Great daily drill for pitchers:
The pitchers start 50 feet apart and gradually back up to a distance just beyond what they can throw in the air. After 10 throws at the maximum distance, the pitchers work their way back. Forty to 50 throws are usually adequate to stretch the arm. However, in the off-season, when a pitcher is trying to develop arm strength, more repetitions are required-up to 100-with one third of those being at the maximum distance.
Unless they are injured, pitchers should long toss at least every other day. In-season pitchers may want to cut down the number of long tosses. Off-season, pitchers should long toss only every other day and increase the repetitions to develop arm strength. Long-tossing, more than anything else pitchers do, increases velocity. It also shortens their recovery time.
Long tossing the day after pitching a game stretches out the arm and helps with blood circulation in the arm. Number of pitches The number of pitches pitchers throw in a game, a scrimmage game, or the bull pen should be carefully monitored by the coach.
Coach's Point:
The drill helps develop arm strength and stretches the players arms out.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
A Coach's Philosophy
There are several key elements to a coach's philosophy in achieving the goals for youth sports. I like to be reminded of these elements often and try to see them through the eyes of the children.
- Be Positive
- Show Them You Care
- Have Fun
- Emphasize Improvement
- Effort versus Results
- Organization And Discipline
- Players Learn By Doing
- Attitude And Effort
- Sportsmanship
- Dealing With Parents
- Be Consistent
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Sportsmanship and Honor of the Game
Two very important concepts to educate children on are sportsmanship and honor. What does it mean to you to be a good sport? Wikipedia and other on-line resources define sportsmanship as an aspiration or ethos that the activity will be enjoyed for its own sake, with proper consideration for fairness, ethics, respect, and a sense of fellowship with one's competitors. Being a "good sport" involves being a "good winner" as well as being a "good loser".
Sportsmanship is important, but in order to get the most out of this season, it is also important to honor the game. Honor is the evaluation of a person's trustworthiness and social status based on that individual's espousals and actions.
Some coaches and mentors will use the principle of "Honoring the Game" and going to the "ROOTS" of the matter. Each letter in ROOTS stands for an important part of the game that we must respect.
The R stands for Rules. The first O is for Opponents. The next O is for Officials. T is for Teammates, and the S is for Self.
R is for Rules. The rules of the sport are what allow us to keep the game fair. Respect for the rules is important, even when it’s possible to break them without getting caught. I want you to play by the rules, even if you think you won’t get caught if you break them. Breaking the rules dishonors the game, even if it means that we win.
O is for Opponents. Without opponents, we could have no game. A good opponent makes us do our best. Sometimes your opponents are friends of yours. I want you to respect your opponents, and remember they are out there to have fun just like us. I want you to try your hardest to win, not because you hate your opponent, but because you want to play your best. I promise that I will show respect for opposing coaches and teams, and I expect you to do the same.
O is for Officials. It is very important to respect officials. Often, this can be the most difficult part of Honoring the Game, so we need to remember to keep it as a focus when we play. Officials have been selected and trained to enforce rules, and they have a very hard job. Without the officials the game would be unsafe and unfair. Officials are not perfect (just like coaches, athletes and parents!) and sometimes make mistakes. However, there is no excuse for treating officials with disrespect when they make errors. I want you to show respect for officials, even when you disagree with the call. I promise to do the same thing.
T is for Teammates. A big part of sport is the team. Being with your teammates should be fun. Later in life you will often be part of a team, and it is important to learn to work together. I hope you feel a commitment to each other as teammates and that you will agree to always play as hard as you can in practice and games. Please encourage and support each other on and off the playing field.
S is for Self. Some people only Honor the Game when their opponents do, but I want you to Honor the Game no matter what the other team or its fans do. I want us to be the kind of team that Honors the Game even when others aren’t because we set our own internal standards. And we live up to them no matter what. We have so much respect for ourselves that we would never do anything to dishonor the game.
So we, as coaches, must have a "T.E.A.M. — Teach, Enforce, Advocate and Model" approach. These four elements should guide the design of all elements of programs to promote sportsmanship and foster good character as well as guide interactions with players, parents, coaches, officials and spectators.
Sportsmanship is important, but in order to get the most out of this season, it is also important to honor the game. Honor is the evaluation of a person's trustworthiness and social status based on that individual's espousals and actions.
Some coaches and mentors will use the principle of "Honoring the Game" and going to the "ROOTS" of the matter. Each letter in ROOTS stands for an important part of the game that we must respect.
The R stands for Rules. The first O is for Opponents. The next O is for Officials. T is for Teammates, and the S is for Self.
R is for Rules. The rules of the sport are what allow us to keep the game fair. Respect for the rules is important, even when it’s possible to break them without getting caught. I want you to play by the rules, even if you think you won’t get caught if you break them. Breaking the rules dishonors the game, even if it means that we win.
O is for Opponents. Without opponents, we could have no game. A good opponent makes us do our best. Sometimes your opponents are friends of yours. I want you to respect your opponents, and remember they are out there to have fun just like us. I want you to try your hardest to win, not because you hate your opponent, but because you want to play your best. I promise that I will show respect for opposing coaches and teams, and I expect you to do the same.
O is for Officials. It is very important to respect officials. Often, this can be the most difficult part of Honoring the Game, so we need to remember to keep it as a focus when we play. Officials have been selected and trained to enforce rules, and they have a very hard job. Without the officials the game would be unsafe and unfair. Officials are not perfect (just like coaches, athletes and parents!) and sometimes make mistakes. However, there is no excuse for treating officials with disrespect when they make errors. I want you to show respect for officials, even when you disagree with the call. I promise to do the same thing.
T is for Teammates. A big part of sport is the team. Being with your teammates should be fun. Later in life you will often be part of a team, and it is important to learn to work together. I hope you feel a commitment to each other as teammates and that you will agree to always play as hard as you can in practice and games. Please encourage and support each other on and off the playing field.
S is for Self. Some people only Honor the Game when their opponents do, but I want you to Honor the Game no matter what the other team or its fans do. I want us to be the kind of team that Honors the Game even when others aren’t because we set our own internal standards. And we live up to them no matter what. We have so much respect for ourselves that we would never do anything to dishonor the game.
So we, as coaches, must have a "T.E.A.M. — Teach, Enforce, Advocate and Model" approach. These four elements should guide the design of all elements of programs to promote sportsmanship and foster good character as well as guide interactions with players, parents, coaches, officials and spectators.
Goals for recreational ball are different than competitive play
Most, if not all, Little League Programs are considered recreational programs. Equal emphasis should be placed on sportsmanship, teamwork, learning, fun and competition. Managers and coaches need to respond to all players, regardless of ability, in a positive and calm manner. Many children drop out of recreational youth sport programs because of managers and coaches who place too much emphasis on competition and who are less than patient with players who are not at the top of the game. As the players start to switch over to more advanced levels and leagues, the emphasis on competition increases. In addition, youth sports offers teachable moments, life lessons that help children succeed in sports and throughout their lives. Coaches and parents should define “winning” not in terms of the scoreboard but by focusing on the bigger picture of their children’s efforts and learning life lessons. Please keep in mind the goals and make it enjoyable for all concerned.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Need to work on hitting or the field is too wet? Play a Game of Stickball
Stickball is a street game related to baseball, usually formed as a pick-up game, in large cities in the Northeastern United States (especially New York City and Jersey City). The equipment consists of a broom handle and a rubber ball. I like to use racquet balls. There are no gloves used. There are three outs per inning and a game is 6 innings in length. The rules come from baseball and are modified to fit the situation, i.e., use chalk on asphalt to mark the bases or use buildings for foul lines. This game was widely popular among Irish, Italian, Jewish, and Puerto Rican youths growing up from the 1920s to the 1980s in Boston, Philadelphia, New York City and Northern New Jersey.
Balls hit off of cars or buildings or other structures that are in fair territory are considered in play. Balls hit either over a fence line or beyond a certain distance (if no fence exists) is considered a homerun. In some leagues, if the ball lands on a roof, porch or breaks a window far away it is usually ruled a home run.
Coach's Point:
I love this game because it keeps the players interested and having fun. In parallel, the players are tested in the skills to hit a small ball with a thin bat. It is harder than you think it is if you have never played before. It can be frustrating. But, I have never encountered a child that has not loved the game.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Dear Coach, Please be my role model
It doesn't matter if you're coaching tee ball, minors, major, high school or at the college level, you're probably the most important role model that your players have during the season. Players are going to look to you not only for guidance and instruction, but they will be watching and listening to how you react to every situation. They will notice your demeanor as the umpire makes a questionable call on the field or a parent makes a inappropriate remark. A coach can be one of the most influential people in a young players life, now and as they develop into adults.
Many players and former players attribute a large portion of their success in life to the things they learned on the baseball field and from a few great coaches. I was very fortunate to have several mentors during my athletic career and recall all the important lessons and the roles they served. They were the ones that taught me teamwork, perseverance, work ethic and having a positive attitude. Skills that not only helped them on the baseball field but helped them in life.
Lastly, many coaches think only of the present year and time but they can help instill a love for the game that can last a lifetime. Good coaches can keep players interested in continuing to participate from year to year and coming back for more. Collectively, these define my views of a role model and why we, as coaches, exist.
Many players and former players attribute a large portion of their success in life to the things they learned on the baseball field and from a few great coaches. I was very fortunate to have several mentors during my athletic career and recall all the important lessons and the roles they served. They were the ones that taught me teamwork, perseverance, work ethic and having a positive attitude. Skills that not only helped them on the baseball field but helped them in life.
Lastly, many coaches think only of the present year and time but they can help instill a love for the game that can last a lifetime. Good coaches can keep players interested in continuing to participate from year to year and coming back for more. Collectively, these define my views of a role model and why we, as coaches, exist.
Aspirations of the Youth Player
We, as parents and coaches, need to keep in mind that youth sports are for children, not us. And I find it helpful to remind myself that all children are different and participate in sports for a variety of reasons. The reasons vary by age and personality. Obviously the high school player is going to have different reasons for playing than a 9 year old. Unfortunately, parents and coaches often don't recognize what the children want to get out of the sport. There are some common themes that apply at all levels including having fun, friendships, action, excitement, competition, variety and having a sense of organization, building skills and communication.
To me, children don't want to play if it's not fun and there is not a sense of enjoyment and fulfillment. Again, consider the personality and age of the player. A high school pitcher may think it's fun to practice as hard as he can in order to be successful. The competition is what's fun. For the 9 year old, the competition isn't as important. They are more interested in the action, excitement of playing and hanging out with friends rather than being cooped up in a house focusing on homework. Winning and losing most often means a lot more to the coach and parents than it does to the children.
All children want to be accepted and liked by their peers. Playing on a team gives children the opportunity to form friendships and interact with other children in a setting other than school. The team gives the individual child a group identity and a common purpose. It’s fun sharing the experience with their friends. Many children will only play because their friends are playing. This often is the main driver for involvement.
There is a certain faction of people that hold the belief that organized sports are boring to children. I disagree with this “blanket” statement because I believe it depends on the coach, manager and parents to incorporate variety and games to make the sport routine more enjoyable. When one child is hitting and the rest of the team is in the field shagging balls, you may have taken the fun out of the sport but it should allow you to see opportunity in making it more enjoyable. Try conducting many simultaneous or parallel stations to work on skills.
Boy, it would certainly be nice to still be living in an age when I grew 20-30 years ago in Western New York when your child could head off to the local sandlot or asphalt surface and meet his buddies for a game of baseball or stickball. The reality is that today’s parents won't allow it without supervision. Sometimes, organization can kill the fun. Children want variety and action. This is one reason why I incorporate games of stickball into my practice sessions and I stay out of the way of the “game” being played. The children want to develop different skills and they want to run around and have fun. A practice that keeps them moving, playing games, learning, and has a variety of activities, provides an environment that children will enjoy.
Children also love learning new skills. Case in point, just watch the smile and excitement on a kid’s face after making contact for the first time or catching a ball for the first time. As their skill level improves, the challenges must also increase. If they are not challenged, they will lose interest. This also can apply to adulthood activities!
Competition is likely the least favorite reason that children participate in sports. They don't enjoy competing against their peers, for the most part. I realize there are exceptions. Many children simply don't like the increased pressure of the competition that they feel from coaches and parents. It's that increased pressure that can take away from the enjoyment of the sport. From a parental standpoint, learning how to deal with competition and disappointment is important. However, please temper your enthusiasm and ensure that children aren't “pushed” into highly competitive situations where they either feel the pressure to perform or are not ready.
That said, it is important as a coach and parent that you realize that there are a variety of reasons that children play sports. Finding out what motives your child and players will help you develop a plan for the season that fits in with their desires. Congruity must exist. You’ll soon discover that your methods will provide a rewarding season.
To me, children don't want to play if it's not fun and there is not a sense of enjoyment and fulfillment. Again, consider the personality and age of the player. A high school pitcher may think it's fun to practice as hard as he can in order to be successful. The competition is what's fun. For the 9 year old, the competition isn't as important. They are more interested in the action, excitement of playing and hanging out with friends rather than being cooped up in a house focusing on homework. Winning and losing most often means a lot more to the coach and parents than it does to the children.
All children want to be accepted and liked by their peers. Playing on a team gives children the opportunity to form friendships and interact with other children in a setting other than school. The team gives the individual child a group identity and a common purpose. It’s fun sharing the experience with their friends. Many children will only play because their friends are playing. This often is the main driver for involvement.
There is a certain faction of people that hold the belief that organized sports are boring to children. I disagree with this “blanket” statement because I believe it depends on the coach, manager and parents to incorporate variety and games to make the sport routine more enjoyable. When one child is hitting and the rest of the team is in the field shagging balls, you may have taken the fun out of the sport but it should allow you to see opportunity in making it more enjoyable. Try conducting many simultaneous or parallel stations to work on skills.
Boy, it would certainly be nice to still be living in an age when I grew 20-30 years ago in Western New York when your child could head off to the local sandlot or asphalt surface and meet his buddies for a game of baseball or stickball. The reality is that today’s parents won't allow it without supervision. Sometimes, organization can kill the fun. Children want variety and action. This is one reason why I incorporate games of stickball into my practice sessions and I stay out of the way of the “game” being played. The children want to develop different skills and they want to run around and have fun. A practice that keeps them moving, playing games, learning, and has a variety of activities, provides an environment that children will enjoy.
Children also love learning new skills. Case in point, just watch the smile and excitement on a kid’s face after making contact for the first time or catching a ball for the first time. As their skill level improves, the challenges must also increase. If they are not challenged, they will lose interest. This also can apply to adulthood activities!
Competition is likely the least favorite reason that children participate in sports. They don't enjoy competing against their peers, for the most part. I realize there are exceptions. Many children simply don't like the increased pressure of the competition that they feel from coaches and parents. It's that increased pressure that can take away from the enjoyment of the sport. From a parental standpoint, learning how to deal with competition and disappointment is important. However, please temper your enthusiasm and ensure that children aren't “pushed” into highly competitive situations where they either feel the pressure to perform or are not ready.
That said, it is important as a coach and parent that you realize that there are a variety of reasons that children play sports. Finding out what motives your child and players will help you develop a plan for the season that fits in with their desires. Congruity must exist. You’ll soon discover that your methods will provide a rewarding season.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Complexities of Coaching Your Own Child
I have no magic answers or solutions to managing or coaching your own child in youth sports. I often struggle. What I do know and try to implement is that it is important to check your expectations, appropriately manage the situation and try as best you can in dealing effectively with the inherent complexities and challenges that you face.
Let's be honest, there are many reasons parents get involved coaching children. These reasons include a love for the game, a long playing background as I had, a desire to give something back or sometimes it's simply that there are no other volunteers. Another reason, and probably the most prevalent to many of us, is the desire to coach your own children. Most of us want to spend quality time with our kids doing something that we enjoy and helping a community need. As most parents, we want our children to be successful on the field and in the interaction with their teammates. Our goals for our children aren't much different from the other parents of kids on the team, but there is a difference in the role we play. As a coach we have taken on a different role with our child and that role of coaching children doesn't always fit squarely with our other role of supportive parent.
I remembered what it was like to be a high school, college and semi-pro player. I remember how baseball instilled in me a number of values that I believe helped me in school, in life, and in athletics. Dedication, hard work and perseverance were just a few of the important things that I learned while playing. These are the life skills that I hope my children will also learn as they grow and I believe athletics provides a great opportunity to learn.
When I look back at myself at 9 years old, hard work wasn't in my vocabulary. I played baseball for the pure joy of it. I didn't "work" on anything or focus my attention on skills and drills. My natural talent took over. I played and improved because I played a lot and had a good time. Lately, as I watch my son in practice, I see that he isn't concerned about his swing or his throwing mechanics or other skill set to focus on to make the incremental leap to Majors. He plays hard and is mainly concerned about having a good time and playing with his teammates. Baseball is exactly what it is supposed to be for a 9 year old. Fun.
At times, I have an inability to take off my coaching hat and just have fun together as father and son. You can't force children to be dedicated. I need to remind myself often. They have to learn it and I must ensure there is space to learn it. Sports provide opportunities to learn many lessons including positive thinking, respect for coaches, umpires, teammates, and the rules, dealing with winning and losing, teamwork and leadership.
So what is best or the recommended approach? What I have learned is the following guidance:
Please evaluate your reasons for coaching and check that they include: helping all athletes succeed, building sportsmanship and positive competitive drive, honing skills and raising competence, creating memories of fun, connectedness and confidence that carry over into lifelong fulfillment. You must not play favoritism. Your child must be treated the same as the others. If his attitude or behavior needs to be addressed, do not ignore it. Rather, address it in a firm, controllable manner. It will send important signals to the other players that you are in charge.
On a positive note, I feel that I possess and follow many of these goals and tenets as a Coach. However, I also feel that I need further work to improve upon my inabilities to deal effectively with my own child. Bottom line, it is hard to accomplish. Don't fool yourself. One thing I do know is that I am coaching for the right reasons, I have so much to offer for children. I learned from great coaches and a supportive Dad and it is time to give back without regret.
By the way, I am finally realizing what my dad went through as he coached me in Little League. This must be my penance. He told me this day would come. Thanks Dad for your love, support and patience. I'll try to demonstrate the same values to my children.
Outfield Relay Drill to 3B and Home
This is a modified version of the Outfield Drill where the players threw the ball into a barrel. This is great drill work on developing accuracy from the outfield and in hitting the cut-off player for a relay to either 3B or Home.
Separate the group into three groups (right field, 2B/SS and 3B). Position all outfielders in a single line in right field. Hit fly balls or grounders to the outfielder and have them throw the ball to the relay player at 2B (or SS) and they, in return, throw to 3B. Rotate the players (outfield to 2B, 2B to 3B, 3B to outfield). You can incorporate throws to Home as well.
Coaches Point:
The main objective for this drill is to work on improved throwing accuracy, direction and hitting the relay player. Arm strengthening is another goal making the players more effective and confident with their throws.
Separate the group into three groups (right field, 2B/SS and 3B). Position all outfielders in a single line in right field. Hit fly balls or grounders to the outfielder and have them throw the ball to the relay player at 2B (or SS) and they, in return, throw to 3B. Rotate the players (outfield to 2B, 2B to 3B, 3B to outfield). You can incorporate throws to Home as well.
Coaches Point:
The main objective for this drill is to work on improved throwing accuracy, direction and hitting the relay player. Arm strengthening is another goal making the players more effective and confident with their throws.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Run Around Drill
The object is to run around the bases starting at 1st before the infield can throw around the bases. There is a catcher, 1b, 2b, ss, and 3b. Runner starts on 1st. Coach hits a grounder to 2b and the runner starts running. 2b throws to 3b, 3b throws to 1b, 1b throws to ss and ss throws to c trying to get the runner. Then another runner can start again.
Rotate fielders clockwise occasionally and incorporate runners into fielding positions.
Coach's Point:
Good overall drill for throwing and baserunning.
Rotate fielders clockwise occasionally and incorporate runners into fielding positions.
Coach's Point:
Good overall drill for throwing and baserunning.
Modified Around the Horn Drill
Start with two catchers, one of them behind the plate with everyone else in the third base coaches box and one other player on first base. The second catcher is the last person in line at third base. The first fielder takes the third base position and fields a ground ball throwing the ball to first base and then sprints to second base while the player at first throws home. The catcher catches the ball and throws down to second base to the player who was just playing third base. The ball is then thrown back to first and then home. The person at first base runs behind the field and gets at the end of the line at third base. The player at second now runs to first and becomes the first baseman for the next fielder. The next player in line now takes the third base position and the drill is repeated.
Proceed all the way through the order until the second catcher (last in line) occupies first base. After the last throw home the second catcher takes the place of the first catcher and goes through the order.
Coach's Point:
This can be done very quickly and everyone gets an opportunity to experience situations at all three bases. It's also a great drill for figuring out positional strengths in young teams.
Proceed all the way through the order until the second catcher (last in line) occupies first base. After the last throw home the second catcher takes the place of the first catcher and goes through the order.
Coach's Point:
This can be done very quickly and everyone gets an opportunity to experience situations at all three bases. It's also a great drill for figuring out positional strengths in young teams.
Infielding "Hit the Bucket" Drill
Split the team into to equal groups with one group lined up at SS and the other group at 2B. Stack two buckets one on top of the other on home plate. Coach will start the competition on the left side hitting ground ball to each of the players one at a time. The player then makes a throw home trying to hit the bucket. The player gets 3 points for knocking the top bucket off, 1 point for hitting either bucket on a bounce and subtract 1 point for a fielding error. Go through all of the players at SS and total the points. Follow the same drill for the players at 2B. Players switch positions and continue the drill. As players develop throwing accuracy it actually goes pretty quick. This drill encourages the players to charge the ball (shorter throw to home).
Coach's Point:
This is a great drill for keeping the competitive juices going and working on fielding and throwing accuracy.
Coach's Point:
This is a great drill for keeping the competitive juices going and working on fielding and throwing accuracy.
Infielding "Fill the Bucket" Drill
Players take their position at 1B, 2B, SS, and 3B. There are two coaches at home plate, each with a bat and a bucket of balls. There is an empty bucket at each base. The drill consists of three rounds.
Round 1 - Coach #1 hits 1/2 bucket of grounders to 3rd baseman who field and throws to 1st baseman who puts balls in empty bucket. At the same time, Coach #2 hits 1/2 bucket of grounders to shortstop who fields and throws to 2nd baseman covering 2B, who puts balls in empty bucket. Next, coaches turn and Coach #1 hits other 1/2 of bucket to 1st baseman who fields and throws to 3rd baseman who puts balls in empty bucket. At the same time, Coach #2 hits other 1/2 of bucket of ball to 2nd baseman who fields and throws to shortstop covering 2B, who puts balls in empty bucket. Players then bring in buckets and refill coaches' buckets.
Round 2 - Coach #1 hits 1/2 bucket of grounders to 3rd baseman who fields and throws
to 2nd baseman covering 2B. At the same time, Coach #2 hits 1/2 bucket of grounders to shortstop who fields and throws to 1st baseman. Next, Coach #1 hits other 1/2 of bucket to 1st baseman who fields and throw to shortstop covering 2B. At the same time, Coach #2 hits other 1/2 of bucket to 2nd baseman who fields and throws to 3rd baseman. Players refill coaches' buckets. (make sure that corners play up and middle infielders plays back during this round to avoid anyone getting hit with throw).
Round 3 - Coach #1 hits 1/2 bucket of grounders to shortstop who fields and throws to 3rd baseman. At the same time, Coach #2 hits 1/2 bucket of grounders to 2nd baseman who fields and throws to 1st baseman. Next, Coach #1 bunts other 1/2 buckets to 3rd baseman who fields and throws to shortstop covering 3rd base. At the same time, Coach #2 bunts other 1/2 bucket to 1st baseman who fields and throws to 2nd baseman covering 1st base.
Coach's Point:
It's a great drill that takes less than 15 minutes and each of the infielders get about 40 grounders, throws, and catches.
Round 1 - Coach #1 hits 1/2 bucket of grounders to 3rd baseman who field and throws to 1st baseman who puts balls in empty bucket. At the same time, Coach #2 hits 1/2 bucket of grounders to shortstop who fields and throws to 2nd baseman covering 2B, who puts balls in empty bucket. Next, coaches turn and Coach #1 hits other 1/2 of bucket to 1st baseman who fields and throws to 3rd baseman who puts balls in empty bucket. At the same time, Coach #2 hits other 1/2 of bucket of ball to 2nd baseman who fields and throws to shortstop covering 2B, who puts balls in empty bucket. Players then bring in buckets and refill coaches' buckets.
Round 2 - Coach #1 hits 1/2 bucket of grounders to 3rd baseman who fields and throws
to 2nd baseman covering 2B. At the same time, Coach #2 hits 1/2 bucket of grounders to shortstop who fields and throws to 1st baseman. Next, Coach #1 hits other 1/2 of bucket to 1st baseman who fields and throw to shortstop covering 2B. At the same time, Coach #2 hits other 1/2 of bucket to 2nd baseman who fields and throws to 3rd baseman. Players refill coaches' buckets. (make sure that corners play up and middle infielders plays back during this round to avoid anyone getting hit with throw).
Round 3 - Coach #1 hits 1/2 bucket of grounders to shortstop who fields and throws to 3rd baseman. At the same time, Coach #2 hits 1/2 bucket of grounders to 2nd baseman who fields and throws to 1st baseman. Next, Coach #1 bunts other 1/2 buckets to 3rd baseman who fields and throws to shortstop covering 3rd base. At the same time, Coach #2 bunts other 1/2 bucket to 1st baseman who fields and throws to 2nd baseman covering 1st base.
Coach's Point:
It's a great drill that takes less than 15 minutes and each of the infielders get about 40 grounders, throws, and catches.
Monday, February 15, 2010
2-1 Count or 2-2 Count Scrimmage
To increase the pace of a scrimmage and teach the players to be more aggressive at the plate in hitting, accelerate the pitch count to either 2-1 or 2-2. Divide the team into two teams. Every batter starts with either 2 balls and 1 strike or 2 balls and 2 strikes.
Coach's Point:
Because of the advanced count, pitchers must be aggressively throwing strikes and hitters are compelled to swing the bat. Quick pace to this drill. Hitters get more at bats and pitchers face more hitters.
Coach's Point:
Because of the advanced count, pitchers must be aggressively throwing strikes and hitters are compelled to swing the bat. Quick pace to this drill. Hitters get more at bats and pitchers face more hitters.
Seven Position Scrimmage
It is important to experience all positions as a young player. Divide the team into two squads and play a seven inning game. Pitchers and catchers play their normal posiiton throughout the game but the other players will switch positions each inning. After the first inning, the first baseman goes to 2nd base, the 2nd baseman goes to shortstop, the shortstop goes to 3rd base, the 3rd baseman goes to left field, the left fielder goes to centerfield, the centerfielder goes to right field and the right fielder goes to 1st base.
Coach's Point:
This drill allows the players to develop as complete players and demonstrate their skills for the game. Players gain a new appreciation for the challenges at each position.
Coach's Point:
This drill allows the players to develop as complete players and demonstrate their skills for the game. Players gain a new appreciation for the challenges at each position.
Baserunning Relay Race
Young players rarely practice this drill. Divide the teams in two groups. Place Team One at home plate and those from Team Two at second base. Before the race begins, demonstrate the correct path to run around the bases. Use cones if necessary to outline the correct path. The first runner carries a ball. As soon as he reaches his last base around, he hands off the ball to the second player and so on until all players have completed running the bases.
Coach's Point:
Competition and children are one in the same! Children love these drills. The drill simulates the pace that they will likely run in games. Practice proper turns, correct running form and cutting angles. Wide truns will increase running times.
Coach's Point:
Competition and children are one in the same! Children love these drills. The drill simulates the pace that they will likely run in games. Practice proper turns, correct running form and cutting angles. Wide truns will increase running times.
Hitting Drill: One-Handed Hack
The hands work as one unit in hitting with two hands. But when you break down each hand, they each have a specific purpose. This drill will allow hitters to learn the role of each hand and how it contributes to a fundamentally sound swing.
Set up the hitter for soft tosses against a fence or in the batting cage. Lightly toss the ball in front of the hitter. The hitter takes his stance and positions himself to hit balls directly into the fence or net. The hitter chokes up on the bat and uses his top hand only. After a series of balls, switch to the other hand.
Coach's Point:
Learning the individual roles of the top and bottom hands allows hitters to feel what each should contribute. To hit the ball successfully, the hands must fire the barrel of the bat directly to the ball.
Set up the hitter for soft tosses against a fence or in the batting cage. Lightly toss the ball in front of the hitter. The hitter takes his stance and positions himself to hit balls directly into the fence or net. The hitter chokes up on the bat and uses his top hand only. After a series of balls, switch to the other hand.
Coach's Point:
Learning the individual roles of the top and bottom hands allows hitters to feel what each should contribute. To hit the ball successfully, the hands must fire the barrel of the bat directly to the ball.
Infield Drill : Around the Horn
One of the best ways to practice throwing the base from base-to-base i to throw the baseball "around the horn". This is a game for catchers and infielders. Divide the the players into teams of four (4) with one fielder at each base and a catcher at home. Beginning with the catcher, the players must throw the ball clockwise. After four trips around around the "horn", the direction is reversed so that the ball is going in a counterclockwise fashion. Teams are awarded one point for each base the ball travels successfully without being overthrown or hitting the ground.
Coach's Point:
The drill is to help players with catching, throwing and quick efficient transfer of the ball from the glove to hand and working as a team. Adding competitive element increase the children's attention and spirit.
Coach's Point:
The drill is to help players with catching, throwing and quick efficient transfer of the ball from the glove to hand and working as a team. Adding competitive element increase the children's attention and spirit.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Fielding Drill Using a Catcher's Glove
A great way to develop an infielder in using his hands and having them work together is to have them use a catcher's glove.
Each player should field about 20-30 infield grounders while wearing a catcher' glove. Work both right and left sides. Hit slow rollers that he must charge, field and throw to first base.
Coach's Point:
It is much harder to field balls using a catcher's glove. it is bulky and has a smaller pocket. This drill will build fundamental skills such as using their throwing hand to gather the ball into the glove. The player must develop precision to gather the ball into the pocket.
Each player should field about 20-30 infield grounders while wearing a catcher' glove. Work both right and left sides. Hit slow rollers that he must charge, field and throw to first base.
Coach's Point:
It is much harder to field balls using a catcher's glove. it is bulky and has a smaller pocket. This drill will build fundamental skills such as using their throwing hand to gather the ball into the glove. The player must develop precision to gather the ball into the pocket.
Catcher Drills and Skills
Catching instructor Joe Wilkins (www.joewilkinscatching.com) exhibiting some receiving drills and skills at The Baseball Academy.
Goalie Drill for Catchers and First Baseman
Here's a drill to make your catchers and first basemen more proficient at handling those balls in the dirt:
Provide a net or backstop. Make sure that catchers have all their protective gear on and are wearing a protective cup. Throw balls to the catcher, alternating between pitches in the air and in the dirt. Test the catcher on both sides as well as between the legs. I would not recommend performing the drill without protective equipment! You can turn this drill into a game of hockey goalie. Try to score on the catcher.
The process for the first basemen is much the same. Work on player technique emphasizing the need to stop the ball from getting past him.
Coach's Point:
Performing this drill correctly will keep opponent's from scoring extra bases and runs.
Provide a net or backstop. Make sure that catchers have all their protective gear on and are wearing a protective cup. Throw balls to the catcher, alternating between pitches in the air and in the dirt. Test the catcher on both sides as well as between the legs. I would not recommend performing the drill without protective equipment! You can turn this drill into a game of hockey goalie. Try to score on the catcher.
The process for the first basemen is much the same. Work on player technique emphasizing the need to stop the ball from getting past him.
Coach's Point:
Performing this drill correctly will keep opponent's from scoring extra bases and runs.
5-Point Team Grounders
Divide your players into groups of 5. If you don't have enough players, supplement with coaches. Position each player such that each player represents the point on a start. No one player should be closer than 40 feet from another. Each group gets a ball. The drill starts when the player with the ball rolls a grounder to the player two positions to his left. This player then rolls a grounder to the player two positions to the left, and so on. You can go counterclockwise as well. You can also make it more challenging by incorporating short hops or rapid throws (such as turning a double play).
Coach's Point:
The drill is ideal for exposing the players to maximum number of ground balls or touches in the shortest period of time. Fielding ground balls must become routine for all players.
Coach's Point:
The drill is ideal for exposing the players to maximum number of ground balls or touches in the shortest period of time. Fielding ground balls must become routine for all players.
Wide Receiver Drills for Outfielders
One of the toughest skills for young players to learn is catching fly balls while running. The best way I found to teach to skill is taking a page from the game of football.
Position the players in two groups facing each other about 60 yards apart. You will require two coaches. One coach can throw to half the group (Group 1-on right field line facing centerfield). The other coach takes the second group (Group 2- in centerfield facing right field). Each player should have a ball. The first player in Group 1 hands the ball to the coach and then begins to sprint. The coach will throw the ball up and over the head of the ballplayer (like a wide receiver) and ask the player to catch it. After catching the ball, they go to the end of the line for Group 2. Group 2 should repeat the same drill and go to the end of the line for Group 1. I like to perform this drill for 10-15 minutes. You can pick up the pace in order to work in conditioning.
Coach's Point:
The drill yields several benefits. First, the players learn how to catch the ball on the run. Secondly, the players can condition their bodies without the monotony of routine running drills. Third, it provides the players with exposure to different flight paths than it is using a fungo bat. Make it competitive.
A trait shared by the good ballplayers is their ability to get a jump on the ball and running hard to the spot where the ball is likely to land. Some think it is instinctive and inherent in the good players. Others do not. I think it is the result of repetition, hard work and desire.
Position the players in two groups facing each other about 60 yards apart. You will require two coaches. One coach can throw to half the group (Group 1-on right field line facing centerfield). The other coach takes the second group (Group 2- in centerfield facing right field). Each player should have a ball. The first player in Group 1 hands the ball to the coach and then begins to sprint. The coach will throw the ball up and over the head of the ballplayer (like a wide receiver) and ask the player to catch it. After catching the ball, they go to the end of the line for Group 2. Group 2 should repeat the same drill and go to the end of the line for Group 1. I like to perform this drill for 10-15 minutes. You can pick up the pace in order to work in conditioning.
Coach's Point:
The drill yields several benefits. First, the players learn how to catch the ball on the run. Secondly, the players can condition their bodies without the monotony of routine running drills. Third, it provides the players with exposure to different flight paths than it is using a fungo bat. Make it competitive.
A trait shared by the good ballplayers is their ability to get a jump on the ball and running hard to the spot where the ball is likely to land. Some think it is instinctive and inherent in the good players. Others do not. I think it is the result of repetition, hard work and desire.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Outfield Drill: Baseball in the Barrel
This is a great drill work on accuracy from the outfield. A strong accurate throw will stop the opponent's running game and reduce the number of extra bases they will attempt to acquire from you.
Position all outfielders in a single line in right field. Put a barrel on its side on third base and at home plate. Make sure the openings of the barrel face the right outfielders. Hit fly ball or grounders to each player and have them attempt to throw the ball into the barrel. The ballplayers should try to pick out a target area where the ball should land before bouncing to the barrel. Points are awarded for the ball ending up in or even around the barrel.
You can also incorporate a cut-out man from the infield. Have the infielder take a relay from shallow outfield and make the throw into the barrels. Move the layers to different locations in the outfield to keep the game interesting.
Coaches Point:
The main objective for this drill is to work on improved throwing accuracy, direction and trajectory. Arm strengthening is another goal making the players more effective and confident with their throws.
Position all outfielders in a single line in right field. Put a barrel on its side on third base and at home plate. Make sure the openings of the barrel face the right outfielders. Hit fly ball or grounders to each player and have them attempt to throw the ball into the barrel. The ballplayers should try to pick out a target area where the ball should land before bouncing to the barrel. Points are awarded for the ball ending up in or even around the barrel.
You can also incorporate a cut-out man from the infield. Have the infielder take a relay from shallow outfield and make the throw into the barrels. Move the layers to different locations in the outfield to keep the game interesting.
Coaches Point:
The main objective for this drill is to work on improved throwing accuracy, direction and trajectory. Arm strengthening is another goal making the players more effective and confident with their throws.
Mechanics of Rotational versus Linear Hitting
There are really only TWO methods of hitting. A hitter is either Linear or he/she is Rotational with their swing mechanics. Now both techniques have elements of the other in them. Linear has some rotational and Rotational has some linear. The fact that each has elements of the other makes all of the other "techniques" or really names that people are calling baseball swing mechanics simply irrelevant and fictitious.
So let's define the Rotational Swing and the Linear Swing:
A rotational hitter establishes a stationary axis with the dropping of the front heal and with the front leg and they rotate around that stationary axis. This hitters "stays back" with their upper body. The head and chest do NOT come forward. They a very steady and do not lunge forward in the direction of the pitcher. You will occasionally see this happen is when a hitter is completely fooled by a pitch and they break through their axis lunging forward in an awkward attempt to make contact. So the rotational hitter rotates around a stationary axis and stays back.
The linear hitter does not establish a stationary axis and they do not stay back. The linear hitter continues moving forward throughout their swing in a straight forward (linear) movement finishing their swing out over the top of their front foot or even slightly forward of it. The linear hitter typically swings in a downhill plane while the rotational hitter is typically taught to swing on the plane of the pitch because those swing planes match each technique. A linear hitter trying to swing on the pitch plane is very awkward and doesn't work well with all of the moving parts of this technique. Likewise, the rotational hitter swinging on a downhill plane is also an awkward unproductive swing.
So let's define the Rotational Swing and the Linear Swing:
A rotational hitter establishes a stationary axis with the dropping of the front heal and with the front leg and they rotate around that stationary axis. This hitters "stays back" with their upper body. The head and chest do NOT come forward. They a very steady and do not lunge forward in the direction of the pitcher. You will occasionally see this happen is when a hitter is completely fooled by a pitch and they break through their axis lunging forward in an awkward attempt to make contact. So the rotational hitter rotates around a stationary axis and stays back.
The linear hitter does not establish a stationary axis and they do not stay back. The linear hitter continues moving forward throughout their swing in a straight forward (linear) movement finishing their swing out over the top of their front foot or even slightly forward of it. The linear hitter typically swings in a downhill plane while the rotational hitter is typically taught to swing on the plane of the pitch because those swing planes match each technique. A linear hitter trying to swing on the pitch plane is very awkward and doesn't work well with all of the moving parts of this technique. Likewise, the rotational hitter swinging on a downhill plane is also an awkward unproductive swing.
Baserunning Conditioning Drill
This drill is used to help condition players and to increase their running speed. It comes from Coach Kenny Buford.
How it Works:
All players line-up at home plate. The coach will blow the whistle to signal the first player in line should begin. Once the first player gets a third of the way to first then the whistle should be blown and the next player should begin. This should continue until all the players are running around the bases.
The players should change their running style at each base.
From home to first the players should be kicking their butt. They should be kicking up their heels and kicking their butts with their heels. The goal isn’t to go fast from home to first. The goal is to kick their butt as many times as possible.
From first to second, the players should be running with high knees. They should be kicking their knees up so that their knees come up above their waist. Again, the goal isn’t to go fast from first to second; the goal is to kick up the knees as many times as possible.
From second to third the players should use the “hop/skip.” Players should skip and kick up their knees one leg at a time. As they kick-up their knee they should also bring-up their arm on the same side. For example, as they kick-up their right knee they should be bringing up their right arm.
From third to home the player should sprint as fast as possible.
This drill takes a lot of energy if it is run correctly.
Coaching Points:
The coach should make sure that each player is performing each part of the drill correctly. Again, the only part of the drill that should be fast is from third to home. The coach should tell the players to keep the same space at all times. Then the coach can make sure that the first player is going the proper speed and this will ensure that all the other players are doing it correctly.
How it Works:
All players line-up at home plate. The coach will blow the whistle to signal the first player in line should begin. Once the first player gets a third of the way to first then the whistle should be blown and the next player should begin. This should continue until all the players are running around the bases.
The players should change their running style at each base.
From home to first the players should be kicking their butt. They should be kicking up their heels and kicking their butts with their heels. The goal isn’t to go fast from home to first. The goal is to kick their butt as many times as possible.
From first to second, the players should be running with high knees. They should be kicking their knees up so that their knees come up above their waist. Again, the goal isn’t to go fast from first to second; the goal is to kick up the knees as many times as possible.
From second to third the players should use the “hop/skip.” Players should skip and kick up their knees one leg at a time. As they kick-up their knee they should also bring-up their arm on the same side. For example, as they kick-up their right knee they should be bringing up their right arm.
From third to home the player should sprint as fast as possible.
This drill takes a lot of energy if it is run correctly.
Coaching Points:
The coach should make sure that each player is performing each part of the drill correctly. Again, the only part of the drill that should be fast is from third to home. The coach should tell the players to keep the same space at all times. Then the coach can make sure that the first player is going the proper speed and this will ensure that all the other players are doing it correctly.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Interesting Baseball Lingo: Just When you Thought You Knew Everything
ACE A team's best starting pitcher.
ALLEY The section of the outfield between the outfielders. Also called gap.
AROUND THE HORN A double play going from third base to second base to first base.
ASSIST Help from a fielder in putting an offensive player out. A fielder is credited with an assist when he throws a baserunner or hitter out at a base.
AT BAT The offensive team’s turn to bat the ball and score. Each player takes a turn at bat until three outs are made. Each Batter’s opportunity at the plate is scored as an "at bat" for him
BACKDOOR SLIDER A pitch that appears to be out of the strike zone, but then breaks over the plate.
BACKSTOP Fence or wall behind home plate.
BAG A base.
BALK (Call of Umpire) Penalty for an illegal movement by the pitcher. The rule is designed to prevent pitchers from deliberately deceiving the runners. If called, baserunners advance one base.
BALL(Call of Umpire) A pitch outside the strike zone.
BALTIMORE CHOP A ground ball that hits in front of home plate (or off of it) and takes a large hop over the infielder's head.
BASE One of four stations to be reached in turn by the runner.
BASEBALL The baseball’s core is made of rubber and cork. Yarn is wound around the rubber and cork centre. Then 2 strips of white cowhide are sewn around the ball. Official baseballs must weigh 5 to 5 1/4 ounces and be 9 to 9 1/4 inches around.
BASE HIT A play in which the batter hits the ball in fair territory and reaches at least first base before being thrown out.
BASE ON BALLS (Walk) Four balls and the hitter advances to first base.
BASE COACH A coach who stands by first or third base. The base coaches instruct the batter and base runners with a series of hand signals.
BASE LINE The white chalk lines that extend from home plate through first and third base to the outfield and up the foul poles, inside which a batted ball is in fair territory and outside of which it is in foul territory.
BASES EMPTY No runner on the bases.
BASES LOADED Runners at each base.
BAT Instrument used by the hitter while batting. In the ABL bats made of aluminium or wood. The bat must be no longer than 42 inches and no wider then 2 3/4 inches. Players are allowed to cover the first 8 inches of the bat’s handle so they can grip it better.
BATTER An offensive player who takes his position in the batter’s box.
BATTER’S BOX An area marked by white chalk lines on the left and right side of home plate in which a player must stand while batting.
BATTERY Term referring to the pitcher and catcher combination.
BATTING ORDER The offensive line-up of a team that lists the player will bat. The batting order is given to the umpire before each game.
BOX SCORE The progression of the game as written in a series of boxes indicating hits, runs, errors and player substitutions of each inning played.
BREAKING BALL An off-speed pitch that curves.
BRONX CHEER When the crowd boos.
BRUSHBACK A pitch that nearly hits the batter.
BULLPEN Area designated for pitchers to warm-up. Generally consists of two mounds and two home plates.
BUNT Short hit that is executed by letting the ball hit the bat (not swinging). Used to surprise the fielders or to advance a runner.
CALLED GAME A game suspended or ended by the umpire.
CAN OF CORN An easy catch by the fielder.
CAUGHT LOOKING When a batter is called out on strikes.
CATCHER Player positioned behind home plate and responsible for receiving the pitch from the pitcher.
CATCHER’S BOX Area behind home plate in which the catcher must stand until the pitcher delivers the ball.
CELLAR A team in last place.
CHANGE UP A slow-pitch thrown with the exact arm action as a fastball, designed to disrupt the timing of the hitter.
CHECKED SWING A partial swing. If the swing has gone more than halfway around, the umpire can rule it a full swing, or strike.
CHEESE A good fastball.
CHIN MUSIC A pitch that is high and inside.
CHOKE-UP Gripping the bat up on the handle away from the knob of the bat.
CIRCUS CATCH An outstanding catch by a fielder.
CLEAN-UP HITTER Player who hits fourth in the batting order.
CLOSER Relief pitcher who specialises in pitching the last few outs of a game. General used to hold a lead in the late innings of a game.
COMPLETE GAME Statistical credit to a starting pitcher for pitching the entire game.
COUNT The number of called balls and strikes on a hitter.
CURVE Pitch that moves down, across, or down and across, depending upon the rotation of the ball.
CUTTER (CUT FASTBALL) A fastball with a late break on it.
CYCLE Whsn a batter hits a single, double, triple and homerun in the same game.
DESIGNATED HITTER Player who bats in the pitcher’s spot in the line-up. The DH does not have a fielding position.
DIAMOND The infield playing surface.
DINGER A homerun.
DONUT Circular shaped weight that slides over the bat. The weight is used when a player is loosening up in the one deck circle.
DOUBLE A hit that enables a batter to reach second base.
DOUBLEHEADER Two games played back to back by the same teams.
DOUBLE PLAY Any defensive play that results in two base runners being called out.
DUGOUT Enclosed seating facility reserved for players, substitutes, coaches and other uniformed team members.
EARNED RUN A run scored on a hit, walk or steal, without benefit from a defensive error on the play.
ERROR Defensive mistake that allows a batter to stay at the plate or reach first base, or that advances a base runner.
FAST BALL A straight pitch thrown by the pitcher as hard as possible.
FAIR TERRITORY Part of the playing field within, and including the first base and third base lines, from home base to the bottom of the playing field fence and perpendicular upwards. All foul lines are in the fair territory.
FIELDER’S CHOICE Term used when a fielder can chose among base runners or throw or tag out.
FIREMAN A team's closer.
FLY BALL Batted ball that goes high in the air in flights.
FORCE OUT An out created when a runner is forced to advance because there is another runner behind them, although they will be thrown or tagged out. The defensive player needs only to touch the base being approached by the runner with the ball in hand to record the out.
FORKBALL A pitch thrown by placing the ball between the first two fingers, usually resulting in a sinking ball.
FOUL BALL A ball that lands outside the first or third base foul lines.
FOUL LINE Lines extending from home plate through 1st and 3rd base to the outfield fence and perpendicularly upwards. These lines are considered in play.
FOUL TERRITORY Part of the playing field outside the first and third base lines extended to the fence and perpendicularly upwards.
FUNGO A ball hit to a fielder during practice.
FUNGO BAT Bat used to hit fungo. Usually longer and thinner than a regular back.
GAP The section of the outfield between the outfielders. Also called alley.
GOPHER A ball hit for a homerun.
GRAND SLAM A home run that is hit with a runner on every base. This hit scores 4 runs.
GREEN LIGHT Signal from the coach to hit the next good pitch, or a signal to a base runner that gives the runner the authority to decide when to attempt a steal.
GROUNDER A ground ball.
GROUND BALL A ball hit in the infield by the batter that bounces in the infield.
HEAT (HEATER) A good fastball.
HIT A play in which the batter safely reaches a base after hitting the ball, without aid from a fielding error or fielder’s choice.
HIT AND RUN Play-action situation in which the batter must swing at the pitch while the base runner attempts to steal the base.
HOME PLATE The fourth station to be reached by the runner. The offensive team is credited with one run every time a player safely crosses this base. A pitched ball must cross the plate when thrown by the pitchers to be credited as a strike on the batter.
HOME RUN A ball hit out of the playing field in fair territory. A home run scores the batter and any base runners.
HOT CORNER Third base.
INFIELD Area 90’ square with the corners being the four bases.
INFIELDER Fielder who occupies a position in the infield. Most commonly refers to the first baseman, second baseman, third baseman, and shortstop.
INNING A period of play. There are 9 innings in a regulation game, each team bats in an inning until they record 3 outs. The visiting team always bats in the top half (beginning) of an inning. If the home team has a higher total after their opponents bat in the top half of the last schedule inning, the bottom half of the inning is not played and the score is final. A tie at the end of regulation play forces extra innings. The game continues until an inning is complete and the visitors have a higher score, or until the home team breaks the tie (then) they don’t complete the 3 outs.
INTENTIONAL WALK Four balls thrown on purpose to a batter advancing the hitter to first base. Generally, executed when 1st base is empty to set-up a force play.
KNUCKLE BALL A pitch thrown by gripping one of the seams on a ball with fingernails and/or knuckles of the forefinger and middle finger with the thumb another fingers underneath the ball. The ball is pushed out of the hand by the two fingers to keep the ball from rotating, causing the ball to move in an unpredictable manner.
LEFT ON BASE Runners stranded on base after three outs.
LINE DRIVE A ball hit in the air at a low projectory directly to a fielder or through the infield.
LINE-UP A team’s batting order and fielding positions
MENDOZA LINE A batting average of around .200. Named after Pirate shortstop Mario Mendoza.
MOUND Hill the pitcher stands on while pitching.
NO HITTER A game in which a pitcher does not allow the opposing team to reach a base via a safe hit.
ON DECK A term used to refer to the next batter up in the inning. This person stands in a designated circular area and warms up before batting.
OUT IN ORDER Retiring the first 3 batters in an inning.
OUTFIELD Area between the back edge of the infield and home run fence.
OUTFIELDER A fielder who occupies a position in the outfield, which is the playing field most distance from home base.
PASSED BALL A pitched ball missed by the catcher, allowing a runner to advance.
PERFECT GAME A game in which a pitcher does not allow any batter of the opposing team to reach base.
PICK OFF An attempt by the pitcher to get a base runner out by throwing to the base from the stretch position.
PINCH HITTER A hitter who substitutes in the line-up for a starting player. The original batter can’t return to the game, so the pinch hitter or a third person takes over the defensive position as well.
PINCH RUNNER A player entering the game to run for someone already on base.
PITCHOUT When a pitch is thrown wide of the strike zone on purpose. A catcher will signal for a pitchout if they think that a runner is trying to steal.
PITCHING ROTATION The order in which the starting pitchers take turns starting games, usually with three or four days rest between starts.
PULL HITTER A batter that generally hits to the same side of the field that he bats. (eg, righthanded pull hitter hits to the left side of the field).
PUTOUT In scoring, a fielder is credited with a putout if he receives the ball to put out a baserunner or a hitter.
RELIEF PITCHER The pitcher replacing the starting pitcher. The relief pitcher can win, lose, save, or not be involved in the game’s final score.
RUBBER A the pitching plate on the mound. The pitcher must have one foot connected to the plate while pitching to the batter. The rubber is located 60’ 6" (19.5 meters) from home plate.
RUN Score obtained when a base runner safely crosses home plate.
RUN DOWN A played used by fielders to tag out a runner caught between bases.
RUN BATTER IN (RBI) Statistics which shows how often a player has made it possible for his/her team mates to score while at bat. A player who has 30 RBI’s has caused 30 runs to be score. A batter is not credited with an RBI if he hits into a double play or if the run is scored because of an error.
RUNNER An offensive player who is advancing toward, touching, or returning to any base.
SACRIFICE BUNT A bunt designed to advance a runner although the batter will be thrown out.
SACRIFICE FLY Fly ball out that scores a runner from third base.
SAFE Declaration by the umpire that a runner is entitled to the bases for which he was trying.
SAVE A relief pitcher can be credited with a save if they can keep the team’s lead while the opponent’s tying or winning runs are on base, or if they pitch 3 or more innings without allowing the opponents to tie the game.
SCORING POSITION Runner on second or third base.
SHORTSTOP Defensive player positioned between second and third bases.
SHUT OUT A game in which one team doesn’t score any runs.
SIGNS 1. Player signals given from the third base coach to the hitter and runner. 2. Hand signals given by the catcher to the pitcher suggesting the type of pitch to be thrown.
SINKER A fast pitch that breaks downward as it reaches.
SLIDER A pitcher that appears to the batter as a fastball until it reaches the plate, then breaks sharply on a level plane. The ball is held similarly to the curveball, but the wrist is kept straight, like a fastball, and broken downward.
SPIT BALL Illegal pitch which a foreign substance (most commonly spit or grease) is applied to the ball causing it to react in an unpredictable manner.
STARTER The pitcher who beings the game and pitches until he wins the game or is replaced by a relief pitcher.
STEAL Attempting to advance a base between pitches without the batter hitting the ball or getting a base on balls.
STOLEN BASE Successfully advancing a base between pitches without the batter hitting the ball or getting a base on balls.
STRIKE A strike is called if a batter swings at a pitch and misses, or if the pitch simply passes through the strike zone. The first 2 foul balls that are not caught count as first and second strike. A foul ball that is not caught can never be counted as a third strike.
STRIKE OUT Out recorded by recording three strikes on the batter.
STRIKE ZONE The area over home plate between the batter’s armpits and knees when the batter is positioned to swing. Any pitch that is delivered through this area is called a strike.
SUICIDE SQUEEZE PLAY A play in which a runner on third breaks toward home on the pitch and the batter’s responsibility is to bunt the ball allowing the runner to score.
SWITCH-HITTER Player who is able to bat left-handed or right-handed. A switch-hitter will bat from the opposite side in which the pitchers throws.
TAG 1. An action runners must perform before they can advance on a fly ball. Runners must touch the base they occupy after the ball is caught before they can try to advance. Runners can leave their base before a ball it hit, but must return and touch the base if the ball is caught. 2. An action executed when a defensive player touches a runner with the ball in an attempt to get them out.
TATER A homerun.
TEXAS LEAGUER A bloop hit that drops between the infielder and outfielder.
TRIPLE A hit enabling the batter to safely reach third base.
TRIPLE PLAY A defensive play that records 3 outs.
TWO BASE HIT A hit enabling the batter to safely reach second base. Also called a double.
UNCLE CHARLIE A curve ball
UTILITY PLAYER A player who fills in in many positions.
WALK An award given to the batter after the pitcher delivers 4 balls. If a hitter receives 4 balls during an at bat, they automatically advance to first base. Any forced base runners also advance. Also called base on balls.
WHEELHOUSE A hitters power zone.
WHIFF A strike out.
WILD PITCH A pitch so far from the strike zone that the catcher cannot catch or block it, permitting any base runner to advance a base.
YAKKER A curve ball.
ALLEY The section of the outfield between the outfielders. Also called gap.
AROUND THE HORN A double play going from third base to second base to first base.
ASSIST Help from a fielder in putting an offensive player out. A fielder is credited with an assist when he throws a baserunner or hitter out at a base.
AT BAT The offensive team’s turn to bat the ball and score. Each player takes a turn at bat until three outs are made. Each Batter’s opportunity at the plate is scored as an "at bat" for him
BACKDOOR SLIDER A pitch that appears to be out of the strike zone, but then breaks over the plate.
BACKSTOP Fence or wall behind home plate.
BAG A base.
BALK (Call of Umpire) Penalty for an illegal movement by the pitcher. The rule is designed to prevent pitchers from deliberately deceiving the runners. If called, baserunners advance one base.
BALL(Call of Umpire) A pitch outside the strike zone.
BALTIMORE CHOP A ground ball that hits in front of home plate (or off of it) and takes a large hop over the infielder's head.
BASE One of four stations to be reached in turn by the runner.
BASEBALL The baseball’s core is made of rubber and cork. Yarn is wound around the rubber and cork centre. Then 2 strips of white cowhide are sewn around the ball. Official baseballs must weigh 5 to 5 1/4 ounces and be 9 to 9 1/4 inches around.
BASE HIT A play in which the batter hits the ball in fair territory and reaches at least first base before being thrown out.
BASE ON BALLS (Walk) Four balls and the hitter advances to first base.
BASE COACH A coach who stands by first or third base. The base coaches instruct the batter and base runners with a series of hand signals.
BASE LINE The white chalk lines that extend from home plate through first and third base to the outfield and up the foul poles, inside which a batted ball is in fair territory and outside of which it is in foul territory.
BASES EMPTY No runner on the bases.
BASES LOADED Runners at each base.
BAT Instrument used by the hitter while batting. In the ABL bats made of aluminium or wood. The bat must be no longer than 42 inches and no wider then 2 3/4 inches. Players are allowed to cover the first 8 inches of the bat’s handle so they can grip it better.
BATTER An offensive player who takes his position in the batter’s box.
BATTER’S BOX An area marked by white chalk lines on the left and right side of home plate in which a player must stand while batting.
BATTERY Term referring to the pitcher and catcher combination.
BATTING ORDER The offensive line-up of a team that lists the player will bat. The batting order is given to the umpire before each game.
BOX SCORE The progression of the game as written in a series of boxes indicating hits, runs, errors and player substitutions of each inning played.
BREAKING BALL An off-speed pitch that curves.
BRONX CHEER When the crowd boos.
BRUSHBACK A pitch that nearly hits the batter.
BULLPEN Area designated for pitchers to warm-up. Generally consists of two mounds and two home plates.
BUNT Short hit that is executed by letting the ball hit the bat (not swinging). Used to surprise the fielders or to advance a runner.
CALLED GAME A game suspended or ended by the umpire.
CAN OF CORN An easy catch by the fielder.
CAUGHT LOOKING When a batter is called out on strikes.
CATCHER Player positioned behind home plate and responsible for receiving the pitch from the pitcher.
CATCHER’S BOX Area behind home plate in which the catcher must stand until the pitcher delivers the ball.
CELLAR A team in last place.
CHANGE UP A slow-pitch thrown with the exact arm action as a fastball, designed to disrupt the timing of the hitter.
CHECKED SWING A partial swing. If the swing has gone more than halfway around, the umpire can rule it a full swing, or strike.
CHEESE A good fastball.
CHIN MUSIC A pitch that is high and inside.
CHOKE-UP Gripping the bat up on the handle away from the knob of the bat.
CIRCUS CATCH An outstanding catch by a fielder.
CLEAN-UP HITTER Player who hits fourth in the batting order.
CLOSER Relief pitcher who specialises in pitching the last few outs of a game. General used to hold a lead in the late innings of a game.
COMPLETE GAME Statistical credit to a starting pitcher for pitching the entire game.
COUNT The number of called balls and strikes on a hitter.
CURVE Pitch that moves down, across, or down and across, depending upon the rotation of the ball.
CUTTER (CUT FASTBALL) A fastball with a late break on it.
CYCLE Whsn a batter hits a single, double, triple and homerun in the same game.
DESIGNATED HITTER Player who bats in the pitcher’s spot in the line-up. The DH does not have a fielding position.
DIAMOND The infield playing surface.
DINGER A homerun.
DONUT Circular shaped weight that slides over the bat. The weight is used when a player is loosening up in the one deck circle.
DOUBLE A hit that enables a batter to reach second base.
DOUBLEHEADER Two games played back to back by the same teams.
DOUBLE PLAY Any defensive play that results in two base runners being called out.
DUGOUT Enclosed seating facility reserved for players, substitutes, coaches and other uniformed team members.
EARNED RUN A run scored on a hit, walk or steal, without benefit from a defensive error on the play.
ERROR Defensive mistake that allows a batter to stay at the plate or reach first base, or that advances a base runner.
FAST BALL A straight pitch thrown by the pitcher as hard as possible.
FAIR TERRITORY Part of the playing field within, and including the first base and third base lines, from home base to the bottom of the playing field fence and perpendicular upwards. All foul lines are in the fair territory.
FIELDER’S CHOICE Term used when a fielder can chose among base runners or throw or tag out.
FIREMAN A team's closer.
FLY BALL Batted ball that goes high in the air in flights.
FORCE OUT An out created when a runner is forced to advance because there is another runner behind them, although they will be thrown or tagged out. The defensive player needs only to touch the base being approached by the runner with the ball in hand to record the out.
FORKBALL A pitch thrown by placing the ball between the first two fingers, usually resulting in a sinking ball.
FOUL BALL A ball that lands outside the first or third base foul lines.
FOUL LINE Lines extending from home plate through 1st and 3rd base to the outfield fence and perpendicularly upwards. These lines are considered in play.
FOUL TERRITORY Part of the playing field outside the first and third base lines extended to the fence and perpendicularly upwards.
FUNGO A ball hit to a fielder during practice.
FUNGO BAT Bat used to hit fungo. Usually longer and thinner than a regular back.
GAP The section of the outfield between the outfielders. Also called alley.
GOPHER A ball hit for a homerun.
GRAND SLAM A home run that is hit with a runner on every base. This hit scores 4 runs.
GREEN LIGHT Signal from the coach to hit the next good pitch, or a signal to a base runner that gives the runner the authority to decide when to attempt a steal.
GROUNDER A ground ball.
GROUND BALL A ball hit in the infield by the batter that bounces in the infield.
HEAT (HEATER) A good fastball.
HIT A play in which the batter safely reaches a base after hitting the ball, without aid from a fielding error or fielder’s choice.
HIT AND RUN Play-action situation in which the batter must swing at the pitch while the base runner attempts to steal the base.
HOME PLATE The fourth station to be reached by the runner. The offensive team is credited with one run every time a player safely crosses this base. A pitched ball must cross the plate when thrown by the pitchers to be credited as a strike on the batter.
HOME RUN A ball hit out of the playing field in fair territory. A home run scores the batter and any base runners.
HOT CORNER Third base.
INFIELD Area 90’ square with the corners being the four bases.
INFIELDER Fielder who occupies a position in the infield. Most commonly refers to the first baseman, second baseman, third baseman, and shortstop.
INNING A period of play. There are 9 innings in a regulation game, each team bats in an inning until they record 3 outs. The visiting team always bats in the top half (beginning) of an inning. If the home team has a higher total after their opponents bat in the top half of the last schedule inning, the bottom half of the inning is not played and the score is final. A tie at the end of regulation play forces extra innings. The game continues until an inning is complete and the visitors have a higher score, or until the home team breaks the tie (then) they don’t complete the 3 outs.
INTENTIONAL WALK Four balls thrown on purpose to a batter advancing the hitter to first base. Generally, executed when 1st base is empty to set-up a force play.
KNUCKLE BALL A pitch thrown by gripping one of the seams on a ball with fingernails and/or knuckles of the forefinger and middle finger with the thumb another fingers underneath the ball. The ball is pushed out of the hand by the two fingers to keep the ball from rotating, causing the ball to move in an unpredictable manner.
LEFT ON BASE Runners stranded on base after three outs.
LINE DRIVE A ball hit in the air at a low projectory directly to a fielder or through the infield.
LINE-UP A team’s batting order and fielding positions
MENDOZA LINE A batting average of around .200. Named after Pirate shortstop Mario Mendoza.
MOUND Hill the pitcher stands on while pitching.
NO HITTER A game in which a pitcher does not allow the opposing team to reach a base via a safe hit.
ON DECK A term used to refer to the next batter up in the inning. This person stands in a designated circular area and warms up before batting.
OUT IN ORDER Retiring the first 3 batters in an inning.
OUTFIELD Area between the back edge of the infield and home run fence.
OUTFIELDER A fielder who occupies a position in the outfield, which is the playing field most distance from home base.
PASSED BALL A pitched ball missed by the catcher, allowing a runner to advance.
PERFECT GAME A game in which a pitcher does not allow any batter of the opposing team to reach base.
PICK OFF An attempt by the pitcher to get a base runner out by throwing to the base from the stretch position.
PINCH HITTER A hitter who substitutes in the line-up for a starting player. The original batter can’t return to the game, so the pinch hitter or a third person takes over the defensive position as well.
PINCH RUNNER A player entering the game to run for someone already on base.
PITCHOUT When a pitch is thrown wide of the strike zone on purpose. A catcher will signal for a pitchout if they think that a runner is trying to steal.
PITCHING ROTATION The order in which the starting pitchers take turns starting games, usually with three or four days rest between starts.
PULL HITTER A batter that generally hits to the same side of the field that he bats. (eg, righthanded pull hitter hits to the left side of the field).
PUTOUT In scoring, a fielder is credited with a putout if he receives the ball to put out a baserunner or a hitter.
RELIEF PITCHER The pitcher replacing the starting pitcher. The relief pitcher can win, lose, save, or not be involved in the game’s final score.
RUBBER A the pitching plate on the mound. The pitcher must have one foot connected to the plate while pitching to the batter. The rubber is located 60’ 6" (19.5 meters) from home plate.
RUN Score obtained when a base runner safely crosses home plate.
RUN DOWN A played used by fielders to tag out a runner caught between bases.
RUN BATTER IN (RBI) Statistics which shows how often a player has made it possible for his/her team mates to score while at bat. A player who has 30 RBI’s has caused 30 runs to be score. A batter is not credited with an RBI if he hits into a double play or if the run is scored because of an error.
RUNNER An offensive player who is advancing toward, touching, or returning to any base.
SACRIFICE BUNT A bunt designed to advance a runner although the batter will be thrown out.
SACRIFICE FLY Fly ball out that scores a runner from third base.
SAFE Declaration by the umpire that a runner is entitled to the bases for which he was trying.
SAVE A relief pitcher can be credited with a save if they can keep the team’s lead while the opponent’s tying or winning runs are on base, or if they pitch 3 or more innings without allowing the opponents to tie the game.
SCORING POSITION Runner on second or third base.
SHORTSTOP Defensive player positioned between second and third bases.
SHUT OUT A game in which one team doesn’t score any runs.
SIGNS 1. Player signals given from the third base coach to the hitter and runner. 2. Hand signals given by the catcher to the pitcher suggesting the type of pitch to be thrown.
SINKER A fast pitch that breaks downward as it reaches.
SLIDER A pitcher that appears to the batter as a fastball until it reaches the plate, then breaks sharply on a level plane. The ball is held similarly to the curveball, but the wrist is kept straight, like a fastball, and broken downward.
SPIT BALL Illegal pitch which a foreign substance (most commonly spit or grease) is applied to the ball causing it to react in an unpredictable manner.
STARTER The pitcher who beings the game and pitches until he wins the game or is replaced by a relief pitcher.
STEAL Attempting to advance a base between pitches without the batter hitting the ball or getting a base on balls.
STOLEN BASE Successfully advancing a base between pitches without the batter hitting the ball or getting a base on balls.
STRIKE A strike is called if a batter swings at a pitch and misses, or if the pitch simply passes through the strike zone. The first 2 foul balls that are not caught count as first and second strike. A foul ball that is not caught can never be counted as a third strike.
STRIKE OUT Out recorded by recording three strikes on the batter.
STRIKE ZONE The area over home plate between the batter’s armpits and knees when the batter is positioned to swing. Any pitch that is delivered through this area is called a strike.
SUICIDE SQUEEZE PLAY A play in which a runner on third breaks toward home on the pitch and the batter’s responsibility is to bunt the ball allowing the runner to score.
SWITCH-HITTER Player who is able to bat left-handed or right-handed. A switch-hitter will bat from the opposite side in which the pitchers throws.
TAG 1. An action runners must perform before they can advance on a fly ball. Runners must touch the base they occupy after the ball is caught before they can try to advance. Runners can leave their base before a ball it hit, but must return and touch the base if the ball is caught. 2. An action executed when a defensive player touches a runner with the ball in an attempt to get them out.
TATER A homerun.
TEXAS LEAGUER A bloop hit that drops between the infielder and outfielder.
TRIPLE A hit enabling the batter to safely reach third base.
TRIPLE PLAY A defensive play that records 3 outs.
TWO BASE HIT A hit enabling the batter to safely reach second base. Also called a double.
UNCLE CHARLIE A curve ball
UTILITY PLAYER A player who fills in in many positions.
WALK An award given to the batter after the pitcher delivers 4 balls. If a hitter receives 4 balls during an at bat, they automatically advance to first base. Any forced base runners also advance. Also called base on balls.
WHEELHOUSE A hitters power zone.
WHIFF A strike out.
WILD PITCH A pitch so far from the strike zone that the catcher cannot catch or block it, permitting any base runner to advance a base.
YAKKER A curve ball.
Age-Specific Goals
There are certain Age-Specific Goals that should be attained in all the ballplayers. Since, I am currently working with 9-11 year olds, I will highlight these goals. The goals for children that are earlier than 9 years or older than 11 years will certainly need to be modified from these list of goals. Remember, all children have to be approached in an individual manner.
Goals for the 9-11 year olds:
Goals for the 9-11 year olds:
- Learn basic rules such as force outs, tagging up, ball and strikes, infield fly rule, balks, and stealing home
- Throwing mechanics- four seam grip, point front shoulder, generating momentum toward the target and follow through
- Catching and fielding mechanics- thrown and hit balls, fingers up versus down, coordination of glove and hands, two hands versus one, forehands and backhands, underhand flip, first base fundamentals, crossover and drop steps.
- Hitting- choosing the right bat, proper grip, footwork, load, weight transfer, hitting pitched balls, drill work (stickball, soft toss, tee, batting machine, short toss, hitting ball where it is pitched), repetitions and bunting
- Positional play including covering the nearest base when the ball is not hit to you, cut-offs and relays
- Baserunning-steals, extra-base hits and sliding properly
- Pitching and throwing mechanics- wind-up versus stretching, covering first base and backing up third base or home plate on relay throws
- Team fundamentals- good positive attitude, defensive play, situational readiness, communication and priorities
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Realities of Coaching..and being a Parent
Along the way, there are numerous hurdles and experiences that often make you wonder if you made the right choice to go down this path such as parental interactions and pressure to win or have their child play certain positions, difficulties with balancing family life and your professional career, keeping the children happy and engaged, etc. These realities, paired with the lack of good resources for parents on the game of baseball and its mechanics, cause the sport of baseball to lose many talented coaches, managers and interested volunteers. Parents who have an interest just throw their hands up and move in another direction. I can understand why. This is why I have made a decision to write about my experiences growing up avidly playing the game of baseball, being taught by some seriously wonderful coache and attempting to transfer the knowledge I acquired to today's children and their parents. My goal is not only to assist the children but to help out the parents. If I can improve the game of one child or influence parenting skills to these young athletes, I will feel successful in my role as a coach and as a fellow parent.
Monday, February 8, 2010
General Hitting Philosophy
There are five (5) basic elements to solid hitting:
Most problems in hitting are caused by starting the swing too early before getting a good read on the ball. It is paramount to identify the pitch and location before commiting to a forward movement of the swing. The added challenge is to perform these acts in less than 1 second. An pitched ball traveling at 80mph takes approximately 0.4 seconds to travel to home plate (60 feet, 6 inches). The hitter has 0.2 seconds to read the pitch properly and anoth 0.2 seconds to swing and deliver the blow.
In order to accomplish this and be successful, the hitter must develop a short, compact stroke and keep his power base intact throughout the swing. The hitter must adhere to the rule of transferring weight from back to middle, not from back to front.
Line drives and grounders are more likely to win games (statistics say so)
A large percentage of games are won by the team with the highest on-base average rather than the team with the highest slugging percentage. It is simply easier to catch a fly ball than it is to stop a ground ball, throw it accurately to a base and have a teammate catch it. Likewise, line drives are harder to catch than fly balls.
The hitter must have a plan at the plate
Hitters should normally 1) hit the inside pitch to the pull side; 2) hit the outside pitch to the opposite side; and 3) hit the pitch down the middle of the strike zone to the middle of the field. Successful hitters rarely deviate from thiese guidelines.
Successful hitting requires aggressiveness. The hitter must be prepared to respond aggresssively to the pitcher's action and it may help overcome any weaknesses in the swing.
Thinking, rehearsing it mentally and having a high percentage plan is critical.
The hitter should understand patience, persistence and poise
The 3 P's (patience, persistence and poise) are present in all good hitters. The hitter must learn all elements of the swing and can't learn and excel at them at all the sam etime. It takes practice. Patience and persistence must prevail.
Persistence has a more aggressive tone than patience. If a player wants to become a good hitter, they must work harder than most others do. Find additional activities and time to get more swings in at practice.
Poise is resiliency. Hitting is one of the few activities where the standard of 3 hits out each 10 at bats is excellence. In another words, a good hitter will fail 70% of the time in getting a hit and getting on base. But a good hitter with poise will have a positive attitude and believe that they will get a hit, especially when it really counts with players in scoring position.
drills and fundamental mechanics are important- work on them often
Achievement in all areas of expertise requires learning fundamental principles and skills. Fundamental must be taught and learned. It helps to break down the fundamentals into smaller units and then placed back together again and repeated often. Repitition is the Father of Learning.
- the longer a hitter can wait, the better a hitter they will become
- Line drives and grounders are more likely to win games (statistics say so)
- The hitter must have a plan at the plate
- The hitter should understand patience, persistence and poise
- drills and fundamental mechanics are important- work on them often
Most problems in hitting are caused by starting the swing too early before getting a good read on the ball. It is paramount to identify the pitch and location before commiting to a forward movement of the swing. The added challenge is to perform these acts in less than 1 second. An pitched ball traveling at 80mph takes approximately 0.4 seconds to travel to home plate (60 feet, 6 inches). The hitter has 0.2 seconds to read the pitch properly and anoth 0.2 seconds to swing and deliver the blow.
In order to accomplish this and be successful, the hitter must develop a short, compact stroke and keep his power base intact throughout the swing. The hitter must adhere to the rule of transferring weight from back to middle, not from back to front.
Line drives and grounders are more likely to win games (statistics say so)
A large percentage of games are won by the team with the highest on-base average rather than the team with the highest slugging percentage. It is simply easier to catch a fly ball than it is to stop a ground ball, throw it accurately to a base and have a teammate catch it. Likewise, line drives are harder to catch than fly balls.
The hitter must have a plan at the plate
Hitters should normally 1) hit the inside pitch to the pull side; 2) hit the outside pitch to the opposite side; and 3) hit the pitch down the middle of the strike zone to the middle of the field. Successful hitters rarely deviate from thiese guidelines.
Successful hitting requires aggressiveness. The hitter must be prepared to respond aggresssively to the pitcher's action and it may help overcome any weaknesses in the swing.
Thinking, rehearsing it mentally and having a high percentage plan is critical.
The hitter should understand patience, persistence and poise
The 3 P's (patience, persistence and poise) are present in all good hitters. The hitter must learn all elements of the swing and can't learn and excel at them at all the sam etime. It takes practice. Patience and persistence must prevail.
Persistence has a more aggressive tone than patience. If a player wants to become a good hitter, they must work harder than most others do. Find additional activities and time to get more swings in at practice.
Poise is resiliency. Hitting is one of the few activities where the standard of 3 hits out each 10 at bats is excellence. In another words, a good hitter will fail 70% of the time in getting a hit and getting on base. But a good hitter with poise will have a positive attitude and believe that they will get a hit, especially when it really counts with players in scoring position.
drills and fundamental mechanics are important- work on them often
Achievement in all areas of expertise requires learning fundamental principles and skills. Fundamental must be taught and learned. It helps to break down the fundamentals into smaller units and then placed back together again and repeated often. Repitition is the Father of Learning.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Teaching the Skills of Hitting
Hitting is an art and not all hitters are alike. The coach must be willing to allow the hitter to find his swing. The coach's goal is to identify the strengths and weaknesses in the hitter's mechanics and increase the competencies.
A foundation for improvement is positive reinforcement. It comes in the form of praise and encouragement. As a manager and coach, you need to be aware of the power of positive feedback along with the dangers of trying to motivate others or change behavior with the use of criticism, sarcasm or indifference. Positive reinforcement has been proved by numerous studies to be the best method of getting your point across to others, especially youth.
As coaches, we have a unique opportunity to enhance a youth's self-image by encouraging them to believe they can achieve a higher level. If a player feels good about themselve, they will achieve at a higher rate.
A foundation for improvement is positive reinforcement. It comes in the form of praise and encouragement. As a manager and coach, you need to be aware of the power of positive feedback along with the dangers of trying to motivate others or change behavior with the use of criticism, sarcasm or indifference. Positive reinforcement has been proved by numerous studies to be the best method of getting your point across to others, especially youth.
As coaches, we have a unique opportunity to enhance a youth's self-image by encouraging them to believe they can achieve a higher level. If a player feels good about themselve, they will achieve at a higher rate.
Pepper Drill
The Pepper Game for fielding is my favorite and most memorable childhood activity. This is a great drill to build hand-eye coordination, quick reaction and to teach older players the value of knocking the ball down at all costs.
Have one or two groups set up with 5 or 7 players in a line facing the coach. Gloves on and players are spread out about 10 to 15 feet apart. One player should be snagging balls for the coach.
The coach will be about 15 feet away from the player and will begin by hit grounders and line drives to the players. He or she does this in random order – the players do not know where the ball is going to be hit. They need to react quickly and then throw the ball to the coach. The coach will hit the ball as quickly as he can to the different players. Players are given pushups for missing balls or making errant throws. At the end, the players must complete their pushups. Substitute the coach with players. Teach players to choke up on the bat when swinging.
Coach's Point:
The focus should be on: reading, reacting, and making a good throw to person collecting balls for the coach. The players must also communicate with one another so there is no problem with collisions on the field. This happens in baseball and can be eliminated if players talk to each other while on the field.
From a hittin gperspective, this drill allows the batter to work on control, bat speed and making consistent contact.
Have one or two groups set up with 5 or 7 players in a line facing the coach. Gloves on and players are spread out about 10 to 15 feet apart. One player should be snagging balls for the coach.
The coach will be about 15 feet away from the player and will begin by hit grounders and line drives to the players. He or she does this in random order – the players do not know where the ball is going to be hit. They need to react quickly and then throw the ball to the coach. The coach will hit the ball as quickly as he can to the different players. Players are given pushups for missing balls or making errant throws. At the end, the players must complete their pushups. Substitute the coach with players. Teach players to choke up on the bat when swinging.
Coach's Point:
The focus should be on: reading, reacting, and making a good throw to person collecting balls for the coach. The players must also communicate with one another so there is no problem with collisions on the field. This happens in baseball and can be eliminated if players talk to each other while on the field.
From a hittin gperspective, this drill allows the batter to work on control, bat speed and making consistent contact.
Hit the Relay Drill
You should have a second baseman, shortstop and a third baseman in the infield, along with a right fielder. A base runner will occupy second base during this drill.
How the drill works: At first, the coach can simply give the ball to the right fielder and then signal for the play to begin. This takes the element of trying to focus on catching the ball out of the equation until the player understands the concept of hitting the cut off man. The right fielder should be playing the ball to the cut off man (second baseman) and then the second baseman to the third baseman to try to get the tag out.
This drill can also be run with a left fielder and a base runner on third base. Then the drill would be from the left field to the shortstop and then to home plate. Further, you can add the extra element of catching the ball once the players understand the importance of hitting the cut off man.
How the drill works: At first, the coach can simply give the ball to the right fielder and then signal for the play to begin. This takes the element of trying to focus on catching the ball out of the equation until the player understands the concept of hitting the cut off man. The right fielder should be playing the ball to the cut off man (second baseman) and then the second baseman to the third baseman to try to get the tag out.
This drill can also be run with a left fielder and a base runner on third base. Then the drill would be from the left field to the shortstop and then to home plate. Further, you can add the extra element of catching the ball once the players understand the importance of hitting the cut off man.
Free Range Drill to Work on Fielding Range (Infield or Outfiled)
Range Drill
After you go through some series of fielding switch where the coaches hit to and where the players run to so you work their range to the other side. Coach at home hits towards second base and players at 3rd run towards 2nd – coach at 2nd hits towards home and players at 1st run towards home.
- 1 line at first base
- 1 line at third base
- 1 coach with bucket of balls at home
- 1 coach with bucket of balls at 2nd
Players at 1st run toward 2nd and players at 3rd run toward home. Coach at home hits ball into 2nd base gap for the player at first base – they must run and field the ball. Start with balls close to them and then extend the range. Depending on age and skill level get them to the point of diving for the ball. The player fields the ball and puts it in the bucket of the coach who is at second base. Then they run to the end of the line at 3rd base. While this is going on the coach at 2nd base hits a ball for the player on third – same thing. Start close and then work on their range and extending them. They field the ball and put it in the bucket of the coach who is at home. Then they run to the end of the line at 1st base.
After you go through some series of fielding switch where the coaches hit to and where the players run to so you work their range to the other side. Coach at home hits towards second base and players at 3rd run towards 2nd – coach at 2nd hits towards home and players at 1st run towards home.
Drill to Focus on Leader Runner in Double Play
- 3b-2b: half at 3rd, half playing 2nd. Ground ball to 3rd base, throw to 2nd. 2nd basemen move to end of line at 3rd, vice versa.
- SS-2b: half at ss, half playing 2nd base. Ground ball to SS, throw to 2nd. Same movement of players.
- 2b-SS: Same placement of players as above. Ground ball to 2B, throw to 2nd base.
- SS-2B or 2B-SS: same placement before the play and same movement after the play, but now: hit either to 2nd baseman or SS; other one covers bag.
Infield Drill to Build Speed and Quickness
Team of 10-12 players
- Line up 2 players at 1st, 2 at 2nd, and the rest at third. The coach hits a ground ball from home plate to the first person in line at third, that player throws to second and then runs as hard as he or she can to second and gets in line. The player at second throw to 1st and then runs to first as fast as they can go and gets in line there. The player at first throws to home and then runs around the outside of home plate as fast as they can go and gets in line behind third.
- Repeat this for ground balls and then do popups.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Baseball Hitting and Physics
The best players make it look easy, but hitting a baseball is one of the hardest feats in modern sports. Learn more about the physics of baseball in this video. Good thing I have a Ph.D. in Physics! This helps explain my successes on the field.
http://science.howstuffworks.com/baseball-player-physics.htm
http://science.howstuffworks.com/baseball-player-physics.htm
Fundamental Aspects of the Game
Two of my favorite sayings or teaching moments:
"Become a student of the game. There is always more to learn."
"Teach basic baseball mechanics every practice. I am a firm believer in preparation and working at basic skills. If you do, winning will take care of itself."
"Become a student of the game. There is always more to learn."
"Teach basic baseball mechanics every practice. I am a firm believer in preparation and working at basic skills. If you do, winning will take care of itself."
Philosophy on Training the Youth Ballplayer to Play Multiple Positions
I believe it's the job of the youth Coach and Manager to allow players to play multiple positions and to provide the baseball instruction necessary to play those positions. Most young players that have to play in the outfield all year long are going to get bored. With all we are going to discuss about keeping focused and motivating the players, it will be impossible to accomplish if a player only sees the outfield grass during a season. Outfielders need to field ground balls and infielders need to catch fly balls. All players have to throw and catch. We will try to develop all players to play in the infield and outfield. The baseball skills they learn in each area will help them to become a more complete player. They are too young to have a coach determine where they should or will end up playing when they are older.
Conditioning the Youth Ballplayer
When we undertake a conditioning program for the ball players, we must train our boys to be sprinters not distance runners. If we are training for distance, the speed of the run is typically going to be at a slower speed, whereas if we are focusing on our sprinting, we will be training at a higher speed. Our bodies will adapt to the type of training we give them.
Since baseball is a game of quick bursts on the base path, while chasing down fly balls, while swinging, and pitching, we must work to replicate that action.
The only distance many experts recommend a ballplayer do would be early in the year on standard exercise equipment such as a bike or elliptical just so they are able to build an aerobic base and establish basic conditioning levels. As the season approaches, that method will slowly change to high intensity intervals and sprints allowing maximal effort for short bursts with a full recovery, allowing the heart rate to get back down to just above resting.
Since baseball is a game of quick bursts on the base path, while chasing down fly balls, while swinging, and pitching, we must work to replicate that action.
The only distance many experts recommend a ballplayer do would be early in the year on standard exercise equipment such as a bike or elliptical just so they are able to build an aerobic base and establish basic conditioning levels. As the season approaches, that method will slowly change to high intensity intervals and sprints allowing maximal effort for short bursts with a full recovery, allowing the heart rate to get back down to just above resting.
A Sprint Conditioning Routine "Baserunning"
Players form 2 equal lines, facing first base.
Line ‘A’ beginning in the right batters box, and Line ‘B’ about 15′ up and to the right of the first base line.
On my ‘Go’ command, the first runner in each line runs, ‘A’ to first, and ‘B’ through first and on to second. Once the first two runners are on base, my commands become, “Go” or “Back”. On “Go”, the runner on second scores, the runner on first ends up at third, B ends up on second and A on first.
As a runner scores, they go to the rear of the opposite line from where they started that lap. I run this baseball drill for about 15 minutes or more, until I’m satisfied that they’re giving maximum effort. Players caught dogging it are given extra laps around the outfield.
Things to focus on in doing this baseball drill:
Line ‘A’ beginning in the right batters box, and Line ‘B’ about 15′ up and to the right of the first base line.
On my ‘Go’ command, the first runner in each line runs, ‘A’ to first, and ‘B’ through first and on to second. Once the first two runners are on base, my commands become, “Go” or “Back”. On “Go”, the runner on second scores, the runner on first ends up at third, B ends up on second and A on first.
As a runner scores, they go to the rear of the opposite line from where they started that lap. I run this baseball drill for about 15 minutes or more, until I’m satisfied that they’re giving maximum effort. Players caught dogging it are given extra laps around the outfield.
Things to focus on in doing this baseball drill:
- Proper rounding of bases, especially first to second;
- Reaction time returning to base or breaking for the next;
- Speed and endurance.
A Sprint Conditioning Routine "Flyers Drill"
I place 3 balls along first base-approx 6 ft apart. A coach on 1st, players start at home plate 1 at a time, sprint to first ball and throw to 1st, then back to touch plate, run 2 second ball throw to first, back to plate and third ball the same. After throwing third ball they sprint back to plate, touch plate then sprint around 1st & 2nd (like hitting a double) still have their gloves.
After rounding 2nd they take a ground ball from coach hitting from plate then they throw to 1st, sprint to 3rd take another ground ball to first, then they put their glove down and start on third with a lead off or two. Then they steal home and slide. After they hit home they sprint to third and before they can get their gloves back they do 15 push ups and a complete lap around the field.
Any missed throws, missed touching bases etc. they go to the end of the line and redo it until they get it right.
After rounding 2nd they take a ground ball from coach hitting from plate then they throw to 1st, sprint to 3rd take another ground ball to first, then they put their glove down and start on third with a lead off or two. Then they steal home and slide. After they hit home they sprint to third and before they can get their gloves back they do 15 push ups and a complete lap around the field.
Any missed throws, missed touching bases etc. they go to the end of the line and redo it until they get it right.
A Sprint Conditioning Routine "Brackets"
Our Sprint Conditioning will consist of the following Routines:
Brackets every practice (will help build speed):
• Your rest periods will be 1 minute between each sprint.
• You will only be sprinting to either a 15, 30 or 60 yard marked distance.
• When sprinting 15 yards you will start from a push-up position lying flat on your
stomach.
• When sprinting 30 yards you will start from a lateral position (similar to stealing
a base.)
• When sprinting 60 yards you will start from a normal two point athletic stance.
• You will complete all of the 15 yard sprints before moving onto the 30’s and so
on.
Bracket 1.
15 yard sprint = 5x (times)
30 yard sprint = 3x
60 yard sprint = 1x
Bracket 2.
15 yard sprint = 1x
30 yard sprint = 5x
60 yard sprint = 3x
Bracket 3.
15 yard sprint = 3x
30 yard sprint = 1x
60 yard sprint = 5x
Brackets every practice (will help build speed):
• Your rest periods will be 1 minute between each sprint.
• You will only be sprinting to either a 15, 30 or 60 yard marked distance.
• When sprinting 15 yards you will start from a push-up position lying flat on your
stomach.
• When sprinting 30 yards you will start from a lateral position (similar to stealing
a base.)
• When sprinting 60 yards you will start from a normal two point athletic stance.
• You will complete all of the 15 yard sprints before moving onto the 30’s and so
on.
Bracket 1.
15 yard sprint = 5x (times)
30 yard sprint = 3x
60 yard sprint = 1x
Bracket 2.
15 yard sprint = 1x
30 yard sprint = 5x
60 yard sprint = 3x
Bracket 3.
15 yard sprint = 3x
30 yard sprint = 1x
60 yard sprint = 5x
Throwing the Baseball: Skills to Master
Throw with the Entire Body
When kids are taught to throw, often the instruction is watered down into just a couple of steps. The act of throwing a baseball is not that simple. Throwing requires the entire body to work together in order to throw the ball accurately and to put something on it. All positions on the field require the ability to throw the ball accurately. Good throwing mechanics will enable you to make plays. When you warm up with the team before practice or play catch in the back yard, make sure you work on your mechanics and strive to improve your accuracy.
Gripping the Baseball
The best way to grip the ball is across the seams. The fingers are placed over the top of the seams to provide a good grip on the ball. In the first picture you'll notice that you can see 2 seams running horizontally. The back of the ball not visible will also have 2 seams running horizontally. By gripping the ball in this fashion, those 4 seams will help to keep the ball in the air longer and keep the ball traveling straighter (assuming the player can throw it with 12-6 rotation).
It takes years of practice to be able to grip the ball across the 4 seams in this fashion when playing a position other than pitcher on the field. Players can work on this by throwing the ball into their glove and as they pull the ball out shift the ball to the correct grip.
Try to keep the ball out on the fingertips not back in your hand. Gripping the ball in the palm of your hand and not out on your fingers will cost you velocity and accuracy. Younger players may need to grip the ball with three fingers instead of two, but unless their hands are very small they should still try to grip the ball out on the fingers.
Wrist Action
Many young players don't use their wrist much when throwing the ball. When the ball is brought back in the throwing motion, the wrist should be cocked back. This way the wrist can be used as part of the throwing motion.
Watch young players throw and you will see most will throw with a stiff wrist. It is very difficult to throw the ball accurately with a stiff throwing wrist. This is a skill that young players should work on from the start.
You can practice this skill by holding your throwing arm just above the wrist with your glove hand. Bend your throwing arm at the elbow with your forearm vertical. Keeping your arm in this position, practice throwing the ball with just your wrist and fingers. It may feel strange at first, but keep working on this skill. The wrist and fingers play a major role in the accuracy and strength of your throw.
Arm Motion
You can think of the motion your arm makes when throwing the ball as a circular motion. If you're throwing a short distance, the circular motion will be smaller then when you are throwing farther, but it's still a circular motion. The circular motion will aid your throw by providing more natural momentum than simply bringing your arm straight back and then forward. The circular motion should begin when you're pulling the ball from your glove. If you are playing outfield you will almost always be making a longer throw, so when you remove the ball from your glove, your arm and hand should drop down and by your back knee. This will provide you with the longest circular motion possible. If you are making a shorter throw in the infield for example, you may take the ball out of your glove and move it back and down slightly. This will give you a circular motion appropriate for the distance.
How do you determine if you're throwing with a circular motion or not? One of the best ways to check yourself is to freeze occasionally after you pull the ball out of your glove. If you are bring it up and back for anything other than a very short throw, you are not using a good circular motion in your throw.
If you have been throwing incorrectly for a long time, then it is going to feel different throwing with a good circular motion. That is to be expected. Practice throwing this way all the time and it will soon feel natural and you should see increased accuracy and velocity.
Lead with the Shoulder
When throwing you want your front shoulder to point in the direction of where you are throwing. So after fielding the ball you will be turning your body sideways and pointing your lead shoulder in the direction of the throw.
Lower Body
If you follow the logic of having your front shoulder facing the target then you might have guessed that you also want your lower body lined up in the same manner. Your back foot should be perpendicular to the target and your hips should be closed and also pointing in the direction of the target.
Once you have everything lined up, you'll want to step toward the target with your lead foot, push off your back leg, and throw the ball using your entire body.
Rotation
In order to throw the ball so it won't tail, you want to make sure you throw it across all four seems with '12-6' rotation. '12-6' rotation refers to a clock. If the ball rotates from 12, straight down to where 6 would be on the clock, this would be considered '12-6' rotation.
Unless you throw the ball straight over your head, you won't be able to get '12-6' rotation without moving your wrist. As the ball comes forward during your motion, you will want twist your wrist to keep your hand as vertical as possible. This is the key to having good '12-6' rotation on the ball.
When kids are taught to throw, often the instruction is watered down into just a couple of steps. The act of throwing a baseball is not that simple. Throwing requires the entire body to work together in order to throw the ball accurately and to put something on it. All positions on the field require the ability to throw the ball accurately. Good throwing mechanics will enable you to make plays. When you warm up with the team before practice or play catch in the back yard, make sure you work on your mechanics and strive to improve your accuracy.
Gripping the Baseball
The best way to grip the ball is across the seams. The fingers are placed over the top of the seams to provide a good grip on the ball. In the first picture you'll notice that you can see 2 seams running horizontally. The back of the ball not visible will also have 2 seams running horizontally. By gripping the ball in this fashion, those 4 seams will help to keep the ball in the air longer and keep the ball traveling straighter (assuming the player can throw it with 12-6 rotation).
It takes years of practice to be able to grip the ball across the 4 seams in this fashion when playing a position other than pitcher on the field. Players can work on this by throwing the ball into their glove and as they pull the ball out shift the ball to the correct grip.
Try to keep the ball out on the fingertips not back in your hand. Gripping the ball in the palm of your hand and not out on your fingers will cost you velocity and accuracy. Younger players may need to grip the ball with three fingers instead of two, but unless their hands are very small they should still try to grip the ball out on the fingers.
Wrist Action
Many young players don't use their wrist much when throwing the ball. When the ball is brought back in the throwing motion, the wrist should be cocked back. This way the wrist can be used as part of the throwing motion.
Watch young players throw and you will see most will throw with a stiff wrist. It is very difficult to throw the ball accurately with a stiff throwing wrist. This is a skill that young players should work on from the start.
You can practice this skill by holding your throwing arm just above the wrist with your glove hand. Bend your throwing arm at the elbow with your forearm vertical. Keeping your arm in this position, practice throwing the ball with just your wrist and fingers. It may feel strange at first, but keep working on this skill. The wrist and fingers play a major role in the accuracy and strength of your throw.
Arm Motion
You can think of the motion your arm makes when throwing the ball as a circular motion. If you're throwing a short distance, the circular motion will be smaller then when you are throwing farther, but it's still a circular motion. The circular motion will aid your throw by providing more natural momentum than simply bringing your arm straight back and then forward. The circular motion should begin when you're pulling the ball from your glove. If you are playing outfield you will almost always be making a longer throw, so when you remove the ball from your glove, your arm and hand should drop down and by your back knee. This will provide you with the longest circular motion possible. If you are making a shorter throw in the infield for example, you may take the ball out of your glove and move it back and down slightly. This will give you a circular motion appropriate for the distance.
How do you determine if you're throwing with a circular motion or not? One of the best ways to check yourself is to freeze occasionally after you pull the ball out of your glove. If you are bring it up and back for anything other than a very short throw, you are not using a good circular motion in your throw.
If you have been throwing incorrectly for a long time, then it is going to feel different throwing with a good circular motion. That is to be expected. Practice throwing this way all the time and it will soon feel natural and you should see increased accuracy and velocity.
Lead with the Shoulder
When throwing you want your front shoulder to point in the direction of where you are throwing. So after fielding the ball you will be turning your body sideways and pointing your lead shoulder in the direction of the throw.
Lower Body
If you follow the logic of having your front shoulder facing the target then you might have guessed that you also want your lower body lined up in the same manner. Your back foot should be perpendicular to the target and your hips should be closed and also pointing in the direction of the target.
Once you have everything lined up, you'll want to step toward the target with your lead foot, push off your back leg, and throw the ball using your entire body.
Rotation
In order to throw the ball so it won't tail, you want to make sure you throw it across all four seems with '12-6' rotation. '12-6' rotation refers to a clock. If the ball rotates from 12, straight down to where 6 would be on the clock, this would be considered '12-6' rotation.
Unless you throw the ball straight over your head, you won't be able to get '12-6' rotation without moving your wrist. As the ball comes forward during your motion, you will want twist your wrist to keep your hand as vertical as possible. This is the key to having good '12-6' rotation on the ball.
Catching the Baseball: Skills to Master
Be Prepared
When a thrown ball gets by you it's easy to look over to the other guy and place the blame on a bad throw. The problem isn't entirely in the throw. It also lies in your expectation that the ball will be thrown right at you. When playing catch during practice or receiving a throw during a game, expect that the ball won't be thrown to you. If you start with that expectation then you will see the throw that isn't right to you as an opportunity to make a good play.
Position
When playing catch at the beginning of practice, use the time as an opportunity to practice not only throwing the baseball, but catching it as well. When waiting to receive the throw, start by putting yourself in an athletic position. Is doesn't mean you have to be in the same ready position you would be when the ball crosses the plate, but you still want to have your knees slightly bent and your weight on the balls of your feet. Basically, you want to be ready to move.
Go to the Ball
Instead of standing in one spot and sticking your glove out hoping (or not caring) if you catch it. Move into a position to give you the best opportunity to catch the ball. If it's thrown over your head take a drop step and go after it. If it's thrown a few feet to your side, move and try and get in front of it. Playing catch gives you an opportunity to practice fielding and catching the ball.
Hands
Give the player your playing catch with a target to shoot for. Place both hands out in front of your chest prior to the player throwing the ball. This will give him an area to shoot for. If the ball is thrown above your waist you should catch the ball with your thumbs together, closing your bare hand over your glove as you make the catch. If the ball is thrown below your waist, catch the ball with your little fingers together and again close your bare hand over your glove as you make the catch.
Make a Game of It
If all this sounds dry and boring then all you need to do is turn playing catch into a little competition to make things interesting.
Give targets for your partner and see how many times he can hit the glove without you having to move it. Have him do the same and see who can get to 5 or 10 first.
Alternate throwing groundballs to each other, the person receiving the throw will play first base. The first person to not field the ball cleanly or to pull the other person off the base with a bad throw loses.
With younger players it can be fun counting how many throws can be made back and forth without the ball hitting the ground.
In the end baseball should be fun and there's no reason you can't have fun and work on becoming a better player at the same time. Playing catch is certainly one opportunity to accomplish both.
When a thrown ball gets by you it's easy to look over to the other guy and place the blame on a bad throw. The problem isn't entirely in the throw. It also lies in your expectation that the ball will be thrown right at you. When playing catch during practice or receiving a throw during a game, expect that the ball won't be thrown to you. If you start with that expectation then you will see the throw that isn't right to you as an opportunity to make a good play.
Position
When playing catch at the beginning of practice, use the time as an opportunity to practice not only throwing the baseball, but catching it as well. When waiting to receive the throw, start by putting yourself in an athletic position. Is doesn't mean you have to be in the same ready position you would be when the ball crosses the plate, but you still want to have your knees slightly bent and your weight on the balls of your feet. Basically, you want to be ready to move.
Go to the Ball
Instead of standing in one spot and sticking your glove out hoping (or not caring) if you catch it. Move into a position to give you the best opportunity to catch the ball. If it's thrown over your head take a drop step and go after it. If it's thrown a few feet to your side, move and try and get in front of it. Playing catch gives you an opportunity to practice fielding and catching the ball.
Hands
Give the player your playing catch with a target to shoot for. Place both hands out in front of your chest prior to the player throwing the ball. This will give him an area to shoot for. If the ball is thrown above your waist you should catch the ball with your thumbs together, closing your bare hand over your glove as you make the catch. If the ball is thrown below your waist, catch the ball with your little fingers together and again close your bare hand over your glove as you make the catch.
Make a Game of It
If all this sounds dry and boring then all you need to do is turn playing catch into a little competition to make things interesting.
Give targets for your partner and see how many times he can hit the glove without you having to move it. Have him do the same and see who can get to 5 or 10 first.
Alternate throwing groundballs to each other, the person receiving the throw will play first base. The first person to not field the ball cleanly or to pull the other person off the base with a bad throw loses.
With younger players it can be fun counting how many throws can be made back and forth without the ball hitting the ground.
In the end baseball should be fun and there's no reason you can't have fun and work on becoming a better player at the same time. Playing catch is certainly one opportunity to accomplish both.
Proper Pitching Mechanics
Stance
As hitters have many preferences when it comes to position in the batters box, so do pitchers when it comes to position on the pitching rubber. Some will pick one spot and some will move around depending on the mound or the situation. Whatever the preference the most important factors are comfort and balance.
Some pitchers will stand with both feet lined up and some will stand with the stride leg slightly behind.
The position of the glove and pitching hand also changes from pitcher to pitcher. Some will hold the ball in the glove with the pitching arm dangling by their side. Others will have that same position but keep the ball in their hand. Others will have their hand inside their glove. For the majority of pitchers the glove is held somewhere between the waist and the chest.
Most young pitchers don't have any idea how the stance can affect the final outcome of the pitch by either allowing or taking away from a smooth efficient delivery. For young pitchers, try to get them comfortable with the least amount of movement. From the stance to the windup, the least amount of movement is to have the hand in the glove gripping the ball at about chest high.
Start the Windup Motion: Take a Step Back
If the pitcher starts with one leg back this can be a weight shift back.
Not So Big
A common problem is taking too large a step back. Again, the more movement the more difficult it will be for the pitcher to be balanced during the windup. Watch most major league pitchers and you will see they take a very small or no step back to start their windup.
As the weight is transferred to the back leg, the front foot will be turned and placed parallel to, in contact with, and in front of the rubber. The feet are now in position to begin the kick.
The Arms
At the same time the pitcher takes the step back, the arms will also move. Pitchers will either swing both arms over the top of their heads as they step back and begin pivoting their front foot, or they will keep their hands at waist level and move directly into the top of the kick from that position.
Top of The Kick
Once the front foot has pivoted and the hands have reached the top of the pump. The pitcher will shift his weight onto the pivoted foot and pull the back leg forward and up swiveling as he does this until the his thigh is parallel to the ground or a little higher. His body should be sideways to the plate. Make sure your planted leg is not locked at the knee, it should be slightly flexed. Again the critical element is balance. The pitching motion is a combination of many movements that need to be executed exactly the same way with every pitch. Without balance at this point consistency in the pitching motion is impossible and with it good control.
Reaching Back
From the top of the kick position the pitcher needs to do a few things that all must come together in order to gain momentum towards home. As the throwing arm drops the pitcher needs to reach down and back towards 2nd base. Again the throwing motion is circular and the pitcher wants the largest circle possible when pitching. Balance is still essential at this point. Reaching down and back with the throwing arm will naturally tilt the front hip up higher than the back hip. The pitcher is now in a position to stride forward toward the plate.
Push and Rotation
Both legs play an import role at this point in propelling the pitcher toward the plate. The front leg is lowered and driven forward towards the plate in a circular motion that swivels the hips open. At the same time the back leg is pushing off the rubber propelling the pitcher forward to the batter. The combination of these two motions performed correctly will not only add velocity to the fastball but also take pressure off the throwing arm.
It's important to note that most of the power will be generated from the rotation of the hips and a natural stride toward the plate. Many times young pitchers will try to gain velocity by dropping down further on their back leg and driving hard off that leg towards the plate. This will cause fatigue in the pitcher and can also result in the arm not being able to catch up with the body, the same problem that pitchers have who fall off the mound.
The stride should be a comfortable distance, not too short that your not getting the benefit of your lower body in your delivery and not too long that you land on your heel.
You should land on the ball of your foot with your leg slightly bent. Your foot should land in the same spot on every pitch and be positioned a few inches to the glove hand side of your back foot. This will ensure that you get the full benefit of the hip rotation.
The arm should follow through naturally across your body and the back leg should come forward and land parallel to your lead foot. This will put you in a good position to field your position.
As hitters have many preferences when it comes to position in the batters box, so do pitchers when it comes to position on the pitching rubber. Some will pick one spot and some will move around depending on the mound or the situation. Whatever the preference the most important factors are comfort and balance.
Some pitchers will stand with both feet lined up and some will stand with the stride leg slightly behind.
The position of the glove and pitching hand also changes from pitcher to pitcher. Some will hold the ball in the glove with the pitching arm dangling by their side. Others will have that same position but keep the ball in their hand. Others will have their hand inside their glove. For the majority of pitchers the glove is held somewhere between the waist and the chest.
Most young pitchers don't have any idea how the stance can affect the final outcome of the pitch by either allowing or taking away from a smooth efficient delivery. For young pitchers, try to get them comfortable with the least amount of movement. From the stance to the windup, the least amount of movement is to have the hand in the glove gripping the ball at about chest high.
Start the Windup Motion: Take a Step Back
If the pitcher starts with one leg back this can be a weight shift back.
Not So Big
A common problem is taking too large a step back. Again, the more movement the more difficult it will be for the pitcher to be balanced during the windup. Watch most major league pitchers and you will see they take a very small or no step back to start their windup.
As the weight is transferred to the back leg, the front foot will be turned and placed parallel to, in contact with, and in front of the rubber. The feet are now in position to begin the kick.
The Arms
At the same time the pitcher takes the step back, the arms will also move. Pitchers will either swing both arms over the top of their heads as they step back and begin pivoting their front foot, or they will keep their hands at waist level and move directly into the top of the kick from that position.
Top of The Kick
Once the front foot has pivoted and the hands have reached the top of the pump. The pitcher will shift his weight onto the pivoted foot and pull the back leg forward and up swiveling as he does this until the his thigh is parallel to the ground or a little higher. His body should be sideways to the plate. Make sure your planted leg is not locked at the knee, it should be slightly flexed. Again the critical element is balance. The pitching motion is a combination of many movements that need to be executed exactly the same way with every pitch. Without balance at this point consistency in the pitching motion is impossible and with it good control.
Reaching Back
From the top of the kick position the pitcher needs to do a few things that all must come together in order to gain momentum towards home. As the throwing arm drops the pitcher needs to reach down and back towards 2nd base. Again the throwing motion is circular and the pitcher wants the largest circle possible when pitching. Balance is still essential at this point. Reaching down and back with the throwing arm will naturally tilt the front hip up higher than the back hip. The pitcher is now in a position to stride forward toward the plate.
Push and Rotation
Both legs play an import role at this point in propelling the pitcher toward the plate. The front leg is lowered and driven forward towards the plate in a circular motion that swivels the hips open. At the same time the back leg is pushing off the rubber propelling the pitcher forward to the batter. The combination of these two motions performed correctly will not only add velocity to the fastball but also take pressure off the throwing arm.
It's important to note that most of the power will be generated from the rotation of the hips and a natural stride toward the plate. Many times young pitchers will try to gain velocity by dropping down further on their back leg and driving hard off that leg towards the plate. This will cause fatigue in the pitcher and can also result in the arm not being able to catch up with the body, the same problem that pitchers have who fall off the mound.
The stride should be a comfortable distance, not too short that your not getting the benefit of your lower body in your delivery and not too long that you land on your heel.
You should land on the ball of your foot with your leg slightly bent. Your foot should land in the same spot on every pitch and be positioned a few inches to the glove hand side of your back foot. This will ensure that you get the full benefit of the hip rotation.
The arm should follow through naturally across your body and the back leg should come forward and land parallel to your lead foot. This will put you in a good position to field your position.
Fun Speed Throwing Drill for the Ballplayers
The objective is to throw as hard and fast as possible and develop good throwing skills, not simply get the best score in this drill. Concentrate on developing a good rhythm of moving to the ball to catch it and continuing on with the throwing motion. This is also a good time to watch your players and see who uses two hands and catches the ball properly.
You can run this drill in any large open area. Divide the team into as many groups or teams of two as possible. One player of each group lines up on one side of the area, the second member opposite on the other side. Space players an equal distance apart along each side of the area to allow room for safety. Each group should have a ball. On the word “GO” each team begins throwing the ball back and forth across the area. Each time a team completes one throw and catch they count one point. If the throw is bad, or the ball is not caught, that team's score goes to zero.
I like to allow thirty seconds for a round, then call “STOP.” Each team then gives its score. The team with the highest score wins and each of those two players gets one point. Then rotate to the left so that all teams are different. As soon as all teams are set and have a ball, start another round as above. Run as many rounds as the time allotted for the drill will allow. At the conclusion the player(s) with the most points win.
You can run this drill in any large open area. Divide the team into as many groups or teams of two as possible. One player of each group lines up on one side of the area, the second member opposite on the other side. Space players an equal distance apart along each side of the area to allow room for safety. Each group should have a ball. On the word “GO” each team begins throwing the ball back and forth across the area. Each time a team completes one throw and catch they count one point. If the throw is bad, or the ball is not caught, that team's score goes to zero.
I like to allow thirty seconds for a round, then call “STOP.” Each team then gives its score. The team with the highest score wins and each of those two players gets one point. Then rotate to the left so that all teams are different. As soon as all teams are set and have a ball, start another round as above. Run as many rounds as the time allotted for the drill will allow. At the conclusion the player(s) with the most points win.
Introduction
Welcome and thank you for your interest in learning more about the fundamentals, mechanics and key elements of youth baseball. The intent of my writings is to give the interested parent and concerned adult articles and stories related to the developing baseball player and how to improve their game. Articles cover many aspects of baseball including improving strength and skills, training tips, drills and much, much more.
I welcome your feedback and hope that I have a positive influence on your learning experience.
I welcome your feedback and hope that I have a positive influence on your learning experience.
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