. Take it one step at a time, though, and don't rush them into anything. Some kids will ask a lot of questions, though, so be ready to move fast if necessary. Be prepared to answer any questions they have and help them both on and off the field.
It would be a good idea if you as the parent start studying before they even begin playing. Play to cover one hitting tip with them each week. Be sure they are comfortable before moving on to the next tip.
There are several tools you'll need to start helping a child learn the basic hitting mechanics. You'll need a bat, ball, helmet, tee and a field to practice on. You may want to also keep a notebook handy so you can document the progress of kids you're assisting, whether it's your child or a team of ballplayers.
If you stick to the basics of hitting, children will learn the proper steps necessary to hit a baseball. They must get plenty of practice and their skills are sure to develop. They will be excited as they seem self improvement. Even if a child seems to pick up the basics pretty quickly, they should never stop practicing these hitting mechanics. Even professional baseball players practice them on a regular basis.
Remember that the reason to practice baseball hitting mechanics is to give you skills and talent to become the baseball player you want to be. Download free hitting videos with tips and instructions you need to get started quickly by visiting Baseball Hitting and learn how to hit the baseball better.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffery_A_Wise
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6118987
=================
Thanks to our sponsors:
www.BatAction.com
---BatAction Machine at CoachesBest.com
---BatActionMachine on Ebay.com
---BatAction Machine Video Clips
---BatAction Trainer - 15 Reasons Why You Must Own This Machine
---Message to Parents From Coach Nick
---If you are looking for BatAction Replacement Balls or Power Bands Click Here
Monday, February 21, 2011
Coaching Skills For Teachers
Coaching Skills For Teachers
By guest author: Dot Struthers
Coaching is now a well regarded tool for teachers to develop themselves both personally and professionally and is growing in popularity because its short, sharp and effective.
Getting coaching for yourself is one thing but developing your skills to coach others is another and requires self awareness, understanding and practice.
Coaching should be a non-judgemental and stimulating process which gives the other person time to think and share their feelings. Your job as the coach is to challenge their attitude, offer inspiration and get them to a place of action.
Here are five key principles that will help you to be an effective coach:-
1. Play to a person's strengths
We all know what we are not good at and there is no point in trying to solve a problem from a place of weakness. If you are an introvert you can't suddenly become an extrovert, it would be unnatural. When you focus on a person's strengths and uniqueness, you build their confidence.
2. Create time to think
The only way to see the wood from the trees is to step back and create some space and time. Helping people to see the bigger picture allows them to gain perspective but also to focus on their specific issue more clearly. By encouraging reflection, you are able to create more self awareness.
3. Solutions are within
So often we think the answers are outside of us but the truth is that we are good at getting in the way of our own solutions. Helping someone to explore options, ideas or thoughts has a magical quality which allows us to connect with our inner wisdom and create those "aha" moments.
4. Being Present
So often we are distracted by either reminiscing the past where our memories live or the getting lost in our dreams in the future. Helping someone to stay present in the current moment "now" will help them to stay focused and bring about the changes and improvements they want.
5. Personal Responsibility
It can be so easy to judge others and tell them what they are doing wrong or what they should be doing but in fact you are only holding them back and could be creating a rod for your own back. When you insist on another person taking responsibility for their actions and behaviours you are giving them the control and authority they need to take ownership.
Coaching skills are life skills and worth investing in. They are particularly helpful in times of stress, conflict and change and after a while it becomes a way of doing things rather than a set of techniques.
Dot Struthers works with school leaders wanting to develop their leadership and management skills. including personal coaching, HR consultancy and management skills training. For more information go to http://www.merechats.co.uk
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dot_Struthers
===================
Thanks to our sponsors:
===Advertisement from our sponsor:=====
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
By guest author: Dot Struthers
Coaching is now a well regarded tool for teachers to develop themselves both personally and professionally and is growing in popularity because its short, sharp and effective.
Getting coaching for yourself is one thing but developing your skills to coach others is another and requires self awareness, understanding and practice.
Coaching should be a non-judgemental and stimulating process which gives the other person time to think and share their feelings. Your job as the coach is to challenge their attitude, offer inspiration and get them to a place of action.
Here are five key principles that will help you to be an effective coach:-
1. Play to a person's strengths
We all know what we are not good at and there is no point in trying to solve a problem from a place of weakness. If you are an introvert you can't suddenly become an extrovert, it would be unnatural. When you focus on a person's strengths and uniqueness, you build their confidence.
2. Create time to think
The only way to see the wood from the trees is to step back and create some space and time. Helping people to see the bigger picture allows them to gain perspective but also to focus on their specific issue more clearly. By encouraging reflection, you are able to create more self awareness.
3. Solutions are within
So often we think the answers are outside of us but the truth is that we are good at getting in the way of our own solutions. Helping someone to explore options, ideas or thoughts has a magical quality which allows us to connect with our inner wisdom and create those "aha" moments.
4. Being Present
So often we are distracted by either reminiscing the past where our memories live or the getting lost in our dreams in the future. Helping someone to stay present in the current moment "now" will help them to stay focused and bring about the changes and improvements they want.
5. Personal Responsibility
It can be so easy to judge others and tell them what they are doing wrong or what they should be doing but in fact you are only holding them back and could be creating a rod for your own back. When you insist on another person taking responsibility for their actions and behaviours you are giving them the control and authority they need to take ownership.
Coaching skills are life skills and worth investing in. They are particularly helpful in times of stress, conflict and change and after a while it becomes a way of doing things rather than a set of techniques.
Dot Struthers works with school leaders wanting to develop their leadership and management skills. including personal coaching, HR consultancy and management skills training. For more information go to http://www.merechats.co.uk
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dot_Struthers
===================
Thanks to our sponsors:
===Advertisement from our sponsor:=====
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
Friday, November 12, 2010
Uncommon Baseball Hitting Drills
Uncommon Baseball Hitting Drills
By guest author: Jeffery A Wise
Baseball hitting drills are a necessary part of practice. Players run these drills to improve their skills and get them ready for batting practice and games. There are some common hitting drills, but we're going to talk about one that is not so common. Nonetheless, it is important and should be practiced more often.
The modified broomstick drill is very helpful. You need a broom handle that is cut down to the length of a bat. It will help to sand the end and add batter's tape on the end for grip. Then, ask someone to pitch plastic golf balls to you. These balls can be purchased at any sporting goods store.
The distance between you and the pitcher doesn't matter as long as they can toss you the balls easily. Start with underhand pitches. Then switch to overhand pitches so there is some appropriate velocity on the pitch which simulates a real pitch.
You can work on many different hitting mechanics for improvement, but now let's just focus on your upper body. Relax your shoulders, neck and face. If you are too tense at the plate it is much harder to have a quick, fluid swing. That's what this baseball hitting drill is for.
Also, make sure your front shoulder is lined up to the pitcher and have it closed. Sometimes ball players have an issue with leaving their shoulder open and that makes them open up and start their swing too early. This causes players to pull the ball in the form of a ground out or fly out.
During this baseball hitting drill, keep the shoulder closed and wait for the plastic golf ball to arrive in the hitting zone before taking a smooth, fluid swing. Take turns hitting 25 balls and then rotate. This drill is a lot like playing wiffle ball so have fun with it.
The purpose of this drill is to improve hand-eye coordination and mechanics. You may also want to use this drill to practice hitting harder. Whatever you do, always strive to have fun!
Jeffery A Wise invites you to learn more about baseball hitting drills so that you can hit a baseball better. Start learning today at http://www.baseballhittingtipsonline.com by reading our information, watching our videos and participating in our blog.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffery_A_Wise
===================
Thanks to our sponsors:
=======================================
Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine
=======================================
Derek Jeter Hurricane Machine Training Blog
HurricaneMachine.com - Links
---15 Reasons To Buy a Hurricane Trainer
---6 Questions Often Asked By Customers
---Message to Parents From Coach Nick
---Hurricane Hitting Machine Drills
---20-Minute Hurricane Batting Practice Workout
---Hurricane Hitting Machine Video Demo Clips
Baseball2u.com has a one of the internet's largest selections of baseball coaching and training dvds
By guest author: Jeffery A Wise
Baseball hitting drills are a necessary part of practice. Players run these drills to improve their skills and get them ready for batting practice and games. There are some common hitting drills, but we're going to talk about one that is not so common. Nonetheless, it is important and should be practiced more often.
The modified broomstick drill is very helpful. You need a broom handle that is cut down to the length of a bat. It will help to sand the end and add batter's tape on the end for grip. Then, ask someone to pitch plastic golf balls to you. These balls can be purchased at any sporting goods store.
The distance between you and the pitcher doesn't matter as long as they can toss you the balls easily. Start with underhand pitches. Then switch to overhand pitches so there is some appropriate velocity on the pitch which simulates a real pitch.
You can work on many different hitting mechanics for improvement, but now let's just focus on your upper body. Relax your shoulders, neck and face. If you are too tense at the plate it is much harder to have a quick, fluid swing. That's what this baseball hitting drill is for.
Also, make sure your front shoulder is lined up to the pitcher and have it closed. Sometimes ball players have an issue with leaving their shoulder open and that makes them open up and start their swing too early. This causes players to pull the ball in the form of a ground out or fly out.
During this baseball hitting drill, keep the shoulder closed and wait for the plastic golf ball to arrive in the hitting zone before taking a smooth, fluid swing. Take turns hitting 25 balls and then rotate. This drill is a lot like playing wiffle ball so have fun with it.
The purpose of this drill is to improve hand-eye coordination and mechanics. You may also want to use this drill to practice hitting harder. Whatever you do, always strive to have fun!
Jeffery A Wise invites you to learn more about baseball hitting drills so that you can hit a baseball better. Start learning today at http://www.baseballhittingtipsonline.com by reading our information, watching our videos and participating in our blog.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffery_A_Wise
===================
Thanks to our sponsors:
=======================================
Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine
=======================================
Derek Jeter Hurricane Machine Training Blog
HurricaneMachine.com - Links
---15 Reasons To Buy a Hurricane Trainer
---6 Questions Often Asked By Customers
---Message to Parents From Coach Nick
---Hurricane Hitting Machine Drills
---20-Minute Hurricane Batting Practice Workout
---Hurricane Hitting Machine Video Demo Clips
Baseball2u.com has a one of the internet's largest selections of baseball coaching and training dvds
Friday, May 7, 2010
Baseball Coaching Vs Having Talent - What's More Important?
Coaching Vs Having Talent - What's More Important?
By Stephen K Reynolds
My son and I just came off a tournament this past weekend where by we were beaten pretty soundly in all 3 games that we played. Sean is on a 12u travel team and he is the youngest at 10, 11 in April.
We probably have 6 travel level players and the rest are not! The manager and I were discussing the level of play on the way home and the topic came up as to whether we could make some of boys play better?
Coaches in competitive travel ball always are looking for better players and it is easy to assume that they are willing to take credit for the level of play of their team... Question is how much is coaching versus the quality of the ball players?
The big question is can you get kids with marginal ability to play like All-Stars? A lot of are kids can't hit and probably wont hit travel pitching no matter how much time you put in the cages, or throwing to them not to mention instruction. Players who struggling with the mental game and are marginal fielders probably are always going to be limited in their abilities.
It is frustrating because you want them to succeed and you feel responsible when they don't! I would say You want kids with above average ability and then you need to get them to play to the best of their ability. We don't like to hear it as coaches but quality players make us look good period!
Stephen K Reynolds and his wife LuAnne are publishers of the LSR Unlimited "Free" newsletter which focuses on helping newcomers & seasoned pros learn the secrets to marketing in the ever changing world of the internet! He is also a youth baseball coach in Western Montana Working on the Internet allows him the freedom to coach little league baseball. For more information on this e-mail coachsteve56@gmail.com
(800)758-1282
http://www.mindsetiswealth.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephen_K_Reynolds
Our Sponsor:
=======================================
Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine
=======================================
HurricaneMachine.com - Links
---15 Reasons To Buy a Hurricane Trainer
---6 Questions Often Asked By Customers
---Message to Parents From Coach Nick
---Hurricane Hitting Machine Drills
---20-Minute Hurricane Batting Practice Workout
---Hurricane Hitting Machine Video Demo Clips
Baseball2u.com has a one of the internet's largest selections of baseball coaching and training dvds.
Hurricane Video
Friday, April 23, 2010
Baseball Coaching and Training Articles
Coaching Baseball - 4 Things the On-Deck Batter Should Always Do and 4 Things He Should Never Do
Baseball coaching is teaching the big and little details of the game. Every position or location on the field requires a player to observe and to be aware of what is happening. Many young batters on deck often do no pay attention to what is happening. They are often guilty of looking into the crowd or even talking to someone through the fence. On-deck batters that do not closely observe the pitcher and the catcher are missing a greatly opportunity to "scout" the opponent.
Baseball Pitching - Coaching Pitchers to Succeed by Starting With the Basics
The coaching of baseball pitchers does not require a degree in "pitchingtology". There is no such degree to my knowledge. I just made that up. My point here is that coaching baseball pitching is not rocket science. However, having a basic knowledge of the terms and mechanics is a must.
Coaching Baseball - 12 Things That 3rd Base Coaches Should Say to Baserunners
Fewer things in baseball are more embarrassing for a young baseball player than to make a base running mistake that cost his team a run. Some of the most devastating and demoralizing mistakes in baseball are made by baserunners at 3rd base. When a runner gets to third, the team momentum and confidence is increased. The team and the player, and the fans feel like they are going to soon score a run. But, to have that chance of scoring removed by a blunder by the runner or coach can take the momentum completely away from the team.
Coaching Baseball Pitchers - The Use of Visual Anchor Points For Curve-Ball Accuracy
The skill of throwing a good curve ball accurately is a skill that must be taught and coached. Teaching curve ball control and accuracy is vital to a pitcher's success at any level. Here I discuss the method I use to teach and coach our high school pitchers to vary their curve ball location and to accurately control the spot to which the ball will break.
4 Baseball Pitching Drills For Little League Players
Teaching, training and developing young baseball pitchers takes a lot of time, patience, and practice repetition. Many young pitchers need to practice pitching skills daily. To keep the interest level high, it is best to use a variety of drills on alternate days to prevent boredom. Here are 4 baseball pitching drills that can be used to train youth and beginner pitchers.
Sponsor Links:
===Advertisement from our sponsor:=====
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
'''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Check us out on Twitter:
Blog4Coaches
Blogs4Coaches.com
Recommended Baseball Sites:
Baseball Coaching Digest
Baseball Coaching Digest - Today's Post
Baseball Coaching Digest: Daily Post Archive
New Articles for Coaches
Baseball Coaching Articles by Coach Nick Dixon
New Baseball Blogs
Videos for Baseball Coaches
YouthBaseballDigest.com
Homepage
Today's Youth Baseball Coaching Feature Article
Videos for Coaches
Blogs & Knols for Baseball Coaches, Players & Parents
BaseballParentGuide.com
Homepage
Baseball Parent Guide: Today's Post
Baseball Articles for Coaches
Baseball Blogs
Teaching Your Child to Hit
Throwing and Pitching Fundamentals
Buying Guide For Baseball Parents
Current Topics and Issues Related to Safety in Baseball
Also:
Check out our network of baseball blogs:
Blogger (Blogspot) - baseballcoachesdigest
Blogger (Blogspot) - baseballparentguide
Blogger (Blogspot) - baseballhomeworkhelp
Blogger (Blogspot) - batactionbaseballtraining
Blogger (Blogspot) - battingcagebuyingguide
Blogger (Blogspot) - coachesbest
Blogger (Blogspot) - teeballcoachingclinic
Blogger (Blogspot) - hurricanebaseballtrainingmachine
Blogger (Blogspot) - teeballparentsguide
Blogger (Blogspot) - youthbaseballcoachingclinic
Shop CoachesBest.com for your baseball coaching needs including baseball training aids, training videos, and other coaching supplies. Check out the Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting machine by SKLZ at HurricaneTrainer.com.
See the “Original” Rotational Hitting Machine at BatAction.com. Are you looking for the perfect trainer to teach proper timing and swing mechanics? You can stop looking and go to BatAction.com.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Baseball Coaching Digest - What is the Most Important Thing in Coaching Little League Baseball?
Baseball Coaching Digest - What is the Most Important Thing in Coaching Little League Baseball?
By Nick Dixon
If you ask 100 baseball coaches the question, "What is the Most Important Thing in Baseball?", you will get a wide variety of answers. Some will say winning is the most important thing. Some will say that "expecting to win" is the most important thing. Others will say that helping kids grow, mature, and develop a sincere love for the game is the most important reason for playing baseball. When I ask myself this question, I have one simple answer. This articles explains what I feel that the most important thing in baseball to me is that I see some level of improvement every day.
This "level of improvement" can be in any aspect of the game. I may leave practice knowing that our team improved their knowledge and skill in defending the bunt. I may leave a game knowing that our team, although we lost, learned how to "come back" and compete when we were down by 4 and made it a one run loss at the end.
You may see an improvement in team unity, team chemistry, or team leadership. You may see a certain player show improvement in pitching control, hitting the off-speed pitch, or reading the pitcher to get a better jump when stealing a base. See these improvements are what coaching and playing baseball is all about.
Is it better for a team to show absolutely no improvement in a season and go undefeated because they dominate their league or for a team to play.500 baseball on the season, but show incredible levels of improvement from the top of the lineup to the bottom? You see what I mean? Improvement is the "name of the game". Improvement is what coaching baseball is all about.
Coaches must keep in mind that only half of the teams that play every day, win. The other half lose. Should 50% of the coaches feel their day was a total loss ever day they play? When it comes to playoffs it is a fact that less than 1/100 of 1 percent of all baseball teams will end their season with a win each year. The other 99.999 % of the teams will find themselves ending their season with a loss or not being in the playoffs.
Now, I want you to know that I value winning as much as any coach on this planet. But what I am saying is that coaches must make winning a goal and getting better a priority. You should feel satisfaction when you see improvement on a daily basis. If you do not see improvement, chances are that you will find it difficult to win anyway. So the message here is to make it known to you team that you want to see them improve as players and as a team every day in some way. It is their job to make it happen. It is your job to give them the opportunity to do so in practices and games.
The CoachesBest Baseball Store has a great selection of 1400 Baseball Products. Check out the BatAction Hitting Machine baseball pitching simulator. This high speed training machine is 100% Guaranteed to raise Batting Averages and has a full year warranty.
Nick Dixon is the President and founder of Nedco Sports, a sports training company established in 1999. Dixon is also an active and full time high school baseball coach with over 25 years experience. Coach Dixon is better known as the inventor of the BatAction Hitting Machine, the SKLZ Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine, the SKLZ Target Trainer, the SKLZ Derek Jeter ZipnHit Pro, and the SKLZ Strikeback Trainer. Dixon is also a contributing writer for BaseballCoachingDigest, the Youth Baseball Digest, the Baseball Parent Guide, the Baseball 2Day Coaches Journal, and Blog4Coaches.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Dixon
===Advertisement from our sponsor:=====
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
LittleLeagueDigest.com
YouthBaseballDigest.com
BaseballCoachingDigest.com
BaseballParentGuide.com
AmericanBaseballDirectory.com
LittleLeagueLinks.com
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
When To Pull A Pitcher in a Youth Baseball Game
When To Pull A Pitcher in a Youth Baseball Game
By Michael Sakowski
If you have watched youth baseball games at the 7-12 year old level, you have probably witnessed the act of "pulling the pitcher" in the middle of the inning. In some cases, the result is the pulled pitcher bursting into tears! Yes, these kids can be pretty hard on themselves. One may argue that such events are just a part of growing up and the youth that was pulled must learn to deal with it and move on. Still, there are measures that may be taken to minimize the trauma on the youth pitcher that is pulled.
Screen Your Pitchers Well
Make sure your pitchers can pitch at least 3 out of 5 balls in the strike zone and preferably 3 out of 4 in the strike zone. If the pitcher is pitching hit-able balls, one of two things will happen: The batter will strike out, or the batter will make a hit and place the outcome in the fielder's hands (and provide the fielders some valuable practice). If the pitcher is only throwing 1 or 2 balls in the strike zone out of every 5 pitches, the result will be a lot of walked players and runs scored on stolen bases - this really is not how the game should be played and is very frustrating for the pitching team.
Also make sure your pitcher can throw at a speed fast enough to prevent repeated heavy hits for home runs. They do not have to pitch lightning fast. If they are lobbing the ball at a "toss-speed" however, batter after batter will be hitting balls for home runs and you may have no choice but to replace the pitcher.
Communicate With Your Pitchers
From the start, let your prospective pitchers know what is expected. Let them know that if they pitch out of the strike zone repeatedly with the result of an extended inning, they may be pulled. Be patient however - I think a lot can be learned by a pitcher "working through" his temporary difficulties. If you screen your pitchers well, you won't have to pull pitchers much, if at all.
Michael Sakowski works full time and volunteers as an assistant coach for his son's youth league baseball team. He also has researched effective youth baseball methods and has published a website, Youth Baseball Basics that provides helpful information to first time baseball players and first time baseball parents.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Sakowski
----------------------------------
Recommended Baseball Sites:
Baseball Coaching Digest
Baseball Coaching Digest - Today's Post
Baseball Coaching Digest: Daily Post Archive
New Articles for Coaches
Baseball Coaching Articles by Coach Nick Dixon
New Baseball Blogs
Videos for Baseball Coaches
YouthBaseballDigest.com
Homepage
Today's Youth Baseball Coaching Feature Article
Videos for Coaches
Blogs & Knols for Baseball Coaches, Players & Parents
BaseballParentGuide.com
Homepage
Baseball Parent Guide: Today's Post
Baseball Articles for Coaches
Baseball Blogs
Teaching Your Child to Hit
Throwing and Pitching Fundamentals
Buying Guide For Baseball Parents
Current Topics and Issues Related to Safety in Baseball
Also:
Check out our network of baseball blogs:
Blogger (Blogspot) - baseballcoachesdigest
Blogger (Blogspot) - baseballparentguide
Blogger (Blogspot) - baseballhomeworkhelp
Blogger (Blogspot) - batactionbaseballtraining
Blogger (Blogspot) - battingcagebuyingguide
Blogger (Blogspot) - coachesbest
Blogger (Blogspot) - teeballcoachingclinic
Blogger (Blogspot) - hurricanebaseballtrainingmachine
Blogger (Blogspot) - teeballparentsguide
Blogger (Blogspot) - youthbaseballcoachingclinic
Shop CoachesBest.com for your baseball coaching needs including baseball training aids, training videos, and other coaching supplies. Check out the Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting machine by SKLZ at HurricaneTrainer.com.
See the “Original” Rotational Hitting Machine at BatAction.com.
By Michael Sakowski
If you have watched youth baseball games at the 7-12 year old level, you have probably witnessed the act of "pulling the pitcher" in the middle of the inning. In some cases, the result is the pulled pitcher bursting into tears! Yes, these kids can be pretty hard on themselves. One may argue that such events are just a part of growing up and the youth that was pulled must learn to deal with it and move on. Still, there are measures that may be taken to minimize the trauma on the youth pitcher that is pulled.
Screen Your Pitchers Well
Make sure your pitchers can pitch at least 3 out of 5 balls in the strike zone and preferably 3 out of 4 in the strike zone. If the pitcher is pitching hit-able balls, one of two things will happen: The batter will strike out, or the batter will make a hit and place the outcome in the fielder's hands (and provide the fielders some valuable practice). If the pitcher is only throwing 1 or 2 balls in the strike zone out of every 5 pitches, the result will be a lot of walked players and runs scored on stolen bases - this really is not how the game should be played and is very frustrating for the pitching team.
Also make sure your pitcher can throw at a speed fast enough to prevent repeated heavy hits for home runs. They do not have to pitch lightning fast. If they are lobbing the ball at a "toss-speed" however, batter after batter will be hitting balls for home runs and you may have no choice but to replace the pitcher.
Communicate With Your Pitchers
From the start, let your prospective pitchers know what is expected. Let them know that if they pitch out of the strike zone repeatedly with the result of an extended inning, they may be pulled. Be patient however - I think a lot can be learned by a pitcher "working through" his temporary difficulties. If you screen your pitchers well, you won't have to pull pitchers much, if at all.
Michael Sakowski works full time and volunteers as an assistant coach for his son's youth league baseball team. He also has researched effective youth baseball methods and has published a website, Youth Baseball Basics that provides helpful information to first time baseball players and first time baseball parents.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Sakowski
----------------------------------
Recommended Baseball Sites:
Baseball Coaching Digest
Baseball Coaching Digest - Today's Post
Baseball Coaching Digest: Daily Post Archive
New Articles for Coaches
Baseball Coaching Articles by Coach Nick Dixon
New Baseball Blogs
Videos for Baseball Coaches
YouthBaseballDigest.com
Homepage
Today's Youth Baseball Coaching Feature Article
Videos for Coaches
Blogs & Knols for Baseball Coaches, Players & Parents
BaseballParentGuide.com
Homepage
Baseball Parent Guide: Today's Post
Baseball Articles for Coaches
Baseball Blogs
Teaching Your Child to Hit
Throwing and Pitching Fundamentals
Buying Guide For Baseball Parents
Current Topics and Issues Related to Safety in Baseball
Also:
Check out our network of baseball blogs:
Blogger (Blogspot) - baseballcoachesdigest
Blogger (Blogspot) - baseballparentguide
Blogger (Blogspot) - baseballhomeworkhelp
Blogger (Blogspot) - batactionbaseballtraining
Blogger (Blogspot) - battingcagebuyingguide
Blogger (Blogspot) - coachesbest
Blogger (Blogspot) - teeballcoachingclinic
Blogger (Blogspot) - hurricanebaseballtrainingmachine
Blogger (Blogspot) - teeballparentsguide
Blogger (Blogspot) - youthbaseballcoachingclinic
Shop CoachesBest.com for your baseball coaching needs including baseball training aids, training videos, and other coaching supplies. Check out the Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting machine by SKLZ at HurricaneTrainer.com.
See the “Original” Rotational Hitting Machine at BatAction.com.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)