Youth Baseball Blog

The Prepubescent Delusion Rule: Let Them Have Fun!

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

A repost of an article I wrote in 2008. Now after 8 years only 3 out of the 12 kids on my 9U travel team are playing high school ball. Most of the team played until they were 13 then moved on to other areas of interest such as music, art, other sports.... The lesson holds true... Let them have fun while they can!

We’re all guilty of it. That moment when your prepubescent child makes a fabulous defensive play or hits a clutch ground rule double (just like Jeter) and the thought enters your mind… “Hey, Maybe This Kid Has Something”.

It’s so easy to be lead down this path. We’re parents. We want our kids to be happy, smart, successful, handsome, athletic, etc, etc. So when our 10 year shortstop dives and makes the defensive grab of the game we can’t help but have proud parental thoughts.

Now most of us keep these parental thoughts to ourselves which IMHO is the correct thing to do. However, some of us might elbow the dad next to us and say something like “WOW! Did you see that play. When he was 7 I knew the kid had something”. This is the parent that needs to WAKE UP!!...QUICKLY!

A friend of mine who coaches one of the best high school teams in our state gave me the greatest advice I could have ever received when I first started coaching my sons… He said “Any parent or coach who thinks they know what a kid is capable of before he or she goes through puberty is completely delusional”. I have used this as guiding words since I first heard them. When I watch the 11 year hold who can hardly reach 1st from 3rd base I say to myself… “wait until puberty”. When I see the small 10 year old who can hardly swing the -13 bat I say to myself… “wait until puberty”. Conversely when I witness the 12 year old who overpowers his peers with his 50’ fast ball I say to myself… well you know the mantra by now.

A few years back I decided to manage my son’s 9 year old travel team. It was a great group of kids. We won our share of games and actually managed to finish 2nd in a pretty large local tournament. The kids had a great time and learn a lot about the game…. anyway I digress… I remember while we were warming up the kids prior to our first game that season a dad I had asked to coach said to me in all sincerity “Coach, These are the boys we’ll be watching play high school baseball someday”. Luckily this was after my high school coach friend had enlightened me about the prepubescent delusion rule. I remember thinking “We have no idea what genetic cards have been dealt to these kids.” However, I simply replied “time will tell”.

Now it’s 5 years later and only 7 of the 12 are still playing baseball at 14 years old. Lacrosse stole away 3 of the kids and 2 others sadly decided not to play baseball. Of the 7 remaining, only 3 were fortunate enough to make the 8th grade baseball team. This is a real life example of why coaches and parents cannot and should not try to determine the athletic future of a 9 year old kid.

Now take the 10 year old all-star player, pitcher, shortstop, powerhitter, speedster. He’s 4 inches taller than his peers, knocking the ball out of the park every three games. This kid is destined to be a high school/college star right? Not necessarily. How about after his teammates go through puberty and catch up or even pass him in size, strength and coordination? This happens… all the time.

So.. what’s the lesson? While there are some attributes a child may show at a young age which might lend themselves to a particular sport.. all bets are off until the kid goes through puberty. Parents and Coaches who understand and adopt this philosophy will be more comfortable with providing a loose and fun baseball environment for their young player.

Coach Bob

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Fun Drills for Tee Ball Practice

2012-01-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

By Jim Bain

Don't believe kids in Tee-ball should be pushed to learn anything, that it's all just fun. Have you ever considered You are these kids first experience with playing baseball on a team, that you could very well be responsible for instilling the work ethic they may adhere to the rest of their life
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Kids at this age have a very limited attention span, which is disconcerting sometimes, but is not an insurmountable issue, as long as we have a plan to handle it. Here are some suggestions which will help.

Suggestion 1. You're not a drill sergeant, but if you let the kids know from the beginning that you are the Coach (Teacher) and are to be listened to at all times, the kids will listen. Kids are anxious to please, but that's not saying they won't have their days of showing up to practice bouncing off the walls,

Suggestion 2. Kids will respond to what you expect. In other words, if you don't expect them to learn or work...they won't. But if you take the time and patience to teach and let them know you expect them to learn what you're teaching...they will try their best to learn it.

Suggestion 3. The Tee Ball Drills must be fun and interesting, which can be quite difficult at times, but you won't have to worry about that because I'm going to guide you through some basic practice drills.

Let's begin with the three basic issues Throwing, Catching and Hitting.

Throwing Tee Ball Drill: Always teach the basics in a team environment, teaching everybody the same thing at the same time.

Line the team up in a single line, semi circle and have them sit down where they all can see you. Then explain you're going to show them how to throw a baseball the proper way, always throw that little phrase in or else Little Johnny is going to let you know he already knows how to throw a baseball. * Be smarter than Johnny and cut him off at the pass. *

Show them you place your thumb under the baseball, with two or three fingers on top of it. Don't worry about explaining about the seams, that's a long ways off.

Eyes on the target. Legs at shoulder width apart, turn sideways your glove hand pointing towards the target, the throwing hand extended out backwards away from the target.

Step towards your target with the opposite foot of your throwing hand, pushing off your rear foot begin your throwing motion, ending with your weight on the forward foot. Release the ball and follow through with your arm motion.

Make it fun: Place a large basket, laundry or fruit basket at home plate. Have the players spread out in a semi circle along the infield perimeter. Have them try to throw the ball into the basket. You can split the team in half and keep score for the team who hits or gets the closest to the basket.

Catching Tee Ball Drill: Begin with catching ground balls, then proceed to catching bouncing balls. Using a baseball roll the ball to the player. Teach him / her to get down on the ball, watch the ball all the way into the glove and cover the ball into the glove with the bare hand.

To begin this drill, the player should not wear his / her glove. Using a rubber or tennis ball, gently bounce the ball to the player. Teach the player to try and catch the ball with both hands, but have them pay particular attention to the way their glove hand is turned depending on high or low they catch the ball. This will begin orientating them to how their hand should be with the glove on, but not being able to see their hand.

Make it fun: split the team in half, in a straight line facing one another. Have a player roll the baseball to the opposing player, who will catch the ball then return roll it back to the other player. Keep score of which team catches the most grounders. Go through the entire line twice.
Then switching to rubber or tennis balls, have them throw a 1 bouncer to each other. Keep score, 1 point if you catch the ball, minus 1 point if it's a bad throw.

Hitting Tee Ball Drill: Demonstrate the basics to the entire team before allowing them to begin hitting.

1. Show them the Proper way to hold a bat, hands together, no cross handed holds. Don't worry about talking about lining your knuckles up or anything more advanced than just holding the bat right.

2. Show them how to take a batting stance. Feet shoulder width apart, knees slightly bent, bat held up with barrel behind their head. Hands and tee ball bat away from the body, good balance, looking at the tee,

3. Show them how to swing and hit the ball. Slight step forwards, eyes focused on the ball, level swing, weight transfer forward, extend arms and follow through after hitting the ball.

A little safety tip. Place a rag @ 4' away from them and instruct them to try to lay the bat down on as they make their last hit and run to first base. This will get them in the habit of laying the bat down and not throwing it.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on pitching baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

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The Care and Cleaning of Your Baseball Glove

2012-01-04T13:25:00.000-05:00

By Peter V. John

Baseball glove care is often overlooked during the season and the off-season. Many players simply throw their gloves into their bags and walk away. To get the most out of your glove, one must take care of it in season and in the off-season.

Here are a few tips for caring for your baseball glove:

Keep it clean! Cleaning the glove periodically not only keeps it looking better, but it keeps the pores of the leather clear. Keep your glove dry, wipe off built up dirt with dry cloth. Never soak your glove in water or put it in a microwave oven to dry it off.

Keep the glove conditioned with proper baseball glove conditioner. This keeps the glove leather hydrated and supple. After all, a glove's leather was alive at one time. It's skin. While conditioning, you don't need much. Put a small amount of oil on a cloth and lightly rub in and coat the glove. Do not allow oils to soak in as this will cause the leather deteriorate faster.

Store a ball in the pocket of the glove. Whether it is in season or off-season, this will help keep the shape of the glove's pocket. Place a baseball or softball in the pocket and tie the glove shut with a rubber band or belt. A regular practice workout of at least 100 good tosses daily will continue to soften the glove and help mold the pocket to your hand.

Store the glove in room temperature. Extreme heat will cause it to dry out and become hard. Extreme cold will cause the glove to become hard and not pliable until it warms up. Keeping a baseball glove at a constant room temperature when it is not in use will keep it from deteriorating as quickly.

Keep the laces tight. Tighter laces keep the glove in shape. Loose laces are more susceptible to breakage and place tension on other parts of the glove, speeding its breakdown. This can result result in the glove becoming floppy and needing to be replaced sooner than it would otherwise.

Quickly replace any frayed or broken laces. Frayed laces will break quickly. Broken laces transfer the tension to other parts of the glove, usually the other laces. Added tensions to these laces cause them to stretch and break quicker.

Simply using your glove will keep it in good shape. The more play time your glove experiences, the better it will properly mold to your hand. Once your baseball glove is broken in, it will be ready to serve you for many seasons to come.

If you follow these tips, they will help maintain the longevity of your baseball glove and aid in helping you Make the Play!

Vinci manufactures a full line of baseball gloves and equipment. Find first baseman mitts, catcher's mitts and more. The Vinci baseball glove break in kit includes a wooden mallet, baseball glove conditioner, rubber bands and a plastic ball. Made for players of any level!

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Baseball Agility

2011-12-30T13:24:00.000-05:00

By Tom McGilliray

Baseball players may not be gymnasts, but the benefits of having extended levels of flexibility will give you an edge over your competition. Keep your muscles warm, stretched, and flexible. This allows you to make more natural movements such as tracking a fly ball, going deep in the hole, or running out an infield hit, as well as hitting.

Exercises that emphasize stretching and flexible resistance are important in developing flexibility. Flexibility and agility will help you with the following:

1. Speed - A big portion of being agility is your speed. Being able to move quickly and effortlessly is important, especially in team sports. Increasing the speed of your movements, gives you an increased chance of making the play. A good jump rope used in conjunction with gymboss is superior for building speed and overall fitness. Also, Drill exercises, such as jumping from one portion of the ground straight up in sets of 10 - 20 or running sprints will increase your speed. Interval training using the gymboss is exception for this.

2. Reaction - Training yourself to decrease your reaction time and increase your reflexes is one of the best ways to improve your agility. Plyometric drills teach a player to react quickly and will increase their overall conditioning. A quick reaction time will also allow you to recover faster.

3. Drills - Some common drills used to increase speed and reaction time are used for many sports. One of the drills (mentioned earlier)is a pyrometric exercise. This is done in the standing position, then squatting down to jump straight up in the air as high as you can. Other drills one can utilize are ladder drills, cones drills, basic form running, and working on lifting your knees high. Kettlebell training is a form of training gaining in popularity yet offers athletes a different option for training.
Having a variety of exercises and workout routines, is pivotal to keep from getting bored, and promotes a better level of conditioning.

4. Conditioning - As an athlete you are only limited by your own thoughts. Baseball players will work on their physical conditioning, but will also work on fielding, hitting, and base running. Everything you will do in a game they work on.

Today's athlete trains all year round to ensure they are in peak condition before the season starts.
Remember that agility is more than one element-it is balance, coordination, strength and speed all working together to improve the overall athlete.

Tom has been involved with coaching youth baseball for 20 years, all age levels. You can visit his website at http://www.lefthandbaseballgloves.com

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Common Sense Coaching - Five Myths In Youth Baseball

2011-12-26T13:22:00.000-05:00

By Marty Schupak

In my 21 years coaching youth baseball, I've been called a good coach, a great coach, an overrated coach and a horrible coach. I guess it depends on which game or games people have seen me coach to determine which superlative to use. I like to think that my best coaching moves come from my gut and not from the "book" of coaching. People have questioned some moves I have made and asked me why I did what I did. Many times I have to respond, "I just had a feeling it would work." I have also found that the best coaches in all sports deviate from the "book" over the course of their career. Some of these uncanny moves will work and some will not. My thoughts are you cannot have all coaching moves pre-determined because situations occur with different personnel at different times. Let's look at five situations and why I sometimes stray from conventional coaching decisions.

1) Don't bunt with two strikes. This is a tough one when it fails. We have all seen it in youth baseball when the third baseman plays in close anticipating a bunt. When the strike count gets to two, the coach will yell to the third baseman something like this,
"Two strikes on the hitter. Move back so you are even with the base."

When the fielder moves back, depending on the ability of the batter, I love to give him another chance to bunt given that the defense and opposing coach are sure the batter will not bunt. I have been successful with this and at other times it has failed. One warning if you try this. When your batter does fail, you will hear from all the "General Managers" in the bleachers.

2) Catch everything with two hands. I know most coaches and parents will hold me to task on this one. When my players are moving laterally reaching for a fly ball, I just want them to catch the ball any way possible. I don't want my players thinking they have to catch everything with two hands if some catches are easier one-handed. If the shortstop is sprinting for a pop up behind the third baseman, and has to reach for it, a one-handed catch works best. When catching a pop up hit right to a player with little or no running, a two-handed catch works best. But too many coaches and parents overemphasize catching everything with two hands. Coaches need to have youth players practice catching balls with one and two hands.

3) Don't make the first or third out of an inning at third base. Tim McCarver won't invite me over to dinner on this one. I send my runner to third most of the time not worrying about how many outs we have. I have my teams run the bases aggressively. We get thrown out at third and home more than other teams. But we also win more games than we lose. In youth baseball, every game has its share of wild pitches and passed balls. From my many years coaching third base I know that we have a great chance getting the runner home on a wild pitch or passed ball.

I hate ending the inning with a player who doesn't score from third base when aggressive base-running a batter or two before would have landed him on third and he would have scored.

4) Bigger baseball gloves are better. I was guilty of this when my oldest son played Little League. Every year I wanted to get him a bigger glove figuring the larger the glove, the better chance of the ball landing in the pocket. I was 100% wrong on this. I remember going to Yankee Stadium with a close friend who had an "in" on everything and knew a lot of people. We had front row seats and before the game one of the Yankee infielders came over to say hello to my friend. As they were talking, I could not keep my eyes off the player's glove and was amazed at how small the glove was. It just about outlined his hand. I then learned that "glove control" is key for fielders. So, smaller rather than bigger gloves are better, especially for infielders, except the first baseman.

5) Bat your best hitter third or fourth. Years ago I remember in a few All-Star games, Willie Mays batted leadoff. I know the theory is that you get a couple of batters on base and the big guns will drive them in. I don't agree with this all the time. I found that in youth baseball sometimes there is a large disparity with the talent of the players. Many times teams have one or two excellent players. In youth baseball I prefer to bat my best hitter first or second. I cannot tell you how many times my team was down by a couple of runs in the last inning with the bottom of my batting order up. If my best player batted third or fourth, I'd be doing everything I could to get him up but many times games ended up with my best hitter on deck. Now I like to bat my best player first or second. I know you might think I'm sacrificing some runs but I love the idea of him getting an extra at bat a game.
Like everything in coaching your talent at the moment will determine your move as the manager or coach. The term "thinking outside the box" has been overused in many instances. But when coaching, you do want to think outside the box if it will give your players and team an advantage to succeed. Unpopular decisions may be the best decisions at the time you make them. Although coaching by the book is sometimes the best method, following your gut can give you the competitive advantage to pull out a few extra wins during the season.

Marty Schupak has coached youth baseball for 21 years and is the creator of 10 instructional videos including "The 59 Minute Baseball Practice" and author of the popular book, "Youth Baseball Drills." His new ebook "Baseball Coaching: A Guide For the Youth Coach & Parent" is available on the Kindle, Nook & iPad. He is President of the Youth Sports Club, a group dedicated to making sports practices and games more enjoyable for kids. http://www.YouthSportsClub.com

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Think Spring Training

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

By Jim Bain

This time of year, as people look out their windows, most people enjoy the flickering Christmas lights and blow up animated scenes, swaying in the breeze and think of the upcoming Christmas holiday period, with its' presents and holiday cheer.

Some people gaze out their windows and see skinny lifeless trees, snow bound roads or leaves which were never raked, or were raked and now you have your neighbors. Fortunate or unfortunately, I fit well in the second scenario of people.

It's not that I'm a Scrooge, because I definitely am not. I enjoy the Holy part of Christmas, the presents and I can party with the best of them, but my heart is on the Baseball Diamond. That haggard desolate looking piece of dirt, rutted by kids riding their bikes through it when it muddy. That's where my life is spent during the warm summer months, on the battlefield between the white lines.

It's with these thoughts, and I'm sure I'm not the only one longing for baseball season to return, that I have set forth a few drills and exercises which players can begin utilizing in order to enter spring training physically fit, with improved skills and a sharp mind.

Tip 1# This should not even be a tip, but since the invention of video games and whatever other electronic devises I don't understand, seem to keep our youth sedated, we need to have a regular exercise program set up and adhered to.

Unless you're an athlete, at the appropriate age and educated guidance, such as a coach or well versed parent, it's not necessary to concentrate your exercise on one particular part of the body. One must remember, baseball is a combination of physical motions which include the entire body, so over training one specific muscle group could actually have adverse affects.

The key is to strengthen the body overall with a variety of exercises, not necessarily lifting weights, which strengthen and maintain flexibility. In other words come into camp ready to play ball, not to get ready to play ball.

Tip 2# It's a fact of life, a large portion of your power, whether it be pitching or hitting, originates with the explosion of the hips, which requires strong legs. I personally hated leg exercises, perhaps because bulging leg muscles don't impress girls like bulging biceps or six-pack abs, or I was just illiterate, but the legs must be strengthened during the off season.

My advise, if you don't like leg exercises, is to run, run and run some more. Running in combination with a few basic exercises with weights, such as squats and lunges, three times a week, will greatly help the leg strength.

Tip 3# Every baseball fan has at one time or another, dropped their jaw in amazement, witnessing an infielder making an absolutely spectacular fielding play, and wonder how in the world did he do that. I'll tell you how. He fielded, not hundreds, but thousands and thousands of ground balls. That's the Only way to improve fielding skills and hand speed.

Here is where a rubber or tennis ball becomes worth its weight in gold. During the winter months bounce and field as many ground balls as possible. If your home's basement is unfinished, or your garage is large enough, bounce the ball off the basement walls or garage wall everyday.

Never use a glove, train to catch bare handed and a glove will feel like using a vacuum. Bounce the ball at angles, different speeds and hops trying to force yourself to make difficult catches. The more accustomed you become to making difficult catches, the smoother and easier you'll be able to field the other 95% of chances.

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Sources for Baseball Batting Instruction

2011-12-18T15:38:00.000-05:00

By Jeffery A Wise In many careers and areas in life, it's a good idea to get a continued education. What that means is that you continue learning a certain field or area well after graduation. As long as you live, you grow in your knowledge on that subject. This should be true for those who love playing baseball. It is important to continue receiving baseball batting instruction the entire time you play the sport. There are several ways to get continuous baseball hitting instructions. First, it's a good idea to play baseball all year round, during the spring and fall seasons. That helps you improve quicker and you're less likely to forget things you learned or lose any developed skills from lack of practice. To be the best in your league, you have to go above and beyond. As often as possible, try to get some one on one time with a coach. If they see your interest and your seriousness, they will be more willing to help you. This can be challenging since coaches are very busy and they have a lot of players to help. But don't be afraid to be forward and ask for that personal assistance. If your dad loves baseball or played when he was younger, ask him for help. This is an excellent way to get batting instruction. You know he has your best interest in mind and he'll be upfront with you about how you're doing. Another option is to hire a professional hitting instructor during the off season. This will give you that personal attention from a professional that you may need. Also, it can sometimes be easier to accept advice from someone you're not emotionally attached to. Baseball hitting camp is a great choice. These camps, or clinics, specialize in helping baseball players so you are sure to get some great tips and improve on your game. Find someone who's been playing longer than you, such as a college baseball player. Ask if you can get some hitting tips. Sometimes college or pro players hold public events and you can talk to them easily. Don't be afraid to ask them any hitting questions you may have. When considering these options, you have to ask yourself a question. How good do you want to be? To be one of the best, you have to be willing to do things that most people won't do. Getting the extra baseball batting instruction will push you ahead of your competition. Remember that the reason to have baseball batting instruction is to give you skills and talent to become the baseball player you want to be. Learn more with these Baseball Hitting tutorials that are perfect for you. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffery_A_WiseArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6469084

American Legion Baseball Versus Travel Baseball

2011-12-15T15:32:00.000-05:00

By Vic Read Sixteen and seventeen year old high school baseball players who want to play summer baseball have to make a choice between American Legion baseball versus travel baseball. And quite often there is some heavy recruiting from the American Legion coaches. Over the past few years legion coaches have seen a drop in the number of players wanting to play American Legion baseball. They now have to actively pursue players. Let's take a look at why American Legion baseball numbers are dwindling. Little League Baseball Explodes The little league baseball scene exploded about fifteen years ago for ten through fourteen year olds. World Series tournaments went from just a few organizations with eight or ten teams to many organizations with tournaments of one hundred or more teams. And over the last six years this expansion of teams and tournaments has carried over to the fifteen through eighteen year old age groups. Travel Baseball Previously the baseball choices for these high school age players were limited to a few AAU teams and American Legion teams. Now there many teams called travel baseball teams. These teams do just what their name implies; they travel around the country playing in tournaments or showcases. Some sporting goods manufacturers help sponsor many of these traveling teams. With this expansion of travel teams, college baseball coaches have figured out a new way to scout and recruit high school players. Rather than travel all over the country and chase summer teams, they now have these traveling teams come play at their stadium. Many college coaches will organize a couple of tournaments each summer. They make a little money on the tournament and get to see lots of players without having to travel. For the players the exposure to college coaches is invaluable. And they get to play on college baseball fields and see college campuses. Other Sports Demand Summer Time Another reason for the drop in players wanting to play legion baseball is other sports. It seems like every high school sport has a summer long training program or other activity forcing kids to play only one sport. High school football and basketball players do not want to go lift weights and workout every morning, and then go play a baseball doubleheader that doesn't end until eleven pm. It is sad but true that many high school players are forced to choose one sport. Legion Age Limit Raised A few years back American Legion raised the age limit of legion players from eighteen to nineteen. This increase has helped teams keep their numbers up. Many freshmen in college like coming home and playing another year of baseball. And recently American Legion has started promoting their Jr. Legion baseball program. They feel that the sooner they get players into the legion program the better. It is too early to know if this feeder program will be successful or not. What to Do? So what should a high school baseball player do? Should he play American Legion baseball with his high school buddies, or find a travel team to showcase his skills to many college coaches? I can speak on this subject from both sides of the fence. I have a son who played four years of legion baseball and another one who is playing travel baseball. American Legion baseball is an old and proud program. Players on the team all come from the same town or city. You wear an American Legion patch on your shoulder. Typically legion coaches stay with the program for many years. You play lots and lots of games, and your home games are played close by. And usually the cost is reasonable. But from my experience not many college coaches or recruiters come to legion games. Travel teams are usually made up of players from many different high schools. They will practice a lot and it may be far away. Quite often travel teams have hired coaches. They may travel three out of every four weekends. Many tournaments start on Wednesday or Thursday during the day. Lots of car pooling becomes necessary. There can be many college coaches and professional scouts at their games. The cost of travel teams can be very high. I believe both types of teams are needed and will survive. Travel baseball is not for everyone, nor can everyone afford the cost. However, if you or your son is good enough, there can usually be something worked out. Travel team coaches want to win, so they will find a way for good players to be on the team. If you are a good player it is worth your effort to find a travel team. The college and professional baseball exposure is substantially better with travel teams. But the American Legion program will continue to be a great choice for many high school players. Many professional and division one players have come out of the legion program. There are just a little fewer coming from legion baseball now. After my many years of coaching, watching and traveling to out of town baseball games, I decided to share my baseball tips and stories that I have learned and experienced along the way. To check out more articles that I have written, please visit my website at Helpful Baseball Drills. You will not only find baseball drills that will help you, but also more great articles like the one above. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vic_ReadArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6481690

Handling Stress - Part II

2011-12-12T15:30:00.000-05:00

By Jim Bain A quick review from Part I of stress management in case you missed it. Stress affects the mental, emotional and physical performance and well being of a player, and not controlled can actually render the player totally incapable of playing. We examined how proper preparations can be used to control stress, but let's exam more methods of stress control. We have practiced and prepared as much as we could before today's game, but you're still queasy to the stomach and you can't quit pacing for more than a couple of minutes. These are normal Pre-game Jitters which every player, even major league players experience. We discussed fear of failure being the main culprit in creating the stress and anxiousness, and major leaguers, whose very livelihood depends on producing positive results on the playing field, whether it be hitting, pitching or fielding, endure a tremendous amount of stress. So how do they handle it? When I was playing there were Two basic methods players used to control the nerves and stress issue, which will also work for you. 1. Sounds silly, but having a normal pre-game routine helps reduce stress. There are hundreds of baseball stories about players' odd pre-game routines, from eating a stack of pancakes an hour before the game, didn't matter if it was a day or night game, to having a conversation with their bat as they rubbed it with a fur mitten while in the clubhouse before the game. I doubt any such, shall I say, different routine, would be helpful to you. However, setting a routine such as, taking a nap the day of the game, always drinking two glasses of ice water before warm ups, or eating a Specific type of candy bar can be used. Most human beings are by nature, creatures of habit. We associate the smell of burning wood to the campfires we enjoy, the smell of ginger reminds us of the holidays and so on. When you eat your candy bar or drink your water, your mind instantly associates this act with preparation to play baseball. It becomes automatic and anything we do which is automatic, does Not create stress. For instance, if we don't breathe, we'll die, pretty stressful thought. However, breathing is so automatic we don't think about it, but if we're under water and our diving air tanks are dangerously low, we are stressed about the thought of breathing. Setting a routine which creates automatic conditioning helps control stress. 2. Visualization or imagery is another excellent method of controlling stress. Find a quiet place, or at least less hectic, sit still and after taking several deep breaths, close your eyes and begin Visualizing yourself hitting the baseball or nipping the corners of the plate with your curveball. You have created this imaginary event, but your inner mind doesn't realize this fact. It actually sees and feels the event of you imagining, swinging and hitting the ball, as reality. After performing this visualization numerous times your inner mind is convinced you can and will perform the task of hitting the baseball hard. This confidence is imposed on the conscious mind and there's no doubt you are quite capable of hitting the ball, eliminating, or at least restricting the fear of not being able to hit this particular pitcher. Confidence breeds strength through positive thoughts, which controls stress. In summary, establishing a routine which includes quiet visualization is an excellent method for controlling dangerous stress in a player. Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on pitching baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_BainArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6486173

How To Handle Stress

2011-12-09T15:29:00.000-05:00

By Jim Bain The regular youth baseball season is winding down, and except for a few divisions in certain leagues, which are still being hotly contested, you know if your team is headed for the playoffs or not. If you're one of the talented, or lucky teams that are headed into Post-Season play, how well you perform very well may depend on how you handle the stress. Briefly, and in layman's terms, stress is that anxious feeling you experience before an important event or test, such as a championship game or a college entrance exam. It's that queasy unsettled feeling in your stomach which makes you feel as though you may throw up, or not being able to stop bouncing your foot up and down. The inability to handle stress can render an athlete totally unable to compete, literally making the player so sick, he's unable to perform. However, on the flip side of this situation, an athlete accustomed to stress and has developed the ability to control it, can channel this anxious energy into a positive thing, which allows him to explode onto the playing field with an abundance of energy and motivation. So how do we control or learn to channel the anxious energy stress creates? Perhaps we should examine what creates stress first. In my experiences I found Fear, fear of failure, creates most types of stress. For instance, while in pre-game warm ups against a team which is clearly in the wrong division and your team has defeated four times by an accumulated score of 52 - 1, you are loose, humorous and anxious to get the game underway. However, during the same pre-game warm ups against a known and powerful opponent, or worse yet, an unknown opponent, you are fidgety, somewhat sick to your stomach and constantly scanning the other team attempting to assess their skills. In the first scenario, there is a calmness created by the complete belief and confidence of not only winning the game, but more importantly, you know you'll perform well. Previous encounters with this team's pitchers have resulted in nothing but your success and there's no reason to believe today will be any different. The second scenario paints an entirely different picture. The game is very important, an elimination game from the tournament, which your team must win or go home. This added weight of winning means everything, puts nerves which are normally calm, on edge and irritable. Fear, fear of the unknown and what it can mean directly to you, sends your nerves into a frenzy. Will I be able to hit this pitcher? Will I let a ball go between my legs? Can I steal without being thrown out? These and another hundred questions race through your mind because of your fear of failure. Of course you don't want to let the team down, but what directly happens to you, success or failure, is what spurs stress to an unhealthy level. Let's exam one method to not only defeat stress, but turn it into an ally. Fear of failure is created when the mind wonders if the body did everything it could to prepare for this test. For instance, if you had planned on going to the batting cages on two separate days before this game, but stayed with your girlfriend at the swimming pool instead, your mind knows this and knows you're not as prepared as you could be. Because of this there is an increased anxiety of possible failure. However, if you had gone to the batting cages twice a day for two days prior to the game, and was hitting bullets off the fastest pitching machine available, your mind knows you are prepared. The nervous energy you now experience can be channeled into a positive adrenalin resource which very well may give you that spurt of energy which allows you to catch the line drive, instead of missing it by an inch. Proper Preparation is a major key to handling stress. Remember, you can not hide from yourself and you can not lie to yourself. Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on pitching baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_BainArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6483757

Three Steps To Breaking In Your New Baseball Glove

2011-12-06T15:28:00.000-05:00

By Jason C Specht The art of breaking in a baseball glove is a very important thing to consider if you want to get that same feel of old baseball gloves. There are several different ways to go about breaking in a glove, but we are going to go over one of the more common methods here. It used to be pretty tough to break in a new glove, as all of the gloves were very stiff when they came from the manufacturer. I remember way back when that my dad actually put mine in the oven for a while after rubbing some kind of weird oil on it to loosen it up. Many things have changed in the world of baseball gloves, and most of them these days are softer than their counterparts from twenty to thirty years ago. So here are the three steps to breaking in a baseball glove: •The first thing that you will need to do is to pick up some baseball glove oil. There are many different brands out there, and all should do pretty-much the same. The oil that I used was the Franklin Baseball Glove Oil that I picked up at WalMart, but you could get yours at a sporting goods store or online as well. •After you get your oil, you will want to remove all of the dirt and debris from your glove by wiping it down with a clean, dry cloth. After this is done, you just apply the baseball glove oil to the inside part of your glove. You only want to put it on the inside part, not the outside. While the procedure for different oils may vary, you usually just wipe it on with one dry cloth and then wipe it off with another clean one. After doing this, you just let it sit for a while so the oil can soak into the leather. •This next part is the way that I personally break in my own gloves. After applying the oil and letting it sit for a while, I'll take a baseball or two and put them into the web of the glove and then close it up tight. I'll then take some string, shoelaces, or whatever else I can find and tie the glove up tight, with the balls inside the web. This will help to form the pocket. After tying it up, I put it underneath my mattress and sleep on it for a night or two. After doing all of this, your glove should be well on its way to being broken in. It will surely give you that worn-in feel of old baseball gloves that is so desirable. Visit us at http://www.baseballglovesandbats.com for more information on gloves, bats, and baseball in general. So ditch that stiff feel of a brand new glove, and break yours in today! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_C_SpechtArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6494059

How Youth Pitching Machines Can Improve Your Skills As a First Baseman

2011-12-03T15:27:00.000-05:00

By Lincoln Hawk As a first baseman, you have the possibility to be involved in every defensive play. This means that you will need to be skilled in multiple areas. To help you develop your all around defensive game, youth pitching machines can be used to help you go through drills and improve your defensive prowess. Here are a few different drills you can use to get better playing first base. Shots Down the Line Playing first base, you will see many balls hit sharply down the first base line. It's your job to get to those balls. Here's a way to improve your quickness and corral more of those balls for outs. Begin by setting up youth pitching machines at home plate to fire line drives down the line. Assume your standard defensive position at first, about 8 - 12 feet off the line. As the machine fires balls down the line, work to keep as many as you can from getting to the outfield. Even if you can't retrieve it and make the play, if you can at least knock it down and keep it in the infield, you are probably saving an extra-base hit. Applying a Tag at First When playing first base, you are going to have opportunities to try and pick off base runners at first. It's important to practice catching the ball from the pitcher and quickly applying a tag on the runner who will presumably be sliding back to first. Youth pitching machines can help you practice apply that tag. Set up the machine on the pitcher's mound so that it faces first base. Maintain a stance at first that will provide a target for the "pitcher". Practice receiving throws from the machine and applying the tag on the runner. You can adjust the throwing angle to help simulate the potential for errant throws from the pitcher. Chasing Foul Balls As a first baseman, you are going to have to try to catch foul balls where obstacles in foul territory can make that difficult. Using youth pitching machines, adjust the settings to throw pop ups into foul territory. Try to maintain your focus as you chase these balls down to make the play. You may have to deal with avoiding dugouts, fencing or tarp, but when you can make an out without the batter leaving the batter's box, your team has a much better chance of winning. For more information on where to find youth pitching machines, check out pitchingmachines.zoostores.com. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lincoln_HawkArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6495554

Problems With Travel Baseball Under the Age of 12

2011-11-30T15:26:00.000-05:00

By Andy Pohl Originally designed for middle and high school aged baseball players, summer travel teams are now providing opportunities for kids as young as 8 years old. I have even heard that in certain parts of the country they are offering travel t-ball. These youth league teams travel all around the country like big leaguers so kids still learning to read, write and complete elementary mathematical computations can play the toughest competition for the biggest prizes. Sounds like a great opportunity for kids who love baseball, correct? Not really. I believe that travel baseball is out of control, and the problems with travel baseball for kids under the age of 12 far outweigh its benefits. Proponents of travel baseball argue that playing more games against the best possible competition facilitates athletic development. It is hard to disagree with that. However, I urge parents with kids under the age of 12 to evaluate travel baseball with a more critical eye. In doing so, parents should ask the following questions: 1) Is my son really playing the best completion, or is he playing against mainly watered down teams in over-hyped tournaments? 2) Is the focus too much on winning and not on my son's athletic, social, and emotional development? 3) Is my son's travel schedule so rigorous that he has lost his ability to be a kid? 4) Is the pressure associated with playing tournament competition age appropriate? 5) What are my son's long term goals regarding baseball, and how does participating in travel baseball fit with those goals? While I would like to remove travel baseball all together from the 11-U youth league landscape, I understand that travel baseball is here to stay. With that being said, allow me to offer the following advice to parents: • Do not let your son play travel baseball until they are at least 12 years old. If you feel that it is absolutely necessary to play travel baseball before the age of 12, find a team that plays about 30 games with minimal travel. • Look for teams that focus on player development, not winning. Gravitate towards coaches who understand emotional and social development. This can be more important than baseball knowledge. • Seek out teams with professionally trained coaches or teams who have hired professional coaches to consult with the team throughout the season. • Find teams who run practices during the season. Running practices during the season is a critical component to the athletic development of young players, as this gives them opportunities to improve skills that were not performed correctly during games. • Be careful of newly formed travel team. New travel teams are usually formed by those who have self-serving reasons for creating this new team. Andy Pohl - Co-Founder, DNA Sports DNA Sports specializes in personalized baseball and softball skill programs, college recruiting education and preparation, and coaching clinics. Learn more: http://www.dnasportsonline.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_PohlArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6508469

Problems With Travel Baseball: Not Enough Practice Time

2011-11-27T15:24:00.000-05:00

By Andy Pohl When travel league schedules revolve around tournament play, winning inherently becomes the primary focus. Rarely do these teams have time to practice due to the heightened amount of travel and games. This is a glaring problem with travel baseball, as kids need a combination of practice and games to best facilitate athletic development. Simply throwing young kids out on the field to play as many games as possible does not necessarily facilitate athletic development, as younger athletes need considerable practice time to develop their hitting and defensive skills in a pressure free environment. Basically, what travel baseball has done is put 8-11 year olds in an adult created setting where the pressure to win and perform takes precedent over the emotional and athletic development of the players themselves. A bi-product of this reality is the coaches themselves acting as if they were managing professional players - the yelling, the throwing of equipment, the arguing with umpires, the sulking after losses. And while it may appear that these travel coaches know what they are doing with their custom made dry-fit coaching shirts and Oakley Sunglasses resting on the brims of their fitted caps, the fact of the matter is that most of travel coaches possess the same amount of knowledge as your average house league coach. In fact, the majority of travel players are being coached by parents who don't know the first thing about baseball or the social and emotional development of kids. Many of these parent coaches cannot even properly parent their own kids! Rather than winning, the focus for youth baseball needs to be on development. After all, once these kids hit puberty, it is really not going to matter which travel team your son played on and how many tournaments they won. Athletic excellence and success cannot always be identified at an early age, and inferior athletes will frequently blossom and attain success in later years given the right opportunity to compete and develop their skills. Consistent practice time is a critical component to this development. Though some may disagree with several of the statements in this narrative, understand that my goal is to report in an honest and straightforward manner what I know to be true from my many experiences working with youth baseball players. I have no hidden agenda. The well-being of kids is always my top priority, hence the reason why I created this article. Andy Pohl - Co-Founder, DNA Sports DNA Sports specializes in personalized baseball and softball skill programs, college recruiting education and preparation, and coaching clinics. Learn more: http://www.dnasportsonline.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_PohlArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6508482

Bunting Drills to Allow You to Become a Much Better Baseball Player

2011-11-24T15:23:00.000-05:00

By Thomas E Wilson Once you've learned the best way to bunt, it is important to practice this type and repeat the motions repeatedly. This will bring about you eventually doing this essentially without thinking when game time comes. The following drills will allow you to ensure success bunting at the plate if done as part of your regular baseball workouts schedule. Bunting Pepper: This drill requires four players. Have one player take his batting stance as well as the three other players form an arch around 20 feet from him. Starting using the player in the center of the arch, ask him to softly toss the ball on the batter whose job is to bunt the ball to one of these two other players who didn't throw the ball. The player who the hitter bunted to should now throw the ball to the hitter. Continue for a few minutes, after which rotate. On the Corners: This drill requires two players or one player plus a coach. Place a cone 10-20 feet abroad plate and 10-20 feet away from the third base line and the other cone 10-20 feet away from home plate and 10-20 feet out of the first base line. Have a coach or another player pitch towards the hitter. The hitter's goal is to bunt as many pitches as possible (that are strikes) between the third base foul line as well as the third base cone or involving the first base foul line and also the first base cone. The hitter gets 1 point for each time he successfully places the bunt. Soft Bunts: This drill requires two players or one player plus a coach. Have the hitter stand on the plate and put a bucket directly as you're watching plate. Have a coach or some other player pitch for the batter. The goal with the batter is always to make sure he is absorbing the velocity of the pitch therefore softening his bunts so they drop directly into the bucket. This is a crucial skill to learn to ensure that even as the ball player sees faster and faster pitching as he ages, he will almost certainly still be able to soften his bunts. Next practice, give these drills a go and see the way your players' bunting improves next game. Remember, if a player would like to see better results with his bunting, make sure he is also practicing these bunts as part of his regular baseball workouts program in the home! Are you interested in improving your game and being the best baseball player you can be? If so, check out www.BestBaseballWorkouts.com to find more helpful information as well as baseball workouts that will take your game to the next level! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_E_WilsonArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6525185

How to Buy the Perfect Size Baseball Glove

2011-11-21T15:21:00.000-05:00

By Earl Crocker There are two main things to consider when purchasing a baseball glove. First, what position will you be playing? If you are going to play the infield, you will need to have a shallow pocket glove. This will give you better control and provide an easier transfer of the ball. When playing the outfield, you will need to consider a deep pocket baseball glove. This will allow for easier catching of fly balls and fewer errors. Next, you need to consider the age of the player. When buying a baseball glove for your kids, don't buy a glove for them to "grow into". This will only cause errors and frustration. Youth players need a glove made to fit. This means their glove may not last for years, but they will have a much better little league career if they have a baseball glove that fits. Baseball players ages 8yrs. and under should most likely use a 9 inch glove if playing the infield, or 11 inch glove if playing outfield. Ages 9yrs.-13yrs. should use a 9-10 inch glove for infield and 11-12 inch for outfield. High school/ Adult players may consider a 10.5-11.5 inch glove for infield and a 12-12.5 for outfield. When buying a catchers mitt the average youth will need a 31-32 inch mitt. The average adult size is 33-34 inch. However, to be sure of your correct size, here an easy formula to follow. First, find your regular glove size. If you don't know it then measure your glove from the heel of the glove (by your wrist) to the top of the glove on the palm side (near your fingers). Next, subtract this number from 12.5, then take that number and subtract it from 34.5. This will give you the perfect size baseball mitt, but remember, catchers mitts fit tighter than regular baseball gloves. So you will need to adjust the straps and allow time for breaking in your new catchers mitt. The best way to break in your new glove is to simply play catch with a friend. This will help your glove and your game. Also, it is good to use a little oil (not too much). And some people like to place a ball in the pocket of the glove and tie it shut, this helps form the pocket of the glove. Just remember, it's all about having fun! Whether you are 2 or 92, beginner or pro, boy or girl, baseball is a great sport, so get out there and PLAY BALL! Earl Crocker http://www.infinitebaseballgloves.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Earl_CrockerArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6548852

Pressure - Good Or Bad And How To Handle It?

2011-11-18T15:15:00.000-05:00

By Jim Bain Baseball is no different than other sports, there are times of coasting and times of extreme pressure. Everyone pretty well knows how to coast, but not everyone knows how to handle pressure and there is no cookie cutter formula which applies to everyone on the team, so pressure can be good or bad depending on how it's handled. Even though, at the time of this writing, we don't know the final outcome of the 2011 Wild Card Race in the National league, the intense battle between the St. Louis Cardinals to catch the Atlanta Braves for that spot is exciting and quite a demonstration of handling, or not handling pressure. The Cardinals, just as any other ball club, has sustained numerous injuries to key players throughout the season. Their superstar, Albert Pujols, sustained a fractured wrist in a collision at first base and Matt Holliday, their enforcer whose powerful bat forces teams to pitch to Pujols, has suffered numerous injuries which have sidelined him for extended periods. There were many other injuries, including the loss of their Cy Young winning pitcher, Adam Wainwright, before the season began, but these are the types of situations which all teams must play through. The Cardinals led the National League Central division for months, slowly putting distance between them and the Brewers, Reds and the surprising Pittsburgh Pirates. Suddenly, for some unknown reason, the Cardinals went into a tailspin where instead of not being able to lose a game, they were incapable of winning a game. As the hungry pack behind them inched closer, the Cardinals began to buckle under the Pressure, as their starting pitching, which had been praised for exceeding all expectations despite the loss of Wainwright, began to fail them. This in turn placed an ever increasing amount of pressure on their bullpen, which became overworked and began to fail miserably, continually blowing 1 and 2 run leads in the 9th inning, only to lose the game in extra innings. The inability for the Cardinal starting rotation to have quality pitching appearances and the failure of the bullpen to maintain 1 & 2 run leads, put a tremendous amount of pressure on the Cardinal offense, which many sports writers have declared the most powerful lineup in the National League, to not only produce runs, but produce an exceedingly increasing amount of runs per game. With this extra pressure the offense began to falter, hitting into more double plays than any other team in baseball and the once, very reliable 2 out hit, completely vanished. When teams are pressed offensively their defense usually suffers, which was the case for the Cardinals. Their offense produced 8 runs, but between walks, hits and errors, they allowed 9 runs and still lost. The Milwaukee Brewers caught and surpassed the Cardinals, completely dominating them in head to head play, and the Cards appeared to completely crash and burn. The Pressure had overwhelmed them. August came and the Cardinals, pre-season picks to win their division, were struggling to maintain their self respect with little thought given to playoff contention. All pressure to win was gone, only professional pride kept the team afloat. As the season continued through August, the lack of pressure on the team and the addition of few new faces, through trade and elevation of Minor League players to the majors, the team began to put together winning streaks, taking 2 of 3 or 3 of 4 games in each series against different opponents. Suddenly, the thought of playoff contention began to permeate through the club house. The pressure to win, as the Braves began to lose, increased with every game as they began to inch closer to their target, Wild Card Team. Ironically the pressure endured previously, which had all but sapped the strength from the club, had now turned into a driving force. The pressure, which had been a paralyzing effect, now became a motivator, and with each win the pressure increased. What happened? What caused the change? How could something so harmful to the club suddenly become their best ally? How pressure affects a team, or one player, is determined on how mentally tough that team/player is. A mentally tough team, which can be greatly influenced by the manager, knows what they have and are capable of accomplishing. They question the "bad luck" which seems to have them losing & losing, but they never question their abilities, and the ability me to play through the bad times, when even the toughest wonder if it'll ever end, once it does end and success returns, the pressure becomes the thrill of playing, of hitting next or pitching today. It's viewed with great anticipation, not dread. Pressure will always be a factor in sports, as in life itself. It's how you handle that pressure which determines if its' a friend or foe. Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on pitching baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_BainArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6579349

The Secret of Baseball Hitting Mechanics

2011-11-15T15:14:00.000-05:00

By Dr. Chris Yeager The Secret of Baseball Hitting Mechanics is to effectively time and coordinate the proper movement of your Back Arm with the proper movement of your Back Leg. When you throw a baseball: •You will "step" toward your target and you will create energy/momentum to be transferred into your throw of the ball. •Your back leg will Abduct ( meaning your back knee will move toward your target) at the hip joint and drive your Center-of-mass (body weight) in a straight line toward the target. Your energy is created by the Back Leg Pushing Sideways against the ground and driving the body towards the target. Your energy/momentum created by the Back-Leg-Push is blocked and transferred to your hip segment by the Front leg. As your front leg plants, it "catches" your energy/momentum and drives it up the chain through your body. When your front foot lifted off the ground to LOAD the Back Leg by placing all of the weight/pressure onto your back foot: •your long bone in the upper arm, your humerus, should begin to turn in or IN-ternally rotate and lift (sometimes we call this elbow up) or raise your elbow up just as elite level infielders will do when taking the ball out of their glove. The scientific term for this is ABduct. This lifting of your back elbow is proper loading of your back arm in your throwing pattern. You will use this same universal loading pattern for throwing when hitting a baseball Fluid and relaxed lifting of the back elbow during the loading phase of hitting a baseball (scientific terms are: Abduction and Internal Rotation of the Humerus): This is a universal loading pattern used by quarterbacks, catchers, infielders, tennis players and other elite level athletes that may be throwing or hitting a ball. It is absolutely necessary for you to learn to load the back arm properly. Proper loading will give you a good start to an elite level baseball swing and throw. If you do not load properly, inadequate internal rotation("turning in" of the long bone in the upper arm or lifting/raising of the elbow) will often cause you to have poor rhythm, fluidity and speed in your throwing arm pattern as a baseball player. Extending at the back elbow is often a sign that you as an infielder, catcher or hitter have inadequate Internal rotation/"turning in" of the long bone in the upper arm (humerus). There are ways to fix this problem and help you begin your throwing and hitting motion with a high level pattern so that you can begin your hitting and throwing pattern like great baseball players begin their hitting and throwing motion. The lag position during the attack phase of the back arm when hitting or throwing a baseball In the attack phase of hitting: You will want to "slot" your elbow or bring your elbow "down and in" towards the ball - The scientific terms are Humeral ADDuction and External Rotation. The attack phase of hitting follows the load phase of the back arm during hitting where you lifted or raised your back elbow in an upward direction. This phase has your elbow simply doing the opposite of what your elbow does in the load phase of hitting and throwing. While the front foot is still in the air, just after the back leg has begun to pushing the direction of the target, the long bone in the upper arm will begin to reverse its direction and Externally rotate the shoulder joint ( aka turn outward). The bone will continue to "turn outward" as the Back Leg finishes its push, as well as during front-foot's initial interactions with the ground. This External rotation or turning-out of the long bone in the upper arm is how the ball when throwing, and hands & bat when hitting, truly gets back and stays back at the correct point of the throw/swing. •This "turning of the bone" creates your "lag". It can also be thought of as your second loading phase of the back arm. •The External rotation of the long bone positions the ball during throwing and your hand back during hitting as the last link in the Kinetic Chain, allowing the other body parts to do their work to create and funnel energy to the bat head for hitting and to the ball for throwing. Many pitching coaches will teach you to reach back and place the arm into a high, extended position as you take the ball out of the glove( you may have heard the term scratching the back wall), believing that this will help you get the ball "back" in the correct position. This is an incorrect attack pattern for you. Many pitching coaches are unaware that the truly critical "back" position is measured with a flexed elbow (greater than 90 degrees) at the maximum external rotation of the humerus - this is where the ball lays back for you just before your release. This means your arm should stay bent until just before release of the baseball when throwing. Throw the ball harder with a bent elbow before release The primary lesson that pitching coaches should teach you with regard to your throwing or pitching arm pattern is to achieve flexion at the elbow of 90 deg or more before the humerus begins to turn - this is when you lay the ball back before extending forward to throw the ball. Obviously there have been many professional pitchers who have been successful by achieving flexion after the bone begins to lay back, however, this sequence makes achieving quality flexion at the elbow much more difficult. If the angle of your elbow is too wide as the foot plants, your lever arm will be lengthened prematurely and there will be more stress placed on your shoulder and elbow joints. As your front foot plants, your hips reach their maximum speed. Your hips subsequently pull the torso and then your torso pulls your shoulders around. If your elbow angle is wide as your shoulders are being rotated toward the target, the prematurely lengthened lever arm created by the wide elbow will create more stress than a sharper/more flexed elbow would create. From a performance standpoint, your efficiency and effectiveness is also decreased with a wide elbow angle at Front-leg block. A wide elbow angle of less than 90 deg will reduce the degree to which the long bone in the upper arm can lay the ball back. Speaking biomechanically, a wide elbow angle of greater than 90 deg will reduce humeral external rotation before release. Use the example of a catapult to understand this phase of the throwing action. Assuming the materials, design, propellant of two catapults are the same, the catapult that is brought back the farthest will result in the greatest speed and distance traveled of the object. The case is similar for the thrower: Assuming two identical throwers in terms of size, strength, physiological make-up and delivery, the thrower that lays ball back the farthest will result in the greatest speed of the ball. Again - if all things are equal, you will see players with less external rotation(meaning more elbow bend) before release throw harder than players with more external rotation(less elbow bend). Other factors such as how ligaments and tendons attach to bone and muscle can affect this outcome. Comparing throwing pattern to Hitting Pattern It is important and interesting to note that when throwing the baseball the great majority of professional infielders and catchers do not extend/straighten at the elbow as they take the ball from the glove nor do they increase the degree of extension at the elbow until just before release of the baseball as the humerus turns inward to propel the ball toward the target. It is also important and interesting to note that the professional quarterback throws with a nearly identical pattern as a high level infielder or professional infielder. As the front foot lifts off the ground to load the Back Leg by placing all of the weight/pressure onto the back foot, the long bone in the upper arm, called the humerus, begins to turn in or Internally rotate as well a lift or Abduct. This IN-ternal rotation and lifting of the long bone in the upper-arm is how the elite player loads up for his throw. While the front foot is still in the air, just after the back leg has begun to push in the direction of the target, the long bone in the upper arm will begin to reverse its direction and Externally rotate @ the shoulder joint ( aka turn outward). The bone will continue to "turn outward" as the Back Leg finishes its push, as well as during front-foot's initial interactions with the ground. This External rotation or turning-out of the long bone in the upper arm is how the ball when throwing, and the hands & bat, when hitting truly gets back and stays back at the correct point of the throw and swing. Compare the elite level batter hitting patterns to the elite level thrower throwing patterns: •The elite level batter moves his back arm, which is the Bat-Head-Throwing-Arm, in a nearly identical pattern as the thrower. •As the front foot lifts off the ground to load the Back Leg by placing all of the weight/pressure onto the back foot, the long bone in the upper arm, the humerus begins to turn in or INternally rotate as well a lift or Abduct. (This IN-ternal rotation and lifting of the long bone in the upper-arm is how the elite hitter loads up for his throw of the bat-head behind the ball. The elite hitter has the same pattern as the thrower). Note: Inadequate Internal rotation/"turning in" of the long bone in the upper arm often reduces rhythm, fluidity and speed in the throwing AND hitting arm pattern of the baseball player and often forces the batter to attempt to load the back-arm inefficiently by extending at the back elbow. •While the front foot is still in the air, just after the back leg has begun to push in the direction of the target, the long bone in the upper arm will begin to reverse its direction and Externally rotate @ the shoulder joint ( aka turn outward). •The bone will continue to "turn outward" as the Back Leg finishes its push, as well as during front-foot's initial interactions with the ground. As the bone is turning, it is also moving down and towards the body or ADDucting. Most call this movement "slotting the elbow". •The player should "slot" this flexed or bent elbow in the direction of the pitch.... It should not be slammed into the ribcage. This External rotation or turning-out and ADDucting or moving down and in of the long bone in the upper arm is how the hands & bat truly gets back and stays back at the correct point of the throw/swing. Do not Extend at your back elbow during the load phase of hitting When you extend your back elbow during the load phase of hitting, similar to poor throwing mechanics, you are prematurely lengthening your lever. This is a poor start to your baseball swing. This makes your bat "heavy" very early in the kinetic sequence of hitting a baseball. Your bat is "heavier" to you when hitting when your back elbow extends because: •Your barrel moves away from your body and most often your bat barrel is flattened when your barrel moves away from your body. When your barrel is flattened, the center of gravity of your bat is moved out of alignment with your hands creating unwanted torque or force. •Your bat should be stacked directly over your hands in the science of a perfect swing and not in a poor position leaning away from your hands. By "flattening" the barrel of your bat early, you increase the difficulty of throwing your bat head by unnecessarily creating a "heavy" bat early in your hitting sequence. The elite professional hitters utilize much more efficient usage of the long bone in the upper arm (humerus) to increase rhythm, fluidity and speed. •Elite hitters reduce the tendency to extend at the back elbow which greatly assists in delaying the flattening of the barrel. When you delay the flattening of the bat barrel, you will create a mechanical advantage for yourself by having the center-of-mass of your bat closely stacked above the hands to keep your bat "light" by reducing the unwanted torque or unwanted turning force created by taking your barrel too far out of alignment with the hands. •The elite professional will load the back arm by lifting and turning the bone in the upper part of the throwing arm. This Abduction or lifting and internal rotation or "turning" is nearly identical to the loading pattern utilized by elite professional infielders. This allows the player to load up by "winding-up" the throwing arm and produces the most efficient throw for the baseball and the bat-head. Dr. Yeager is a PHD in human performance and an expert in the physics and physiology of the baseball swing and throw. He is one of the founders of Iso Baseball. Iso Baseball's mission is to design and develop scientifically based baseball/softball hitting instructional devices/ Please visit http://www.isobaseball.com to learn more. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Chris_YeagerArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6579428

Beginners Need Baseball Hitting Basics

2011-11-12T15:13:00.000-05:00

By Jeffery A Wise Baseball is an all-American sport and it is loved all across North America. It's even becoming more popular in other countries, such as Australia. From a young age, kids develop a love for baseball and they start playing on teams and in leagues. Just as with everything in life, the thousands of yearly baseball beginners need coaching and instruction. They must learn the baseball hitting basics before anything else. A balanced batting stance is important to learn very early on. A child should stand with their feet shoulder length apart and their knees should be slightly bent. Make sure they put their weight on the balls of their feet instead of their heels. When weight isn't properly distributed, it causes kids to swing off balance. Another thing a beginner must learn is how to hold the bat. They should line up their knuckles and grip the bat with their fingers. The bat should be held firmly but not too tightly. Make sure they also don't hold it too loosely as they may drop the bat as they swing or make contact. Of course, having the right bat is important too. A child's age, size and experience will determine which bat is the best for him or her. Allow them to practice holding and swinging several bats to see which size and weight is the most comfortable. Kids also need to constantly be reminded to keep their eyes on the ball and their head down. They will only be able to hit the ball if they are watching it. Teach them to be focused at the plate and to keep their eye on nothing else but the ball. As baseball players learn these important baseball hitting basics, they should then learn how to shift their weight during a swing. During the hitting process, a player's weight should shift from the front, to the back and then to the front again during contact. This technique really helps with power and bat speed. While this can be a difficult technique to learn, once you get it you're guaranteed better hits. To be good at playing baseball, a beginner must be willing to practice often. While baseball is a favorite sport by many, it is also a very difficult sport, especially the hitting aspect. It takes years to be a great hitter. Children should try not to get discouraged if they have a hard time. Most of all, baseball should be fun for all players. Remember that the reason to practice your batting is so that you can get better and practicing baseball hitting basics will give you skills and talent to become the baseball player you want to be. Find out why you should look into quality Cheap Baseball Bats that are comfortable in your hands which could help you out in a big way. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffery_A_WiseArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6587022

Finding a Batting Helmet That Provides Excellent Protection

2011-11-09T15:12:00.000-05:00

By Scott Smoot Sports-related accidents have become more of a concern today as much talked about athletes as well as novice adults, teens and children playing the sport sustain concussions and other types of head injuries. In baseball, a batting helmet that is properly fitted is vital. Playing baseball with no helmet, or with one that doesn't correctly protect the head, is requesting trouble. Brain injuries brought on by wildly thrown pitches can result in bleeding around the brain which leads to cracked skulls or stroke-like bleeding on the brain. Children and teens particularly may become victims of badly thrown pitches or line drives since their fellow players are simply beginning to understand the art of ball control. Even pitchers today are starting to wear batting helmets while on the mound to avoid injuries from line drives aimed right at them. There are many items you should look for when you begin searching for batting helmets. The helmet's protecting padding is its most important feature. Experts suggest that a helmet have a minimum of a half inch of cushioning produced from polystyrene or comparable material to cushion the head. The materials should meet requirements set from the National Operating Committee on Requirements for Athletic Equipment. A few helmet producers offer dual foam construction that consists of an inner layer of high-impact density foam for protection plus an outer coating of memory foam that adjusts to the head, creating a much more secure fit. Players who are comfortable inside their helmets are far more prone to put them on. A batting helmet that offers excellent head protection still will not be well-liked if it hinders the player's capability to see the ball. There are numerous companies that are producing these with new technologies. This engineering can help to eliminate the glare which comes in the helmet's face guard. The technology has been called eye black for sporting equipment. A hot, cumbersome helmet can be another liability that may make players reluctant to utilize it. A helmet manufactured with lightweight supplies offers a much more comfortable fit. Present day helmet also features air vents that permit the player's head to breathe. It's much more pleasant and effective for a mixture to stand in the batter's box awaiting a pitch when perspiration isn't rolling down his or her face. RIP-IT batting helmets are created from the highest quality ABS material. This means they are the only batting helmets to be both functional and amazing to look at. The design of RIP-IT batting helmets takes into account all of the features players need in a batting helmet. If you play softball you know the importance of investing in a high quality bat. There are a variety of fast pitch and slow pitch softball bats bats on the market as well as batting helmets. You will want to test each of these out to see which one will help maximize your performance. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_SmootArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6623253

How to Hit Faster Pitchers

2011-11-06T15:11:00.000-05:00

By Ryan A Knox The Science of Hitting the Fastball Some helpful tips how to face and conquer faster pitchers from Little League all the way up to the pros. When swinging a bat, every hundredth of a second counts. It can make the difference between a fair or foul ball, and also the difference between making contact or 'big whiffing'. That is why hitters spend so much time concentrating on improving bat speed. There are several tips below to help you increase your bat speed, as well as a couple drills. Hopefully, with this information, combined with your determination and hard work, you can see some improvements in your speed and overall improvements in your hitting game. Good luck! Increase Your Bat Speed Every split second counts. Imagine what it would feel like to swing a bat that felt as light as a broom stick. Not only would there be tremendous bat speed, but you'd be able to wait on a pitch and track it longer. That's a nice advantage to have over a pitcher because the longer you can track a pitch, the better you're able to adjust to it's movement. Combine bat speed with correct tracking utilizing visual acuity where the eye-brain connection has you seeing the ball almost in slow motion, and you can immediately understand the difference it could make in your hitting. By adding 1 oz weights gradually to a light makeshift bat, like a broom stick, we can accomplish this. Age and strength will determine your bat weight goal. Once there you can maintain and add more strength by overloading. Do this, but overload without stressing the joints. This will get more power to your bottom(lead) hand which is usually weaker than the top hand. Another great training method is to get a rubber ball about the size of a tennis ball. Squeeze the ball with your fingers (against the palm of your hand) hundreds of times a day. This will work your wrists and forearms. The end result is a stronger pair of wrists that will improve your bat speed through the strike zone. It will also have a good effect on your throwing. This exercise was done by Roberto Clemente when he was a kid. This exercise is very inexpensive. It is also quiet and can be done anywhere, such as class or work, if you do not make a big deal of your activity. One other real good quality exercise I've seen performed by major league hitters is to stand a bats length from a fence and swing the bat and try to keep it from hitting the fence. It helps to keep control of your swing and it will also works your muscles. This is more for control, but also works your muscles that determine reflex speed. Use a Pitching Machine to Increase Bat Speed I've seen increases up to 10 mph after extensive training with a baseball pitching machine. The adjustable speed and consistency of the machines make it easy to set up and work your technique as well as coordination. Training your eyes to "see" the pitches and really know what certain speeds look like as they come out the pitchers hands is a big bonus to having a pitching machine. This takes away a lot of the variables encountered when hitting off a real pitcher in practice or the back yard. You have speed variances, rotation variances, even mechanic variances. Normally these are all good to experience, as they will lend to keeping you on your toes and learning to pick up on different rotations and types of pitches. But for the sole purpose of increasing bat speed, I like to set up a pitching machine at a certain speed, say 60 mph and work 20 to 30 pitches off that. Then increase it by 5 mph and do the same number of pitches. Repeat until you are at the level you want to be at. Then decrease and start to work back down to your starting pitch speed. Then work back up. Once back up to your max speed, hit about 20 more and call it a day. Hey, Rome wasn't built in a day. This will take time and lots of dedication and practice, but the results are well worth it. There are some great pitching machines to be had at really affordable prices. First Pitch makes a model that is relatively inexpensive but the quality is right up there with the big boys of the industry such as Atec and Jugs. Another thing you might be interested in is good batting cages. Not a must, but could keep you out of a few window repair bills. If you don't have access to a pitching machine, go check out a local batting cage. I don't recommend this though, because if you really want to see results you need to do this consistently. And quite frankly, that could get expensive. A lot more than buying a cheap machine for the backyard. Weight Training Lastly, if done correct, weight training can offer increases in your swing. Abdominal Training The trunk (abdominals and low back) creates a powerful twisting motion during the swing. Rotational torque provides speed and momentum to the arms and eventually the bat head. Like other muscles, it is necessary to develop strength by using resistance. A common mistake with abdominal training is to perform body weight resisted exercises and expect the abdominals to continually gain strength. In the beginning you will develop a certain amount of strength. However, after a while the exercises become nothing other than calisthenics or maintenance type movements. To develop strength you must add some sort of resistance to the movement-as is the case in all exercises. The good news is that you can use most of the same traditional stomach exercises plus added weight, to get the desired results. The three areas for you to concentrate on are the lower, upper and oblique abdominals. Upper Abdominals Weighted crunches (non-weighted crunches shown) - Lying on your back with legs up in the air, knees bent at 90 degrees, hold a weight of your choice at straightened arms length. Using only your upper abdominals, raise only the upper body, keeping your back flat on the ground. Three sets of 20-40 repetitions. Lower Abdominals Hanging leg raises - Hang from an overhead bar, with your feet not touching the ground. Your grip should be about shoulder width. Contracting the lower abdominals, lift the legs together, knees bent at 90 degrees, so the knees are just above waist height. Lower and repeat. Three sets of 10-25 repetitions. * This a difficult exercise which does not require much weight to increase the difficulty. Use ankle weights for the resistance. * Do not rock back and forth to make it easier to raise the legs. * To increase difficulty without adding weights, keep your legs straight while lifting them. Rotational Abdominals Standing weighted twists - put yourself into an athletic stance with your feet spread at a comfortable distance and your knees slightly bent. Hold a weight about 6-to-12 inches in front of your body. After a slow warm up, begin to twist at the waist (do not twist or bend at the knees) as rapidly as possible. The key to rapid movement is maintain a low, balanced stance and make sure your shoulder reaches the chin on the twist. Three sets of 20-40 repetitions. Leg Strength Never underestimate the value of leg strength for good, powerful hitting. The legs do not appear active. And in terms of movement, they really are not. But it is the strength of the legs that enable the abdominals and trunk in general, to promote bat speed. As the swing begins, the stride is in place and the body begins to rotate. Without a firm base, the body will not be able to generate any strength from the legs into the trunk. The force is generated from the ground, into the legs, to the trunk and finally the bat. Without leg strength, the force necessary to start a powerful bat is not produced. To take it a step further, the swing might be flawed due to only upper body generation and nothing to stabilize the legs. Basic leg strength has been outlined in previous articles. Do not expect to have the best swing or the most powerful bat if you are only going to work on the upper body and ignore your legs. Forearms Beginning with the grip and finishing with the forearms (the two are connected), the bat head will take the proper path if there is strength in the hands. Notice how I say hands instead of forearms. This is because the grip strength (fingers, hand) is the most important part of forearm strength for baseball. Take a look at a swing and follow through. The movement is not about forearm flexors or extensors. There is really no point in the swing where these movements are dominant. However, the hand and hand strength are involved the entire time. You can have strong forearms, but not necessarily a strong grip. This is why you must work grip-specific exercises into your routine, such as squeezing tennis balls, racquet balls and softballs. This will strengthen the fingers, hand and overall grip. When you add these exercises to the already common wrist curls and reverse wrist curls, you'll have excellent results. Total Body When you are looking for running speed, a powerful swing or mph on your fastball, you don't just work the specific muscles involved. Take the approach that the entire body is a system and when all the parts work together efficiently, the outcome will be much more positive than singling out certain muscles. Train your whole body if you want optimal results, not to mention reducing the risk of injuring yourself. The baseball pitching machine is by far the greatest tool in a hitter's tool kit. As a long time coach, the secret I've found to great hitting has been to work constantly with a pitching machine. It allows the hitter to work alone and not have to rely on someone else's accuracy to replicate pitches. The best is to have a curveball pitching machine, but a standard machine will work also. Again, I cannot recommend or speak more highly of my dealings with Pitching Machines Supply. But I am not here to freely promote them. My focus is to educate young hitters so that they may grow into becoming one of the great hitters of our beloved sport. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_A_KnoxArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6624346

3 Reasons to Wait Until December to Buy Your BBCOR Bat

2011-11-04T15:37:00.000-04:00

By Ryan M Davis As a member of the high school or college baseball ball community you may be faced with a BBCOR Baseball bat purchase in the next 6 months. Given the expensive and uncertain nature of these bats, smart consumers are waiting until December to make their BBCOR bat purchases for a few good reasons. Reason #1 More BBCOR Models coming this fall As we approach the 2012 high school and college season BBCOR production will increase tremendously. BBCOR Bat manufactures are forecasting huge spikes in demand for their products as all high school and college baseball players must swing BBCOR baseball bats in 2012. This unique opportunity to sell tons of bats has bat manufactures and retailers buzzing about a lucrative 2012 baseball bat season. Many manufactures have plans to release new BBCOR models this fall just before the holiday season. With many new BBCOR bats hitting the market later this year it's a good idea to wait until December to ensure you see all the bat industry has to offer. Reason #2 Holiday Discounts The holiday season is typically a great time to purchase new bats as many retailers offer discounts to attract holiday shoppers. It's common for retailers to send out promotional holiday newsletters or email blast just after Thanksgiving or on Cyber Monday. These promotional newsletters and email blasts typically include coupon codes or sale details for their store or website. It may be a good idea to sign up for a few of your favorite retailer's newsletter to ensure you will be included in their holiday promotional efforts. Given the competitive nature of the BBCOR market it's safe to assume retailers will offer aggressive discounts to win sales. With many popular BBCOR models priced above $249.99 waiting until December can save you money! Reason #3 More Feedback on newly released BBCOR Bats One of the best reasons to wait until December to buy your BBCOR bat is the lack of product feedback and reviews currently available. Insightful product reviews can be very helpful when selecting a new bat. Many BBCOR Bats have only been on the market for a few months, and with limited product feedback it's difficult for consumers to make informed decisions. Its fair to assume the longer you can wait the better, as newly released BBCOR bats will have more time to accumulate product reviews. Waiting until December will ensure you have enough product feedback to make the perfect bat purchase. Smart consumers know, it pays to be patient. New product releases, retail promotions and additional product feedback are all great reasons to wait until December to buy your BBCOR baseball bat. About The Author: Ryan Davis is a baseball enthusiast and self proclaimed bat wizard. His website at http://www.bbcorbats.com offers in-depth BBCOR bat reviews, news, price comparisons, videos, products and podcast. Ryan's Free podcast is jam packed with insightful BBCOR information Subscribe for FREE at http://www.bbcorbats.com/bbcor_bats_podcast.html Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_M_DavisArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6428541

The Care and Cleaning of Your Baseball Glove

2011-11-03T15:10:00.000-04:00

By Peter V. John Baseball glove care is often overlooked during the season and the off-season. Many players simply throw their gloves into their bags and walk away. To get the most out of your glove, one must take care of it in season and in the off-season. Here are a few tips for caring for your baseball glove: Keep it clean! Cleaning the glove periodically not only keeps it looking better, but it keeps the pores of the leather clear. Keep your glove dry, wipe off built up dirt with dry cloth. Never soak your glove in water or put it in a microwave oven to dry it off. Keep the glove conditioned with proper baseball glove conditioner. This keeps the glove leather hydrated and supple. After all, a glove's leather was alive at one time. It's skin. While conditioning, you don't need much. Put a small amount of oil on a cloth and lightly rub in and coat the glove. Do not allow oils to soak in as this will cause the leather deteriorate faster. Store a ball in the pocket of the glove. Whether it is in season or off-season, this will help keep the shape of the glove's pocket. Place a baseball or softball in the pocket and tie the glove shut with a rubber band or belt. A regular practice workout of at least 100 good tosses daily will continue to soften the glove and help mold the pocket to your hand. Store the glove in room temperature. Extreme heat will cause it to dry out and become hard. Extreme cold will cause the glove to become hard and not pliable until it warms up. Keeping a baseball glove at a constant room temperature when it is not in use will keep it from deteriorating as quickly. Keep the laces tight. Tighter laces keep the glove in shape. Loose laces are more susceptible to breakage and place tension on other parts of the glove, speeding its breakdown. This can result result in the glove becoming floppy and needing to be replaced sooner than it would otherwise. Quickly replace any frayed or broken laces. Frayed laces will break quickly. Broken laces transfer the tension to other parts of the glove, usually the other laces. Added tensions to these laces cause them to stretch and break quicker. Simply using your glove will keep it in good shape. The more play time your glove experiences, the better it will properly mold to your hand. Once your baseball glove is broken in, it will be ready to serve you for many seasons to come. If you follow these tips, they will help maintain the longevity of your baseball glove and aid in helping you Make the Play! Vinci manufactures a full line of baseball gloves and equipment. Find first baseman mitts, catcher's mitts and more. The Vinci baseball glove break in kit includes a wooden mallet, baseball glove conditioner, rubber bands and a plastic ball. Made for players of any level! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_V._JohnArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6634755

Learn How to Play Baseball While Playing Football

2011-10-31T15:05:00.000-04:00

By Dr. Chris Yeager

Let's discuss some of the best movements (call them drills if you prefer) to help players ingrain a back-arm loading pattern for baseball while playing football. The back arm-loading pattern applies to throwing a football, throwing a baseball and hitting a baseball. It's a universal loading pattern for football and baseball.

So, dad's relax. Your son doesn't have to fall behind in baseball because he is too busy playing football. In fact, it's probably better that you are giving him a break and having him play other sports.

But don't waste your time. Use your time wisely and practice these universal-loading patterns with the football.

Here are some ideas to improve your son's baseball skills while playing football:

1. Walking Rhythm Drill

One great way to introduce the back arm loading pattern movement is to utilize a walking-rhythm with the arm action. The "walking-rhythm" refers to simply stepping laterally (taking your stride) repeatedly down the football field. The back arm will naturally load up as we step. In addition, the "thought" of throwing will naturally develop timing and rhythm within our footwork. We just need to learn to load the arm correctly.

Make sure feet, knees, and waist are set up correctly

-the feet are working straight ahead

-knees bent "one click"

-waist bent "one click"

- and be sure the shoulders drop over the knees.

-The shoulders and elbows should be down and relaxed.

Our feet for the walking drill are set up a little more narrow than it would be for a regular batting session.

2. Use the Football

Because of its size and shape, a football can be very useful in developing an elite level throwing pattern. Remember, this is the same pattern used in hitting a baseball as well. It is easier to see the football turn with the long bone in the upper-arm. As that elbow turns up, the ball turns with it.

This can really help the player feel the turning or the winding up nature from this elite-level loading phase.

Use the same rhythmic lateral stepping pattern moving down the football field saying "load, load, load" as you load the back-arm by turning the bone up and keeping the elbow bent.

3. Isolation Drills

Continuing our focus on phase-one of the back arm, we will isolate the movement for three repetitions with no stride. Then incorporate a live stride for three repetitions, preferably against the live motion. Do this with a football.

We're going to isolate the movement for just three repetitions and really focus on the movement at the shoulder joint as the only action (no step or stride) "load, load, load." Again we're focusing on the out-of-the-glove action, lifting and turning of the long bone in the upper arm with the football.

Next we use a football and simply add a live stride to phase one of the loading phase. Again, the cadence is "load, load, load." As we perform the movement, we want to make sure that the hand stays in front of the shoulder as we turn the elbow up during this loading phase.

The plan is very simple and the movement is easy. It's just going to take some repetitions to make permanent. If you don't get the loading phase of the back arm correct, it's very difficult for your swing or throw to recover.

Go ahead and get better at baseball while you are playing football.

Dr. Yeager is a PHD in human performance and an expert in the physics and physiology of the baseball swing and throw. He is one of the founders of Iso Baseball.
Iso Baseball's mission is to design and develop scientifically based baseball/softball hitting instructional devices/ Please visit http://www.isobaseball.com to learn more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Chris_Yeager

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6637502

How To Control The Bunt

2011-10-28T12:25:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

The utilization of the "Bunt" as an offensive weapon is not a new strategy, thus the rule which declares an automatic third strike call on a batter, who has two strikes and bunts the ball foul. The rule was created in order to prevent a player from being able to continue attempting to bunt until he finally got it right.

With the implementation of the rule the ability to successfully lay a bunt down in no more than two attempts, creating a two strike count on the batter, became more important than ever.

There are two distinct contrary philosophies in baseball pertaining to using the sacrifice bunt as a weapon.

1. Earl Weaver, famous manager of the Baltimore Orioles, eloquently expressed one point of view by stating " I only have 27 outs in a game, why would I give one away?" The idea of trading an out for advancing a runner into scoring position, with the hope he can be driven in, did not set well in that day and age.

2. The second thought process is, trading an out for the increased percentage of being able to score a run by advancing the runner, is no different than increasing your odds by bringing in a left handed pitcher to face a left handed batter.

Differences of philosophy not withstanding, one issue on which there is no disagreement on is Giving up an out without accomplishing the intended goal, is totally unacceptable. In other words, if you're going to bunt to move a runner into scoring position, you'd better be successful.

The key to a successful bunt is the ability to place the baseball in a particular area of the field which prevents the defense from throwing out the lead runner, and that ability is created by having complete control of the bat.

Let's exam a few of the skills required in order to become a proficient bunter.

1. Knowing how to hold the bat, which sounds simple enough, is totally different than your normal batting grip. The bat, instead of being firmly gripped with both hands, is cradled loosely allowing for the bat to move in your hands.

A. Your right hand (right handed hitters) will slide up the barrel of the bat, loosely held with the finger tips, never wrap your fingers around the barrel of the bat placing your fingers in the hitting zone. By holding the bat in this manner you allow the bat to recoil in your hand as the ball strikes the bat, which absorbs the ball's energy, which in turn reduces the travel distance off the bat.

B. Your left hand will firmly grip the handle of the bat, because this hand will control the angle the bat is moved in, which controls the direction the ball will be bunted in. Push your left hand out away from your body and you pull the bat barrel backwards, which will push the ball to the right side of the infield. Pull the bat handle in towards the body and the produced bat angle will push the ball to the left side of the infield.

It's the command of knowing how far to angle the bat, and how firmly to grip the bat head, which will dictate the exact placing, direction wise, and distance wise, which is the key to successful bunting.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

The New BBCOR Baseball Bat Rule in High School Baseball

2011-10-27T15:37:00.001-04:00

By Adam LaGrange The world of high school baseball is changing. A brand new standard for baseball bats will take effect January 1, 2012 for all high schools all over the country. The National Federation of High Schools (NFHS) has ruled that all baseball bats used for high school play will have to be BBCOR certified beginning from the new season. The state of California already had this rule in place for the 2011 season. The NCAA, in addition to the other collegiate associations, also applied the brand new principle for 2011. The acronym, BBCOR, means "Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution." The brand new standard will replace the previous BESR (Ball Exit Speed Ratio) standard that had been in position in the 2011 season. The latter rule measured the ratio of the baseball's exit in comparison to the speed of both the pitch and also the swing of the bat. The BBCOR rating essentially measures the trampoline effect of the bat's walls. I won't bore you with the precise formula for the measurement, but think about the wall of the bat as being a trampoline. When you hop upwards and after that down onto the flexible fabric of the trampoline, it compresses after which it springs back up, so you can leap higher than you would off of a typical floor. The same thing happens using a thin-walled baseball bat. When the baseball hits the bat, the wall of the bat compresses like a trampoline, permitting the baseball to essentially maintain more of its energy and travel farther and a lot quicker away from the bat. The BBCOR standard regulates this trampoline effect, proclaiming that it cannot be over a measurement of.50. All bats shall be forced to contain the BBCOR logo branded on them to be lawful in high school play with the 2012 season. By putting into action this brand new guideline, the NFHS hopes to return the experience more to its roots, when wooden baseball bats were typical. This standard will hopefully bring the overall performance of the bats closer to their wooden cousins. By reducing the speed of the ball, the game will likely be played in different ways. Homeruns will not be as frequent as they have been in recent years. Plus, we'll possibly experience a return to "small-ball." There could also be the chance of hitters to revisit utilizing wooden bats a little more. With the BBCOR bats performing more like wood, batters definitely won't be gaining quite as much when using the non-wooden bats, allowing them to get the personal choice of working with wooden bats again. Safety factors are yet another area the NFHS desires to see a marked improvement with the advent of the BBCOR standard. The lowering of the ball's acceleration should minimize the risk that fielders deal with on the defensive side of the ball, especially for the pitcher. With the gain in safety, it will be interesting to look at how similar leagues follow the NCAA and NFHS. Little League Baseball suspended composite bats last season, but removed the moratorium on specific bats. Will they follow suit and make BBCOR their certification too? Leagues, such as Babe Ruth, Cal Ripken, Pony, etc., don't currently have particular prohibitions on bats currently. Quite possibly, they're waiting around to check how the BBCOR standard plays out in the older age leagues before making a conclusion on their side. Obviously, that is pure speculation on the author's part. Overall, the new guideline really should make the sport a better experience for every individual included. No longer should it be just an offensive highlight as it has been in years past. And, the better safety of the sport will likely be a marked improvement for players, coaches, umpires, and spectators. To learn more about BBCOR baseball bats and baseball bat reviews, please visit www.eBaseballBatReviews. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_LaGrangeArticle Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6453249

How To Hold Runners Close To First Base

2011-10-24T12:24:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

There is a Cardinal rule, especially at the Major League level of play, that a runner steals second base off the pitcher, not the catcher. This rule basically means, by this skill level most, if not all catchers have strong and accurate throwing arms, which makes outrunning the ball to second base nearly impossible. Therefore, the runner must get a good lead off and running start off the pitcher's actions.

Left handed pitchers enjoy a huge advantage over their right handed counterparts when it comes to holding runners at first base, close to the bag. By virtue of their set position, they are looking directly at the runner, easily viewing their lead off, which in itself, limit's the runner's ability to creep too far off the base.

Even without a slide step, a modification to their delivery home, they can freeze a runner by briefly holding their leg lift, a position they can legally throw home or to first base, limiting a runner's attempt to steal second base. A left handed pitcher who does not have a good pick off move to first base is an abnormality, created either by poor coaching or an extraordinary delivery issue which can not be modified or risk negative affects to the entire pitching mechanics.

Unfortunately, for pitchers anyway, most hurlers are right handed, which poses an entirely different set of cat and mouse games between the pitcher and the runner attempting to steal second base. The lefty has a natural advantage, but with a little training and a strong mental game, a right handed pitcher can be just as effective holding runners close to first base as his counterpart.

Timing affects every aspect of baseball. You time your swing when hitting, time your leap when trying to catch a line drive over your head, you time your throw while completing a double play. Disrupt or somehow otherwise throw the timing off and the chances of successfully accomplishing your goal diminished.

Destroying a runner's timing is the first and easiest thing a pitcher can do in order to discourage a runner from stealing, but he must be conscious of what he's trying to accomplish. Pitchers have a tendency, especially if they're throwing well, to establish a pattern in their delivery. When they're in a groove, they want the catcher to get the ball back to them and they quickly go to their pitching position to throw again. There's no thinking, no caution, just get the signal and throw. Runners easily pick up on this routine and can gauge their leadoff and jump, based on the pitcher's pattern of actions.

When a hitter gets on base, and of course they will, the pitcher must make a quick mental adjustment in his delivery. It's important to note here, there's a fine line between being aware of the runner, and being consumed with the runner. The pitcher can not lose track of what he's attempting to do with the batter in an effort to keep the runner from stealing.

Should he make this mistake, he'll either walk the batter, now there's two runners on base, or serve up a fat Home Run pitch. Neither scenario is good.

After receiving the catcher's signal and coming to a set stretch pitching position, the pitcher simply holds the ball a varying amount of time before throwing to the plate. Although that sounds quite simple, it is extremely effective in "taking the legs" away from the runner.

Another method is, from the stretch position, hold the ball, then step backwards off the rubber with your right foot and break your hands apart. By doing this the pitcher can throw to first, fake a throw, pretty well do anything he wants, which forces the runner to retreat back to first base.

As a last resort, or first if it's a planned pick off play, a pitcher can throw over to first, forcing the runner back to the base.

The key to keeping runners close to first base is variance of pitching mechanics which will tend to destroy the runner's timing and limit their lead should they attempt to steal.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

How to Bunt in Baseball

2011-10-20T12:23:00.000-04:00

By Thomas E Wilson

Most baseball players enjoy hitting. Baseball players absolutely love being the one up there at the plate smacking line drives along with the occasional long ball. These players enjoy hitting so much that they may do a huge selection of baseball workouts and hitting drills to improve their game. Unfortunately, simply because we all love batting so much, sometimes understanding the way to bunt correctly is disregarded. Many times, players (mainly younger ones) think that bunting is for players who aren't very good at hitting. That is just not accurate by any means! Bunting is a hugely important skill in the game of baseball, that can make the difference between your team winning and your team losing. It definitely isn't the most glorious thing to do, but it's necessary that you learn how to bunt and when to bunt.

When you bunt, you're hoping to achieve 1 of 2 things. You either want to advance a baserunner to the next base or you want to get a base hit. Occasionally if you're lucky you're able to do both!

Sacrifice Bunting: The objective of sacrifice bunting is to move a baserunner to the next base. When sacrifice bunting, you want to start in your standard batting stance. Before the ball is released from the pitcher's hand you want to square your whole body so it is facing the pitcher. Squaring early on makes it a lot easier for you to see the incoming pitch. Be sure that your weight is on the balls of your feet and you are in an athletic position with your feet shoulder width apart and your knees slightly bent. Hold the baseball bat out over the plate with one hand one third up the baseball bat from the knob, and the other hand two thirds up the bat from the knob, pinching the barrel of the bat with your right hand.

It is extremely crucial to hold the bat parallel to the ground or the barrel end of the baseball bat higher than the knob end of the baseball bat while sacrifice bunting. You should bend your knees if you are intending to bunt a low strike instead of lowering the barrel of the bat with your hands. If the barrel of the bat is closer to the ground than the knob, it's probable that you will pop up the bunt.

Bunting for a Hit: When bunting for a hit, you should use the same exact technique as sacrifice bunting except for a couple of things. The first is you want to surprise the opposing team and reveal the bunt as late as possible. Wait until the pitcher is at least releasing the ball to show the bunt. The later the better. The second difference is your stance. As an alternative to squaring your body towards the pitcher, you should stay in your batting stance and pivot both your feet so your toes are pointing at the pitcher. This allows you to be ready to bunt quicker so you're more likely to surprise the opposing team. Basically, everything else is the same as the sacrifice bunt.

Are you interested in improving your game and being the best baseball player you can be? If so, check out http://www.BestBaseballWorkouts.com to find more helpful information as well as baseball workouts and hitting drills that will take your game to the next level!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_E_Wilson

Developing Poor Hitters? Wooden Bats Vs Aluminum

2011-10-16T12:22:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

The number one fear I have is, Are we developing a generation of poor hitters without realizing it? Are screaming line drives, hit by 70 pound kids, the result of excellent hitting mechanics or the result of the bat he's using? One must begin to consider this scenario as composite baseball bats are beginning to be banned by little league, high school and college levels as illegal because they are becoming dangerous.

It's a scientific fact composite and aluminum bats add 20 to 30 feet of distance to a hit ball. They are very forgiving of a swing which produces "bad contact" or "mis-hits" resulting in a Texas League line drive into right field instead of a soft line drive to the second baseman. True and very knowledgeable baseball people would find it nearly impossible to determine which Pinging Sound was the result of solid contact or a miscue with their eyes closed.

We really don't know for sure what kind of hitters we are developing until they begin hitting with wooden bats.

Looking To The Future: Advise to Coaches

Coaches at the higher age and talent level should take it upon themselves to perform some real soul searching and look at what might be the Best for their players, although it will place the win - loss record in jeopardy.

Players with enough talent to be seriously scouted by Major League Scouts, or college for that matter, should intensely consider switching from an aluminum bat and begin using a wooden baseball bat.

I realize this is a Catch 22 with possibly huge impacts on the player's numbers. A 30 home run season suddenly becomes a 20 or even 18 home run season. Texas league base hits, which add to the batting average, become outs and more than likely the number of Extra base hits go down. High prices to pay when trying to accumulate spectacular numbers in which to impress scouts.

However, there is a positive flip side. Should the hitter discover, by the sound and results of using a wooden baseball bat, his hitting mechanics aren't quite as good as thought, he has time to adjust and correct the flaws before being thrust into a higher level, A ball for example, and suddenly realize he has issues. *** Rookie level Minor League Baseball forward prohibits using anything but a wooden baseball bat. ***

Secondly, Baseball Scouts, although far from perfect, look at how many teams passed by Albert Pujos in the draft, are not stupid people in regards to baseball issues. They see and realize a player using a wooden baseball bat hitting.303 with 12 home runs and 60 RBIs, is a much better hitter than the player hitting.340 with 20 home runs and 80 RBIs while using an aluminum bat.

Bottom line: We don't know what kind of a hitter a player is until he's forced to use a wooden bat.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

Basic Skills To Play Outfield

2011-10-12T12:21:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

Sometimes we attempt to begin running before we totally know how to walk, then wonder why we're struggling so much, such is the case with playing the outfield in baseball. There's a whole lot more to properly playing the position than just catching fly balls.

Since catching fly balls is a main stay of playing the outfield, let's examine the proper method of achieving that goal.

1. You must begin each pitch in the ready position, which is the body slightly bent forward, keeping our center of gravity high, weight on the balls of your feet, both hands up, not down at your side and you begin to slowly walk forward as the pitch is made, putting your body into motion. It's quicker to change direction of motion, than to create motion if standing still.

2. Always run full speed to the ball. There are of course times you'll be forced to make a catch while in a full sprint, but it's easier, if possible, to get to the place the ball will land and wait for the ball. Never get into a habit of trying to look cool by timing your speed to catch the ball while moving. Number one, it ain't cool and it'll destroy proper throwing mechanics after making the catch.

3. Always try to position yourself a couple of feet farther than you judge where the ball will land. By doing this you are able to be moving forward when catching the fly ball, they refer to it as Running Through the ball, which gives you momentum towards the infield, allowing you to make a strong throw back into the infield, with increased accuracy and velocity.

4. When a ball is hit directly at you, which is the hardest ball to determine it's flight, your first reaction should be to turn sideways and step backwards. By making this your first move, you can accelerate should you determine the ball is going over your head, but if you see the ball is shallow, it's much quicker and easier to reverse direction and go forward than reverse to going backwards.

***Plus, if a ball drops in front of you, it's a base hit, but one over your head is most likely a home run.***

5. There will be times where you'll be in a position of either catch the fly ball or the game's over. For example, winning run on third base, two outs and a sinking line drive is hit to your field. If you don't catch the ball for the third out, the runner easily scores and the game's over.

There are two techniques to use in the Do or Die situations, which will increase your chances of catching and holding on to ball and decrease your chances of injury.

A. On a diving catch attempt, as you hit the ground to use a shoulder roll to absorb the majority of the shock of hitting the turf and finish with your glove facing up. The transfer of shock to the body reduces the chance of injury and doesn't produce enough of an impact to knock the ball out of your glove.

B. On a sliding catch attempt, you slide with your glove on the side of the baseball. You don't want to be trying to catch the ball across your body, then use a pop up slide technique to regain your footing. In this particular instance there is no need for further action after the catch, but in others you may have to throw after making the catch and you can't throw from your backside.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

Staying The Course In Baseball

2011-10-08T12:19:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

Arguably, Albert Pujols is the best baseball player playing the game today, if not ever in the history of baseball. His numbers the first the ten years of his career are all but astounding, with Hall of Fame RBI, Home Run and Walk, both intentional and "just a good eye" numbers.

However, the start of the 2011 season have been anything but kind to Pujols. His home run numbers are way down, his strike outs are way up, and he has hit into an incredible amount of double plays. It appeared Albert's magical ride to the Hall of Fame was taking a detour.

Yet, Albert Pujols maintained there was nothing wrong and although his offensive production, which would have been good for 80% of major league players, suffered, his sparkling defensive play never wavered.

The National sports media and the St. Louis local sports all began printing what they considered what Pujols' problem was. Many thought the pressure and distraction of the contract difficulties he was encountering with the Cardinals was the main culprit, while others began to question if his Super Star abilities had somehow waned and prophesized the end of his career.

Yet, Albert Pujols maintained there was nothing wrong with him and simply asked for patience from the media and the fans. The St. Louis fans were not an issue, as they adore Pujols, but he felt the pressure of disappointing them. The media, of course was a different story, as they say "bad news sells newspapers," and they stayed on the story like a shark feeding frenzy.

Being from St. Louis and an avid Cardinals fan since I was six years old, I felt the panic which gripped the city, a city which loves their Cardinals even more than their Busch and Bud Lite beer, and it was disconcerting for me.

I didn't realize until well underway with my investigation, that I had inadvertently became an imaginary Cardinal coach and had taken it upon myself to figure out what was wrong with Pujols. If I was attending a game, I was glued to the big screen television, observing and scrutinizing every little motion of Pujols while he batted.

I analyzed the way he stuck his tongue out while hitting, thinking maybe if he was sticking it out too far, it was throwing his balance off. I would hit the pause button stopping the action and peered at where Pujols would pick his foot up, then set it back down, reasoning that could definitely negatively affect his swing.

For what seemed like months, I watched Albert who never varied anything in his batting stance, including sticking his tongue out. Albert continued to maintain there was nothing wrong, but his performance wasn't quite verifying that position.

It happened against the Chicago Cubs, fittingly enough for the hated Cubbies, Albert proved there was nothing wrong. He had two massive walk off home runs on two back to back days and began a streak of power hitting which quickly had opposing pitchers, who had been challenging Albert, pitching around him.

Albert was in deed right. There had been nothing wrong and he was proving it, but Pujols doing what Pujols does, is not what impressed me about the entire situation. What impressed me, while humbling me for questioning, was the attitude Pujols took through the entire ordeal and it should be a lesson for all ball players young and old.

Albert knew what he had done and how he did it the past 10 years was the proper thing to continue doing. He had proven his numbers were not a fluke, 10 years of consistent numbers is not a fluke. It would have been easy for Albert to have begun tinkering with his hitting mechanics, opening his stance, dropping his hands or a number of other changes which players try to get out of their slump.

Albert held the course because he knew he was right. Young players should pay special heed to this action and courage. If you know you're right, past performance verifies what you're doing works... stay the course. Not until you begin to question your hitting mechanics, and I'm not talking an 0-4 game or even two in a row, I'm talking you feel uncomfortable at the plate, do you begin altering your hitting mechanics.

This is a great lesson in courage and doing what you know what is right.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

Baseball Pitching Grips

2011-10-04T12:19:00.000-04:00

By R. Nelson

Several kinds of pitches are appropriate for the young pitcher's repertoire, including the fastball, curveball, slider, and several types of change-ups. Knuckleballs, knuckle curves, slip pitches, and spitballs will not be discussed - these gimmick pitches are not good for young pitchers because they either injure the arm or do not help develop the arm.

First and foremost, a pitcher needs to develop his fastball. This is his staple, and he will throw 50 to 100 percent of the time. A pitcher also needs a pitch that changes speeds, such as a change-up or a curveball (the curveball also adds movement). When the pitcher masters the fastball and change-up, then - and only then-should he work on a breaking ball.

Once he has mastered the fastball, change-up, and curveball and can throw them with control; these should be all the pitches a young pitcher needs. He can add a slider at a later time, depending on the success of the curveball. It is very difficult to throw both the curveball and the slider because of the different mechanics, so a pitcher should choose one or the other.

The fastball is the first pitch learned and should be used more than any other pitch in the repertoire. Obviously velocity, control, and movement of the fastball dictate how often and in what situations the fastball will be used. When a pitcher is learning to throw the fastball, he should make a conscious effort to learn control and movement first, and then add velocity later. This principle applies even more for the higher-level baseball pitchers.

By slightly changing the basic fastball grips, a pitcher can get various results. Variations of the fastball are four seam, two seam, cut, and sinker. The first fastball to master is the four seam fastball. The pitcher should prove that he has good control of this pitch before he attempts to throw any others.

The two-seam fastball has more movement because of the grip and therefore is harder to control than the four-seam fastball. The pitcher should throw the four-seam fastball until he has proven that he has mastered the strike zone. The two-seam fastball becomes more important to the older pitcher who does not have an outstanding arm and must rely more on movement than on speed. The two-seam fastball moves to the pitching-arm side of the plate. Often it will also sink, producing a pitch that tails away and down.

Place your index and middle fingers directly on top of the ball's narrow seams. Then place your thumb directly on the bottom side of the ball on the white leather between the narrow seams. Grip this pitch slightly farther back in the hand, as this will lead the ball to "back up" and change direction. The additional drag created from the grip generates the change in direction.

The cut fastball moves away from the pitcher's throwing side. A right-handed pitcher's cut fastball moves from right to left with approximately 95 percent of the velocity of the ultimate fastball. In the cut fastball grip, the thumb slides to the outside of the center line of the baseball. With the thumb slid over, the baseball is held slightly off center and therefore does not have a regular top-to-botom fastball rotation. Instead, the ball has

slightly more sidespin and runs away from the pitcher's throwing side. It's a very effective pitch, just ask Mariano Rivera!

The cut fastball and the slider are similar in that both balls are held off center. The slider, however, is held more off center and therefore breaks down as well as away. The cut fastball is excellent training for the slider.

Learn more at Baseball Pitching Grips

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Living With Failure

2011-09-30T12:18:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

For the sake of it's not important, I'll not identify the MLB relief pitcher, except to say he's one of the best in the league, who blew a 6 run lead in the 7th inning.

I must admit I was upset to witness, actually I didn't witness it because I turned the channel, the home team have a sure winner snatched away from them. It was devastating for the team and myself, who had been celebrating the end of a horrific 3 game losing streak which had cost them first place.

At times, when I sulk, revelations seem to appear, which puzzle me and on which I'm forced to ponder the meaning. While sitting on the patio and staring up at the stars, wondering why lady luck had so frowned on my team, I experienced one such thought.

If I felt this terrible, and I was a nobody, just another fan, how must the relief pitcher feel? He had let his team mates down, had made a mockery of a manager's decision to use him instead of another pitcher and did it all on national television where millions could watch.

What was he to say to the starting pitcher, who had pitched his guts out for 6 hard innings, or the mate whose home runs were wasted and the player injured giving 110% striving for the win?

How do players live with that sort of failure? An interesting question for which I had to retreat to the memories of my youth, to the days of eternal optimism and willingness to listen to those wiser than myself.

I recollected a particular game which I had attempted to win Worse Player of the Month honors, which left me angry, embarrassed and just plain miserable. I was annoyed, and a little fearful, when the coach came up to me where I was sitting on a parking lot curb.

"Failure breeds Success," he simply said, then walked away. It took me awhile to understand what his words meant, but they have helped me in my life every since. Let me explain.

If you're not failing at something which is new or difficult, you're either not trying or the task is not difficult after all. Learning to hit a round baseball, traveling 95 mph and jumping, with a round bat, with @ .7 seconds to decide whether to swing... well, it breeds a lot of failure.

However, with each hit, the failure decreases ever so slightly as if a one for one swap, until the logistics of mathematics begins enforcing its will. At that point we hit, hopefully, an acceptable failure rate, which ironically becomes an unusually high rate of success, such as a.400 batting average.

Players should never become comfortable with failure, but they need to realize it's a fact of life and will happen. Instead of wrestling with the feeling of failure, embrace the feeling of perseverance, which says I will not fail next time.

That attitude will have you eagerly anticipating the next challenge, a chance to succeed, instead of dreading it, fearing failure. I guess that's what keeps a relief pitcher going after blowing a lead.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

Unique Baseball Drills

2011-09-26T12:17:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

While observing an advanced skill level team practice have you ever noticed a metal folding chair setting somewhere around the dugout, bull pen or other area adjacent to the practice field? If you have, you've probably either noticed it, but it didn't register or raise any questions in your mind, or you just figured it was for a coach to sit and take a break.

Did it ever occur to you that you were looking at a very important training tool? You heard me right... a baseball training aid which is utilized for rather unique and skill specific training.

We teach hitting mechanics in a systematic building block process which includes, but is not limited to the legs, core, hips, shoulders, wrists and starting mechanisms. Sometimes a player will develop a problem, or bad habit, with one or more of these elements which must be corrected.

The use of the metal folding chair, or a similar chair devise, as a coaching tool begins here. For instance:

1. If a player develops a bad habit of opening his hips too soon while swinging, he will either hit an excessive amount of foul balls to his left, if a right handed hitter, or to his right if a left handed hitter, or pull off the ball, which shortens his bat length and prevents him from being able to reach a pitch on the outside of the plate.

In order to correct this problem, it is imperative you remove the legs and hips as part of the swinging process. By having the player sit in the chair, with his ankles wrapped around the front legs, you accomplish this goal. The coach will soft toss a ball to the player and the player will swing, attempting to hit the ball solidly, but will only be able to utilize his core, shoulders and arms.

Repetitive use of this drill will retard the impulse of opening the hips too soon, as the muscle memory of the core will over ride, yet work in conjunction with the hips and legs, resulting in a quick bat and power generated from the entire body.

2. On the defensive side of the coin, the chair is utilized for drills which increases hand speed and fielding ability. Obviously the legs are an integral part of fielding just as they are with hitting, but there are times the legs will get a fielder where he wants to go, to the ball, in time, but a bad hop occurs which tests the fielder's ability to quickly adapt with his hands and glove.

The player will sit in the chair slightly bent over in a semi-fielding position. The coach will position himself about 10 foot away, facing the player and throw tennis or rubber balls at him in various ways.

The reason tennis or rubber are used instead of a regular baseball is they bounce better, can be made to bounce and skid erratically and for safety as the player is restricted in his movement.

The fast paced drill requires the fielder to react quickly with only his glove and upper body, which replicates the identical situation presented by a bad hop. Repetitive use of this drill will increase the players' hand speed and agility.

So next time you're at a practice field, don't just look...actually see what's going on. There's no telling what you might learn.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on hitting baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

The Best Way to Stop Your Fear of Being Hit by a Pitch

2011-09-22T12:16:00.000-04:00

By Thomas E Wilson

For some young baseball players one of the leading troubles to overcome in baseball is the fear of being hit by a pitch while batting. This fear is the reason behind many technical problems at the plate, the most significant being "stepping in the bucket" where you step away from the plate as you swing. It is basically impossible to be a good hitter if you're afraid of the ball. As former Boston Red Sox player Carl Yastrzemski stated, "If you're afraid of being hit, you might as well not bother going up to the plate at all. You can't hit the ball if you're afraid it will hit you." While this may be a big fear to overcome, with a little hard work and effort it can be done.

The very first thing you should do for you to overcome your fear of being hit by a pitch would be to realize why you are scared of it. You're likely scared of being hit by a pitch because you don't want to be harmed or in pain. Well, if you master how to avoid getting injured when a pitch is coming at you, you will most certainly be less scared of the ball hitting you. If you are going to get hit by a pitch, the ideal spot to get hit is on the back or side of your body. So rather than bailing out and exposing the front of your body you should turn towards the backstop in a clockwise direction (if you are right-handed) so that your back is what gets hit. If you get hit in the back or side you will not be in as much pain as you would be in if you got hit in other places.

Now that you realize what to do if a pitch is coming at you, you should repair your confidence in acknowledging that if the pitch does hit you, it's not going to hurt significantly because it will hit your back or side. A terrific drill to perform will be to have somebody kneel ten feet from the hitter and throw rolled up socks for the player to swing at (only if they're strikes). Once in a while throw a rolled up sock at the batter and have him turn away from the pitch the proper way rather than step away from the pitch.

As soon as the player gets the hang of it using socks, progress to tennis balls, and after that soft tee-balls. As soon as the hitter feels safe knowing it does not hurt very much when the ball hits his back and he is not stepping in the bucket even with soft tee-balls, start using normal baseballs. Throw some batting practice as you would normally, but throw a couple of pitches directly at him. If he uses the right technique of turning away from the pitch, he'll soon recognize that it doesn't hurt very much to get hit in the back or side even using a normal baseball. His overall confidence while hitting will improve and he will have the ability to hit the ball better than ever as he will be striding towards the pitch instead of away from it.

It is really depressing that a lot of young baseball players with a lot of potential never succeed and often quit playing just because they're afraid of being hit by a pitch. We all have fears and it's important, whether we are referring to baseball or life in general, to conquer those fears. By working hard and digging deep, you'll be able to get over this fear with no problems and get back to your baseball workouts and doing your best at the game.

In addition, if you are interested in improving your game, check out www.BestBaseballWorkouts.com to find more helpful information as well as baseball workouts and training programs for sale that will take your game to the next level!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_E_Wilson

How to Throw a Strike in Baseball

2011-09-18T12:14:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

How difficult can it be to throw a strike in baseball? I mean, we're not talking painting the corner with a slider or bending an arching curve ball, we're simply throwing a simple fastball for a strike. Let's establish, then examine the facts involved in throwing strikes.

The regulation pitching distance for High School players and older, is 60' 6" and if the pitcher is 5' 11" or taller, after his stride he is @ 55' away from home plate. From that mere distance, he must throw the baseball inside a 17", width of home plate, by 3' to 4' high, depending on the batters size, box.

Those measurements appear to be a very large target to hit from a relatively close distance, not a particularly difficult task to accomplish. If we stopped our investigation at this point we'd most likely have to conclude, throwing a strike in baseball is easy.

However, there is one unanswered question which cast doubt on our conclusion. Why is it, at particular times, a major league baseball pitcher who is paid millions of dollars a year to throw strikes, absolutely can not throw two strikes in a row?

Obviously they have the ability and history of being quite capable of throwing consistent strikes, but if they fail, how can we expect our youngsters to succeed, and what happens when this inability to control their throws occurs.

In my opinion, the first thing a young pitcher needs to learn and continue to improve, is concentration or focus on what he's attempting to do. I believe sometimes, even though they are professionals, major league pitchers lose focus and that is what negatively effects their control.

So how do we retain or learn to focus while pitching? Let's examine the steps in which we can accomplish this.

We take a deep breath, exhaling we totally shut the activities, noise and actions going on around us, out of our mind. Don't mistake this for ignoring the circumstances of the situation you're in. You still must be aware if there are base runners on, strike and ball count, number of outs and who you're pitching to. I'm referring to the buzz of traffic, the voice of a particularly annoying fan or the crying of a baby, these are the distractions we shut out in order to remove clutter and chaos from our mind. Our main purpose at this point, is to regain a calming order in which to begin our refocusing.

As we stand on the pitching rubber, and after receiving the signals, we peer into the catcher's mitt and imagine a quarter being pasted to the pocket of the catcher's mitt. We don't want our thrown ball to hit the mitt, rather we want to hit that quarter.

After establishing our image of that quarter we want to hit, we visually, through imagery, change that quarter to a dime. We have regained focus by visualizing a quarter inside the catcher's mitt, then narrowed our focus to a laser beam by reducing the target to a dime. Visualize the baseball hitting that dime.

Once you begin your wind-up never remove your eyes from that dime. Continue this refocusing on every pitch until you regain your natural pitching motion and pattern, settling back into a normal pitching routine.

As an additional tip, if need be call time out and talk to your catcher and tell him what you want to do. Some catchers will offer a target, then bring it down as they shift weight, then re-establish it. That may be fine if you're not struggling, but until you regain your composure and focus you'll require a steady established target on which to concentrate.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

Finding Inexpensive Catchers Gear Sets Online

2011-09-14T12:13:00.000-04:00

By Dorothy Gathany

While this article talks about baseball equipment in general, buying catchers equipment can be even more daunting for a first time player parent. A safe bet for catchers gear sets is either Mizuno catchers gear or Easton catchers gear. Both are rated high in safety and quality. They both have good youth catchers mitts as well.

Finding softball or baseball equipment for any little league player in the household is surely an interesting yet frustrating experience. Selecting the right baseball mitt or softball glove often makes a key change with just how well ones ball player fields his or her position. Considering a suitable length and weight of the baseball or softball bat is really a difference maker in their capability to hit the softball. Last of all, accessories like hitting gloves, equipment backpags or spikes can really help your player fit in with his / her teammates and feel like an authentic player.

Yet, it's amazing how little time and attention many parents give these aspects when they are going to be investing numerous hours driving their own young players to practice sitting at ball games. Here is some instruction advice. In segment 1 of this three section post, I will discuss searching for baseball mitts A general opinion to start with regarding internet based shopping. Considering baseball gloves and bats should be personal selections for your ballplayer, you ought to check out sports stores to test softtball or baseball gloves or swing bats. But bear in mind, when you know what you would like, get it on line and help save the 15-25% off list that internet retailers offer. (In most cases with no cost shipping) This can save you large sums over time, particularly when finding replacement equipment batting gloves, sliding shorts or other sorts of sofball & baseball equipment.

Let's touch upon baseball or softball glove choices. First, pricing; Mitts range from $40-50 for beginning ballplayers to several hundred dollars for high school and college baseball players. Youth ballplayers - Don't buy the toy mitts you can get in shops such as toy stores or discount department stores. Those tiny mitts can be lousy for catching the baseball, don't ever soften up as legitimate baseball gloves do and are also too small to help the youngster grab even a marginally errant throw. I cringed whenever I watched a young youngster (5-8 years of age) bring one of those to my 1st practice. It suggested that the parents knew nothing about the game, didn't make time to have a look at just a few basics or were too cheap to make a modest investment in a glove that might last 3-4 years if they bought the correct baseball glove. 2nd, sizing; Make sure that when the young softball or baseball player wiggles their fingers in the mitt, the fingertips in the mitt move.

In the event their smaller fingers don't move the glove fingertips, the glove is just too big. 3rd, expend extra on the glove as the young player shows the eagerness and competence with the sport. High-end Rawlings gloves, the Wilson A2000 (baseball) or Nokona mitts (softball) when broken in and conditioned correctly will often last for years and can help ones young player do better. Lastly, if the ballplayer desires a first basemens mitt or perhaps a catcher's mitt, hold back until they are at the least 10 then pick a quality mitt. Bear in mind, unless your ballplayer requires a left handed baseball or softball mitt for 1st base, right handed first basemens gloves may be a gamble as often lefty pitchers play at 1st whenever they aren't pitching. The opposite holds true for catchers mitts, there are not lots of left handed catchers and for that reason investing in a left handed catchers mitt may be a waste of cash. In my up coming installment, Let me discuss bat options.

Dorothy Gathany
You can find catchers gear and catchers equipment online here

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dorothy_Gathany

Why Composite Youth Baseball Bats Outperform Aluminum Youth Baseball Bats

2011-09-10T12:12:00.000-04:00

By Todd Hester

The three main differences that make a composite bat outperform an aluminum or wood bat have to deal with trampoline effect, swing weight, and vibration.

Trampoline effect has to do with what happens to the bat and ball when they collide. Manufacturers can vary the stiffness of the barrel of a composite bat which can increase or decrease the speed the ball comes off the barrel when hit. Making the barrel softer decreases energy loss and in turn increases the speed the ball is hit. An easy way of looking at this is whether the ball gives or the bat gives when contact between the two is made. The ball is what gives when hit by a hard surface like aluminum or wood. The ball giving instead of the bat reduces the energy created by the pitcher and batter and slows down the speed in which the ball leaves the bat. A composite bat can be made stiff at the handle yet softer at the barrel. This softer barrel enables the wall of the bat to give instead of the ball which helps maintain the energy created by the pitcher and batter.

Swing weight is a term used to describe how heavy a bat feels when you swing it instead of the weight the bat actually is sitting still. Manufacturers can lessen swing weight when dealing with composite by making the center of gravity closer to the handle. This increases bat speed which in turn increases the speed the ball comes off the bat. A simple way to compare this is to swing any bat by the handle and then turn it around and swing it by the barrel. This is a little extreme but you can see how moving more of the weight closer to where you hold the bat makes the bat much lighter to swing.

Anyone who has ever used an aluminum bat and missed hitting the ball on the sweet spot of the bat knows how much it can sting your hands. This is caused by the vibrations in the bat. Composite bats have a lower bending stiffness which lessens vibrations in a bat which in turn reduces this stinging effect. Also, composite bats have a greater damping rate which has to do with how long the bat vibrates after contact. Composite bats are considered more forgiving by players when they miss hit a ball because they do not feel the sting in their hands.

The future of composite bats is up in the air right now due to the concern of the safety of the pitcher and infielders. The fact that the ball comes off the bat at a greater speed than a wood or aluminum bat reduces the reaction time the pitcher and infielders have to get a glove on the ball. On December 30th, 2010 Little League officials announced a complete moratorium on all composite bats until they could be tested to see how fast the ball comes off the bat. This came at a horrible time considering lots of little boys got new expensive composite bats for Christmas. Since then a few composite bats have been tested and approved for Little League use. I suggest visiting Little League's official web site or asking the commissioner of the league your child plans to play in before purchasing an expensive composite bat.

Todd has been coaching Little League Baseball for several years. During his coaching career he has witnessed several players using the wrong size baseball bat. For this reason he has put together a site that will teach you everything you need to know to turn an average player into a Great Baseball Player which includes bat size charts to insure you buy the right size baseball bat for your Little League player. He has a new website telling all about the different types of youth baseball bats at http://www.baseballbatsyouth.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Todd_Hester

Common Sense Coaching, Four Things Little League Teams Should Practice, But Don't!

2011-09-06T12:11:00.000-04:00

By Marty Schupak

It is amazing how Little League baseball teams and beyond do not practice some fundamental aspects of the game. From my standpoint, the reason I practice certain things other coaches may not is because I've been burned by other teams and have lost games and championships because of it. In my 21 years coaching youth baseball, the list of things that should be practiced is long but some situations come up over and over again. Here are four of them:

1) Pitchers not practicing fielding. This issue is incredible to me, though it took a few years before I began having my pitchers practice fielding. When youth baseball teams practice fielding, usually it will include every position but the pitcher. Youth baseball coaches need to put pitchers on the mound in practice and include them in fielding drills. Coaches also need to rotate the pitchers. Have the pitcher to go through his pitching motion without the ball. The coach then throws or hits a baseball to him. And not just right at him. Hit the balls to the left, center and right of him. Then put one or more runners on base and declare how many outs there are and continue hitting to him and let him decide which base to throw to. Try also having the coach hit ground balls to the pitcher on the mound and instead of trying to catch it clean, he has to knock it down, establish himself and then field the ball. The drills work and also get pitchers familiar with game situations.

2) Catching a foul ball near a fence. I swear I'm the only one in my league who takes this serious. Probably because I've seen more catchable foul balls hit the ground than any team in my league. The scenario usually starts with a pop fly just foul of first base. The ball moves deeper into foul territory. The first baseman looks like he has a beat on the ball as he gets closer to the fence or dugout. He then looks like he is hesitating the further he moves into foul territory. Then "plop"! The ball falls right near his feet about 12-24 inches from the fence. Of course we all know the consequences of giving away outs in youth baseball. This stuff kills me. So how can we coaches rectify this? At least once a year usually before the season I do the "Fence Drill" with my team. I first start on the first base side having the players line up behind each other about 6 feet from the fence in foul territory parallel to first base. I'm located around home plate. I throw pop ups as close to the fence as I can and instruct my players to track the ball. As they do this they should come right near the fence and either with their glove hand if they are a rightie or free hand for lefties, put their arm out feeling for the fence then proceed to track and catch the ball from there. This is getting them used to feeling for structures while keeping their eye on the ball. It makes them more comfortable and helps limit the fear of getting hurt. I then move the line closer to fair territory eventually moving the line where every player is a first baseman and has to hustle to feel for the fence first then catch the ball. I then move the line to the third base side of the infield. Is this drill fool proof? Absolutely not! But I did notice a few more catches over the course of a season if we practiced this drill!

3) Players not sliding at every base. This is tough one. I've seen major leaguers not slide and cost their team runs. The Yankees-Oakland A's 2001 American League Championship series comes to mind when Derek Jeter made that great backhand flip to home and Jeremy Giambi didn't slide and cost his team a run and possibly the game and series. You can preach and preach for players to slide but they will continue to forget to slide. As youth coaches, we have to remember that these are 10, 11 and 12 year old kids and their retention is different than say a high school player. But this is also something that you can practice instead of just telling the player when it comes up in a regular game. I want my players to slide on a force play even if they know they will be thrown out. To me having a reputation even on the youth level that my team slides might become a potential distraction for the opposition and the fielders might bobble a throw to them at the base. When we practicing sliding, I take my team in the outfield grass and have my players remove their cleats. I have a diamond set up with throw down bases. We go through a few scenarios rotating players having them slide in the grass and this process helps. We reinforce for them to slide during the game from the coaching box. Again, not fool proof, but very effective.

4) Practicing fielding a wild pitch or passed ball with at least one player on third base. In youth baseball usually not a game goes by without a wild pitch or a passed ball. When there is a base runner on third base, he has a better than 50% chance of scoring if he has just average speed. Let's break this down from the defensive end. The pitcher pitches and the ball gets by the catcher. The pitcher recognizes this and rushes home to protect against the runner on third from scoring. His head is going back and forth between the baserunner coming from third and the catcher getting ready to make the toss. Many times the toss from the catcher is off target or the pitcher swoops down to tag the runner without the ball. Very few coaches practice this other than to yell out to the pitcher, "Cover home if the ball gets by the catcher" when the situation comes up in a game. To practice this, set up the positions with a baserunner at third. Plant a ball behind the catcher without him seeing it. Have the pitcher do his wind up without the ball and when the coach yells "go" the baserunner breaks for home and the catcher locates the ball while the pitcher comes to cover home. Here we are setting up a practical situation and the catcher is practicing his toss and the pitcher is getting used to the baserunner coming at him while trying to secure the toss and tag him. Coaches should rotate both pitchers and catchers during this drill.

These are only four situations out of many that need to be practiced. In youth baseball we coaches tend to try and teach during the game. Practices are the place to teach and games are the place to reinforce what we conveyed to the players. With this formula they become familiar with the situation and give your team the competitive edge on the field.

http://www.YouthSportsClub.com

Marty Schupak has coached youth baseball for 21 years and is the video creator of "The 59 Minute Baseball Practice", "Backyard Baseball Drills", "Winning Baseball Strategies", "Hitting Drills & Techniques", "Pitching Drills & Techniques", "Baserunning & Bunting Drills" and author of the popular book, "Youth Baseball Drills". He is President of the Youth Sports Club, a group dedicated to making sports practices and games more enjoyable for kids.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marty_Schupak

T-Ball / Coach Pitch - How to Choose a Glove (Ages 4-6)

2011-09-02T12:10:00.000-04:00

By Larry Callicoat

You've signed your Little League player up for T-ball/coach pitch and now he needs a glove. Starting a new sport can be a drain on the wallet, especially if you're not sure if your son will enjoy playing baseball. You do not need to spend a lot of money on a glove in order to get a good quality one that can be used throughout the T-ball and coach pitch seasons. You just need to know how to pick out a good glove.

1. Size does matter. Contrary to popular belief, bigger is not always better for the beginner player. Beginning players need a smaller glove so that they can hone the skill of catching and fielding a baseball. Look for a youth glove that is 9 1/2" to 10 3/4". At this age, players do not need an 11" glove or a specialized glove (one made for 1st baseman, infielder, outfielder, etc.). They need an all purpose glove for T-ball and or coach pitch. Don't worry about playing certain positions at this point, T-ball is geared towards teaching fundamentals and making baseball FUN so that they want to come back next season.

2. Construction and Material. Most youth gloves are constructed with a leather palm and synthetic material for the outer shell. This allows for a lighter glove and one that easier to close. Look for a glove that is mostly leather and leather laces. If taken care of properly, a mostly leather glove can be used season to season. You will also need to look for a glove that has a good rounded pocket and one that features "easy close" or "power close" technology. Because beginning players are still developing muscles, gloves with closing technology make it easier to squeeze the glove closed when a ball is caught.

Once you get your player's glove, have him try it on and practice catching balls with it before the season starts. Not only will this practice help him, it will also help break in the glove. Since most youth gloves are a combination of leather and synthetic material, it is not advisable to use a glove conditioner. The best way to loosen up youth glove is to USE IT!

Once your player completes T-ball/coach pitch and moves into the upper leagues, it may be time to get a new glove. Again, there are key elements to look for when choosing a glove for the intermediate player.

Coach Larry is a youth baseball coach, having coached t-ball through high school. Visit http://www.superstarbaseball.blogspot.com for more on hitting, pitching, coaching and baseball tips, techniques and inspiration.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Larry_Callicoat

Four Ways to Improve Your Base-Running Speed

2011-08-30T12:07:00.000-04:00

By Thomas E Wilson

Whoever claims that you can not make improvements to your base-running speed is certainly wrong! Despite the fact that each player has a maximum potential speed, barely anybody actually gets to that. There is a bunch of room to improve, and it is crucial to do just that! Speed is an extremely critical aspect scouts look for while watching players. Granted, you'll find exceptions to the rule, nevertheless usually you need to have at least average speed to get a chance at reaching the major leagues. Don't worry if you've got below average speed though, as there are a lot of ways to improve.

1. Good Mechanics: This is the most significant aspect to improving your baseball "speed." The best part about this is you don't actually have to run faster! You merely need to find out the way to run correctly. Proper body angle while running, lifting the knees high enough for the perfect stride, as well as swinging the arms high enough with the ideal angle at the elbow joint are all items you should work on when improving your running mechanics. It would take way to long to discuss how you can do each one of these things in just one paragraph, but you can find lots of training books and DVDs available that are specifically dedicated to good running technique.

2. Reaction Time: Reaction time is the stretch of time between the cue to run and when you actually start running. A baseball example of reaction time is the amount of time it takes for you to react when the ball is hit, or a base-runner stealing on a pitcher's first movement. The simplest way to improve reaction time is to just practice getting balls hit to you in various locations and then reacting to them and fielding them. There are also reaction balls out on the marketplace that will bounce in random directions and you have to react in time to catch it. You don't need to have very good reaction time to succeed in baseball, however if you don't you at least have to make up for it by superb positioning. For example if you're a shortstop and you know what kind of pitch the pitcher is going to throw, you want to get yourself in a great position where the ball will likely come before the hitter even hits the ball!

3. Base-running Skill: You may be capable of running fast, but how fast can you run the bases? Do you hit the inside corner of the bag as you round a base? If you do not, you will be making yourself take a longer loop in the direction of the next bag likely increasing the distance you will have to run from around 90 feet to 100 feet or more! Simple errors like this are enough to make the difference between being safe or being out. Also being a smart base-runner can make a huge difference! A smart base-runner can easily turn a single into a double simply because he knows if each outfielder's arm is good, poor, or average.

4. Fitness: Most likely there is some area for improvement in your overall fitness level. By exercising on a regular basis and focusing some of your baseball workouts on cardio exercises like running on the treadmill or using a stationary bike, your speed will improve over time.

Are you interested in improving your base-running speed or any other aspect of your game? If so, make sure to check out www.BestBaseballWorkouts.com for more information as well as tons of great products to take your game to the next level! With this information, you're baseball workouts will be more effective than ever!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_E_Wilson

Can One Player Carry A Baseball Team?

2011-08-26T12:05:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

Anybody who seriously follows baseball, at one time or another, has heard the sports announcers remark something like, "If he gets hot, he can carry the team" or "When he's in the zone he can carry the load for the bullpen" or something similar. Is it possible for one player to carry a team?

In my opinion, yes and no, which probably has you shaking your head and thinking "Surprise, another yes and no answer." Well, for starters, are the sports announcers correct in what they're saying, one man can carry the entire team, and if they are, why are they correct?

Or are they just searching for something to say in order to fill the gap between commercial announcements, which is very difficult to believe, and are just blowing smoke knowing nobody will bother to challenge their statement? Let's look at some possibilities of the scenario and you venture your opinion as to whether the experts are in fact, experts.

As a reality check we must establish a few guidelines which to follow to establish a bit of creditability to this investigation.

1. One player can not hit for the other 8 players.
2. One player can not field for the other 8 players.
3. One player can not throw for the other 8 players.
4. One player can not catch for the other 8 players.

I must say, although we're only scratching the surface of the subject, thus far the sports announcers appear slanted a little towards the stupid side and this entire article seems to be a waste of time, and would be if it were not for one intangible.

One player can greatly affect the Emotional Health of a baseball team. There are many intangibles in baseball, as well as other sports, which exert a direct force, positive or negative on a team. Momentum, the Big MO, as they call it, is an example of such an intangible.

For instance, a team who is experiencing a dry spell of having runners scampering all over the base paths every inning, but fail to ever get the hit to drive them in can be quickly deflated, and for all practical purposes be defeated in the top of the first, by having a bases loaded situation and not be able to score 1 run.

On the other hand, should a player become hot, be in the zone, seeing the ball well, whatever or however you want to say it, drives a bases clearing double into the outfield gap, this changes the Entire Team.

A pitcher, veteran or rookie, who takes the mound and consistently pitches into the late innings, with many complete games and a low ERA, will change the attitude and confidence of the Entire Team when it's his day to pitch.

So can one player carry a team? Absolutely, by instilling confidence and energy into the team which would not be there if his efforts weren't present.

Can one player carry a team? Absolutely not, as it takes team work to win a baseball game at any level of competition.

Perhaps my "yes" and "no" answer makes a little bit more sense now.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

Pitching Inside

2011-08-22T12:04:00.001-04:00

By Jim Bain

Should the names Bob Gibson, Don Drysdale or Sandy Koufax immediately ring a familiar bell, you'll understand the importance of the issue of pitching inside. For those who must ponder these names, and hundreds of others, or have only seen them in print as Hall of Fame pitchers, this article may prove rather eye opening.

Home plate measures 17" across at the front and widest part, then tapers back to the familiar point. The plate is colored white, with the white portion of the plate ringed with a black edge, which is where the saying "the pitch caught the black" originated. This measurement has remained constant for a 100 years or so, since it's official design and shape was officially adopted by major league baseball, and I wanted to re-establish the fact that nothing physical has changed before continuing.

From a pitcher's perspective, that entire plate area represents the strike zone, but is not necessarily where they want to locate their pitches. I'm not saying you don't have to throw strikes over the plate, of course you do, but the Strike - Ball count is a huge determining factor of whether you want to locate the ball over the white, or black, part of the plate.

Pitching strategy from pee wee league to major league level, teaches and stresses the pitcher learn to get the batter out on "your pitch", and your pitch is not a strike. "Your pitch" is a ball located 2" to 3" off the plate, any more unless the batter is totally fooled by a breaking ball, is too far and won't normally entice a swing.

The idea is to get a batter to swing at a pitch he either can not reach, thus striking out, or can barely reach, which will induce a nubber off the end of bat resulting in a weak ground ball to the infield. Batters, even at the major league level, experience difficulty not swinging at Close pitches with a two strike count, and usually 2" off the plate appears too close to take.

Alright, where is this leading? It's leading to the issue pitchers 20 years ago could claim and pitch to a Home Plate measuring 21" to 23" wide, while pitchers of today throw at a Home plate 19" to 20" wide. That additional 2" can easily be the difference between becoming a 20 game winner, at the major league level, or a wash out from the minor leagues.

Why the difference? Because pitchers of today are afraid to pitch inside, losing not only the additional 2" of plate, but suffering a huge tactical disadvantage. As a hitter, if I know the pitcher will not throw a pitch inside on my hands, I can move closer to the plate, which allows me to make solid contact with the pitch 2" off the plate, instead of swinging and missing.

Why are pitchers afraid to throw inside? Because major league hitters have become whiners and cry babies and have forced an environment if a pitcher throws inside, he's trying to hit the batter. I'm not saying this is 100% untrue, but I'll venture 97% untrue. You must remember these pitchers, for the most part, have pin point control and consistently locate balls 2" off the outside part of the plate, why not the same control on the inside?

The claim that every pitch inside is intended to hit the batter is nonsense. Twenty years ago batters were accidentally hit as they are today, but pitchers like Bob Gibson, didn't try to hide the fact he was throwing at you, but there were reasons for pitching "far" inside.

1. If a hitter stood too close to the plate, he'd squeeze the strike zone on the pitcher, making it smaller and gaining an advantage over the pitcher. The pitcher threw Inside in order to move the batter back off the plate and regain, what he considered, his additional 2".

2. If a hitter took an extraordinary amount of time or effort digging in at the plate, sending the signal to the pitcher he was preparing to tee off on a pitch. The pitcher simply loosen him up and forced him out of his dug in position, by throwing inside.

3. The inside pitch was occasionally used as a "display pitch." Much like a pitcher who has difficulty throwing a curve ball, he still throws the pitch, not really intending to throw it for a strike, in order to put the fear or question in the hitter's mind he may have to try and hit a curve ball.

4. There is of course the final reason. Call it Pay Back, Restitution or a Penalty for embarrassing the pitcher or showboating. For instance, if a batter hit a home run, dropped his bat and gingerly ran around the bases, it was considered " no harm...no foul."

However, if the batter stood at home plate admiring his home run, slowly trotted around the bases or smiled at the pitcher as he rounded the bases...he'd better be prepared to take a pitch to the ribs the next time he batted. There was a respect issue there.

We've actually covered a lot of ground here, from history to strategy to purposes of pitching inside to hitters. Although I'd never condone, nor teach the action of purposely hitting a batter, I do believe in the pitcher throwing inside. It's part of the pitching zone, it's a tactical advantage and it's an excellent pitching strategy. If you don't teach your pitchers the intent and advantage of pitching inside, you're doing them a great disservice.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

How to Be Number One on Your Baseball Team

2011-08-18T12:03:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

It was recently suggested to me that I write an article on "How to be number one on your baseball team." My first thought on the request was "What an odd question," and initially dismissed the idea as quite silly. However, the question, and more possibly the motive for such a question, continued to gnaw at me until I decided to take a crack at answering the question.

Since it wasn't specified, the first issue I had to isolate was "number one at what?" The number one pitcher, hitter, fielder, cheerleader, or what? This was quite a cumbersome and rather confusing task, as I could write page after page of instructions and advise on any one of a 100 subjects related to a baseball team.

Thank God for computers and the delete key, because I nearly wore mine out writing and rewriting ideas which would pop into my head, meander around and eventually lead to a dead end. This simple little article was quickly becoming a monumental task, one which at the time, I was failing miserably at.

The problem with answering how to become number one on your baseball team is, there is no One answer, but rather a combination of many skills and talents both physical and emotional involved.

Baseball is an Individual game, played in a team environment. Confused? For example, you, the individual, wants to succeed at getting a base hit. By succeeding as an individual and getting the base hit, you drive home the winning run, which makes the team successful.

In my opinion, this unique mixture of achievement and goals results in the only answer possible for becoming number one on the team... Don't try to become number one, is the only way to become number one. I've confused you again. Allow me to explain.

Being the number one player on a team, any team, can not be something accomplished by learning any certain skills. Sure, you can develop into the Ace pitcher on the team and be voted to the All-Star team, but that doesn't make you number one on the team. Neither does being the clean up hitter, who has achieved remarkable numbers at home runs, RBIs and slugging percentage, still not considered the number one player.
Again in my humble opinion, I believe the following two things about players:

1. There is the player who strives as an individual to succeed, and by doing so the team succeeds...

2. There is the player who strives to succeed in order for the team to succeed.

What's the difference?

1.The #2 player is happy about grounding out to the second baseman, because he moved a runner to third base.

2. As the second baseman, he makes a fantastic fielding play which starts a game ending double play and high fives the shortstop for making a strong throw to first base.

3. He hits a walk off home run, but seeks out the timid 9th place hitter who walked in front of him allowing a winning home run instead of a game tying home run.

How can you tell the difference between the two types of players, both great team mates? You normally can't, because the difference is in the heart of the player and that produces an aura of its own, which produces a number one player on the team.

My advise on how to become the number one player on the team... work your guts out practicing and play with your heart.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running youth baseball drill on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

Losing - A Coach's Art Of Survival Booklet

2011-08-14T12:02:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

"You can't win them all," or "You'll get 'em next time," or a hundred other phrases meant to make a loser feel better, are for all practical purposes, similar to throwing gasoline on a fire. One must learn not all words, just like not all liquids, are appropriate for all situations, and after experiencing a crushing defeat, silence is usually the most appreciated sound.

Losing is a fact of life, no different than walking, talking and breathing, it's just that we are acutely aware of when we lose, as it's not an automatic response. It's just like getting the air knocked out of you by a fall, suddenly you're acutely aware you are not breathing.

We seem to forget that out of a 162 game schedule, a MLB Championship team usually wins no more than ten to fifteen games more than it loses, and it's a huge deal if a team wins 100 games, which means they lost 62 times.

It's how we handle defeat which determines how we proceed forward, positively or negatively. I'm not going to begin spinning out positive motivation tips or hip hip hurray slogans, as I am not convinced of their actual benefit in the long run, and besides, every defeat must be handled differently, because every defeat is different and as a Coach, you must learn how to handle all situations.

Which do you consider the worse? Losing a ball game by an 8-0 score, totally dominated from start to finish, or trailing 8-0 and clawing your way back to tie the score, only to lose 9-8 in extra innings. Hard decision and because they both ended in defeat, they both suck, but they must be handled in two distinctly different methods.

Let's review the 8-0 loss. In my opinion, the "On any given day" scenario would be the best way for you, as a coach, to address the team, but keep in mind there is no cookie cutter speech which addresses everything which may be going through the players' minds.

If this was a team you have played before, the emotions will be different than against a new and unknown opponent, but there are also sub-plots within the main plot. Has your team traditionally dominated this team, only to have the tables turned, which can be quite humiliating regardless it's self induced. Has this team always dominated your team and this is just another exercise in futility for your players which was not totally unexpected?

It's important a coach analyze the situation and address it with his players. No, this is not a life or death situation and in the overall scheme of life, is quite insignificant. But at this particular moment, this could be a very momentous experience for one or all of your players, which should be defused.

When people snicker at me for taking defeat so seriously, I recall the Rick Ankiel, tragedy, or could have been tragedy. Here was a major league pitcher, St. Louis Cardinals, with dominating speed and control, who threw several wide pitches in an important ball game and after that ONE ball game, he could never pitch again.

I never talk about ranting or raving at a team because they lost a ball game, as that is completely asinine and you shouldn't be coaching if that's your style. I'm talking about the debriefing, shall we say, after a loss, particularly a tough loss.

The situation of coming back from sure defeat and the possibility of winning the game, only to fall short in extra innings, holds a whole lot of different issues than the 8-0 thumping. This was an emotional roller coaster for the players which ended in a crash.

I suggest nothing but praise for players despite their possible feelings of falling short. The issue of never quitting should be praised while the defeat is minimized, for instance the never quitting will result in many victories down the road vs. this one loss.

Do I stress after game talks being essential no matter the situation? YES! Yes, I do and I stress players more than team, because they will eventually go to different teams, must be taught how to honorably lose just as well as honorably win. This is a lesson they will take with them throughout their entire life.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

Real Hitting Tips For Baseball Players

2011-08-10T12:00:00.000-04:00

By Jeffery A Wise

Hitting tips are meant to help baseball players. And while there are many different tips, some are more effective than others. In order for any hitting tip to work, you have to commit to it and practice it often. Even if you're hitting a.300, don't stop practicing your hitting because practice is sure to make you better and better.

The hitting tips listed here are the most common and the most helpful for baseball players. First, you have to be a confident hitter. If you have doubts about your skills and capabilities, you are more likely to fail and get more strikes than hits. Trust that you can and will get the job done.

You also have to be familiar with the strike zone. If you know this area you will be able to judge whether a pitch is a strike or a ball. This will lessen your chances of striking out.

Baseball is as much mental as it is physical. So, you must be prepared mentally while you're at bat. Ignore what's going on around you and just focus on the pitcher and what he's throwing.

You must have a consistent, smooth swing every time you swing the bat. You also need a good batting stance. If you don't feel balanced and comfortable, you will not be able to hit the ball.

Recognize each pitch and practice adjusting to changes. If you are able to recognize the difference between a curveball and a fastball, you will be better prepared for the swing.

Every baseball player has a hitting slump occasionally. Learn how to shake the slumps and get back in the game physically and mentally. A slump isn't the end of the world, but how you react to slumps determines how quickly you get out of them.

Situational hitting is necessary to learn. Before you even step up to the plate, you need to have a goal and know what your mission is. Do you need to move a runner over? How many outs are there? If you have any questions about what you should do, talk to a coach.

Remember that no matter where you are in the line-up, every position is important for winning games. You have been put where you are because of your strengths. Trust your coaches and just focus on helping your team win.

Lastly, take care of your body on and off the ball field. To be the best player you can be, you need to eat healthy and exercise. Of course, you also need to have fun.

Think about each of these hitting tips and practice them as often as you can. If you need help in any area, ask a coach, teammate or parent.

Remember that the reason to practice your hitting tips is to give you skills and talent to become the baseball player you want to be. Find out why you need Baseball Bats that are comfortable in your hands.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffery_A_Wise

4 Steps to Selecting the Perfect BBCOR Bat for the 2012 Season

2011-08-06T11:59:00.000-04:00

By Ryan M Davis

4 Steps to help you select the perfect BBCOR Baseball Bat

Step 1: Set a Budget.

Establishing a BBCOR Baseball Bat budget is a good idea as BBCOR bats can be expensive and market conditions may increase prices. BBCOR bats will vary considerably in price from $49.99 to $399.99 with the average BBCOR bat falling in the $199.99- $299.99 price range. BBCOR prices may skyrocket to $450-$500 as demand for popular models will exceed supply. Manufacturers and Retailers are anticipating extended backorders on popular BBCOR models. Having a bat budget can be helpful in an unpredictable market.

Step 2: Select a Design

BBCOR Bats will come in a variety of designs and determining the right design early will help narrow the pool of products to consider for purchase. Popular designs include aluminum alloy, composite, hybrid (alloy & composite) and wood. Each bat design will have pros and cons, so be selective and choice the bat that will benefit your personal strengths and style of hitting. The most common BBCOR design will be a one-piece alloy. Alloy designs will provide the largest pool of bats to choose from and will be the most competitively priced.As a general rule of thumb, one-piece alloy bat designs will be more affordable, while hybrid and composite BBCOR baseball bats will be more expensive.

Step 3 Select a Manufacture

Selecting a manufacture can be difficult as there are many great choices. To simplify the overwhelming selection of BBCOR bats to choose from select a few manufacturers that you know or like. Industry leaders such as Easton, Louisville Slugger, DeMarini and Anderson will provide a great starting point when selecting the perfect bat.

Step 4: Select the Proper Size

All high school and college players have to swing a minus or drop 3. This means the difference between the length of the bat and the weight will be 3. For example, a 32" bat will be 29oz. and a 33" will be 30oz. A standard bat size guide is a good starting point to help determine proper bat sizing. The bat size guide suggest bat lengths based on a players height and weight. Other factors to consider would be player strength, body type, experience, and personal preference.The most common sizes for high school and college players will be 32" and 33"

Be prepared when selecting your BBCOR Bat this season. There are a handful of designs and manufactures to choose from at drastically different prices. Setting a budget, selecting a design, choosing a manufacture and selecting the proper size will help you select the perfect BBCOR bat for the 2012 season.

About The Author: Ryan Davis is a baseball enthusiast and self proclaimed bat guru. His website at http://www.bbcorbats.com/ offers in-depth bbcor bat reviews, news, price comparisons, videos, products and podcast. Ryan's Free Podcast is jam packed with insightful bbcor baseball related information. Subscribe for FREE at http://www.bbcorbats.com/bbcor_bats_podcast.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_M_Davis

Baseball Equipment Tips: Caring for Your Baseball Glove

2011-08-04T12:08:00.000-04:00

By Damien Moczynski

The spring and summer months mean many of you will be out playing the game of baseball again this year, and because baseball has recently become so specialized, with various summer leagues, clinics and tournaments, many of you will be kept busy playing this great pastime all summer long. However, when you're not on the field playing, it's very important that you take certain steps to ensure your baseball glove will continue to serve you well. A new glove can be very expensive if you have to replace it-sometimes well over $100-and what's even worse, a glove not cared for properly can pose a number of safety hazards. To help you avoid this, in this article we will provide a few basic tips for keeping your baseball glove in tip-top condition, including tips on how it should be stored when it's not in use.

Caring for Your Baseball Glove: A Few Tips

Your glove is by far the most important piece of baseball gear you own, and unless you care for it properly, it may let you down in the field. No baseball player wants that to happen, so to avoid this scenario, try following the few basic tips listed below-tips that are sure to keep your glove in the very best condition:

• Baseball gloves are, for the most part, made of leather, so you need to care for it just as if it were a fancy leather coat. Direct heat and wet conditions can seriously damage leather in a very short amount of time, so when you're not wearing your glove, or rather, when you're not at the field, always store it somewhere cool and dry, such as your bedroom or a cool closet. Never leave your glove where it can become too hot such as a garage or the trunk of a car.

• If your baseball glove does happen to get wet, don't panic. Just grab a clean dry towel to soak up any excess water, and leave it to dry once again in a cool, dry place. It may take a bit longer to completely dry out this way, but this method is much better for the leather. NEVER try to dry your glove in an oven or with any other heat source, including blow dryers and space heaters.

• Don't over-oil your glove! This is a mistake made by far too many baseball players, and one that can easily be avoided. Oiling your glove about once a week is usually sufficient for conditioning the leather. Also, be sure that the oil you apply has been approved for use on your glove type.

• Check the laces. Over the course of a few practices or games, it is not uncommon for some of the laces on your glove to work their way loose. Before participating in any baseball-related activity, use a glove repair kit to ensure all the laces are tight and secure.

By following these very basic glove-care tips you can preserve the life of the glove and avoid any unwanted mishaps on the field.

http://www.bearears.com

For more information on this topic & more about baseball, go to http://www.bearears.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Damien_Moczynski

Important Baseball Skills Honed During Baseball Practice

2011-08-02T11:55:00.000-04:00

By Louis Liem

Anyone who aspires to play baseball satisfactorily - either at amateur or professional levels, or for recreational purposes - should give all their mind and heart to mastering baseball skills. There are at least four fundamental baseball skills: batting, pitching, catching, and running. While some players can specialize in mastering one or two of these skills, it is important for them to realize that for a more fulfilling baseball experience, they should be adept in all four skills, and learn how to recognize situations where each of these baseball skills apply, in baseball practice and in real games.

The most important of the four baseball skills is hitting, as this action is the one that gets the baseball team a potential score (home run). Hitting the ball hard and accurately could be difficult for some to develop, for during formal baseball practice, many players rarely get hold of the bat for them to practice their hitting. Therefore, a good advice for aspiring hitters is to practice their batting during their spare time.

Here is some advice for players wanting to improve their hitting:

1.Players should hold the baseball bat with their fingers and not with their palms.

2.The left and right knuckles - the hand portions used for knocking a door should be vertically aligned together.

3.When preparing to bat, players should not squeeze the bat tightly; they should hold on sufficiently and keep the hand muscles relaxed, but not too relaxed as to make them lose control of the bat. When they swing, they will feel that their grip steadily tightens.

In hitting, stance is also important: know where to stand, maintain feet at shoulder width or more apart, bend knees slightly, and focus weight not on heels, but on the balls and the back of the feet. When preparing to hit: keep feet a shoulder width apart, bend knees slightly, shift more weight to back feet, then tighten your grip. When the ball flies in the air, keep your eye on the ball. Then once you decide to hit, you hit. Do not hit baseballs indiscriminately. Hitting and missing will get you an automatic strike; not hitting will get you either a strike or a "ball".

While hitting may be one of the valuable baseball skills, there are other baseball skills that ensure a team's success in the game. Pitching should be done through the "four-seam grip": use only three fingers - thumb, middle, and index; index and middle finger on one side of the ball, and the thumb on the other side; not squeezing the ball, and retaining some space between hand and ball. Baseball should be released by flicking the wrist (not the arms).

While hitting, start with your glove side in front of your target; keep feet a shoulder width apart, shift weight to back leg; move you arm toward the target, flick the wrist, then continue movement of arm down and across body and follow with throwing leg. Catching could be done by applying plenty of hand-eye alertness through properly anticipating the ball. Running should be done in coordination with catching if you are a catcher; or done with all your might if you are on for a home run. All of these baseball skills could be honed with plenty of regard for proper form, dedication, and baseball practice.

What does one need to be a great baseball player? Good baseball training, knowledge and talent. The first two are available on BaseballSquare.com. Just one click away!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louis_Liem

Tips On Handling Baseball Try Outs

2011-07-30T11:53:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

I was driving past the junior college the other day when I noticed the parking lots were filled to the maximum, which would not have been strange if school was in session, but it wasn't. As I slowed, being nosey, I saw the baseball field was swarming with baseball players of all sizes and dress and realized what was going on.

Either the college or a professional ball club was holding tryouts, and based on the amount of participation, I was betting a major league team. I actually became nauseous to my stomach, sympathy pains for the players, as visions of my first try out flooded my mind. I know it sounds silly, but I actually pulled the truck over to the side of the road to allow my hands to quit trembling.

Try out sessions are either by invitation or a general open session which any one can attend, which an open session may seem crazy as every Tom, Dick and Harry could show up, but believe me, they weed out the impostors incredibly fast.

A player, who is very honest with himself, knows if he actually feels he can play at this level, but that does absolutely nothing to calm the nerves. The saying " A big fish in a little pond... is now a small fish in a big pond," definitely applies in this situation.

For the most part, even on traveling teams, you've seen most of the competition you'll be up against, but suddenly there are literally a hundred unfamiliar faces with unknown talents in which to compete against. If your stomach is not in knots by this time, you may be dead, because no matter how good you are, there's always the doubt someone's better.

As I said earlier, they weed out the want-to-be and other non-qualified contestants rather quickly. The very first measure they use to evaluate you is your size. Too short, too fat, small frame and whatever criteria they may have gets you a polite " Thanks, but no thanks." You've been cut without ever having an opportunity to show your skills.

You'll then be herded like cattle into different groups and put through physical tests, such as a 40 or 60 yard dash, timed from home to first, home to home, left field to center field, the list goes on and on. This cuts the field down dramatically, again without seeing any baseball skills.

I won't go any further with the try out explanation, because from what I experienced they are all a little different. Maybe one coach puts more emphasis on a physical requirement than another, or they want to keep everyone guessing as to what they'll be tested on, doesn't matter why, just know they are.

There are four tips I can give you if you're contemplating going to a try out.

1. Come prepared. Glove, bat, spikes, hat and sunglasses are the minimum requirement. I guarantee you nobody will lend you their sunglasses to help cope with a sun field you're going to be trying to catch fungos in.

2. Prepare mentally. Use positive thinking techniques and meditation to calm your nerves and keep self doubt from creeping in. Don't wait until the try out date. Perform these tasks religiously weeks ahead.

3. Pray. With the intense competition, if you truly want to be a professional ball player, a little Devine intervention is required.

4. Don't give up. Some players who were quickly cut because of their size eventually became major league ball players. David Eckstein is a prime example. He was too small, too slow and didn't have the arm to play shortstop at the professional level, yet he became a star doing just that.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

Coaching Infield Basics

2011-07-28T11:52:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

As coaches, we stress fundamentals as well as advanced skills while we teach our players, but sometimes in our quest to be the best, we may push our players too far and too fast.

I have seen coaches who have their 8 and 9 year old players practice performing double plays. I'm sure it's happened somewhere at sometime, but in my many years of coaching I've never witnessed a shortstop to second to first double play turned by 8 or 9 year olds. I'm not saying don't expose them to the fundamentals of turning a double play, but don't use half the infield practice time trying to perfect it.

Based on the premise we may push too hard, too fast, let's exam two very basic infield drills which must be mastered.

1. For young players, 6 through 10, at this stage of the game neither you nor the players know for sure where they will eventually find the position they are best suited for, therefore it's important to include All your players in infield practice. Position them as you determine their talents. In other words I wouldn't put a player with a rocket for an arm at second base, but rather at third or shortstop.

2. The Most important skill you can teach an infielder is proper fielding position, because without this skill they'll never become a good infielder.

3. It may sound silly, but it's important you stress to your players a ground ball is just that... it's on the ground. Once they fully comprehend that, the reasoning for the proper fielding position becomes clearer.

A. Player should place feet at shoulder width apart....
B. Knees are bent, upper body leaning forward....
C. Arms are extended, glove in front of the body and visible...
D. As the ball approaches the fielder he should be moving forward to meet the ball, maintaining his low posture...
E. Watch ball all the way into the glove.

These are the basic positions required for a good fielding stance. Drill these into your players no matter how old or how good they think they are.

The second suggestion, which goes along with the fielding stance, is the importance of keeping the ball in front of you. Demonstrate, then practice, that if the ball is kept in front of them, they are still quite capable of throwing the batter out. This teaches two skills.

1. It teaches the player, if possible, to always get in front of the ball when trying to catch it. This will increase his fielding ability a 100% over trying to field the ball on his side.

2. It teaches the fielder to not give up on a booted ball, but to continue the play in an attempt to throw the batter out. How many times have you seen a player quit on a ball, conceding the runner the base, because he didn't field it cleanly?

Sometimes returning to basics is the best way to move forward.

Jim Bain, former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth, shares his advice on running baseball drills on his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

Being a Team Player in Baseball

2011-04-18T09:32:00.000-04:00

By Dan Gazaway

I remember a decade ago I was lacing up for our afternoon workout prior the 7pm home game. The director of scouting for the minor leagues would be observing our workout for the next couple days. He'd be working in as one of the coaches but was also there to get a better sense of who among our minor league team could potentially fill the future role on the Big League roster.

I remember clearly our hitting coach said that the ability to place your teammates above your own needs/stats was highly attractive to the organization. He told us that the win/loss of the team reflected more on our unification as a team which said a lot about us as individual players.

How important is a team first mentality in baseball? Think of it this way. There are 162 games in the regular season; throw in about 30 spring training games and dozens of travel days and these guys are around each other most of each day for roughly 60% of the calender year. That is a ton of time. Team dynamics are extremely valuable. It's not the only factor in winning, but it ranks up there as highly important.

Michael Young of the Texas Rangers is one of these hard-working team first guys. Because of his enjoyment of playing for the Rangers, he has no qualms about being shifted around the infield each year. This may not seam like such a big deal, but it's difficult to play at the elite level in many different positions. It takes a certain type of work habit and personality to build new skill sets each year.

I always love to read stories about the good guys in baseball who play the game hard. Michael Young is one of them.

Dan Gazaway is owner and founder of The Pitching Academy in Utah. Dan teaches pitchers how to throw a baseball.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dan_Gazaway

The Changeup - The Deadliest Pitch In Baseball

2011-04-15T09:31:00.000-04:00

By Dan Gazaway

love it when a pitcher has a great changeup. The Circle Change just happens to be one of the deadliest changeups out there. The reason: It not only slows down it has wicked movement.

The Circle Change has a screwball type movement and it breaks down and away. It appears to look like a fastball and is very deceiving to a batters eyes.

To throw this pitch pronate your wrist and forearm slightly inwards. Your arm slot and arms speed is the same as your fastball. Place your fingers in the same position as you do with your fastball (thumb and middle finger split the baseball in half). Next, make a circle with your thumb and index finger. The tighter the circle the more drop you will have. However, your wrist and forearm angle is more important than the grip with this pitch. The most difficult part of this pitch is the forearm angle.

Gripping The Circle Change

The smaller the circle, the more downward movement you will have on the pitch. The slight wrist and forearm pronation is important when throwing the circle change. I recommend starting to throw this pitch making a C-shape instead of a circle when you first try this pitch. You will not find success with this pitch unless you throw the circle (or okay sign) toward home plate; that is what truly slows the pitch down. Most pitcher's think they are throwing a circle or a c-change just by gripping the pitch correctly. The C or Circle is thrown at the cather. Again, Keep your arm speed the same so that the pitch will be deceivingly slow to the hitter.

Arguably the most challenging pitch to learn is the circle change because of how the pitch is released. While the pitch can be tricky to learn, do not alter your body movement or motion in any way while attempting to throw it. Instead, work hard on the wrist and forearm angle.

I recommend just playing catch with it practicing the release.

Releasing The Pitch:

Throw the circle change early in the count and try to get a ground ball out of it. Remember, it is best to throw fewer pitches in an inning than to try and strike everyone out. The best change-up counts are the same as the split-finger fastball counts 3-1, 2-1, and 2-0. Also, whenever a fastball is in order a changeup can be thrown in its place. Becoming a successful pitcher simply means you mess with and throw off a hitter's timing. When you are successful at doing that you will get any hitter out.

Here is what Nate Barnett from The Pitching Academy has to say about this nasty pitch.

Besides the slider, a good change-up is terribly frustrating for most hitters. Because of its resemblance to a fastball initially, it can be particularly deceiving in fastball counts. I'm not sure why I don't see more good change-ups in youth baseball today, but it's a very much underutilized pitch.

Hitters hate facing pitchers who change speeds well, it's tough to get good timing on anything. For a great example of this, you have to look no further than Jamie Moyer, who at age 45, helped his Phillies win a World Series championship in 2008. His signature pitch throughout his entire career has been his outstanding change-up. With a fastball that rarely ever reached 85 mph, Moyer's ability to keep hitters off balance has paid off big time.

Circle change-ups with movement are deceiving and I would argue are nearly unhittable if thrown in the right location and in the right count. Being a pitcher also throughout my collegiate career, I relied on the change-up a lot to keep hitters off balance. Early in my pitching career I was leery of developing it because the thought of throwing a pitch slower to hitters seemed backwards. Wow, was I mistaken as it became my best pitch!

Dan Gazaway is owner of The Pitching Academy in Utah. He teaches pitchers how to throw different baseball pitches.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dan_Gazaway

Little League Coaching - Dealing With Parents

2011-04-12T09:30:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

When deciding to coach a little league baseball team it's quite natural to have all thoughts on formulating practice schedules and drills, equipment, coaches, just a whole marinade of tasks which need addressing.

It's quite understandable, but a terrible mistake, to not think of how you're going to handle the parents of your players. Most parents are fantastic and understanding people, who if the team stays together over the years, will become friends. However, as with any activity in life, there are people who seem intent on making everyone around them miserable.

Let's be pro-active and try to head off any trouble or unfortunate experiences before it starts.
It should be, but isn't a requirement that every coach have a team meeting with the players and their parents as soon as the teams are put together and definitely before the first practice.

Set up a time and place to meet. I would not suggest your home, as it is your personal domain and any disagreement becomes a personal attack on you. You may not agree with this, but it's a natural human response which can't be completely controlled. Instead, reserve a room at a church, school gym or any other public place for a couple of hours.

Sit down and formalize a list of items you want to address and write them down. The worse thing that can come out of a meeting is forgetting to cover an important subject. No matter how good your memory, write it down.

A few suggestions to cover during the meeting:

* Your philosophy and intentions of how you plan to run the team. This is possibly the most important subject of the meeting as it's the number cause of problems during the season.

Don't be bashful about informing people what you intend to do, be honest and up front. If you're the type of person who could care less if you won a game all season as long as the kids have fun and learned something, say so. A parent who wants his son to be taught baseball with a strict adherence to hard practice and a desire to win, should immediately try and get their kid onto another team. It's better for them, it's better for you.

On the other hand if you think learning how to play the game and formulating the beginnings of being competitive, which means winning, are very important, the parents who don't want little Johnny subjected to the stress can bail out now.

* Give everyone a copy of anticipated practice dates and locations.
* If established, a schedule of games, times, locations and field number.
* If you're in a traveling league, maps of how to get to all the different ball parks
* A "treats" or "concession stand duty" schedule.
* Any organization events and dates, such as team pictures, picnics or monthly meetings

These are just beginning suggestions, add as many topics as you feel necessary, but be careful of holding too long of a meeting. Short and sweet is better.

Jim Bain - Social Right Activist for the UAW, former minor league baseball player dedicated to teaching Baseball to youth. Visit his action & value packed website today. http://www.Learn-Youth-Baseball-Coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

7 Ways To Become a Better Baseball Player

2011-04-09T09:28:00.000-04:00

By Justin Willman

There are many secrets to becoming a better baseball player, however; these are the top seven secrets that will get you to where you want to go!

1. Make sure you work hard. No matter how good of a skill level you have, remember that anyone can work hard and improve their game.

2. Be a good leader. Coaches and scouts look for people who are leaders and know how to motivate and encourage their teammates. Be that guy they are looking for!

3. Train hard in the off season. This is a crucial step in becoming a better athlete and a better baseball player. Not very man players practice in the off season. What does this mean for you? This means that you can rise above your competition when they aren't working and come back next season to have your best year ever!

4. Make the routine plays. Lots of players try and make the outstanding play and show off with the tough plays, but if you always make the routine play and let your athleticism take over on the tougher plays, you will be a much better player. Remember, extraordinary players do extraordinary things, but that word also has ordinary in it. Make the routine plays!

5. Watch the game. One of the only ways you can get better is by watching baseball and learning from the people who are pros!

6. Find out what your mistakes or flaws are and fix them! Try and video tape yourself and then slow the footage down. See what you are doing correctly and what you need work on!

7. Constantly strive to surpass yourself. Don't try and beat anybody but you!

Click Here To learn how to seriously hit like a pro! Visit http://www.DynamiteHitting.com to watch my 2 hour video training course!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Justin_Willman

3 Most Common Mistakes Players Make With Baseball

2011-04-06T09:27:00.000-04:00

By Justin Willman

In this article, I am going to tell you the 3 most common mistakes players make with baseball and how you can avoid them! Whenever you try a new thing, you want to be good at it, right? Well you might be a pretty good hitter, but if you are reading this, obviously you are looking for ways to get better!

I was in your shoes a few years ago. I did hours and hours of research and I finally have figured out the secrets to baseball hitting. Today I'm going to share with you the most common mistakes, so here we go!

The first common mistake players make with baseball is not working hard enough! Some of you may be thinking, well yeah duh! Obviously you need to work hard. But seriously, go in the bathroom and look at the man in the mirror. Ask yourself, are you really putting all the effort you can into achieving your goals? Did you do something to make yourself better today?

The next common mistake players make is not watching the game of baseball. If you are really interested in becoming a better baseball player, there is no better way to do that then to sit down and watch a game. No matter what league you are in or no matter what your age, watching the game can help you!

The final common mistake players make with baseball is not having fun! Remember when you were a kid and the only reason you played baseball was to have fun? Try and go back to those times and enjoy the game and the people you are playing with!

I am a former pro baseball player, having helped hundreds of people to easy baseball success. I've recently developed a video training course showing you a step by step process for making your baseball training results come easier and faster. To learn how to become a better hitter without all the fluff, visit, http://www.DynamiteHitting.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Justin_Willman

5 Surefire Ways To Become A Better Hitter

2011-04-03T09:26:00.000-04:00

By Justin Willman

In this article, I am going to introduce to you 5 surefire ways to become a better hitter! These methods have been working for years, and you can copy them today, right here and right now!

Alright so the first surefire way to become a better hitter is you need to develop the right mindset for success. If you have ever read the book, The Secret, or have learned about the law of attraction, you understand how powerful your mind actually is. You see, when you just go through the motions in life or baseball, you are pretty much just walking aimlessly. What you need to do is create some goals, stick to them, and use your brain to your advantage!

The next way to become a better hitter is to work hard and work often. I'm sure you have heard the saying, practice makes perfect, but I don't believe this is true. I believe perfect practice makes perfect.

Next, you need to watch the game of baseball! Not many players actually watch the game. I believe if you watch and learn from people who have been successful before, you will be a great hitter!

The fourth surefire way to becoming a better hitter is learning from your mistakes. Video tape your swing and watch it. See what you are doing wrong!

The final way to become a better baseball player and hitter is to constantly work on your swing and strive to make yourself better. Remember, every day you have a choice to get better or worse. Which choice will you make?

I am a former pro baseball player, having helped hundreds of people to easy baseball success. I've recently developed a video training course showing you a step by step process for making your baseball training results come easier and faster. To learn how to become a better hitter without all the fluff, visit, http://www.DynamiteHitting.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Justin_Willman

How To Become A Baseball Hitting Machine

2011-04-01T09:25:00.000-04:00

By Justin Willman

In this article, I am going to tell you exactly how to become a baseball hitting machine. If you are looking for a way to start producing better numbers and start absolutely crushing your competition, then this is the best article for you to read!

The first thing I want to tell you about how to become a baseball hitting machine is to overcome failure fast and easily without letting it affect your game! Lots of times players will strike out or hit a pop fly and come back to the dug out screaming or throwing their bat or glove. This is not necessary and will just lead to more failures.

Instead, you should keep your head up, think about your mistakes for a minute or two, and then move on. If you know what you did wrong but you move on, you will see much greater success very fast.

The next thing you need to do in order to turn yourself into a machine is to get a groove going. Find a swing that fits your style and your body and go with it! Don't try and re-invent the wheel. Look at pro baseball players' swings and see what they are doing. Model your swing after what you see them doing.

The last thing you need to do is produce. I know this kind of sounds like a no brainer, but in order to be a machine, you need to be automatic, right? Focus on the little things, don't get distracted, and you will be on your way to becoming a baseball hitting machine.

I am a former pro baseball player, having helped hundreds of people to easy baseball success. I've recently developed a video training course showing you a step by step process for making your baseball training results come easier and faster. To learn how to become a better hitter without all the fluff, visit, http://www.DynamiteHitting.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Justin_Willman

How to Increase Your Power Hitting

2011-03-30T09:23:00.000-04:00

By Jim Bain

Anyone who coaches or hangs around the baseball park long enough will see the player labeled "Potential" but never seems to quite live up to expectations. He's the player no pitcher can seem to strike out, but he can't seem to buy a hit, because although he always seems to make contact, he can't get the ball out of the infield.

This otherwise very good ball player has one of two problems which require addressing in order to improve his hitting power. The first issue is one of faulty hitting mechanics, the player is not opening his hips quick enough or wide enough to generate sufficient power from the bat to the baseball.

A decent batting coach can view two or three swings and tell immediately if the player has a mechanical problem or a strength problem, one part which could be weak legs. The legs generate the power used to swing the hips open and strengthening the legs with squats and lunges will help, increased strength never hurts, in creating explosive hips.

However, the player's mechanics may be fine, and based on his ability to make contact on a consistent basis, indicates they probably are, then there is an upper body strength issue.

A player's wrist, forearms and fingers must be strong or else the power generated from the hips, legs and shoulders is absorbed at these points before the power can be transferred to the ball.

Look at it in this light. You have a 50' water hose hooked to the outside faucet (spigot) which produces enough pressure (100psi) out of the hose nozzle to shoot a stream of water 10' and knock a plastic cup off the table.

However there are three couplings in the 50' length of pipe which leak badly allowing water to stream out. Because of the loss of water to these 3 leaks, the 100 psi pressure from the faucet is reduced to 60 psi out of the nozzle.

There are numerous methods for strengthening the forearms, wrist and fingers, but one drill will increase the strength of all three at one time and improve the batter's swing.

It's a very basic, cave man actually, drill, but extremely effective. You'll need an old car tire which is not mounted on a wheel, a large truck tire or donut tire will not work well for this drill.

Using a rope or chain, hang the tire from an overhead structure or tree limb, where the middle of tire hangs at belt level of the hitter. Using a wooden bat, the hitting assumes his normal batting stance, then swings hitting the tire with the bat.

The intent is to swing through the tire, hitting the tire and moving it out of the way as you finish your follow through. Initially the hitter will not be able to move the tire very much, but as his strength increases the tire will be moved farther, due to the increased energy transfer from the bat to the tire, because the weak body parts are now strong.

Jim Bain - Former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth. Visit his exciting info packed website: http://www.Learn-Youth-Baseball-Coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

7 Tips On How To Become A Better Hitter!

2011-03-27T09:22:00.000-04:00

By Justin Willman

In this article, I am going to talk to you about 7 tips on how to become a better hitter. These tips have not only allowed to me to be a great hitter, but they completely transformed my game and how I play baseball. Heck, I even signed a pro contract a few years ago!

Alright, so let's get down to business.

Tip #1. Watch your favorite baseball players and develop your swing after theirs!

Tip #2. Create your own style! Don't try and exactly imitate your favorite player's swing, create your own swing. Watch how good their mechanics are, but remember that all of us have different bodies, so no swing should be the exact same.

Tip #3. Find your mistakes and correct them. You can do this using a video camera, pictures, or even having someone with experience watch you hit.

Tip #4. Practice often. The best time to practice your baseball swing is during the off season when no one else is working! Do all the tips listed above in the off season, so when the regular season comes, you will be ready to rock and roll!

Tip #5. Practice the correct things! I'm sure you have heard the saying, practice makes perfect. I think the saying should be, perfect practice makes perfect.

Tip #6. Work harder than your competition. This tip can tie right into practicing often, but if you work harder in practice than other players, you will perform better.

Tip #7. Have fun! Don't get frustrated when you strike out or make an error!

I am a former pro baseball player, having helped hundreds of people to easy baseball success. I've recently developed a video training course showing you a step by step process for making your baseball training results come easier and faster. To learn how to become a better hitter without all the fluff, visit, http://www.DynamiteHitting.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Justin_Willman

3 Key Components to Creating A Great Baseball Swing!

2011-03-24T09:21:00.000-04:00

By Justin Willman

In this article, I am going to tell you my closely guarded hitting secrets that only a tight knit group of coaches and players know. I will show you the 3 key components to creating a great baseball swing!

Alright, so obviously if you are on this page you play baseball. And obviously you are not seeing all the results that you wish to see, right!? Of course that is the case, because if it weren't, you would be a pro already!

So here are a few of my key components to creating a great baseball swing. The first thing you need to do is develop the right mechanics and tools in order to succeed. Try and sit down and watch baseball. Don't just flip through tv channels, actually watch the game and pay attention.

Pay close attention to the small things. Watch how hitters hold the bat. Watch what they do once they are on base. All of these things can make you a better hitter.

The next key component is to actually practice baseball! You can't get better at anything if you don't take the time to practice and make yourself better, so do it!

The last thing that you can do to become a better hitter and baseball player is have fun playing the game. Lots of players take a simple game too seriously. Unless you are playing at the pro level, it is not your job. Sure you want to perform and play well, but it's not your job. Don't treat it like one!

I am a former pro baseball player, having helped hundreds of people to easy baseball success. I've recently developed a video training course showing you a step by step process for making your baseball training results come easier and faster. To learn how to become a better hitter without all the fluff, visit, http://www.DynamiteHitting.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Justin_Willman

5 Essential Secrets to Hitting

2011-03-21T09:20:00.000-04:00

By Justin Willman

In this article, I am going to talk to you about the 5 essential secrets to hitting. These secrets have not just made me a better hitter, they have transformed my game and they have helped turn me into an elite hitter. These tips and tricks can be put to use right away, so you don't have to wait weeks or months to see results.

Okay, so the first essential secret to hitting a baseball well and with lots of power is to practice your hitting swing often!

I know what you're thinking. Obviously you think this so called "secret" is something that is just plain common sense, but to be honest, simply practicing longer and working harder will translate directly into success, which is what you want!

The next essential secret is training in the off season. This is somewhat over looked by players, probably because they get lazy or just can't find the motivation. Be different and stand out!

The third thing you can do to become a better hitter is learn from your mistakes! Find out what you are doing wrong and simply fix it! Try and video tape your swing and learn! Next, you can watch baseball and learn from your favorite players. Again, this concept is far overlooked but is extremely powerful!

The fifth essential secret to hitting is to not get too frustrated and just have fun! Remember, baseball is just a game, so treat it that way! Unless you are playing in the pros, it is not your job! Have fun!

I am a former pro baseball player, having helped hundreds of people to easy baseball success. I've recently developed a video training course showing you a step by step process for making your baseball training results come easier and faster. To learn how to become a better hitter without all the fluff, visit, http://www.DynamiteHitting.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Justin_Willman

Tips To Improve Your Baseball Skills

2011-03-18T09:19:00.000-04:00

By Harold Meidinger

As an athlete, there is always a room for improvement. A dedicated baseball player will always continue to seek for skill improvement and development everywhere just to become a better player. There are several factors that could affect your capacity to play such as the trainings and programs you've been attending, physical limitations and abilities, determination and persistence in achieving a goal towards the end and many more. But the most important thing that you must ensure is the willingness to learn no matter how difficult the road might be. Here are some tips that you should remember in your journey towards success.

1. Learn the fundamentals of baseball that are written in books, magazines, articles, videos, lessons, actual games and advices from coaches and expert players. Gather significant information as much as you can so that you will be able to comprehend the basics of the game. In short, you have to feed your curiosity with facts. Right after that, you can now proceed to drills. There is a common saying that practice makes it perfect. Make a routine for your drills. You can do it at least four to six days in a week. Follow the routine religiously if you want to gain something out of it. Practice the proper way of handling the bat, the right body swing and pitching motion.

2. Know your limitations. More than anybody else, you know your body best. Determine your strengths and weaknesses. To prevent burnout, it will be best if you will have another kind of sport at the end of the season so that you can relax your muscles from the rigid training. However, keep in mind to select s particular sport or physical exercise that is closely related to baseball. With this, you can maintain body fitness and stamina.

3. Train your body as early as possible. It is very important to build your strength as an athlete. You won't be able to last long in the field if you don't have enough stamina. Therefore, you must gain it in your early years to have a good foundation of strength for the game. Every player has different level of skills and strength. Identify your good points so that you can focus more in that aspect. If you think that you will be more effective as a catcher or a pitcher, then pursue that position by appropriate and adequate training for catchers and pitchers.

4. Have an instructor who is expert in conducting trainings and drills. It will truly help you to save time, energy and effort with great results. Learning the proper execution of each step and techniques is a good way to start your baseball career. By doing this, bad habits will be prevented. Once you already mastered everything, you can now practice on your own and take some refresher course once in a while or as necessary. Use your full strength to enhance your skills. Your speed, endurance and strength must be increased at the end of your lesson. You will definitely observe the change in power and speed after the training and practices you've undergone.

Harold Meidinger enjoys writing for Pitching.com which offers lessons on pitching coach and baseball pitching mechanics as well as host of additional products and services.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Harold_Meidinger

Gain Flexibility And Strength Through Baseball Exercises

2011-03-16T09:17:00.000-04:00

By Harold Meidinger

Conditioning of the body is very important in baseball. It is a game that needs strength and endurance. A game can actually last up to 15 innings and so on if no team can break the score. As a player, if you will not execute the exercises religiously according to your program, you will definitely get exhausted before the game would end. Every player of the team must work hand in hand along with their coach to attain the strength and flexibility that they require to last in the field. Here are the following guides to help you with your daily drills and routines.

Always start in knowing the basics of the game. An intelligent and wise player must understand the rules and terms being used in baseball. Knowing what is pull-up, push press, row, squat, etc. can help you perform these exercises appropriately. Make sure to fulfill all your routine exercises so that your body will get used to it. You can use up to 90% of your body strength in each drill so that your muscles will purely develop as you continue your training.

Focus more on your movements than in muscle development. This game requires great speed and agility. Playing in the field will use your entire body as a unit and not a single muscle will work at a time. Keep in mind to train your body according to your role. If you are a pitcher, it will be best to throw balls everyday against a catcher. Focus more on your shoulders, arms, back, hips and legs so that you can do a better swing. There are so many talented pitchers in the world of sports today. You can watch their games on videos or you can go to a tournament so that actual play can be observed. If you are already affiliated to the team, it will be best to discuss it with your coach and he will surely provide you with good training program that is applicable to your role.

Control your body movements but always aim for the best. Move as fast as you can with full strength. Exercise your body to gain proper conditioning before you will partake in a tournament. Injuries such as sprains and strains are very common in the players due to lack of preparation. Just like basketball, baseball also requires you to have a perfect body flexibility and speed during the game. You should be able to maintain a high stamina to last long in the game especially if you are one of the main players of the team. Everything is this game works at a high speed. You will never be able to hit a ball if your senses and body movements are slow. Therefore, your training program must also focus in speed. Try to be quick as you can by following the drills and exercises given to you. However, the control of your body relies in your hand. Burnout is very usual in players so know when to take a rest if you can't make it any longer.

Harold Meidinger enjoys writing for Pitching.com which offers lessons and services on pitching coaches and baseball pitches as well as host of additional products.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Harold_Meidinger

How to Increase Your Baseball Hitting Success!

2011-03-15T09:18:00.000-04:00

By Justin Willman

In this article, I am going to tell you everything you need to know about how to increase your baseball hitting success!

To tell you the truth, there is no pill or potion you can take to make yourself a better hitter and baseball player over night. If there was, it would definitely be a hot seller. Honestly, there is a reason why people don't play baseball. Some kids may say it is a dumb, boring, slow sport that requires no skill, but the real reason they don't like it is because it is hard!

Hitting a baseball is one of the hardest things to do in sports. That is why you are considered a very good hitter if you hit over.300, which is having success just three times out of time. If you hit.400 in the Big Leagues, you will not only be an all star, you will be in the Hall of Fame.

So now let's get to the meat. How to increase your baseball hitting success! The first thing you need to do is practice a lot. I know, common sense right? Although this seems like an easy concept to understand, many players do not practice hard enough or long enough in order to really see results.

Next, you need to practice in the off season when no one else is. This is when the cream truly rises to the top and this is the time you can show everybody you are the best player on the field!

I am a former pro baseball player, having helped hundreds of people to easy baseball success. I've recently developed a video training course showing you a step by step process for making your baseball training results come easier and faster. To learn how to become a better hitter without all the fluff, visit, http://www.DynamiteHitting.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Justin_Willman

Leading Off Third Base - What Not To Do.

2011-03-11T09:44:00.003-05:00

Here's a great example of what not to do with leading off third base. Remember to always stand in foul territory. If a batted ball hits you in fair territory you're out.... It happens.

MLB 2K11 :: XBOX Just Released... Review Video

2011-03-09T23:33:00.003-05:00

2K Sports recently released MLB 2K11, the latest version of this popular baseball simulation game. This game is a great way for kids to learn the game. The graphics and realism are unmatched. Check out this video demo...

Creating the Perfect Batting Stance

2011-03-09T09:16:00.000-05:00

By Jim Bain

A batting stance which does not allow a fluid and mechanically sound swing and follow through will void any aspirations of becoming a good hitter. Learning the proper batting stance is the second most important thing you must learn as a hitter. What's the first thing? Professional baseball players will quickly tell you hitting is 90% mental, and without a clarity of purpose and a vision of how the body is going to perform while hitting the ball, the body will not respond efficiently enough to consistently hit the ball with power. Mental toughness is for another lesson.

There are numerous basic mechanics, which we'll delve into, but the first thing which must be addressed about perfecting a batting stance is it must be Comfortable and Balanced for you. These are the two basic building blocks all batting stances are perpetuated on, and I know there are Professional Baseball Players, who resemble pretzels or some other weird looking configuration and who will violate one or more of the elements required for a good batting stance.

One must remember, these players are the exception and are not to be mimicked, as we are looking at establishing good fundamental basics on which to build.

Some of these steps you are already performing, some may be uncomfortable at first, but all of them will become automatic after you acquire more experience, but it is important we look at and identify every step individually to establish a good system and batting stance.

Squaring yourself to the plate should be the first thing you do as you enter the batters box. The greater majority of hitters, more or less, place their feet shoulder width apart with home plate centered between the legs. This is not an unbreakable rule as some hitters prefer to stand up or back in the box, but the majority will straddle the plate.

Where you stand in the box is of your choosing, but no matter where you stand in the box, always stand in the exact same location every time you bat. You must be able to establish a location in which to relate to the ball or else you will not see the break or the rotation of the ball clearly if you're seeing it from a different perspective every time you hit.

Extend your bat out and be sure you can touch the outside of the plate with it, if not move closer because you may have trouble reaching an outside pitch if you're too far away from the plate.

Standing with your feet slightly wider than shoulder width, bend your knees and bring your chest over your feet. You don't want to be erect when hitting because it retards flexibility, rather lean slightly forward, insuring your weight in on the balls of your feet, not on your heels.

The next step is learning the proper way to hold the bat. A lot of players grip the bat more with the palm of their hand than their fingers, which is incorrect as few people realize there is no strength in the palms of your hands, only in the fingers. You want a strong grip on the bat for control. A little hint: Always check to make sure your Knocking Knuckles on both hands line up. This is the proper grip and if they aren't lined up adjust them to where they are.

Holding the bat your hands should be brought to shoulder level, slightly above or below is also acceptable as long as you can still wrap the bat barrel around the back of your head.

You now have a perfect foundation on which to build additional hitting skills.

Jim Bain - Former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth. Visit his exciting info packed website: http://www.Learn-Youth-Baseball-Coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

Coaching With Limited Resources

2011-03-06T09:15:00.000-05:00

By Andy Pohl

Coaching baseball in northern climates can be extremely challenging, as coaches are forced to train their players in confined, indoor spaces during the pre-season months. Furthermore, some high school programs do not even have adequate gym space to get their players ready for spring, and are forced to conduct practices in hallways or even classrooms. In order to make these difficult situations work, coaches must begin to see their resources for what they are, rather than for what they are not. Adopting this perspective will effectively eliminate all frustrations resulting from a lack of space. Once this paradigm shift occurs, specific advantages to coaching in small spaces can be realized. Consequently, the focus of practices can shift towards teaching skills and drills that work harmoniously with the environment, rather than against it.

While small spaces may not provide the ideal environment for taking batting practice or working on cut-offs, it is certainly conducive to developing position-specific fundamentals. This includes proper footwork for middle infielders, crow hops for outfielders, throwing mechanics for all positions, hip rotation for hitters, and dynamic balance for pitchers. For example, getting pitchers to go through their wind-up with a towel, a whiffle ball, or no ball at all allows the pitcher to fine tune his mechanics and make them habit. Furthermore, simply having hitters rehearse their swing in slow motion enables them to concentrate on core fundamentals without being concerned with where the ball goes. Ultimately, teaching position specific skills in confined spaces allows young athletes to primarily focus on mastering the basic fundamentals of a given skill long before they are asked to apply them in game situations.

Despite working with limited space, a solid foundation for athletic development and position-specific skills can be effectively established. The first step is proactively focusing on what is possible, rather than reactively allowing the existence of limitations to excuse failure. Clearly, this paradigm shift sets a great example for all young athletes to follow.

Andy Pohl - Co-Founder, DNA Sports

DNA Sports specializes in personalized baseball and softball skill programs, college recruiting education and preparation, and coaching clinics. Learn more: http://www.dnasportsonline.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Pohl

Good Hitting Starts With Proper Thinking

2011-03-03T09:12:00.000-05:00

By Andy Pohl

If you ever played with dominos, you know that all of the pieces need to be lined up correctly for the chain reaction to occur. If all of the domino pieces are lined up in order, every piece will fall by simply pushing over the first one in line. However, what happens if the first domino is out of place? What happens if the initial domino lacks ties with the others that are waiting to fall? The answer is fairly simple-the first domino falls and the others remain standing.

Failing to think properly before each at bat is similar to lining up a group of dominos with the first one out of line. Just as the other dominos do not have a chance of falling when lined up improperly, you as a hitter have a small chance of getting a hit. If you begin the at bat with the wrong mental approach, you might as well sit back down and let someone else hit for you. This brings up the first key point to hitting-success in the end is only possible with the right beginning. The beginning starts long before you step into the batter's box.

Successful hitters are extremely confident in their abilities. Many actually believe that they can get a hit every time they step to the plate. This attitude does not change, whether the hitter goes 0 for 5 or 4 for 5. Successful hitters do not change their demeanors, and their level of confidence always remains high, even after numerous failures. The key is-if you truly believe in your abilities, you will win more battles at the plate than you think. It's amazing how much control the mind has over the body.

Andy Pohl - Co-Founder, DNA Sports

DNA Sports specializes in personalized baseball and softball skill programs, college recruiting education and preparation, and coaching clinics. Learn more: http://www.dnasportsonline.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Pohl

The Biomechanics of Rotational Hitting

2011-03-01T09:11:00.000-05:00

By Andy Pohl

Rotational movement is any type of movement in a circular motion. Ultimately, it is this type of motion that generates the speed and power hitters need. Once the hitter strides to his balanced position, he needs to rotate his hips towards the pitcher. Another way of feeling this motion is to turn the belly button towards the base line-first base for a left hand hitters and third base for a right hand hitters. When you engage in this motion correctly, you will notice that this rotational movement will pull your hands into the hitting zone. This illustrates a key principle with hitting-the hips are indirectly attached to the hands. As the hips rotate, they pull the hands into the hitting are, causing the knob of the bat to be pointed at the ball. This is a great position to hit from.

As the lower body rotates and opens up, it is important to keep the upper body closed. This creates maximum torque, which generates power. Torque is a fancy word that means nothing more than two forces working in opposite directions. As the lower body rotates, the upper body resists. This type of motion is scientifically proven to produce the maximum amount of speed and power. When hitters get themselves into this type of position, they have the momentum of the biggest and strongest muscles in the body (the hips and thighs) pulling the smaller and weaker ones (the hands and arms) through.

Despite the scientifically and biomechanical proven results of this torque position, many hitting instructors still teach their pupils to "squish the bug." The term squish the bug is a theory of hitting that encourages hitters to use their feet to rotate their hips. The back foot, by turning it after the stride, causes the hips to turn. Though this theory can be done, you have to be an incredibly gifted athlete to coordinate your feet, hips and hands. Secondly, the turning of the feet often causes hitters to spin, rather than turn. This spinning action results in the hips prematurely turning and the shoulders flying open, causing the hitter to pull off the ball. This ultimately prevents the hitter from covering the plate consistently, in particular the outside corner, as well as adjust to curve balls and off speed pitches. Most importantly however, squishing the bug does not lead the hitter into a powerful hitting position because the turning of the back foot does not facilitate torque. Ultimately, starting rotational movement with the turning of the back foot results in smaller and less powerful muscles (the feet) leading the more powerful muscles (the hips and the thighs). Nowhere in the study of biomechanics does it state that more power and speed are created by smaller and weaker muscles leading larger and stronger muscles. If you were at a monster truck derby, which situation would create more speed and power-a truck pulling a small car or a small car pulling a truck? Obviously, the truck pulling the small car creates more speed and power. Another way of phrasing this idea is that the dog wags the tail; the tail doesn't wag the dog. The hips lead the hands and the feet, not the other way around.

Andy Pohl - Co-Founder, DNA Sports

DNA Sports specializes in personalized baseball and softball skill programs, college recruiting education and preparation, and coaching clinics. Learn more: http://www.dnasportsonline.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Pohl

Build Arm Strength By Throwing Through Your Partner

2011-02-28T09:10:00.000-05:00

By Perry Cunningham

During my collegiate and professional pitching career, I was always looking for the miracle formula that would allow me to increase my velocity and help me continue to progress.

As a coach, I seem to always be asked by players, "How do I throw harder?"

Sorry to ruin everyone's hopes and dreams, but there is no magic bullet. There is no easy way around things. There are two ways to build arm strength - develop good mechanics understanding how to use your body to your advantage and throw through your partner.

Almost every coach at one point or another has made the comment to "hit your partner in the chest." But my advice is a little different - throw the baseball through your partner's chest.

Let's say your partner is 75 feet away and you are trying to hit him in the chest. If he would miss the ball completely, how far would the ball travel in the air? I would guess somewhere in the area of 80 feet.

You are again 75 feet away and are now trying to throw the ball through your partner's chest. Again, if he would miss it, the baseball may travel approximately 100 feet or more.

Think of it this way. Your partner is standing away from you with both hands above his head. If you hit him in the chest, the ball will probably glance off his chest. But you are trying to throw it so hard that he falls down and is gasping for air after being hit by your toss.

Why is this a better way? There are three main reasons.

Because you are trying to throw farther, you throw the ball harder. Throwing harder while playing catch develops the arm strength you need in the game.

You are keeping a consistent release point. Your release point is where the baseball leaves your hand. I would bet that when you try to throw the ball to your partner, you throw it twenty feet off the ground. You judge how far you need to throw the baseball and the flight of the baseball isn't in a straight line. But in a game, you try to keep every throw - from the outfield, on the infield, on the mound or behind the plate - on a straight line because that is the shortest distance to throw. A consistent release point will help your accuracy on the field.

For any player that lives in a colder climate, you don't have the ability to throw outdoors during a portion of the year and may not have the luxury of having a large indoor facility to train. So if your only option is an indoor basketball or tennis court, you may only have 100 feet to throw. But it takes more that100 feet to develop arm strength. So, if you throw through your partner and not to your partner, you can still get your necessary practice.

It is a simple suggestion, but one that isn't often taught and is easy to incorporate at practice or in the backyard. It will lead to more arm strength and better accuracy, which lead to a more confident player. With confidence come success.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Perry_Cunningham

More MLB2K10 My Player George Bambino

2011-02-25T09:19:00.001-05:00

Another episode of MLB2K10 My Player. I find this fun to watch.

How Much Baseball Is Too Much?

2011-02-25T09:09:00.000-05:00

By Perry Cunningham

was recently asked this question by a concerned parent who was worried that their son's love the game could eventually consume him. The main fear was obviously long-term health. But there were others - becoming burned out and not experiencing and developing at other sports were also discussed.

How much is too much?

I'm all for physical activity. I think that kids should be kids and spend as much time playing outdoors as possible. I urge caution in playing too much, but raise a red flag when it comes to pitching.

Before getting into specifics, see if you can answer this question.

Every August, the baseball community focuses on Williamsport for the Little League World Series (I was there for the first time this past summer and if you have never attended, do whatever you can to experience it). There is always the kid who throws hard, has a nasty curveball and slider and dominates every team he pitches against.

How many of those kids are pitching in the Major League Baseball? I understand that this is somewhat of a stretch to compare what a kid does at 12 to where he is in life at 27, but doesn't it make you wonder?

Talent is talent. In hockey and basketball, it is not out of the question for scouts and college coaches to be buzzing around kids when they are in middle school. Yet in baseball, it seems that many of these same players with 75 MPH fastballs and unhittable curveballs never make it to the top of their profession.

If you are fortunate to live in a warm part of the world, where baseball can be played year-round, I'm jealous. But does that make it right for a 12-year old to play baseball for 12 months?

My advice was simple. Play baseball all you want. Hit and play the field 12 months out of the year IF that is what your child wants. I understand that as a parent, you have an obligation to tell your child no if the action is something you deem to be unhealthy or unnecessary.

But I also think that kids can be doing a lot worse. Baseball - or any organized activity - can provide structure, social skills and a sense of belonging. You know your kids better than anyone. Are they genuinely enthusiastic about going to practice and games? Do they enjoy camps, lessons and DVDs?
Or do they agree to play because they don't want to disappoint you or feel that they will let you down? Are you pushing your child to play and be the best player because that is what you want? (You probably weren't anticipating such deep questions when you began.)

Let's get back to pitching. I do not endorse pitching competitively for 12 months out of the year. If professional pitchers (who are also fully grown, physically developed adults) know the importance of taking time off and resting your arm, shouldn't the same principle apply to children and teens?

My recommendation is that everyone, regardless of age, should take a total of three months off in a calendar year, preferably consecutively.

When I have this conversation, inevitably two more questions come up - won't my child lose his arm strength and what will happen to the mechanics he worked so hard to develop?

Your body needs time off. Muscles, tendons and ligaments that are subject to overuse become fatigued. The chances of injury increase. What sounds better - taking three months off to rest or taking six months off because of a sprained ligament? The rest is needed and will lead to a sense of rejuvenation.

The answer to question number two is that you do not need to throw to practice pitching mechanics. In fact, you are probably better off not to throw because you can practice longer and more often. Find a big mirror and, without a ball, concentrate on developing solid pitching mechanics.

I grew up in Ohio, not exactly known for its baseball weather for half the year. If I lived in another part of the country, my guess is that I would have played baseball year round. But I also think that there is something to be said for not having the opportunity.

Baseball was all I thought about between October and March. Not being able to play undoubtedly made me appreciate the game when the weather allowed. I didn't grow tired of the game, become burned out or become complacent in my development.

In the end, my recommendation is from my experience. As a professional pitcher, I took off from October through December and never had any serious arm problems. But you know your children better than anyone. You can read their body language and know when they are truly having fun. I'm confident you will make the best decision for them.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Perry_Cunningham

How to Stop a Pitch in the Dirt

2011-02-23T09:07:00.000-05:00

By Jim Bain

The role of being a good catcher can, at best, be physically and emotionally challenging. A catcher is expected to be a good hitter with power, base stealer, at younger ages, an Einstein when calling a game and all done with a smile on behind that hot mask.

There are many catchers who can adequately accomplish the tasks mentioned, but few catchers really ever reach the pinnacle of earning a pitcher's complete and unfaltering trust, when fielding a ball thrown in the dirt. Earn that and you'll become a permanent fixture behind the plate.

As players grow older the cat and mouse game between pitcher and hitter intensifies as both begin to master new skills. From a pitcher's perspective, he's taught, or should be, to attempt to make hitters swing at pitches outside the strike zone, a pitcher's pitch as it is known.

A perfect example of this type of pitching is throwing breaking balls low, mostly in the dirt, when the hitter has a 2 strike count on him. This perfect pitching strategy is totally dependent on One issue, Can the catcher block the ball and keep it from getting past him. That's what were going to learn.

A catcher, by nature of the position, usually has an infallible "Scrapper" mentality. He must draw on this mentality to make himself a virtual back stop, a brick wall which nothing penetrates or gets around. He uses his mitt to catch the baseball, he uses his mitt and entire body to block the baseball. We've established the mental and emotional qualifications of a good catcher, let's exam how we physically accomplish the task.

Drill One: Ball in the dirt in front of the plate.
The catcher Does Not wait to see if the ball takes a nice bounce in which he can catch it with the mitt. He immediately drops from the squat position to his knees. He places his mitt on the ground in front of his crotch blocking any ball from skirting between his knees and under the glove. He should lean slightly forward, creating a C-curve with his body, which in the event the ball bounces hitting him in the chest protector it will bounce straight back out in front of him where he can easily retrieve it and throw the runner out.

Drill 2: Ball in the dirt to the catcher's right.
Never swipe a back hand with the mitt at a ball to your right. This is not about luck, it's about the proper method to stop the ball. Number one you probably won't stop the ball with a swipe and if you did make contact you'd probably slap it out of your reach allowing runners to advance.

From the squat position, you must leap frog your entire body to the right side of the plate to where you're facing the ball. As you leap frog you land on your knees, glove on the ground in front of your crotch, slightly leaning forward.

This exact method is used in reverse for a ball to the left side of the plate.

Learn to automatically perform these actions for a ball in the dirt and you'll quickly become a super-hero to your pitching staff.

Jim Bain - Former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth. Visit his exciting info packed website: http://www.learn-youth-baseball-coaching.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

MLB2K10 My Player Can Help Kids Learn The Game

2011-02-20T11:09:00.008-05:00

During the duldrums of winter baseball helps keep us sane. One great way to keep in touch with the game and help kids learn is to play MLB2K10 on Xbox 360. There is a great game called My Player that allows you to create a player who plays any position. Your player starts out in the minor leagues in which ever franchise you chose. He has to make his way through the minors, building up his skill level to someday play with the big club. The player is in real game situations which can be a great way to help your child learn the metal aspects of the game. I found a clip on Youtube of a My Player who just started his career. I plan on following how he does and thought you might like to as well. Here is George Bambino's first episode... click this link to view it on Youtube in HD: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6gAwB7rk79U

I will probably post a few more videos here but you can subscribe to BambinoBlog's youtube channel if you'd like to follow the series.

Tips On How To Find Baseball Bats For Sale

2011-02-19T09:06:00.000-05:00

By Rileys R

If a child has aspirations of being a professional baseball player in the future, parents encourage them to follow their dreams. Why not? It's America's Favorite Pastime and any parent would be proud if their kid did fulfill his dreams. However, a rising dilemma is buying your children an ideal beginner bat. If you're on a tight budget, there are baseball bats for sale from both select baseball specialty stores and online sports houses.

The length and diameter of baseball bats should be proportionate to the child's age and size. Since most kids get their motivation revving up from age 7-10, you need to know what bat is suitable for their age. There are certain things which parents should take into consideration before practicing baseball. There will be constant offers online of baseball bats for sale. They are priced as low as $15-$150 and depending on what material the bats are made of. Try to stay away from metal bats for the mean time, and stick with wooden bats. Its diameter should be the standard 2 1/4 inches so your kids can practice his swing the right way.

Once you've picked your material and you're aware of the standard measurements for a child's bat, it's crucial to look at stores. Oftentimes, shops offer baseball bats for sale only for a limited time. Take that opportunity to take your child with you and probably give them a swing. Baseball bats shouldn't compromise quality despite a cheaper price.

There will be pros and cons if you decide to buy a custom-made bat for your child. The price of course will be higher compared to regular bats found in sports houses. You need to select the type of wood the bat will be made of. Try to check in with the manufacturer what the best wood is for your kid's needs. It will also take a longer time before your kid can start using it. Custom-made bats can take up to three weeks before they can deliver the bats to you.

Whether it is custom-made or baseball bats for sale, skills should still be given far more emphasis. Pitch for your kid as often as you can to practice his swinging and batting skills. Who knows, it might be the first bat that you bought your child which will inspire him to be the next superstar in baseball. By knowing this information about bats, you can now choose to buy one that fits your budget and needs.

Rileys has been writing online for several years. Check out his latest interest on baseball bats for sale. He has created a website as a dedicated resource for the best product deals for baseball batting cages, visit http://www.homebattingcage.org/ for more information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rileys_R

Catchy Tips In Buying Youth Baseball Gloves

2011-02-16T09:05:00.000-05:00

By Rileys R

It is during childhood that kids start discovering their skills through sports. As parents we should be ever supportive of their needs in developing their athletic talents. A lot of young boys prefer baseball over other sports. An increasing number of these young enthusiasts are leaning towards the catcher position. In this case, choosing the best youth baseball gloves available for his age is crucial in his success their success in playing the game.

Youth baseball gloves are usually made of leather. For beginners, look for gloves which have adjustable Velcro straps in the wrist area. This will enable them to choose how tight they prefer the gloves should be around their hands. It should be neither too heavy nor too restricting to allow optimal use of their catching skills. Cheaper gloves are made of PVC and are priced at $10. Don't go stingy when buying your kids first baseball gloves. It's going to help him with his skills in baseball. He might just be the next Mickey Mantle of the country.

Choose a glove with a range starting from 9 inches. This is the standard youth gloves size. Take note that it's better to buy your kid an age-appropriate glove. It's going to be hard for your kids to learn the basic principles of catching if they are not trained with the right gloves or mitts. If your kid prefers a mitt over baseball gloves, find a mitt which actually covers the entire palm and wrist area. It should be well-padded to decrease the discomfort when catching fastballs.

The price range for gloves range from $10 to $60. Since your child's going to wear it for lots of times during practice it's best to purchase one with the best leather quality. Do not compromise your child's safety. Some cheap baseball gloves do not have strong webbing reinforcements which might lead to hand fractures and injuries. Buy a reasonably priced glove which snugly fits your child's hand. Test the glove before buying them. Test how durable and flexible it is by subjecting it to different movements.

Lastly, let your child take his pick. He already might have a good idea of how youth baseball gloves should feel when worn. Your child's preference in texture, fit, and comfort will be his gauge on what would be the perfect baseball glove for his needs. When buying baseball gloves for your child, it is also good to bring him or her with you, so that you can choose which pair is best.

Rileys has been writing online for several years. Check out his latest interest on youth baseball gloves. He has created a website as a dedicated resource for the best product deals for baseball batting cages, visit http://www.homebattingcage.org/ for more information

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rileys_R

How To Bunt

2011-02-13T09:04:00.000-05:00

By Jim Bain
I won't say a player can make a living or impress the girls without hitting towering home runs, but a good bunter, at the proper time, can be as valuable as gold, and the older you become, the more valuable.

Unfortunately, some coaches don't believe in taking the appropriate amount of time to teach the skills of bunting, and yes, it is a skill. It's understandable up to a point, as there's plenty enough to learn, trying to hit the ball, much alone learn a controlled bunt.

However, the conception bunting is not an important aspect of the game is totally wrong. Not only is bunting an important play at all levels, perhaps more so the older the players become, but it can be a great aid in helping a youngster become a better hitter.

Sometimes it's an easier path to explain and eliminate what not to do before tackling the how to do elements.

When a player squares around to bunt he must be careful to not be standing on home plate, because if he's making contact with the plate when he bunts the ball, he'll be declared out.

When the hitter squares to bunt and slides his hand up the barrel of the bat, he must not wrap his fingers around the bat exposing his fingers to danger, as I shouldn't have to explain the painful consequences of fingers smashed between the ball and the bat.

The hitter should not stab or lunge at the ball with the bat. The ball should hit the bat which is being gently held absorbing the impact resulting in the ball going fair, but a limited distance. Stabbing or lunging at the ball will only result in a missed strike or a ball hit much farther than intended.

Never, unless it's a suicide bunt, try to bunt a high pitch. High pitches are extremely difficult to bunt towards the ground, as the ball has a tendency to pop up into the air which normally results in an easy put out.

The sacrifice bunt is used to give up an out, the hitter, in order to advance a base runner to scoring position, whether it be to second base or third base.

The worse thing a hitter can do when faced with this situation is trying to be cute and disguise his intention to bunt by swinging his bat wildly around, as all this does is throw off the bunter's timing and ruins his mechanics.

As the pitcher comes set in his stretch position the hitter should square his body, directly facing the pitcher. As he does this he should lower his bat from the hitting position, slide his right hand (right handed hitter) up the back of the bat's barrel, stopping @ at the trademark.

The bat should be held and guided with the batter's left hand that's in a slightly choked location. The barrel of the bat should be cradled from behind with the thumb and knuckles of the first two fingers.

The left hand allows the bunter to angle the bat to make the ball go towards the third base side or the first base side. Pull the handle in toward your body, directs the ball down the third base line. Push the handle away from you, the ball will be bunted down the first base line.

The cradle hand helps absorb the impact of the ball striking the bat deadening the bounce off the bat and limiting how far it goes.

This is extremely important. You must have the bat out ahead of the plate in fair territory. Failure to do this will almost always result in bunting a foul ball.

Jim Bain - Former Minor league baseball player, who since retiring has dedicated his life to teaching baseball to youth. Visit his exciting info packed website: http://www.Learn-Youth-Baseball-Coaching.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Bain

A Pitcher's Guide to the Top Pitches in Baseball

2011-02-09T09:02:00.000-05:00

By Dustin Peek

There are a variety of pitches in the game of baseball. The number and types of pitches in a pitcher's arsenal can contribute significantly to the performance on the mound. Each pitch is unique and can be used in combination with other pitches to dominate opposing batters. Use the below guide to get a basic understanding of the most popular pitches in the game of baseball.

Fastballs

1. Four-seam fastball - The four-seam fastball is the most common fastball. The four-seam fastball typically has little side-to-side movement and it maximizes a pitcher's velocity. To throw a four-seam fastball, the pitcher grips the ball with his index and middle fingers with the seams perpendicular to his fingers.

2. Two-seam fastball - The two-seam fastball is slightly less popular than the four-seam fastball but is still a very common pitch. The two-seam fastball is slower than a four-seam fastball and it has a slight downward movement. To throw a two-seam fastball, the pitcher grips the ball with his index and middle fingers on the ball where the seams are closest together.

3. Cut fastball (cutter) - This pitch is used when a pitcher wishes to have slightly more movement than a two-seam fastball. The cutter has a small break just before reaching home plate which often can result in a ground ball if the hitter does make contact. To throw this pitch, the pitcher grips the ball similar to a two-seam fastball but applies slight pressure with his middle finger during release.

4. Split-finger fastball (splitter) - The splitter is a fastball that is thrown to maximize fastball movement. When thrown, this pitch appears to be a normal fastball to the batter. However, as this pitch approaches the plate, it has big and sudden downward movement. To throw this pitch, the pitcher grips the ball with his index and middle fingers on either side of the ball thereby "splitting" them. The ball is thrown with a lot of force, but because of the grip, the velocity is slower than a two or four-seam fastball.

Changeups

1. Circle-change - The circle change is the most common type of changeup. This pitch has movement from left to right with a right-handed pitcher. To throw this pitch, the pitcher grips the ball with his middle, ring, and pinky fingers, and makes a "circle" with his index finger and thumb on the side of the ball. This pitch is thrown with the same arm motion as a fastball, but by taking the index finger off the ball, the velocity is reduced significantly.

2. Knuckleball - The knuckleball is a pitch that is really in a category of its own, but I place it in the change-up category because it has relatively low velocity compared to fastballs. This pitch has very little or no spin and creates a "probing" effect for the hitter. To throw this pitch, grip the ball with the tips of your fingers and the use the tip of your thumb for balance. The idea is to throw a pitch with as little spin as possible to get a true knuckleball "flutter."

Breaking Pitches

1. Curveball - The curveball is one of the first breaking pitches learned by many pitchers. This pitch has a big downward movement and is typically one of the slowest breaking pitches. To throw a curve ball, a pitcher grips the ball with his middle finger on one of the long seams and his thumb on the opposite side of the ball creating a C-shape. The pitcher then releases the pitch in such a way to create significant forward rotation as the ball approaches the plate.

2. Slider - The slider is a breaking pitch that has more velocity than a curveball. The movement is both lateral and downward. It is similar to a cut fastball although the velocity is slower and it has a stronger break. To throw a slider, the pitcher grips the ball like a cut fastball. However, when throwing the ball, more pressure is exerted on the ball with the middle finger to create more spin and more movement.

3. Forkball - The forkball is a breaking pitch very similar to a split-finger fastball. It is gripped like a splitter, but the ball is jammed even deeper between the index and middle fingers. This results in a slower pitch with much more downward "tumbling" movement. To throw this pitch, the pitcher must snap his wrist downward upon release.

There are many varieties of pitches that are not listed here, but the ones listed above are the most common. Using a combination of these pitches can interrupt a batter's balance and rhythm and increase the effectiveness of any pitcher.

Dustin Peek is a former player with a life-long love for the game of baseball. He enjoys helping players of all ages learn the skills necessary to be succesful on the diamond. Do you want to learn more about the top pitches in baseball? Find this and much, much more at: http://www.baseballskillscenter.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dustin_Peek

Hitting - Teaching the Correct Stride

2011-02-07T09:14:00.000-05:00

By Andy Pohl

The stride might be the most over taught aspect of the baseball swing. Simply speaking, the stride is the movement of the front leg before contact. Personally, I don't care how a hitter strides, as long as they stride to balance. Some hitters, like Juan Gonzales, kick up their front leg as if they were pitching. Other hitters, such as Chipper Jones and Sammy Sosa, bring their front foot back and forward quickly as if they were tapping the ground. Other hitters, such as Jeff Bagwell, do not stride at all-they just pick their front foot slightly off the ground and put it back in the same spot. Whatever is comfortable with the hitter works for me, as long as certain rules apply. In addition, regardless of how a one strides, all successful hitters stride to a balanced position. The phrase "stride to balance" is often used to further describe this aspect of the swing.

First of all, hitters must not over stride, or stride out too far. This results in an unbalanced position that prevents the hitter from making a powerful move towards the ball. Secondly, hitters must stride with their front foot at or very close to a 45 degree angle. A wide open foot while striding prematurely releases the hips, thus decreasing the hitter's power and plate coverage. A closed front foot locks up the hips, thus preventing the hitter's ability to create maximum rotation. Striding with the front foot close to a 45 degree angle enables the hitter to maintain both their posture and balance throughout the swing while correctly laying the foundation for a proper hip rotation. Finally, and most importantly, hitters must not move forward when striding. Moving forward during the stride, otherwise known as a 'dive move', causes the hitter to lose all balance and power.

Ultimately, when the hitter strides, the head should remain over the rear knee. During the stride, there is only slight linear motion forward, and after the front heel drops to the ground, the linear aspect of the swing is over. There is no more movement forward. The dropping of the front heel acts as an anchor that stops the hitter's momentum from going forward. After the hitter's front heel is firmly planted on the ground, the hitter moves rotationally to the baseball.

By keeping the weight on the backside and minimizing forward linear motion during the stride, the hitter is able to keep his upper body still, mainly his head. This allows the hitter to see the pitch better, which in turn, increases his ability to make consistent contact. While it is hard enough to hit any moving object, it is much harder to hit that moving object when you are moving too. Keeping the head still enables the hitter to see the plane of the pitch more accurately. Remember, hitting is sight oriented. No matter how good one's mechanics are, nobody, not even Ted Williams, could hit blindfolded.

Andy Pohl - Co-Founder, DNA Sports

DNA Sports specializes in personalized baseball and softball skill programs, college recruiting education and preparation, and coaching clinics. Learn more: http://www.dnasportsonline.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Pohl

Top 5 Tips for Bunting a Baseball

2011-02-05T09:00:00.001-05:00

By Dustin Peek

Bunting is an absolutely critical part of the game of baseball. It can be used in a number of different situations such as moving runners by sacrificing the hitter, bunting for a hit, or using squeeze plays to score a run. Proper technique is necessary for bunting in baseball, and every player should learn this skill at a young age. The below tips are the top five things that every player should know about bunting.

1. Know the Situation

Every situation calls for a different bunting approach, so you need to make note of the defense and what you are trying to accomplish. When evaluating the defense, you want to make note of the first and third basemen positions, the quickness and arm strength of the catcher, pitcher, and third and first basemen, and whether the pitcher is left or right handed. You also want to consider the goal of the current situation. For a bunt-for-a-hit, you want to delay showing bunt as long a possible to catch the defense off guard. For a suicide squeeze, you want to make sure that you absolutely make contact with the ball at all costs. Every situation has a slightly different approach.

2. Hold the Bat Correctly

The bat should be held with the lower hand at the bottom of the bat near the knob. You should slide the top hand just over half way down the bat and grip it between your thumb and curled index finger. The fingers of the top hand should always be behind the bat to prevent them from being hit by the ball. The bat should be kept as level as possible as a tilted bat can often result in a pop-up.

3. Use Your Legs

After you have squared around to bunt, you want to use your legs to move your body and the bat vertically up or down to make contact with the ball. If you use your arms instead, the tendency is to tilt the barrel of the bat up or down which can easily result in a pop up.

4. Only Bunt Strikes

For many players, bunting is something that is rarely attempted during games. When players finally do get the bunt sign, they often get so involved in the process of bunting that they can forget that they still have the option to pull the bat back if the pitch is not a strike. This can result in poorly bunted balls or complete misses. With regard to evaluating balls and strikes, bunting should be no different than other at-bats, and hitters should keep this in mind.

5. Use Your Hands as a Cushion

When contact is made with the ball, you want the ball to roll slowly down one of the baselines. If the ball is bunted with too much force, it can give the defense a chance to make a play. To prevent bunting a ball with too much force, you want to "give" a little with your hands upon contact. Some people call this "catching the ball with the bat." It can take some of the speed off the ball and prevent the defense from making a play.

Use these tips in any bunting situation to increase your chances of success. If they are understood and practiced, it can drastically improve your game.

Dustin Peek is a former player with a life-long love for the game of baseball. He enjoys helping players of all ages learn the skills necessary to be succesful on the diamond. Do you want to learn more about bunting in baseball? Find this and much, much more at: http://www.baseballskillscenter.com

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Baseball History Lesson - Talkin' Baseball - A Great American Song.

2011-01-21T22:51:00.018-05:00

For those of you looking for a way to help your kids understand the roots of the game.... Terry Cashman's song "Talkin' Baseball" is a good start. Cashman sings about baseball in the 50's - 80's focusing on three main players... Willie, Mickey and The Duke. These there of course were the dominate centerfielders of their era and captivated NY and CA fans for decades. Here is a tribute to the song which might serve as a a good start to help your young ballplayer learn about some of the early stars of the game...

A tribute to Terry Cashman's great American baseball song... Talkin' Baseball. One of the greatest baseball songs ever written, it captures the feeling of the pre-PED era of baseball.. when things were a bit simplier and the love of the game really meant something. This video tribute was created to pay homage to his song while helping younger fans learn about some of the players highlighed in it's verses. Every baseball fan should know who Willie, Mickey and The Duke were... if they don't I hope this video helps them learn about these three great ball players.

Rotational Hitting Mechanics - The Best Hitting Mechanics You Can Teach Your Players

2010-12-01T04:49:00.000-05:00

By George Montoya

What are the best batting mechanics you can teach your players?

As a baseball coach, that's a question that I get all the time. If you look around you'll notice well meaning coaches doing the same stale drills, but never really improving their player's mechanics. In fact, these baseball coaches, most of the time, are enforcing poor hitting mechanics.

So what can you do?

The fact is that 95% of all Hall of Fame hitters are using rotational hitting mechanics. That's right; the Major League swing is rotational hitting.

I learned how to teach rotational hitting, and so can you.

Here are some key things to keep in mind about rotational hitting.

It all starts with the grip - The knocking knuckles of the hand have to be lined up; this makes for a more accurate swing. Why do you think an axe handle is oval? It automatically lines up your knuckles for a reason - accuracy!
The stance - You don't want to be too wide or to narrow. A good start is feet shoulder width apart, or about the length of their bat wide.
Load - As the pitcher begins their motion, the batter turns their lead shoulder and front knee toward the plate slightly, always keeping both eyes on the pitchers release point.
Stride and weight transfer - The batter shifts their weight from the back foot to the front foot on a tilted axis, NOT a straight up and down axis. You might even note that their back foot becomes light, sometimes even coming completely off of the ground a couple of inches.
The Hips - Once the batter is going to take their swing, their front heel drops locking out the front leg, and the hips begin to rotate. The rotation of the hips is what pulls the hands around. This is when the batter turns around a fixed axis, their front leg.

Important! The key rotational hitting points above are what most Major League baseball players do during their swing. You CAN learn to teach the mechanics of the Major League swing.

Don't ignore these steps. Quit doing the same stale drills ever other coach out there is teaching. Do your players justice... YOU CAN!

Learn the rotational hitting drills that will show you how to improve your player's mechanics, and make you look like baseball genius.

At www.baseballslugger411.com you can get all the information you need to succeed.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Montoya

Gain Velocity on Your Fastball

2010-11-29T04:47:00.001-05:00

By Dan Ramos Dominko

One of the most asked questions when it comes to pitching or baseball in general is how to get more velocity. There are countless number of ways to get that velo up but one of the quickest ways to see a jump is by getting more extension.

Throwing harder is all about generating torque, the more you have the harder you will throw. To increase your torque you need to create separation between your arms and your legs. It's very similar to hitting when the batter steps forward and loads his hands back to create more power.

There are two parts to getting extension, with your lower and upper body. When you get more extension with your legs you increase your stride with your front leg while keeping your weight on your back leg as long as possible. By extending your stride you automatically create more torque and separation between your upper and lower halves. Once you land on your front foot you need to extend with your throwing arm as far as possible. Every extra inch you can extend you are generating more force and backspin into the ball, not to mention movement as well.

Towel Drill

To work on your increasing your stride you can use the good ol' towel drill. For those of you not familiar with this drill all you need to do is grab a hand towel and wrap it around your middle finger. Start from the stretch and go through your motion as if you are throwing a ball. Once your front foot lands walk five steps (heal to toe) from that spot. You can place a chair here or even better grab a teammate and have him hold his glove thigh high. Go back to where you started in the stretch and go through your motion trying to hit the glove with your towel. I would recommend doing this drill 3-5 times a week roughly 20-40 repetitions.

Towel Drill Tips

* IMPORTANT, when doing this drill you should have a ball in your hand. Just using the towel is too light and can injure you by hyper-extending your shoulder or elbow.

* If you find that 5 feet is too long or too short for you then move your target accordingly. Your goal is to have the target as far away from you as possible, but still close enough to where you can hit it a majority of the time.

* Don't cheat! A lot of pitchers want to place the target much further than they can reach. When you do this most of the time you will end up jumping and not striding. You want to extend to your target, not jump.

More great pitching and baseball articles can be viewed at http://www.betterpitches.com

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5 Reasons to Become a Knuckleball Pitcher

2010-11-26T04:46:00.001-05:00

By Robert D Reese

The Knuckleball

Everyone that follows baseball knows this pitch as the erratic "dancing" pitch. It is thrown with the least amount of spin possible so that air can interact with the laces on the ball and push, pull and manipulate the flight of the ball to home plate. This is why major league hitters look absolutely foolish while trying to swing at a knuckler.

What not that many people know is that practically anyone can learn to throw a knuckleball, it just takes patience, dedication and a little bit of a wild side.

5 reasons why YOU should learn to throw a Knuckleball

1. Don't need a Power Arm
Probably the main reason knuckleballers strive to perfect the most difficult pitch to throw. A knuckleball pitcher doesn't try and throw 90+MPH, they rely on the inconsistency of the knuckleballs flight path. They want the pitch to be thrown from anywhere in the 70-80 MPH range. This lets the knuckleball "dance" in the air, so a batter will have to guess what the ball will do, causing plenty of awkward swings, and plenty of laughs.

2. Can have a Long Career
Knuckleballers can have a longer than average career in the Major Leagues. The reason is that they do not have to put as much strain on the ball throwing hard, so the arm does not wear down as easily. Most knuckleballers can pitch well into their 40′s and still be effective. Take Tim Wakefield for example. He is currently 44 years old and still pitching for the Boston Red Sox. He was also named to the American League All Star team in 2009. Not bad for someone over 40 years old.

3. Very Difficult to Hit
A knuckleball is called many things, the dancer, the butterfly, the floater and many more. The reason is because no one knows where the knuckleball will end up, not even the pitcher. Now think about it, you are trying to hit a pitch that is floating and dancing in front of you with a stick that is about 4 inches in width. Not an easy thing to do. That is why pitchers are able to use it as their feature pitch, but it is also a curse because they do not know where the ball will land.

4. Not Everyone Throws One
As a knuckleball pitcher, you are apart of a fraternity of knuckleball pitchers as not many people are able to throw and less are able to master it. Even being able to throw a knuckleball makes you special. Now many people can throw a ball 60-70mph with no spin. Tom Candiotti, one of the great knuckleball pitchers was taken under the great Phil Nekro's wings and taught how to master the pitch. After Candiotti retired, he counseled Tim Wakefield early in his career. R.A. Dickey of the New York Mets is the newest knuckleball pitcher in the majors, and Wakefield help him out so as you can see, you are in a small brotherhood of knuckleballers.

5. Anyone can throw a knuckleball!
The best part of dedicating yourself as a knuckleball pitcher is that ANYONE CAN THROW ONE. Just ask Eri Yoshida, the first female pitcher to play professional baseball.

Take a look at her video here:
http://www.mlbtraining.org/mlb-perspective/5-reasons-to-become-a-knuckleball-pitcher/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_D_Reese

Kids Baseball Drills - 3 Drills That Make Practice Fun

2010-11-23T04:44:00.001-05:00

By Kenny Buford

Fun Drills for Kids

Coaching kids baseball can be hard: you have to combat hot summer days, short attention spans, and varying ability levels. The key to kids baseball drills is to keep them fun so the kids don't realize they're learning -- they think they're just playing around! These drills for kids are designed to teach them the basics of baseball while keeping them excited about practicing the game.

Hubba Bubba Ball

For this kids baseball drill, the coach needs an oversized plastic bat and balls -- they can be found at most toy stores. The coach divides the team into defense and offense and acts as full-time pitcher.

The kids play the game as they normally would, only because of the plastic ball the defense doesn't need gloves. The batters should focus on clean hits and correct tossing of the bat -- the coach might want to set up markers on either side of home plate so the kids can see where they bat should go once they get a hit. The defense should focus on catching and throwing with soft hands.

Beat the Heat

This baseball drill for kids teaches them about passing and hitting using water balloons. The coach will need to bring plenty of water balloons to practice -- about 100.

First the kids will practice passing by lining up in two relay lines with a big bucket at the end. The two lines compete to see how many unbroken balloons they can get into the buckets in the fastest time by passing from one player to the next. How far apart the kids are spaced when passing the balloons should be based on their age and ability level -- or how hot it is outside!

Now the kids can practice hitting with the remaining balloons. The kids take turns at bat with the coach pitching them water balloons. This drill is great for kids who have trouble keeping their eye on the ball and are hesitant to follow through with their swing because they don't want to miss seeing the balloon burst.

Ball-Go-Round

For this kids baseball drill, divide the team up into groups of four and have them form a square with each player spaced 10 paces apart. The drill begins with the first player rolling the ball to the player on his right, who will catch the ball, pivot, and roll it to the player on his right, who will in turn catch, pivot, and roll, continuing around the square.

The coach will then add another ball into the mix. The players will continue rolling, catching, and pivoting, but this time with two balls going around simultaneously. The players should start calling out the name of the person they are passing to. The coach continues adding balls until there are four going at the same time. The players can then advance to soft-tossing the ball.

To learn more about coaching kids baseball and some fun drills to try, visit my site to watch a free video:

http://www.baseball-tutorials.com/vid/

Kenny Buford is a youth baseball coach, and the owner and publisher of Baseball-Tutorials.com, the web's #1 resource for kids baseball drills, tips, and practice ideas for youth and high school coaches.

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Pitching: Throwing Correct in Bullpens

2010-11-19T04:43:00.001-05:00

By Nate Barnett

I'd like to write briefly the importance of making your bullpens a valuable use of your time. So many pitchers don't understand how valuable each pitch is when they are throwing in the bullpen. Some merely throw the ball thinking about throwing hard strikes anywhere in the zone. When it crosses the plate for a strike they are content with that. That may work for now if you are in Little League but things change when you're a bit older. You can't get away with just throwing strikes, you have to work the corners and ensure the ball has movement.

When you are throwing between starts it is imperative that you work on a few things like pitch location, getting a feel for each pitch and keeping track of how many strikes you are throwing compared to balls.

Don't just throw strikes and think that is sufficient. Talk and think about different game scenarios with your catcher. Who's up at the plate? How are you going to approach this batter? What are the hitters weaknesses? What pitches would you throw this batter and in what sequence will you throw them?

Practice perfect strikes on the corners with each pitch; make a real game out of it. Whatever you pitch, throw with a purpose! I can't say enough about that.

Also, get in the habit of taking a journal to the bullpen with you. Some of the best pitchers I work with have this habit and it works! Not only should your goals be in this journal so you can look at them daily, but you should keep track of each pitch you throw; much like a weight lifter knows how much they are lifting and how many repetitions they do for each exercise.

Take the time to monitor your progress in the bullpen and really do some worthwhile throwing. Make sure you write down any thoughts that come to mind when or after each bullpen session. This will help you approach each bullpen with a better attitude and work ethic.

Nate Barnett is co-owner of The Pitching Academy.

After finishing a professional career in the Seattle Mariners Organization, Nate pursued his coaching and motivational training career. You can find The Pitching Academy's videos, blog, and more articles when you visit the website.

The Pitching Academy's pitching mechanics DVD.

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How to Run a Youth Baseball Practice

2010-11-16T04:42:00.000-05:00

By Mickey B

If you are new to coaching youth baseball or have been coaching for awhile but struggle with it, here are some do's and don'ts for running a youth baseball practice session. It is not really that complicated. In fact, after reading these you will probably say, "Well that's just common sense." However, it has been my experience that more than 80% of youth baseball coaches do not use any of these suggestions.

1. Don't try to "wing" it!

Do show up with a game plan. You are dealing with kids. Remember these two things: they want to have fun, and they get bored very easily. With a good plan of action, you will be keeping them busy, they will be learning, and all of you can have some fun.

2. Don't forget about the parents.

Do ask some of the dads to help with practice sessions. Most youth baseball leagues allow you to have an assistant or two during games. That does not mean you can't have four or five during practice. Some of the dads may have played ball in high school or college. Where I live there is a good chance that they played professionally. Their help is vital to running a successful practice.

3. Don't talk down to the kids.

Do establish good communications with them. They already know that you are in charge, but they don't know what your guidelines are. Before they ever step onto the field for the first practice, establish the ground rules. Greet each of them by name, look them in the eye, shake their hand, and tell them you are happy to have them on the team. Then let them know what you expect. This should include things like showing respect for everyone else, paying attention to the coaches, and maintaining a good attitude.

4. Don't allow the activity to focus on one or two players while everybody else stands around.

Do have several different drill stations set up. Each station should have one of your assistant coaches or volunteer dads running it. Be sure that the coaches and volunteers know exactly what you want taught and that no single player is getting all of their attention. Split your players up evenly and have each group start at a different station. It is usually a good idea to separate siblings and best friends. That way they are more likely to pay attention to the coach and less likely to goof around. Allow fifteen to twenty minutes at each station and then rotate the groups to the next work area. It is also wise to have your helpers teach at different stations from one practice to another. This will give them experience at teaching the methods that you want. You will be visiting each station to check on the progress of the players, give praise to those who are working hard, and interject tips that might help a player improve.

5. Don't let a practice session run too long.

Do limit the time from one hour to ninety minutes. This time should include water breaks and progress breaks. Progress breaks are short periods when you call everyone together, have them take a knee, and tell them about the good things that you noticed them doing in their drills. You can also address any issues that you might have seen, but be careful not to single anybody out. That should be done on a one to one basis.

6. Don't embarrass a player in front of his friends.Do not yell at him nor demean him in any way.

Do have a talk with a player who misbehaves. Calmly let him know that you are disappointed in his behavior, but that you are confident that he is able to do better. I am talking strictly about misbehavior here. If a player merely makes a mistake there is nothing for you to be disappointed about. You just have to give him a little more time to develop his skills. Always provide encouragement to a player, even if you think he will never improve. I have seen amazing things happen to kids after they have gone through puberty.

7. Don't end practice on a sour note.

Do ask your players what they liked about practice and what they did not like. Ask them if they had fun. If they didn't, find out why. Remember, youth baseball is a game. The kids just want to have fun. You should also remember to thank the players for showing up on time, paying attention, and putting forth their best efforts.

As I said earlier, this is pretty easy when you think about it. After a few seasons it will seem natural to you. Just establish a plan of action, line up your volunteers, and go do it. Have fun!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mickey_B

Teaching Mechanics in Youth Baseball - Is It Important?

2010-11-12T04:40:00.000-05:00

By Mickey B

Next to having fun, teaching mechanics is the most important thing a coach can do for his youth baseball players. Some of you dads who are coaching only because nobody else volunteered, might be wondering just what in the world does mechanics have to do with baseball. The answer is...Everything! Mechanics simply means the correct form and movements required to properly hit, throw, or field a baseball. It also applies to running the bases. Watching Major League ballplayers can give you the impression that there is no one way that is considered proper. Every batter seems to set up differently and go through all kinds of unusual gyrations, each pitcher has his own style of wind up, and infielders throw from every conceivable angle. Remember, they are professionals who are perfectly grounded in the fundamentals, and at the point of attack their bodies are in the proper position. The only exception to this is when an infielder has to perform some miraculous feat of athleticism in order to make a play. Also, bear in mind that they get paid a lot of money to do this. That being said, here are some reasons for teaching mechanics in youth baseball.

1. You want to avoid injuries, especially when you are working with kids. Sore arms, particularly elbows, are one of the most frequent problems in baseball. This is usually caused by the player starting the throw with his body before his arm is in the right position. Consequently, he has to drop his elbow in order for the arm to catch up with the body, resulting in his hand getting under the ball and putting a twisting motion on the elbow. If this is done repeatedly, the player will be complaining about a sore arm by the middle of the season. Hitters develop problems with their wrists from an improper grip. They can also hurt their backs with a crazy swing and lack of balance. I mentioned running the bases earlier. I can't tell you the number of times I have seen broken legs or sprained ankles caused by hitting the base wrong or sliding improperly. Most of these injuries can be avoided through the use of good mechanics.

2. Everybody likes to be a winner. Kids are no exception. Yet, I never coach winning or losing. I don't have to. My teams win more than they lose because I concentrate on mechanics. By learning proper skills, my players make more accurate throws, get more hits, and commit fewer errors from mishandling the ball. Don't get me wrong, they are definitely not perfect. They are still growing and can be quite uncoordinated, but they are learning how things should be done. One thing that helps is lots of praise from the coach when they show improvement. I should probably point out that your players will not be as devastated by a loss as you and their parents will be. Remember, they are there to have fun. However, they also want to learn how to get better, and they will improve if you teach them proper mechanics.

3. As a youth coach, one of your major responsibilities is to get your players ready to compete at the next level, like moving from Little League to Babe Ruth. We lose a lot of young ballplayers at this stage every year for a variety of reasons. Some haven't gone through puberty yet and cannot handle the larger field. Others discover girls or different activities that stimulate their interests more than baseball. But sadly, a large percentage leave the game because they can no longer compete with the other players. They were never taught proper mechanics. The throws are longer so they have to throw harder and, as a result, get a sore arm. The pitchers are faster and they can't get the bat around fast enough to hit the ball. They get discouraged, and they quit. You can help prevent that by teaching them the appropriate skills now. I have seen Little League all-stars fade into oblivion on the bigger field because nobody gave them the correct coaching. They made the all-star team on natural skills that weren't enough for the tougher competition that they faced at the next level.

As you can see, these are some very important reasons to teach mechanics in youth baseball. some side benefits for your players are that, without mentioning it to them, you have shown them that success can come with proper execution. They are also learning that hard work has its benefits. This goes for you too, coach. Are you prepared to work hard, also? Do you know what the proper mechanics are for baseball? Don't worry, there are many websites devoted to teaching mechanics. Look for sites that talk about the power triangle, and avoid sites that emphasize pushing off the rubber with the back foot. This is something that a pitcher does, but it should not be taught that way, especially to still developing children. Now, go have fun with your kids!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mickey_B

Misconceptions About How to Hit a Baseball - Stay Back

2010-11-09T04:39:00.000-05:00

By Joe Brockoff

I have had many hitters who take a batting stroke and keep their entire weight on their back leg as they swing. This is NOT what staying back is meant to be.

Incorrect:

Knocking-knuckles pointed forward
Improper grip produces a sweeping action.
Back elbow at 90 degrees...changes the grip

If the hitter is staying on his backside throughout his stroke, he needs to adjust out of this immediately!

In observing all better professional hitters, we can see that when they are in contact with the ball, their front side is firm, with their weight against the front heel. They are on their back toe, with the back leg making an "L." They are not on the ball of the back foot. The body's center mass is in a stacked position. The weight is not back on contact, rather, it is being transferred through the ball.

Body is stacked on contact. The hands are in front of the body, not over the plate.

The proper term here is not to stay back, but to "start back". We collect our weight on the stride. We should distribute 30-40% of our weight. Then, when we pivot, the weight is transferred from the back side to the front side. This transfer is controlled by the hips, as they come square to the pitch. This method allows the hitter to transfer his weight through the ball.

What really stay back are the hands!

Using the following steps, the weight transfer will be smooth and powerful:

1. Load (or coil). The weight goes back as the hips rotate slightly inward, lifting the front heel off the ground.

2. Stride. 30-40 % weight on the stride. When the front heel goes down, the next step occurs.

Hands are back in the stride. Throughout all of this time, the hands stay back.

This is what "stay back" really means.

When the front heel, comes down, the hips come square in the pivot and the weight transfer occurs from back to front. The hands have the option at this point to launch or not to launch.

Hands in Launch Position

The hands go last.

When a coach sees a hitter commit his hands first, perhaps that is when we hear him say, "Stay back."

This must not be interpreted as keeping the weight back throughout the stroke. A better way of saying this would be "Keep the hands back." A hitter must train his hips to take him to the ball and discipline his hands to wait for the right moment to start the stroke.

Hi. I'm Coach Joe Brockoff, a Division I Head Baseball Coach for Tulane University for more than 19 years, and former minor league player for the New York Yankees. Over the years, I've taught thousands of baseball players how to increase batting speed and improve their overall performance on the field. In fact, my proven training system has sent 45 baseball players to the pros.

As a coach committed to continuous improvement, I share my baseball drills, tips, and techniques here so that you will, in turn, inspire and motivate young players to improve their game. I hope you'll visit my web site, the Super 8 Baseball Hitting System at http://www.learnbaseballhitting.com to watch some of my free instructional videos.

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Youth Baseball Digest: The 3 Absolutes of Coaching Youth Baseball

2010-11-05T04:38:00.000-04:00

By Nick Dixon

Baseball is one of the most demanding sports to coach. The purpose and function of youth baseball is to provide a quality sports team experience that builds baseball skills, teaches team-first attitudes, builds a respect for authority and regulations, and develops an appreciation for the value and consequences of hard work.

To be a successful baseball coach, you must have an understanding how the game is taught, played and practiced. There are three absolutes that every youth baseball coach should remember when they plan, organize, and prepare their "game plan" for the coming season! This article outlines those three absolutes.

The three absolutes of baseball are:

Youth baseball is a game for youngsters, not adults.
Baseball must be taught and practiced for success to be achieved.
Discipline must be a part of every team's preparation and execution.

Now I will briefly explain what I mean by each of these absolutes.

Youth baseball is a game for youngsters, not adults.

When I say "Youth Baseball is for Youths" what I mean is that we have youth baseball for the youngsters that are playing it, not for the coaches that are coaching.You will find that kids can accept responsibility, become accountable, work hard, and learn from their team successes and failures, but at the same time they have to see purpose, see progress, and enjoy their participation. They must have fun.

For kids to love and appreciate the game they must be motivated, challenged, and enjoy the majority of their team time whether it be a practice, a workout, or a game. There is no law that says coaches should not laugh, smile, joke and have "Light" moments with the team. I consider myself a pretty good baseball coach. My team discipline is strict. But, my players know exactly when they can goof off, joke around, crack on each other, or generally be "loose" as a team. They also know exactly when they have to be focused, attentive, and acting "by the book". The point I am trying to make here is that coaches have to understand that players need to learn to relax and as much as they need to learn to work and focus. It is a coach's job to teach them to enjoy themselves without guilt so long as their enjoyment comes from wholesome and proper behavior that is acceptable.

Baseball must be taught and practiced for success to be achieved.

Baseball is a sport that required a high level of commitment and dedication. It is important that players develop good work habits as early in their careers as possible.It is impossible to fake work or fake good practice when it comes to baseball. Those coaches, teams and programs that work extremely smart, work exceptionally hard, and that always work with a higher level of purpose and commitment are the baseball programs at the top of the "food chain". So, if you plan to coach, get prepared to practice. In fact, if you need to make sure that you have

Discipline must be a part of every team's preparation and execution.

I am a firm believer that teaching team and self-discipline are two of the most important roles of every coach in all sports. To be successful a player must learn to discipline himself to stay out of trouble. To be build a championship atmosphere and environment, a coach must establish control of his players and staff. With discipline also comes respect. Without discipline, there can never be respect. Without respect your team will never achieve to its highest attention.

Players not only expect and appreciate a coach's discipline, but they also have a strong desire for it. Kids want to be controlled, instructed, and taught. It makes them feel like they are respected, appreciated, and a part of something worth spending their effort and time in. When a coach displays no backbone, no will to control, and no will to handle adversity with a firm and strong demeanor, the players will not put their full and complete trust in him. Coaches should set team rules. The coach should display a willingness to plan, prepare, organize and execute both practice and game plans. This shows a high level of self-discipline on the coach's part. Teams emulate a coach's attitude, actions, and habits.

Instilling and maintaining a firm discipline builds a strong foundation upon which to build a championship season. I hope that you found this article to be informative. Please visit the Baseball Coaching Digest, Youth Baseball Digest, Baseball Digest Blog, and the Baseball Parent Guide for free baseball coaching articles, drills, and tips. Good Luck to you and your team in the coming season. Have a great day, Nick.

The CoachesBest Baseball Store has a great selection of 1400 Baseball Products. Check out the BatAction Hitting Machine baseball pitching simulator. This high speed training machine is 100% Guaranteed to raise Batting Averages and has a full year warranty.

Nick Dixon is the President and founder of Nedco Sports, a sports training company established in 1999. Dixon is also an active and full time high school baseball coach with over 25 years experience. Coach Dixon is better known as the inventor of the BatAction Hitting Machine, the SKLZ Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine, the SKLZ Target Trainer, the SKLZ Derek Jeter ZipnHit Pro, and the SKLZ Strikeback Trainer. Dixon is also a contributing writer for BaseballCoachingDigest, the Youth Baseball Digest, the Baseball Parent Guide, the Baseball 2Day Coaches Journal, and Blog4Coaches.

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Baseball Coaching Digest: Teaching Baseball Pitchers the Correct and Proper Stride Leg Mechanics

2010-11-01T04:36:00.000-04:00

By Nick Dixon

One of the most common pitching flaws seen in baseball has to do with the motion and action of the pitcher's front leg or stride leg and foot. This article discusses three common baseball pitching flaws associated with the stride leg and foot.

Stride leg movement and landing foot action is an extremely important part of proper pitching mechanics. Here are three common mistakes made by pitchers that can make them suffer the embarrassment of a poor performance on the mound.

"Improper Leg Action from Balance Point to Stride"

The proper, correct and desired motion of the stride leg depends on the game situation and the presence and location of base runners. If there is no one on base the pitcher should go to the balance position, then separate, and then take the leg and foot downward in a "down and Out" or "Landing Plane Motion". This path allows the hands to separate and the throwing arm to get to the desire point with the front foot don and planted before the throwing RM COMES FORWARD.

If there is a runner or multiple runners on base, the pitcher should throw from the stretch and use the glide step to deliver the ball to the plate quicker to deter base runners from stealing.

"Improper Front Foot Landing"

The simplest way to describe a bad front landing is to say that the pitcher is landing the front foot on his heel. The front foot should land flat or on the ball of the foot. Landing on the heel makes the pitcher's delivery inconsistent and his control will suffer.

"Improper Front Leg Mechanics"

A young pitcher should be taught to stride toward home plate. The pitcher's front foot should land with the toes pointed in the vicinity of the plate. When striding toward home plate the pitcher should not land on a stiff rigid leg with their knee locked. This can cause a "pole vaulting" action and a whip like action that is a dangerous pitching flaw that can injure a player's arm over time. Pitchers have to learn to land with their front knee slightly bent, but to firm the bent leg up during the pitching motion. When the stride foot lands the knee should be bent. The lead leg must stiffen up as the pitcher's weight comes forward. This stiffening action gives the pitcher leverage or resistance to work against in creating arm whip and velocity.

I hope that you found this article to be informative and useful. Please visit the Youth Baseball Digest Blog, Baseball Coaching Digest Blog, and the Baseball Coaching Digest for more free baseball articles, baseball tips, and free baseball drills. Good luck to you and your team. Have a great day, Nick.

The CoachesBest Baseball Store has a great selection of 1400 Baseball Products. Check out the BatAction Hitting Machine baseball pitching simulator. This high speed training machine is 100% Guaranteed to raise Batting Averages and has a full year warranty.

Nick Dixon is the President and founder of Nedco Sports, a sports training company established in 1999. Dixon is also an active and full time high school baseball coach with over 25 years experience. Coach Dixon is better known as the inventor of the BatAction Hitting Machine, the SKLZ Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine, the SKLZ Target Trainer, the SKLZ Derek Jeter ZipnHit Pro, and the SKLZ Strikeback Trainer. Dixon is also a contributing writer for BaseballCoachingDigest, the Youth Baseball Digest, the Baseball Parent Guide, the Baseball 2Day Coaches Journal, and Blog4Coaches.

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Baseball Drills - Hitting Drills to Strengthen Players

2010-10-28T04:35:00.000-04:00

By Kenny Buford

Drills are routine practice elements used to build strong foundations in players. Hitting drills are effective for solving problems players face at the bat. Once a coach has identified what problem the player has, he can utilize the appropriate drill to strengthen that element of the hitter's technique.

One-knee, One-hand

This hitting drill involves the coach, acting as pitcher, and player both on one knee. The player extends the front leg, keeps his bottom hand on the bat handle and hits soft tosses from the pitcher, keeping his wrist flat and palm down. The player should use a short swing, keep his hand inside the ball and avoid rolling the wrist.

This drill isolates the player's movements to focus on hand position and technique, building strength in the wrists and forearms. The coach should be able to see if the player is employing improper technique, like rolling his wrists or swinging too long. To take the drill further, the player can use a smaller bat and swing with only one hand, alternating between the top and bottom hand.

Front Inside Soft-Toss

This baseball drill also emphasizes shortening the swing and maintaining flat wrists to build strength and increase quickness. In this drill, the coach feeds inside pitches from behind a screen.

The hitter stands, with both hands on the bat, and tries to hit the inside half of the ball. This positioning requires the player to use quick hands, because slow hands that drag the barrel of the bat will cause the pitch to jam him. In addition to using quick hands, the player also needs to maintain flat wrists to ensure that the fat part of the bat makes contact with the ball.

The feeder should watch the player's technique to make sure he is not rolling his wrists or using a long swing. The coach may want to hold the ball on some pitches to better observe the balance and stance of the hitter.

Stride and Freeze Tee

This drill addresses the stance and balance of the hitter. If a hitter gets out on his front foot and struggles to keep his weight back, he is not able to generate enough power to be an effective hitter. By using a tee, the hitter and coach can both focus on positioning and stance without the added element of watching for the pitch.

To begin this drill, set up the tee without the ball. The player then prepares to hit the imaginary ball by taking his stride and releasing his hands back. The hitter then freezes and allows the coach to check positioning, making sure his hands and weight are back and in proper balance.

At this point, the coach then puts the ball on the tee and allows the player to hit from that position, watching to ensure proper follow-through and balance. After repeating this drill 10-15 times, the hitter can then swing with the ball on the tee from the beginning.

And if you'd like to see more free baseball drills and coaching tips, go here to watch a free video:

http://www.baseball-tutorials.com/vid/

Kenny Buford is a youth baseball coach, and the owner and publisher of Baseball-Tutorials.com, the web's #1 resource for baseball drills, tips, and practice ideas for youth and high school coaches.

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Uncommon Baseball Hitting Drills

2010-10-24T04:33:00.000-04:00

By Jeffery A Wise

Baseball hitting drills are a necessary part of practice. Players run these drills to improve their skills and get them ready for batting practice and games. There are some common hitting drills, but we're going to talk about one that is not so common. Nonetheless, it is important and should be practiced more often.

The modified broomstick drill is very helpful. You need a broom handle that is cut down to the length of a bat. It will help to sand the end and add batter's tape on the end for grip. Then, ask someone to pitch plastic golf balls to you. These balls can be purchased at any sporting goods store.

The distance between you and the pitcher doesn't matter as long as they can toss you the balls easily. Start with underhand pitches. Then switch to overhand pitches so there is some appropriate velocity on the pitch which simulates a real pitch.

You can work on many different hitting mechanics for improvement, but now let's just focus on your upper body. Relax your shoulders, neck and face. If you are too tense at the plate it is much harder to have a quick, fluid swing. That's what this baseball hitting drill is for.

Also, make sure your front shoulder is lined up to the pitcher and have it closed. Sometimes ball players have an issue with leaving their shoulder open and that makes them open up and start their swing too early. This causes players to pull the ball in the form of a ground out or fly out.

During this baseball hitting drill, keep the shoulder closed and wait for the plastic golf ball to arrive in the hitting zone before taking a smooth, fluid swing. Take turns hitting 25 balls and then rotate. This drill is a lot like playing wiffle ball so have fun with it.

The purpose of this drill is to improve hand-eye coordination and mechanics. You may also want to use this drill to practice hitting harder. Whatever you do, always strive to have fun!

Jeffery A Wise invites you to learn more about baseball hitting drills so that you can hit a baseball better. Start learning today at http://www.baseballhittingtipsonline.com by reading our information, watching our videos and participating in our blog.

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