Range is more important than velocity – Part 2

In Range is more important than velocity – Part 1, I talked about why “high range” pitchers are more difficult to hit.  I also mentioned how hard it is to teach a pitcher how to increase their range of velocity.   I originally wanted to jump right into the How-to’s for Part 2 but reconsidered.  That will […]

Range is more important than velocity – Part 1

If you ask any Major League hitter this question … “Would you rather face a pitcher who throws every pitch 90-94mph or face a guy who throws anywhere from 70-90mph?” … you most likely will get the following answer … “Give me the 90-93 guy any day of the week!” Of course, there will always […]

The last thing to do before entering the batter’s box

I love practical tools that players can use in the moment to improve something in their physical and/or mental game.   The human brain is fascinating.  The complex operations of the brain even during simple tasks is astounding.  It is the source of everything that makes us human.  It is also the source of a lot […]

If your only goal is to have fun then go to the beach

Hanging out with friends is fun.  Attending a birthday party is fun.  Playing on the playground is fun. Playing a team sport can, at times, be fun. However, “fun” should not be the top priority. I understand that statement may raise a few eyebrows.  I also understand that the younger the player is, the more […]

Podcast Episode 10: The six core principles of pitching

No matter who you are or how hard you throw, if you do not implement these six core principles of pitching then you will eventually hit a wall. Unfortunately, in today’s game, the emphasis is to get young pitchers to throw harder and harder. High velocity is certainly a bonus but you will not win […]

What is your in-season hobby?

I remember standing in front of a mirror practicing my swing in a hotel room in North Carolina.  It was 1991.  I was in the Southern League (AA) at the time and it was a rare off-day on the road.  It was a beautiful day but I spent it largely indoors practicing my swing in […]

Three ways to do every drill in baseball

I’ll get right to the point by saying that there are only three ways to do any drill in baseball. It doesn’t matter if you are a pitcher, fielder, base runner, or hitter, every drill known to man falls into one or more of the following ways on how to do it: When performing any […]

Podcast episode #9 – Advice I gave to a high school team

In today’s episode, I share one of the things I spoke about at a local high school baseball program’s First Dinner. Special thanks to Coach Rick Harrison and the Spring-Ford High School baseball program in Royersford, PA, for inviting me to speak. I have been involved with successful program at many levels and I know […]

In-season lifting: FAQ’s and options

Note: This is an updated version of an article I posted back in 2012. Many players understand the importance of off-season weight training to prepare their bodies for the rigors of a long season.  Back when I played, the full transition of weight training into baseball was not yet complete. There was still a significant […]