Baseball RSS

Baseball, Coaches -

My recent post on the “Jab Step vs Crossover” sparked many questions about how to perform the jab step correctly.   Often times athletes perform this movement naturally, but over the years they may have been coached out of it. Another common problem aside from the crossover (I cringe even when I type it) is the “squish”. This occurs when the athlete, instead of “pushing” to initiate a 90 degree turn to acceleration, pivots both feet towards the target and then takes off. Literally think of squishing a bug under each foot as you turn to run; that is exactly...

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Baseball, Coaches -

Over the years there have been two base stealing techniques coached: Jab step and Crossover step. Not often do I say something is completely incorrect. So, I’ll say that one of these techniques is more efficient than the other. Luckily there have been countless videos captured of the fastest base stealers in baseball such as, Ricky Henderson, Tim Raines and Dee Gordon just to name a few. Each one of them performed the same technique; the jab step.   Understanding that some of the best base stealers all use the same technique should shed some light on the debate between...

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Athletes, Baseball -

Strength and conditioning in baseball has become a staple in almost every organization around the country, from travel ball all the way up to the majors. Constant debates occur about how to increase a pitcher’s velocity, enhance a hitters exit velocity, develop the most effective arm care program, and the list goes on. This post focuses on catcher’s mobility. Although it is not a hot topic, it certainly deserves some love and attention.   Like any position in baseball, catchers participate in specific training. It is not uncommon for players to struggle as they develop the essential skills they need...

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Baseball, Coaches -

In order to increase arm strength, throwing a baseball every day is not the answer. Plenty of kids always think this, but in reality, you can do more harm than good.   A proper strength program is the most efficient way to build strength in the arm and improve overall athletic performance all while decreasing the risk of injury.   In a sport like baseball, it is hard to find a college team that has 5 players without a history of injury. Whether is a UCL tear, lat strain, or one of the many shoulder pathologies, most players deal with...

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