The Baseball Zone Blog
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Top 3 Reasons Why Baseball Players NEED to Strength Train in Season!
Reason #1 - Time management & discipline
Another busy baseball season is upon us and many players are trying to juggle practices, games and schoolwork. Add in-season training to this schedule and a player really has to be disciplined with his/her time. SST athletes maintain a 2 days per week in-season program throughout their busy schedule. How do they manage to do this? Time Management and Discipline!
Stop watching TV, playing video games and reading your favorite Kim Kardashian tweets! All I am asking for is 2 hours per week during the season…really if you can’t afford to spend 2 hours in making yourself better during the season then you should consider licking stamps for a living.
It takes Time Management and Discipline…two skills that you need to continue working on if you truly want to compete at the college or pro levels.
Reason #2 - Peak at the end of the season, not at the beginning
It makes no sense to me why athletes train hard for the beginning of the season and then stop training. When is the most important time for an athlete to peak? Playoffs! SST athletes are stronger, faster and more powerful for a run at the championship season because of their commitment to getting strong in the weight room.
Think about this - you spend 2 hours per week strength training during the season….your strength continues to rise…Your competitor takes the summer off and his strength, power and speed diminish by the end of the season. Think of the sizable difference in strength you will have over your competitors. Can you look yourself in the eye at the end of the season and say I did everything I can to help my team win?
If you want to be the best then how can you justify taking 4 months off and expect to compete at the same level with some of your competitors?
Reason #3 - Continue training FOR BASEBALL
Everyone talks about aerobic conditioning for baseball players, but what about speed development? Last time I looked Baseball is an anaerobic speed and power sport - not AEROBIC!
Why is it that players are still running poles and miles? WASTE of time! Get over it peeps...work on your short term speed and you will see a huge difference in your game!
I have yet to see an award for the best miler in baseball - but I have seen awards given for stolen bases and homeruns - BOTH POWER AND SPEED movements!
Sorry to all of you old school thinkers that have their head in the sand and still have their guys jogging…include a 30 minute speed workout during the season and you will see a huge difference!
Sincerely,
Larry Jusdanis is the owner of Sports Specific Training Inc. and www.sstcanada.com
Image courtesy of diamondawgs.com
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3 Popular Mental Training Myths
Many professional athletes work with mental performance coaches to enhance performance, many of whom wished they had developed these skills much earlier in their careers. The problem is, there is a mindset that mental performance training is only necessary at higher levels where there is more at stake. However, many young players are never able to reach their full potential due to mental performance issues and those that are ‘good enough’ to reach higher levels in their sport spend more time than necessary battling performance issues. Even so - every child, regardless of their future goals or their current level, can benefit from mental skills training at the very least to improve their sport experience.
A number of myths or reservations prevent adults and young athletes from truly understanding the use and need of sports psychology.
Myth #1. “I don’t really get nervous- I’m already mentally prepared,” kids say.
Sure - there are athletes that actually don’t get nervous. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t suffer in other areas such as dwelling on mistakes, focus, playing as well as they practice, anger or frustration issues, and of course, being “prepared.” Even if nerves aren’t an issue, any athlete that says they are mentally prepared usually cannot list the sequential steps they take before a game or the specific techniques they use and when. While an athlete may feel prepared, they often have no concrete plan of attack to deal with both positive and negative events.
Myth #2. “I’m playing well right now- I don’t need it” young athletes say.
If these kids could learn how to identify the thoughts and feelings that are feeding their success, they’d learn how to harness these thoughts and feelings at a later date—when they’re not at the top of their game.
That’s just one of the lessons they’ll learn if they embrace mental training. The term "mentally weak" implies there is an inherently defective or temporarily fragile mental quality in an athlete. This is not a helpful or accurate statement, as many elite athletes who are quite mentally strong still seek the services of sport psychologists on a regular basis. This is one of the most pervasive and damaging of the many myths about sport psychology. Why does Jose Bautista continuously work with a batting coach? His game is not "weak or broken". He works with a coach so he can continue to improve, and to minimize any backsliding. The same is true with athletes who seek the services of sport psychologists. They want to improve their mental skills.Myth #3- “I already talk to my kid about thinking positively, why do I need someone else to do that?” parents say.
It is always critical that parents are involved in helping develop and nurture the techniques their young athletes are learning to implement however, the emotions involved between a parent and their youth athlete can sometimes stand in the way (please read other posts on this topic here). Moreover, having a cognitive, conceptual understanding of sport psychology is important, but this alone is not sufficient to help an athlete consistently perform under pressure. The principles of sports psychology need to be individualized, adapted and utilized in a very detailed and systematic way in order to be effective.
Many people think positive thinking and visualization are the crux of sports psychology, and perhaps these are among the best-known interventions, but they are only two of many approaches to improving sport performance.
There is no single technique or modality that works equally well across the board in sports psychology, for all athletes, for all issues. Just as the field of medicine has various specialties and modalities to address the multitudinous issues that patients present, sports psychology has an array of interventions that can be customized to adapt to the wide variety of psychological issues athletes face.
If you’d like to learn more about how to help your young athlete benefit from mental training contact me for a free consultation!
Jen Scorniaenchi, M.S.
Images courtesy of:
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What to Look for in a Baseball Strength Coach - Part 4
OK so here we are with Part 4 of my 4 part series on "What to Look for in a Baseball Strength Coach". Pretty common sense so far, right? Yes, but it is amazing how often we can look beyond the common sense ideas and get sold on some sort of sizzle...wihtout the steak, as they say.
So to review, here are the first 3:
Attribute #2 - Leave Your Ego at the Door!
Attribute #3 - Continuing Search for Educational Resources
Now, Attribute #4 is something that is probably the most common sense of all of them, but I have to admit, it is not asked about nearly as much as you might think, nor as often as I wish it were:
Results
Yes, results are the bottom line. Why do you think the TV show, "Biggest Loser" is such a hit? People are getting results and that’s what everybody wants! But sadly, most people want instant success. If a coach tells you that you can drop 20 pounds in two weeks, be very leery. Success takes a lot of work, as it does in anything worth while, and there are no short cuts. So don’t expect shortcuts in weight loss or training either.
Ask your coach or trainer what successes they have had, and be specific. If you are a baseball player ask about successes with baseball players. Ask about seeing some transformations and statistics. Ask what the main 3 differences might be for your sport compared to, say, hockey. Ask, ask, ask.
Do you see a theme here so far with these attributes? The best coaches all have passion; all exhibit a keen interest to learn more in an endless study of research; a good coach stashes his/her ego. All of these combined will deliver to the client the main attribute - excellent results. Notice I did not mention certification? The reason for this is that some trainer certifications are done on line or through a weekend course (admittedly, some are actually pretty good). Now, this is better than no certification at all, but imagine dealing with a doctor who received his accreditations at a weekend seminar. Don’t get me wrong, it’s great to get certification but the trainer/coach must still continue their education throughout their lifetime.
So, when looking for a good coach/ trainer please ask these questions and remember you will only get the results you want from the effort you and your trainer put into it. Some Coaches may only be working with you for two hours a week. So get off the couch, get ready for summer, and find yourself a great strength coach to make this your best baseball season ever!
For more information and access to great articles and videos please visit www.sstcanada.com
Sincerely,
Larry Jusdanis, Founder - SST Canada
www.sstcanada.com
Image courtesy of 360solutions.com
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What to Look for in a Baseball Strength Coach - Part 3
OK so let's review the first 2 of my Top 4 attributes of a baseball strength coach:
Attribute #2 - Leave Your Ego at the Door!
Passion for your work is something that is essential for success, and finding it in a strength coach will do you a lot of good.
Leaving Your Ego at the Door means that your strength coach can put serving YOU at the centre of your program, versus serving themselves.
Now, Attribute #3 is something that is also very, very hard to come by in all walks of life, as it takes time, money, risk and sacrifice:
Attribute # 3 - Continuing Search for Educational Resources
Consider the strength coaches who attended this past seminar I have been referring to. They took time from their busy schedule to spend a whole day to better their techniques. They are determined in their search of new educational information. Next time you are looking for a trainer/coach ask how many seminars and what other types of education they take part in. At SST, the minimum goal is to attend one new seminar each month to better ourselves. Even if I only discover one new thing, both my client and I will be better for it.
These last few weeks, I have been reading books, articles, DVDs and anything I can get my hands on regarding cancer and nutrition. Why? One of my clients has been diagnosed with cancer and I feel an obligation to do the best I can to help him get better. This is the kind of dedication I look for when hiring strength coaches.
Another good friend, one of the most learned nutritionists in the world, John Berardi spends countless hours researching and discovering new information about the human body. He has PASSION which leads him to the never-ending search of new and important information; the ongoing search for education! Why do you think he is the best? Passion and education!
So next time you are looking for a trainer/coach, don’t be afraid to ask them questions as if you’re conducting a job interview; which, in fact, you are. Their answer to this simple question will tell you a world of information about how serious they are about their profession and serving you the best that they can.
Stay tuned as I wrap this series up tomorrow with Attribute #4!
Sincerely,
Larry Jusdanis, Founder - SST Canada
Image courtesy of smartersocialmedia.com
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What to Look for in a Baseball Strength Coach - Part 2
I started out my Top 4 attributes of a baseball strength coach with Attribute #1 - Passion!
Passion for your work is something that is essential for success, and finding it in a strength coach will do you a lot of good. If you get the sense that your coach is watching the clock, or thinks that working 40-50 hours a week is akin to slave labour, then you know they do not have passion. Those that get lost in their work so much that time just slides away...they are rare, but if you can find them, grab on and don't let go.
Now, Attribute #2 is something that is also very, very hard to come by in all walks of life:
Attribute # 2 - Leave your Ego at the Door!
This is probably one of the most important ideals, and one of the most difficult for many coaches to acquire. I see big egos every time I travel and watch other coaches coach. (Make sure you take the time to read Mike McCarthy's blog on this titled "Is Your Baseball Coach In It For You? Or For Themseves?")
Let’s use my friend Scott for example. His strength is his ability to help his clients get strong . . .he does a GREAT job at this, but he understands his limitations, in this case, speed training. What did he do but seek out someone to help him and his athletes with this aspect of training? He left his ego at the door and did what was best for his clients!
I did the same thing for some of my female clients when I discussed nutrition and training with top physique coach, Francine from Montreal. Her insight was tremendously productive in helping my female clients achieve success. I often bring in nutrition experts such as Caryn from Biotics Nutrition to teach the SST staff, enabling us to better help our clients. Again I remind you, your trainer should be able to leave their ego at the door!
Remember the bottom line is that strength coaches and personal trainers are here to help you. Whatever it takes, coaches should try to ensure the best for their clients...and sometimes that means leaving their ego at the door. Don't look at it as a weakness - none of us knows everything. Look at it as a huge strength in that you have someone working for you that is trying to ensure that you get the very best in all aspects of your training.
We as coaches and trainers all like to boast about our clients’ successes and sometimes market them (before and after stories), but remember this (and I tell all my parents and athletes this): You are the one who commits yourself to the project and you must be the first one to put forth a great effort. Our trainers are ready to work hard for you, and you must be ready to work too. YOUR program is about YOU, not us. Don't let anyone's ego get in the way of that.
I'll be back tomorrow with Part 3!
Sincerely,
Larry Jusdanis, Founder - SST Canada
Image courtesy of blog.nutrex.com
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What to Look for in a Baseball Strength Coach - Part 1
If you are just getting into the spirit of using a strength coach or personal trainer and want to know what to look for, hopefully I can offer some advice. I have been in this field for over 14 years and have seen a lot. I’ve traded new information with colleagues, and used mentors and libraries of information to learn what I now know. But the learning never stops! I am always seeking what is best for my clients.
Many people have asked me what to look for when hiring a strength coach or a personal trainer; I think the answers are the same in either situation.
I used to think education was the most important credential and trust me I believe this lays down the foundation of the science of personal training which is very important but not the only thing to look for. I have seen many good coaches who don’t have a post-secondary degree have success but I have seen many more trainers who have a degree and then take a 2-day course and now think they are EXPERT personal trainers after one weekend!
Over the next FOUR days, I will give you FOUR of the attributes I think a client should look for in a baseball strength coach:
Attribute # 1 - Passion
Last June I attended a speaking engagement and workshop in cloudy Southern California (June Gloom!) where a couple of things really stood out. On the first day I had the pleasure of teaching 50 personal trainers about Functional Applied Speed Training for Power Systems.
I was overwhelmed and surprised by the passion and love for training and knowledge these coaches exhibited. Some had come from as far as Canada and New York all the way to California for a full day of learning. Right away (8AM) the audience was engaging and very receptive to learning. Never once did I have to beg for a volunteer - in fact I had to beat them away with a stick when we went into the practical sessions. This is what I call passion!
The next day I was fortunate to pair up with a good friend and great strength coach, Scott Prohaska. He had arranged for the training of 15 athletes, ranging from Olympic bobsledders to division one football players to elite baseball players. Coming into this I knew all these high -level athletes would have passion, but the passion from Scott was amazing. Not only was he encouraging, but he tried every drill I put each athlete through. At the end of the session he told me that he has brought in many people in to speak with his athletes and was pleased to report that his athletes told him that they enjoyed the day mainly due to my passion and the fact that I was right there in the trenches with them. This is what I love to do!
Later that day Scott and I went for dinner and discussed how many hours we work per week.
70-80 hours was the answer. I have asked many professionals, in other fields, the same question and they often admitted to working similar long hours. When I ask why they work so many hours each week, the common answer was not just that they have so much work to do, but rather, that they love what they do. You can actually see the true passion in their manner. People who are successful put the time into their field of work, but the ones who are truly dedicated, do it for the love of it! Their passion shows, in fact it oozes out of them - because you can not fake passion! As one of my clients, JoAnn, says “Love it!!”I will be back to you tomorrow on Attribute #2 in What to Look for in a Baseball Strength Coach.
Larry Jusdanis
Owner, Sports Specific Training
Sstcanada.com
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Baseball Psychology - Building Confidence in Sports
I am often approached by athletes and parents wanting to know how they can “gain more confidence.” Unfortunately, confidence is not something you can buy in a store, get from reading a book, or even by someone else’s praise. Improving YOUR confidence takes work by YOU. The great thing about confidence is that it is a bi-product of mastering many other mental skills- and that is where I always start with my athletes. The more we mentally practice our sport and build our coping skills the more confident we become. Confidence lies not only in an athlete’s belief in their own skill but also their confidence (self-efficacy) to cope when things don’t go as planned. It is through learning a combination of both coping skills and mental preparation that athletes tend to see their performance- and confidence – soar.
Here are some things to remember:
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Remember that confidence fluctuates. Even major league baseball players experience peaks and valleys when it comes to confidence. It is important to recognize that when your confidence is low it is not forever- as long as you work at focusing on something more productive like improving a skill; your confidence will restore itself.
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Focus on yourself, not on others. Instead of thinking about how well your teammates or opponents are doing, think about your own performance and how you can improve.
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Focus on day-to-day success. Don’t simply count the amazing double play, strike out, that huge home-run, or even a win as your measure of success. This is setting you up for a confidence pitfall. Instead, focus on even the smallest successes or things you do well EVERY day you train or play.
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Concentrate on the process, not outcomes. When you focus on your performance instead of the outcome of a game you automatically become more confident because your focus is directed at something YOU can control. It is possible that you could play the best game of your life and still lose. Yes, you may still feel disappointed or upset that you lost but your confidence will remain intact because you focused on your performance and gave it your all.
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Focus on what you’re doing right. Even in the midst of your worst possible game there is SOMETHING that you are doing right. That simple shift from dwelling on mistakes to finding something positive has a bigger impact on your mental and physiological state than you know!
To learn more about developing coping skills and how to mentally practice your sport, contact me for a free consultation! Just click the picture below.
Jen Scorniaenchi, M.S.
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What Are Toronto Baseball Players Saying About Our Program?
High Performance - Is It For You?
Our High Performance Program is designed and run with the intent of being more than just another baseball program. We aim to help develop our players not just in a technical sense, but also physically, mentally and tactically, creating a more well-rounded athlete that is more than just capable of repeating skillful movements - they become better PLAYERS.
Over the years we have been able to work with 100's of athletes through this program and in its first 5 years can say that it has played a part in the development of over 100 players that have gone on to Elite, College and Professional levels.
But enough of us telling you about it. Here are a few of our athletes' stories in their own words:
If you are a serious athlete looking to have a story like theirs, we invite you to try out one of our High Performance sessions in the near future. Just click on the button below and we will see you soon!
Mike McCarthy, Co-Founder - The Baseball Zone
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Ontario Terriers Baseball 15U Team - Spring Training Wrap Up
March 13, 2010
Lake Vista, FL - The 15u Terriers played a wild game in Lake Vista Florida on Tuesday and eventually emerged as 13-11 winners.
The competition was the Proctor Baseball Academy from New Hampshire and they jumped out to a early 7-0 lead after just three innings. The Terriers got back into it with a five run fourth. Stefan Markovic, Matthew Elford, Duncan Jakubowski, Drew Valade and Drew Dickerson scored the Terrier runs.
Proctor reclaimed the lead in the top of the fifth with three runs to make the score 10-5. Andrew Leggo, Dean Angelo and Anthony Spignesi made sure the Terriers stayed close however, when they crossed for three runs in bottom of the inning to make the score 10-8 after five.
As this long game moved to the top of the sixth inning Proctor extended their lead to 11-8, setting the stage for the final Terriers comeback.
After tying it up in the bottom of the sixth with hits and RBIs from Tyler Valiquette, Sam Turcotte and Andrew Leggo, the stage was set for scrappy center fielder Anthony Spignesi. With runners in scoring position and two out, Anthony squared up a 1-0 pitch for what would be the game winning RBI.
Michael Enns-Ward came on to pitch the seventh, and he would nail down the victory with authority by striking out the side.
March 14, 2012
St. Petersburg, FL - The 15u Terriers have a mini three game winning streak going with another win this afternoon over Brewster Academy (NH). The games have been far from defensive gems, but exciting all the same with today's ending in a 10-9 score. The victory came right down to the wire, as Brewster had the tying run at third in the seventh. He attempted to score on a sac fly to Terriers right fielder Dean Angelo, but Dean fired a bullet to catcher Jake Sims for the out at the plate to preserve the win.
Drew Dickerson pitched four solid innings, allowing just two hits while striking out seven. He walked just one Brewster hitter.
The ten run attack was spread throughout a lineup that is made up of players 13-15 yrs of age. Tyler Valiquette (2-3, 2 RBI,RS), Elliott Curtis (1B, 2 BB, 2 RS, RBI), Joe Tevlin (2B, 3 RBI, RS), Sam Turcotte (2B, RBI, RS) and Michael Enns-Ward (2 BB, 2 RS) all helped lead the offense on this day.
March 15, 2012
Competing mainly against varsity high school teams that used aluminum bats, the Terriers 15U team - using only wood bats - held their own in Florida compiling a 3-3 record. It was a great trip for everyone in the group, with some individual highlights below:
Top Hitter - Anthony Spignesi
Top Pitcher - Drew Dickerson
Gold Glove - Elliott Curtis
MVP - Michael Enns-Ward
The team flew home on Friday and resumed indoor baseball workouts and strength training at The Baseball Zone on Saturday morning in the High Performance Program.
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Ontario Terriers 15U Team Romps at Historic Jack Russell Stadium
March 12, 2012
Clearwater, FL - Historic Jack Russell Stadium, spring training home to the Philadelphia Phillies for several decades provided the venue for a 10-1 Ontario Terriers Baseball 15U victory over WI Baseball Academy(FL) on Monday night.
Elliott Curtis got his stadium debut as a starting pitcher and was excellent through five innings of work. He allowed just two hits, struck out four and walked just one.
En route to the 10-1 drubbing, Anthony Spignesi got friends and families out of their seats with an inside the park home run. Spignesi had three RBIs in the game. The balance of the offense came from Michael Enns-Ward (1B, 2 BB, SB, 2 RBI), Matthew Brillert (1B, 2B, RS, RBI), Sam Turcotte (2B, 2 RBI), Milton Palomino (1B, SB, 2 RS, SB) and Drew Dickerson (1B, RS, RBI).
Matthew Brillert and Tyler Valiquette combined to throw perfect sixth and seventh innings.
The 15u Terriers dropped game one of their spring break trip, 16-14. Drew Valade was 2-2 in that game with four runs scored, two stolen bases, two walks and an RBI.
The 15U Terriers are the development team of the Ontario Terriers Baseball organization. They train in The Baseball Zone's High Performance Program and with SST Mississauga's strength and conditioning program.
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Developing Infielding Movements Through Playing Catch
So what is the number one method of improving infielding movements? Just play catch. That’s it. Throw the ball. Move the feet and catch the ball. How much more simplified can it be than that? Unfortunately playing catch is done at such a poor level that developing and acquiring skills needed for improvement go by the wayside. A simple routine of day in and day out catch, with purpose, intent and conviction will assist in the overall development of movements for any aspiring infielder.
How much time do players spend daily playing catch? The good ones will do it for 15 to 20 minutes daily, sometimes much longer than they will ever take batting practice. In daily throwing programs, players will have the ability to visualize how they want to make each catch, where the feet need to be positioned, how they will harmonize their hands (with their feet) and what type of position does one need to be in to efficiently make the catch and subsequent throw. During your daily throwing time, players will be able to experiment with various glove and hand positionings, throwing from different or awkward arm angles and even throwing the ball from positions that may cause imbalances. All of these types of development help the dexterity in the glove-hand relationship and relationship with the feet to improve lateral, forward and backward movements. Additionally, during this throwing time it is good habit to have your partner throw balls that will bounce, whereby balls will take off the ground and create long hops, short hops and in between hops. The infielder must change his thought process and visual observations of ball flight and determine what hop he can take the ball on, field it cleanly and have flow when making the return throw back to his partner.
It is easy to see why playing catch is a great developer for infielding movements. One thing we know about infielders is that they don’t always field ground balls in exactly the same spot each and every time, nor do they make throws with the exact same arm angle. In fact infielders, more than any other position, will not throw with the same arm angle from one throw to the next. Playing catch may seem to be infantile in its simplest form, but if the execution of each catch and throw is done with extreme precision and executed with intent and conviction, you can turn yourself into a confident infielder with good movement patterns.
Appreciate any comments you have and any other methods you might use when playing catch.
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone
Image courtesy of www.joanna.org
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Intangibles That Create Success for Infielders
Often when infield play is talked about it is done so with an inordinate amount of technical information regarding angles, hops, fielding position, glove action, etc...This type of information is invaluable to any aspiring infielder in their pursuit of defensive success.
However, an area that is often not spoke of and is of the utmost importance is the way in which infielders use various intangible factors to help them improve their defensive prowess.
Intangibles always begin with communication. There are three types of communication: Verbal, Non-verbal or Visual and Physical or body language. The advantage of any type of communication is that it will assist each player with the necessary focus needed for “this particular” pitch. Players that lack pre-pitch communication are less likely to be "in tune” or will lack focus on their personal responsibility on that pitch or during the play. When any or all three forms of communication are instituted and carried out in a continuous fashion, players will learn to anticipate better, faster and with more natural "instinct". When these forms of communication are not instituted is when infield defence breaks down, which leads to poor decisions, poor plays and indecisiveness with the defence.
Before the Pitch:
Anticipation: This is the key to any successful defence. Players need to communicate what they anticipate before the play and during the play. A good example of anticipation is watching an NFL quarterback as he stands over the center. Yes he has called the play in the huddle, but once the huddle breaks and he prepares to receive the snap, he is constantly monitoring the defence in the event he would need to audible a change in a portion of the play or the entire play. In baseball, anticipation intangibles are things like the type of hitter at the plate, pitcher, baserunner's or baserunners' speed, field conditions, weather, wind, sun, score, inning, etc...When infielders anticipate effectively, they will put themselves in situations to make high percentage plays and hopefully remove themselves from indecisions or panic decisions. When panic sets in, boy, can good baseballturn quickly into bad baseball. Individual anticipation is great and the best ones in the game, Jeter, Ripken, Vizquel, to name a few do and did it better than most. However, those types of players can also turn others into high percetage defensive infielders through sharing of what they anticipate.
Defensive players should always remember to communicate before the pitch, in other words, if you anticipate something let your teammate know. Teach your players to help each other out and never keep things to themselves. Always communicate when you are moving and where you are moving. Use all forms of communication to ensure that each defensive player is aware of intentions.
During the Play:
Talk your teammate through the play. Reassure them that you are there for him. It’s like a third base coach being the set of eyes for a runner when the ball is hit behind them. Poor “during the play” communication leads to defensive breakdowns, extra bases given up and eventually defensive runs against. Baseball is such a funny game in the way we prepare. Position players spend countless hours working on swing development and defensive actions, pitchers work on mechanical or movement patterns of the body, pitches and defensive coverages, yet the amount of time spent of intangibles is quite small. Think about the last time you saw a ball thrown to the wrong base. Why? It happens all the time at all levels. Put the time in on the intangible side of defence and you will surely be blown away by the amount of improvement.
Any and all comments are appreciated and any other intangibles you can share would be great!
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone
Images courtesy of helpful-baseball-drills.com & dalje.com
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How Infielders Can Create Angles to the Ball
Do you ever wonder why great MLB infielders always appear to make infield plays very routine? Have you ever wondered why MLB infielders rarely get bad hops when fielding ground balls? Have you ever really watched how MLB infielders prepare their bodies to field ground balls? We can talk all we want about instinct, positioning, range, hands, arm strength, etc. as all critical components of infield play, but this article will be designed around the infielder's ability to create angles when fielding the routine ground ball.
The first major difference between an amateur infielder and a MLB infielder is the way in which they approach a ground ball. Most young players take a straight "B" line to the ball, thus when they get their feet set up to field the ball, they typically have the glove on the wrong side of their body. For example, as a right handed throwing infielder, most young players have the glove positioned in the center of their body or toward their throwing side when the ball is fielded. Conversely, a MLB infielder would generally place their glove to the left of center or directly underneath their glove hand eye. So, now the question... why do MLB infielders position their glove differently than the young player? Simple answer... they create an angle to the ball, ensuring their movement pattern approach places the ground ball outside their glove shoulder. When the MLB infielder moves and approaches the ball, they always work from the out of the ball to the inside or for the 2B, SS and 3B, the movement would be from slightly right to left.
The approach should always be to try and keep the ball outside the glove hand shoulder, thus, when the infielder is preparing to field the ball, they can fluidly and smoothly transition into their last two steps (right, left) prior to fielding the ball. At this point, the glove will be presented to the ball slightly left of center and in front of the glove hand eye.
A simple indoor or outdoor drill (see above) to see if your kids are creating angles is to simply place a ball on a line in the gym or on the field. Have your players back up about 10 feet from the ball. Once they have backed up, have them walk toward the ball. What you will generally see is a direct path or "B" line to the ball. What they should be doing is moving so that they approach the ball with it slightly outside their glove shoulder. This will then create the angle toward the ground ball and enhancing momentum for the throw to first base.
In summarizing angles, it is very important that infielders find a way to create angles to ground balls. When they can do this on a consistent basis, infielders will find their "flow" and "transition to throw" improves in addition to their ability to read hops. We all should know that reading the best hop to field the ball is a by-product of how we create the angle to the ball.
Please let me know your thoughts on this and share any great drills you use for your own players.
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone
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Hey Baseball Players - Is it Time to Fire Your Trainer?
I spend a lot of time in various gyms and I see a lot of things that make me wonder what I'm actually seeing. This is not unusual for me because I'm mostly a kinaesthetic-type learner and I need to try things out before I understand them clearly.
Over time, one thing that I've been able to spot immediately is something that is dead-wrong. It's easy to notice because I get a feeling inside that alerts me to the fact that I'm seeing something that is completely off the grid of what is sensible. There's a saying in coaching that ‘if something doesn't look right then it isn’t right’ and you don't have to know exactly what it is that is wrong when it just looks wrong.
There is more nonsense in gym-workouts that are directed at changing body composition than anything else. If you take a few minutes to look around any gym, you'll see things that just don't make sense. The worst part about it is that people are parting with their free time to do this foolishness. It isn't any of my business most of the time, so I just watch long enough to get the feeling and then I go back to my workout and allow the feeling to float away.
The only time it gets to me is when I'm drawn in by someone who is asking me for my opinion about their program, or their efforts, only to finally let me know that their approach is great and that I don't know what I'm talking about.
Being wilfully ignorant is a problem because it indicates that a person has stopped learning, which is fine with me, so long as I am not engaged in the ignorant conversation. However, when someone does ask me how long it will take them to drop ten pounds by doing bicep curls and some light cardio; I find it a challenge to be gently polite.
I tell them that I can't answer that question because their workout isn't a program set up by me and I have no prior knowledge of their physical attributes and how the program pertains to their individual weaknesses.
However, if they are interested, I will suggest some proven options for fat loss. Even if they say they are interested they often have tons of excuses why they can't do squats, dead-lifts or resistance training and why they would never do high intensity interval training. They tell me that eating too much protein is bad for people and that high quality food is too expensive. They believe that boxed cereal is a healthy choice because the cereal is fortified with nutrients.
Many of these clients tell me that because fish oil is fat, it should be avoided. They contend that the leg press machine is better than split squats because the knee never travels past the toes and that since the cardio class they do with their girlfriend helped them drop five pounds, doing it twice a week should help them drop 10. It goes on and on.
What I find very surprising about this attitude is the high level of buy-in the client demonstrates. It doesn't matter that I look exactly how they want to look, they JUST KNOW that what they are doing is going to be effective REGARDLESS of how little impact it is having on their body. Evidence doesn't enter into the equation when faced with overwhelming emotional commitment – the feeling that it will work.
I understand there is a lot of psychology involved in all of this, and that these people who desire to change their body composition have, at some level, an emotional issue or two that led them to their larger self in first place. But, the fact that they hold on to their issues during their efforts to change their body composition is regrettable and it is wasting a lot of their time.
Let’s face it, someone who has 50 pounds of fat to lose is very good at one thing - gaining fat - and they aren't very good at the opposite thing, getting rid of fat. But they can't grasp this obvious relationship. However, if they could, they would end up in a much better place.
The hard, fast truth about improving body composition is that you need an expert to help you do it. If you are a baseball player going to the gym and you are not trained by an expert, it's time to fire your coach and hire an expert. SST's individualized programs may be exactly what you need. Give SST a call and find out how we can help you!
For more information and access to great articles and videos please visit www.sstcanada.com
Larry Jusdanis BPE, CSCS & Founder - SST Canada
Images courtesy of minipingers.blogspot.com, gmuhs.wswsu.org & personaltrainingadvice.com
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Infielding & How to Read Hops
Typically when learning how to play the infield, most of the instruction an infielder will receive will be centered on technical areas such as glove position, how far the feet should be spread apart, flexion in the knees and ankles, etc. However, an overlooked area when teaching young players how to field a ground ball is the ability of the infielder to read the hop and determine the hop that they should try and intersect the ball on. Reading hops is truly an art in itself and takes thousands of reps to garner the ability and "instinct" to understand. Notwithstanding the importance of the technical efficiencies necessary to field the ball, this article will briefly delve into a couple types of hops that can be expected and how and infielder should go about making the play on these hops - namely the "big, high hop" and the "short hop".
First and foremost, ground balls will take a variety of hops as they move toward an infielder. Typically, there are three types of hops a ball can take: a big, high hop; a short hop and the dreaded in-between hop. The goal of every infielder is at all costs, to try and avoid the in between hop. This is the hop that will absolutely place every infielder in a position that they simply do not want to be in. That is, fielding the ball on your heels, deep against the body while backing up. Instead of talking about the negatives of fielding an in between hop and sending the wrong message, after all, the best way to avoid an in between hop is to turn it into a big, high hop or a short hop. Let’s examine the big, high hop and the short hop and consider these hops as our priorities when fielding ground balls.
Big, High hop: This is the ball that every infielder desperately wants to try and get. It is fashioned by first recognizing and reading the ball off the bat, then moving quickly and fluidly toward the ball while creating an angle of approach. Once the infielder has ascertained the directional angle to take toward the ball, the next key is timing the momentum into the fielding position so that the ball can be intersected in the desired hop. A good key to reading these types of hops is “if the first hop is high, come and get it”. Big, high hops are not necessarily above the waist, they can be below the waist around the mid thigh area or knees.
Short Hops: The short hop is also considered an advantageous hop to field ground balls, as the ball will be fielded shortly after the ball has hit the ground for the last time. The infielder will simply move his glove in a downward plane and take it through the ball while continuing to maintain his body momentum. The glove should never be shifted in a backward direction when taking a short hop, as a backward move of the glove will only cause the hop to extend further, thereby giving the ball more time to bounce upward and turning the hop into an in between hop. Always get the glove lower than the hop and work toward the ball.
I hope this gives you a better understanding of what to work on in reading hops. Look forward to hearing some of your own tips and experiences.
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone
Images courtesy of www.baseball19.com & www.mysanantonio.com
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How Perfectionism Can Stifle a Young Baseball Player's Confidence
Sport Psychologists often hear from baseball parents who worry about young baseball players who are too hard on themselves. You're likely familiar with these types of athletes. They're perfectionists.
Perfectionist athletes criticize themselves for making mistakes, often hold very high expectations for themselves, and get frustrated easily after making mistakes.
On the positive side, these athletes typically have a strong work ethic, are committed to their goals, and want to learn and improve. In fact, most athletes display at least some 'perfectionist' traits from time to time.
It's not always easy for perfectionist athletes to perform up to their abilities. In fact, it is usually fruitless. When kids try to be perfect, they can undermine their own talents quickly. They hold strict expectations about their performance, are afraid of failing, and worry too much about results--statistics, goals scored or wins.
If your young athlete is a perfectionist, begin by identifying the traits that may be sabotaging his or her confidence in competition.
Does your child want to win so badly that he feels anxious? Is your athlete afraid of failing or losing? Does he or she play tentatively during games? Does your athlete try too hard and then over-control his or her performance?
Sport Psychology research has found that kids with high expectations—whether these expectations come from parents or from the kids themselves—are more likely to get angry. If they can’t achieve their own high standards, they get frustrated and angry.One way to help these young athletes with high expectations is to tell them it’s okay to make mistakes. If they keep making the mistake, coaches and parents can try to find a different way to help the athlete such as watching a video, or having some more one-on-one time with the coach.
High expectations undermine players’ performance in many ways. If they become frustrated or angry, they don’t perform well. Their confidence suffers. To help kids with high expectations, start with your own expectations. Are they too high? Are you pushing on your children some of your own dreams?
One important task for you as a parent...
Parents with perfectionist athletes should help kids identify their high (often unrealistic) expectations about how they should perform. Then help your child replace these expectations with simple process goals.
For example, say your athlete believes he or she should throw every pitch perfectly. Suggest that your child replace his or her "I must throw every pitch perfectly" mindset with these simple process goals or objectives:1. Pick the right target for each pitch
2. Be decisive
3. Be confident
4. Be committed
5. Let it go
Also, be careful what you tell them just before they perform (read this blog on Last Minute Tips). Even if you’re kidding when you say, “Go out there and score nine goals,” they might take you seriously and take this goal on as their own! It’s best to say, “Go out there and have fun.”
To learn more about how I can help your player(s) overcome the negative effects of perfectionism, among many other performance-related obstacles, contact me for a free mental performance consultation. Just click the picture below. Thanks for your time!
Jen Scorniaenchi BA, MS
Photos courtesy of www.crazykindalife.wordpress.com & www.mocoloco.com
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Top 9 Baserunning Myths Countdown - Myth #1
Would you like fries with that?
So to everyone who has taken the time to read this series and/or make comments, I give you a large thanks. We have had agreements on things and some disagreements. (If you have made comments and not been replied to yet, you will receive one.) All in all, it has been very enjoyable putting pen to paper, or I suppose fingers to keyboard, and a fruitful exercise overall. A few new connections have made with people across the continent and that is always a good thing.
Now to end the series, I offer a bit of a pre-emptive apology. The last myth is not about baserunning. So if you have been waiting on pins and needles for the greatest myth of them all, I regret to inform you that preceding 8 myths are going to have to do for now.
Instead, after some serious topics I offer a little bit of levity, but arguably a no less important myth that is certain to inspire some discussion and disagreement. Here it is:
Myth #1: The ballpark franks are better inside the stadium than outside it
In my humble opinion, this is as much a myth as any of the previous posts in this series. Almost without exception, you will find the hot dogs outside the stadium to not only be superior to what they serve on the inside, but also less expensive. Bigger dogs, better cooking. Too bad most places won't allow you to bring them in to watch the game unfold and see if you can't view your own baserunning myths occur.
So after some serious discussions, let's have some fun and find out what you think: Are they better inside or out? Where are the best dogs are served in North America? If not dogs, what is your bad food of choice when taking in a heavenly baseball game?
If you are just joining the series, you can find the 8 "serious" myths below. Please enjoy and feel free to comment on any or all of them. Thank you again for reading. I look forward to connecting again soon.
Baserunning Myth #9 - Leaving the batter’s box and sneaking a peek: The peek occurs on the second or third step
Baserunning Myth #8 - Angle turns approaching each base: The angle should be the same for each player
Baserunning Myth #7 - Contacting the base when advancing: The runner should always touch the base with the left foot
Baserunning Myth #6 - Take a bigger lead than normal at first base when stealing: The base will be easier to steal
Baserunning Myth #5 - Your fastest runners will be your best base stealers
Baserunning Myth #4 - Sliding into first base: The runner gets there faster
Baserunning Myth #3 - When on second base, the baserunner is supposed to be responsible for the position and movements of the second baseman
Baserunning Myth #2 - Tagging at third base: The third base coach should tell the runner when to break for the plate
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone
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Top 9 Baserunning Myths Countdown - Myth #2
Why not just watch for yourself?
Myth #2
Tagging at third base: The third base coach should tell the runner when to break for the plate
The third base coach should never direct the baserunner verbally when to go (but he should give the baserunner information prior to the pitch regarding what he would like the baserunner to do, pending the situation). The baserunner should not blindly set up to tag on a fly ball and be intently staring at the third base coach waiting for the command to “GO”. Why? The time it takes for the baserunner to get the verbal cue, then process the cue, then getting the body started for the break takes too much time. In fact I recently read that old "hand timed" sprint times in track and field are having 0.35 seconds added to the times to account for the human delay at the start. Knowing this, now imagine waiting for the third base coach to yell "Go" when he sees the ball being caught (add 0.35 seconds) and then factoring in the runner's delay (another 0.35 seconds). The runner is now potentially operating at a 0.7 second disadvantage. Not a great start to scoring.
It is always best to have the baserunner open up or face the play so he can see the catch first hand. The baserunner should use either foot, but the foot on the base should be the one that allows the body to be open to the catch. For example, if the ball is caught in play or down the right field foul line, the left foot would be on the base (see picture). If the ball is hit foul, to the left side, then the right foot should be on the base and body open to the catch. To assist in getting a quicker, more explosive break off third base, as the ball nears the outfielder’s glove the baserunner should start to lean forward and down slightly, building up momentum for the start. It then becomes a rolling start rather than a stationary start.
So what do you think? Let me see your thoughts below in the comments section.
Also, if you missed my previous myths, you can check them out here:
Baserunning Myth #9 - Leaving the batter’s box and sneaking a peek: The peek occurs on the second or third step
Baserunning Myth #8 - Angle turns approaching each base: The angle should be the same for each player
Baserunning Myth #7 - Contacting the base when advancing: The runner should always touch the base with the left foot
Baserunning Myth #6 - Take a bigger lead than normal at first base when stealing: The base will be easier to steal
Baserunning Myth #5 - Your fastest runners will be your best base stealers
Baserunning Myth #4 - Sliding into forst base: The runner gets there faster
Baserunning Myth #3 - When on second base, the baserunner is supposed to be responsible for the position and movements of the second baseman
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone
Image courtesy of www.kbiassportsextra.wordpress.com
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Top 9 Baserunning Myths Countdown - Myth #3
Myth #3
When on second base, the baserunner is supposed to be responsible for the position and movements of the second baseman
This is the sole responsibility of the third base coach. In fact, once the baserunner leaves first base and safely reaches second base, all back side visual responsibilities are to be taken care of by the third base coach. Baserunners are responsible for all front side visuals, that is, the pitcher and catcher. Asking or directing the baserunner to watch both the front and back side, will only hinder his chance of extending the lead and getting a good jump either on a steal attempt or a batted ball. In some cases, you may also find the first base coach involved in the visual and verbal communication of the baserunner at second base. Once again, this should be avoided - it will only add distractive cues to the baserunner. A third base coach would need to set up a series of verbal communication cues to assist the baserunner in getting off the base, to hold on the lead length, indicating there is room or to go back.
In any event, the third base coach will accept all visual movements produced by the two middle infielders and control the back side. The baserunner should then be assigned all front side movements.
So what do you think?. Let us hear your thoughts below.
Also, if you missed my previous myths, you can check them out here:
Baserunning Myth #9 - Leaving the batter’s box and sneaking a peek: The peek occurs on the second or third step
Baserunning Myth #8 - Angle turns approaching each base: The angle should be the same for each player
Baserunning Myth #7 - Contacting the base when advancing: The runner should always touch the base with the left foot
Baserunning Myth #6 - Take a bigger lead than normal at first base when stealing: The base will be easier to steal
Baserunning Myth #5 - Your fastest runners will be your best base stealers
Baserunning Myth #4 - Sliding into forst base: The runner gets there faster
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone
Imagie courtesy of www.probaseballinsider.com
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Top 9 Baserunning Myths Countdown - Myth #4
Perhaps Superman is the exception, but other than him...
Myth #4
Sliding into first base: The runner gets there faster
There are a couple of instances when a runner should slide into first base, but they do not have anything to do with getting there faster:
- The baserunner should only slide into first base to avoid a tag by the first baseman, pitcher or second baseman
- The runner should only slide into first base if he feels that there may be an impending collision
Other than these, sliding into first base is not a faster method of getting to the base. In fact, if this were true, why wouldn’t world class sprinters slide when crossing the finish line? Remember first base is the only base (other than home plate, which is not considered a base) where the baserunner, by the rules of the game, can touch the base and run past it (after touching). Whereas at second and third base, unless the baserunner is rounding and either moving to the next base (or home plate), a slide would assist in avoiding a tag or collision or assist in maintaining base contact after a successful steal or play.
Yes, it can often be seen that some players, including major league players, slide into first base. Truthfully, it makes no sense and should be avoided.
So what do you think?. Let us hear your thoughts below.
Also, if you missed my previous myths, you can check them out here:
Baserunning Myth #9 - Leaving the batter’s box and sneaking a peek: The peek occurs on the second or third step
Baserunning Myth #8 - Angle turns approaching each base: The angle should be the same for each player
Baserunning Myth #7 - Contacting the base when advancing: The runner should always touch the base with the left foot
Baserunning Myth #6 - Take a bigger lead than normal at first base when stealing: The base will be easier to steal
Baserunning Myth #5 - Your fastest runners will be your best base stealers
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone
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Top 9 Baserunning Myths Countdown - Myth #5
Man cannot live on speed alone
Myth #5:
Your fastest players will be your best base stealers
Wow, if only this were true. Certainly when stealing bases if this were the case, then many teams would go out and sign or recruit every track and field athlete that competes in a 50 m, 60m or 100 m race. Unfortunately this is so unproven and there is much more to stealing bases than just speed alone. Let me make a case in point, and then I will dive into factors that make up the stealing process.
In 1974, then Oakland A’s owner, Charlie Finley, signed Herb Washington, one of the world's most celebrated sprinters as a student-athlete at Flint Central High School and Michigan State University. The four-time all-American won one NCAA title, seven Big Ten titles, and tied or broke the world record in the 50- and 60-yard dashes several times. Washington was signed as the “designated runner”. Although Washington had some High School baseball experience, he had not played since. That same year he was signed, he was a pinch runner late in game 2, of the 1974 World Series. He got picked off in the 9th inning in a crucial situation. Washington, as fast as he was, appeared in 105 Major League games, never as a hitter or a defensive replacement. However, he did have 48 steal attempts and as fast as he was, he only was only successful in 31 of those attempts. So what can we take from this…a fast runner does not always have a better chance of stealing a base.
As we review base stealing in its simplest form, no matter the speed of the runner there are other factors that make up the steal itself. Runners have to be fearless; runners need to have a lead that supports their ability; runners need to get a good read on the pitcher; runners need a good jump; runners need to ensure their first few steps are explosive; runners need to run with good running mechanics; runners need to read the position of the fielder relative to the base; runners need to know how to effectively slide to avoid a tag; runners need to know pitcher times to the plate; runners need to know catchers POP times; runners need to know the situation; runners need to know running counts versus the non-running counts or poor counts to run on.
As you can see, there is a plethora of factors to base stealing. Yes, it is great to have speed on the bases, and you are better off with it than without it, but speed is not the only considering factor in determining your best base stealers.
Love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Also, if you missed my previous myths, you can check them out below:
Baserunning Myth #9 - Leaving the batter’s box and sneaking a peek: The peek occurs on the second or third step
Baserunning Myth #8 - Angle turns approaching each base: The angle should be the same for each player
Baserunning Myth #7 - Contacting the base when advancing: The runner should always touch the base with the left foot
Baserunning Myth #6 - Take a bigger lead than normal at first base when stealing: The base will be easier to steal
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone
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Top 9 Baserunning Myths Countdown - Myth #6
To stretch the lead or not...that is the question
Myth #6:
Take a bigger lead than normal at first base when stealing: “if you get a bigger lead, the base will be easier to steal”
Bigger or longer leads off first base actually do not produce more stolen bases. In fact, when larger than normal leads are taken, many players will get worse jumps when stealing due to their worry of getting picked off. Leads at first base that are exceptionally large will send a negative/defensive message from the brain to the body for most players, which is usually in the context of “I hope I don’t get picked off”. Thus, the jump for the baserunner is that much slower (or delayed) because the mind simply is thinking backward versus forward.
Baserunners, through trial and error, field testing and ability should find the most desirable time measured lead that will promote a sizeable, consistent, and defensible lead off first base, at the same time one that promotes confidence in the jump and steal break, and ultimately maximizes success in achieving the goal of advancing a base. To successfully steal a base you must be in an aggressive (yet not reckless) state of mind. Anything less will likely lead to an easy out if and when you decide to make your break.
Love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Also, if you missed my previous myths, you can check them out below:
Baserunning Myth #9 - Leaving the batter’s box and sneaking a peek: The peek occurs on the second or third step
Baserunning Myth #8 - Angle turns approaching each base: The angle should be the same for each player
Baserunning Myth #7 - Contacting the base when advancing: The runner should always touch the base with the left foot
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone
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Top 9 Baserunning Myths Countdown - Myth #7
Myth #7:
Contacting the base when moving toward the forward base: The baserunner should always touch the base with the left or inside foot
Science may prove touching the base with the inside or left foot is more efficient in controlling centrifugal force during the angle turn, but baserunners should not break stride in order to make sure their left foot touches a base when rounding it. Instead, they should focus on accelerating off the base, making sure EITHER foot drapes over the forward side (second base side of first base; third base side of second base; and home plate side of third base) of each base and use leverage and momentum (which will be lost if trying to always touch with the left foot) to drive toward the next base. Far too often, players are directed to only contact the base with the left foot, only to have them break stride which actually causes them to slow down and essentially produce a slower, less explosive and overall very inefficient angle turn.
Let acceleration and speed rule when making the angle turn by just letting the foot which hits the base (left or right) just happen...whichever one gets there first.
If you missed my previous myths, you can check them out below:
Baserunning Myth #9 - Leaving the batter’s box and sneaking a peek: The peek occurs on the second or third step
Baserunning Myth #8 - Angle turns approaching each base: The angle should be the same for each player
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone
Image courtesy of www.hymsystems.com
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Top 9 Baserunning Myths Countdown - Myth #8
We once though the world was flat too
Myth #8:
Angle turns approaching each base: The angle should be the same for each player
This in fact is a myth and players should not be taught to take the exact same angle turn as each other. Why? Simply put, players have differing abilities in speed, stride length, ground force power, agility and body control. Furthermore, each player has differences in physical makeup like height and weight. Each of these variables will factor into what each player's optimal angle turn at every base will be.
For instance, a player who is fleet a foot, has a lower center of gravity and is more agile than the average player, most likely will be able to create a sharper angle turn than a player who is less fleet a foot, has a higher center of gravity and is less agile. Each player, no matter what base they approach for their angle turn will need to work at determining their best angle going in to the base that will assist them in coming out of their angle turn to the forward base.
Is there a starting point? Yes, players can be taught the same drill en masse so that they understand the concept and the importance of rounding the bases. But it should not stop there. The diligent ones should and will take the time to try different angles and measure/time them, with the goal of finding the best one FOR THEM (remembering that even these will change over time as they grow, both in height and weight, become stronger, change their stride lengths, etc.). The best coaches will encourage and lead this discovery.
Rounding bases is an individual performance based on success and time. Find the best angle and improve both success and time...but it will certainly NOT be the same for every player.
If you missed our previous myth, you can check it out below:
Baserunning Myth #9 - Leaving the batter’s box and sneaking a peek: The peek occurs on the second or third step
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone
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Top 9 Baserunning Myths Countdown - Myth #9
Like the Loch Ness Monster & Yeti, baseball has its share of myths
Baserunning, like other parts of the game, is an area where additional tutoring is needed to ensure players have a clear understanding of its value to an individual's all around game and its importance to run creation for the team. However, sometimes the tactics and techniques that are being taught may not necessarily be true, but keep on being passed down from coaches to players just because that is what they learned or that is "just how it is". But like anything else in life, some of these rules need a good, honest review as to their efficacy.
In this countdown, I would like to review what I think are 9 “myths” that are often taught when baserunning directives are presented to players in practice settings.
Myth #9:
Leaving the batter’s box and sneaking a peek: The peek occurs on the second or third step
When the ball is hit on the ground, the baserunner should NOT necessarily peek or glance at the ball on the second or third step. The peek or glance should actually coincide with the exact same time the infielder is getting ready to field the ball. This should be done at this time so that if the ball is missed or gets past the infielder, the baserunner has the ability to adjust his route and actually turn the straight line route to first base into an angle turn. It makes no
sense to sneak a peek on the second or third step simply because the batted ball may not yet be near the infielder and thus, how is the baserunner to determine if the ball has been misplayed or gotten past the infielder? Sneaking a peek too early will cost the player time in getting to first base. Likewise, sneaking one too late may well be just that...too late.So over time and gained experience, players should be able to develop a better sense on when to sneak a peek based on how solid the ball was hit. If it is dribbler do they even need to peek or should they just get on the horse and charge down the line? If it is a rocket, they are going to know before the second or third step whether they need to run to first or to prepare for an angle turn.
Indeed there may well be times when the 2nd or 3rd step is the right time, and it may indeed be that the 2nd or 3rd step is the right time to peek more often than any other step. So in that it might be a good start, but it will not ALWAYS be the best time and thus certainly cannot be considered a hard and fast rule.
Stay tuned for Myth #8!
Rick Johnston, Co-Founder & Head Instructor - The Baseball Zone