Ian MacDonald

In this episode, we talk all things recruiting with Indiana Wesleyan University Associate Head Coach and Twitter thread king, Ian Macdonald. Coach Macdonald’s career includes coaching stops at Grove City College, University of Charleston, and Indiana Wesleyan University. Wherever he has been, success for his team has followed. In addition to coaching, Macdonald is known for his work educating players and families about the recruiting process on Twitter or through his website, collegebaseballrecruiting.net. Coach Macdonald is one of the leading voices on the college baseball recruiting process. His online course, Foundations of College Baseball Recruiting, launched a few months ago and aims to empower recruits with the tools to make informed decisions about the recruiting process and college baseball.  Accurate, thorough, thoughtful, and well-organized, Coach Macdonald's content is a must for any serious college recruit or parent. Coach Macdonald’s commitment to transparency and equity in the recruiting process is admirable, so it’s great to finally have him on the KPB Podcast to pick his brain about all things recruiting. You won't want to miss this episode!  Coach Macdonald's Website: Foundations of College Baseball Recruiting Online Course Coach Macdonald's Twitter: Ian Macdonald (@sowhatnextpitch) / Twitter  ---   Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

In this episode, we talk all things recruiting with Indiana Wesleyan University Associate Head Coach and Twitter thread king, Ian Macdonald. Coach Macdonald’s career includes coaching stops at Grove City College, University of Charleston, and Indiana Wesleyan University. Wherever he has been, success for his team has followed. In addition to coaching, Macdonald is known for his work educating players and families about the recruiting process on Twitter or through his website, <a href="//collegebaseballrecruiting.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">collegebaseballrecruiting.net</a>. Coach Macdonald is one of the leading voices on the college baseball recruiting process. His online course, Foundations of College Baseball Recruiting, launched a few months ago and aims to empower recruits with the tools to make informed decisions about the recruiting process and college baseball.  Accurate, thorough, thoughtful, and well-organized, Coach Macdonald's content is a must for any serious college recruit or parent. Coach Macdonald’s commitment to transparency and equity in the recruiting process is admirable, so it’s great to finally have him on the KPB Podcast to pick his brain about all things recruiting. You won't want to miss this episode! Coach Macdonald's Website: <a href="https://www.collegebaseballrecruiting.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Foundations of College Baseball Recruiting Online Course</a> Coach Macdonald's Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/sowhatnextpitch" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ian Macdonald (@sowhatnextpitch) / Twitter</a> --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

51 | Ian Macdonald, Associate Head Coach, Indiana Wesleyan University

John Carroll

We are excited to welcome Coach Darren Siler to the podcast. Coach Siler is the head baseball coach at John Carroll School in Bel Air, Maryland where he has led his alma mater’s baseball program since 2016. The 2018 John Steadman High School Baseball Coach of the Year and Maryland State Association Baseball Coaches Coach of the Year brings a wealth of baseball knowledge and experience to the podcast. Coach Siler has played and coached baseball all over the world. He has coached extensively in Europe, where he served as a Portuguese National Team Assistant Coach and Academy Development Coach. While in Europe he also coached several club teams to European Cup Qualifiers and international tournaments in Belgium, France, Czech Republic, Spain, Germany and Italy. Most recently, he traveled to Cuba, Dominican Republic, Japan, and Italy for coaching stints. Stay tuned as we pick his brain about sending players to the college level, how his international baseball experience influences running a title contending program, and tell some funny international baseball stories.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

We are excited to welcome Coach Darren Siler to the podcast. Coach Siler is the head baseball coach at John Carroll School in Bel Air, Maryland where he has led his alma mater’s baseball program since 2016. The 2018 John Steadman High School Baseball Coach of the Year and Maryland State Association Baseball Coaches Coach of the Year brings a wealth of baseball knowledge and experience to the podcast. Coach Siler has played and coached baseball all over the world. He has coached extensively in Europe, where he served as a Portuguese National Team Assistant Coach and Academy Development Coach. While in Europe he also coached several club teams to European Cup Qualifiers and international tournaments in Belgium, France, Czech Republic, Spain, Germany and Italy. Most recently, he traveled to Cuba, Dominican Republic, Japan, and Italy for coaching stints. Stay tuned as we pick his brain about sending players to the college level, how his international baseball experience influences running a title contending program, and tell some funny international baseball stories.--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

50| Darrion Siler, Head Baseball Coach at The John Carroll School

Alec Smith

Episode 2 of our new season of the KPB Podcast is a conversation with Alec Smith, who has a long track record of coaching baseball at all different levels in the Sacramento Area. Smith is the founder of Best Speed Baseball Academy, co-founder of Adi-Speed National Team, a three-time varsity head coach, and also spent 4 years as a junior college assistant coach with Cosumnes River College. Countless players from Smith's programs have gone on to play at all college levels and have success, which opens the door  to an insightful conversation where we pick his brain about leading players and families through the recruiting process and what recruiting looks like from his unique perspective.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

Episode 2 of our new season of the KPB Podcast is a conversation with Alec Smith, who has a long track record of coaching baseball at all different levels in the Sacramento Area. Smith is the founder of Best Speed Baseball Academy, co-founder of Adi-Speed National Team, a three-time varsity head coach, and also spent 4 years as a junior college assistant coach with Cosumnes River College. Countless players from Smith's programs have gone on to play at all college levels and have success, which opens the door  to an insightful conversation where we pick his brain about leading players and families through the recruiting process and what recruiting looks like from his unique perspective.--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

49| Alec Smith, Founder, Best Speed Baseball Academy 

Jim Maciejewski

Mauldin HS

This episode kicks off a new season of KPB Podcast episodes where we sit down with coaches most familiar with the recruiting process. We are excited to kick the season off with Jim Maciejeski, athletic director and head baseball coach of the Mauldin Mavs in Mauldin, SC. Coach “Mach” has been coaching for 17 years, including the last 12 as a head coach. He is also in his 3rd year as athletic director at Mauldin High. In addition to his high school coaching, Maciejewski has spent 5 summers with USA Baseball as a member of their scouting Task Force, and most recently working with the 13/14 year-old Athlete Development Program and 15U National Team Trials. He’s sent numerous players on to the college ranks and has a number of former players playing professionally, as well. Above all else, Coach Mach is a student of the game and runs an outstanding program for his players.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

This episode kicks off a new season of KPB Podcast episodes where we sit down with coaches most familiar with the recruiting process. We are excited to kick the season off with Jim Maciejeski, athletic director and head baseball coach of the Mauldin Mavs in Mauldin, SC. Coach “Mach” has been coaching for 17 years, including the last 12 as a head coach. He is also in his 3rd year as athletic director at Mauldin High. In addition to his high school coaching, Maciejewski has spent 5 summers with USA Baseball as a member of their scouting Task Force, and most recently working with the 13/14 year-old Athlete Development Program and 15U National Team Trials. He’s sent numerous players on to the college ranks and has a number of former players playing professionally, as well. Above all else, Coach Mach is a student of the game and runs an outstanding program for his players.--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

48| Jim Maciejewski, Mauldin HS, South Carolina

A targeted email to a program of interest remains one of the best ways to get recruited. Yet, many recruits mess up this valuable opportunity to create a meaningful connection. Why? Most players don’t have the patience or do the prep work required to knock the email out of the park.  If you have the patience to listen to this short episode, you'll learn how to email college coaches the right way. In just 8 minutes, you'll walk away with the blueprint for writing an email that will lead to your recruitment. Have a listen, follow up with the links below, and give yourself the best chance at getting recruited from your intro emails! Additional Articles and Resources: Contacting College Coaches: How to Write an Intro Email This Podcast Episode in Thread Format How to Create A Successful DIY Recruiting Video You May Also Be Interested in:  How to Use Social Media to Get Recruited--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

A targeted email to a program of interest remains one of the best ways to get recruited. Yet, many recruits mess up this valuable opportunity to create a meaningful connection. Why? Most players don’t have the patience or do the prep work required to knock the email out of the park.  If you have the patience to listen to this short episode, you'll learn how to email college coaches the right way. In just 8 minutes, you'll walk away with the blueprint for writing an email that will lead to your recruitment. Have a listen, follow up with the links below, and give yourself the best chance at getting recruited from your intro emails! Additional Articles and Resources: <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/how-to-email-college-coaches/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Contacting College Coaches: How to Write an Intro Email</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KeepplayingBB/status/1475911999003377666" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">This Podcast Episode in Thread Format</a> <a href="https://kpb.thinkific.com/courses/diy-Recruiting-Video" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">How to Create A Successful DIY Recruiting Video</a> You May Also Be Interested in:  <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/using-social-media-to-get-recruited-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">How to Use Social Media to Get Recruited</a>--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

How to Email College Coaches

Doug Bernier

Insider

In this episode, are excited to be joined on today’s podcast by Colorado Rockies Data and Game Planning Coordinator and former Big League infielder, Doug Bernier. A California native, Bernier’s baseball career included success at every single level. After college baseball stops at Cuesta College and Oral Roberts University, Bernier started an incredible 16-year professional baseball career, which included 4 seasons in the Majors and over 1500 professional games. Bernier and his wife, Sarah, generously give back to the game through Pro Baseball Insider (probaseballinsider.com), an organization providing free instruction for aspiring ballplayers given directly from professional players. In addition to talking with Doug about how he maintained consistency and focus during the ups and downs of the better part of 2 decades in professional baseball, we pick his brain about his days as a professional scout and now a coach with the Rockies Big League squad. You won't want to miss this one!   ---   Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

In this episode, are excited to be joined on today’s podcast by Colorado Rockies Data and Game Planning Coordinator and former Big League infielder, Doug Bernier. A California native, Bernier’s baseball career included success at every single level. After college baseball stops at Cuesta College and Oral Roberts University, Bernier started an incredible 16-year professional baseball career, which included 4 seasons in the Majors and over 1500 professional games. Bernier and his wife, Sarah, generously give back to the game through Pro Baseball Insider <a href="http://probaseballinsider.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(probaseballinsider.com)</a>, an organization providing free instruction for aspiring ballplayers given directly from professional players. In addition to talking with Doug about how he maintained consistency and focus during the ups and downs of the better part of 2 decades in professional baseball, we pick his brain about his days as a professional scout and now a coach with the Rockies Big League squad. You won't want to miss this one! --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

47| Doug Bernier (Former MLB Infielder and Pro Baseball Insider Founder Doug)

We've been sensing a great deal of panic among recruits and parents who have become fixated on the recruiting shutdown and D1 baseball's prolonged dead period due to COVID-19. In this episode, we try to put those fears to rest and explain why now is the time to plan and prepare, not panic. This episode follows a round-table discussion put on by our friends at the 3-2 Count Foundation exploring this new age of recruiting from multiple vantage points. We strongly suggest you check out the video here after listening to this episode! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

We've been sensing a great deal of panic among recruits and parents who have become fixated on the recruiting shutdown and D1 baseball's prolonged dead period due to COVID-19. In this episode, we try to put those fears to rest and explain why now is the time to plan and prepare, not panic. This episode follows a round-table discussion put on by our friends at the 3-2 Count Foundation exploring this new age of recruiting from multiple vantage points. We strongly suggest you check out the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxL3Q0JZotc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">video here</a> after listening to this episode! --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

Checking In: Everything Has Changed... Except for the Path to College Baseball

Andrew Knapp

We are excited to be joined by Sacramento area native and Philadelphia Phillies Catcher Andrew Knapp on the KPB Podcast for this fun episode. A former standout for the California Golden Bears, Knapp quickly rose through the minor league ranks, making his Big League debut on April 6, 2017. Knapp comes from a baseball family as his father Mike played 10 years of professional baseball and his younger brother, Aaron, is currently playing in the minors. This will be Knapp’s fourth season with the Phillies, and he comes back to Philadelphia after a strong second half where he hit .271 with a .346 OBP. More importantly, he is one of the truly good guys in baseball. Knapp has been a huge supporter of KPB and uses his platform to give back and do good for his communities. In addition to talking about his path to the Big Leagues, we talk about his time in college, his routines and preparation, as well as some light-hearted questions like, what would you change if you were commissioner? And, what three teammates would you bring with you if you were stuck on a deserted island?  You won't want to miss this great conversation, which comes with yelling children in the background (podcasting is hard when quarantining with kids!) and plenty of gems to get you better!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

We are excited to be joined by Sacramento area native and Philadelphia Phillies Catcher Andrew Knapp on the KPB Podcast for this fun episode. A former standout for the California Golden Bears, Knapp quickly rose through the minor league ranks, making his Big League debut on April 6, 2017. Knapp comes from a baseball family as his father Mike played 10 years of professional baseball and his younger brother, Aaron, is currently playing in the minors. This will be Knapp’s fourth season with the Phillies, and he comes back to Philadelphia after a strong second half where he hit .271 with a .346 OBP. More importantly, he is one of the truly good guys in baseball. Knapp has been a huge supporter of KPB and uses his platform to give back and do good for his communities. In addition to talking about his path to the Big Leagues, we talk about his time in college, his routines and preparation, as well as some light-hearted questions like, what would you change if you were commissioner? And, what three teammates would you bring with you if you were stuck on a deserted island?  You won't want to miss this great conversation, which comes with yelling children in the background (podcasting is hard when quarantining with kids!) and plenty of gems to get you better!--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

46| Andrew Knapp (Catcher, Philadelphia Phillies)

In light of disruptions to normal academic schedules, the NCAA Eligibility Center has modified initial eligibility requirements for D1 and D2 bound players. Among the changes we discuss in this podcast are:   No standardized test requirements for 2020 graduates Implications for PASS/FAIL grading implemented this spring and summer Importance of a 2.3 GPA (D1) or 2.2 GPA (D2) in 10 core courses (7 math/english/science) prior to start of senior year  Listen in for more information of check out the NCAA article directly HERE.  ---   Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

In light of disruptions to normal academic schedules, the NCAA Eligibility Center has modified initial eligibility requirements for D1 and D2 bound players. Among the changes we discuss in this podcast are: <ul> <li>No standardized test requirements for 2020 graduates</li> <li>Implications for PASS/FAIL grading implemented this spring and summer</li> <li>Importance of a 2.3 GPA (D1) or 2.2 GPA (D2) in 10 core courses (7 math/english/science) prior to start of senior year</li> </ul> Listen in for more information of check out the NCAA article directly <a href="https://www.ncaa.org/about/resources/media-center/news/divisions-i-and-ii-members-adjust-initial-eligibility-requirements" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a>. --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

D1 and D2 Eligibility Requirement Updates

When you are sitting at home all day, every day, it's easy to get discouraged or get into a funk. Even with limited resources, you can still use your time in self-quarantine to get better and stay on track to play college baseball! In this podcast, we discuss 6 areas where you can continue to improve that will help you with your dreams of playing at the next level. Listen in to learn about improving in the following areas:  Academics Strength &amp; Conditioning Skill Development Mental Game Recruiting Strategic Planning --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

When you are sitting at home all day, every day, it's easy to get discouraged or get into a funk. Even with limited resources, you can still use your time in self-quarantine to get better and stay on track to play college baseball! In this podcast, we discuss 6 areas where you can continue to improve that will help you with your dreams of playing at the next level. Listen in to learn about improving in the following areas: <ol> <li>Academics</li> <li>Strength &amp; Conditioning</li> <li>Skill Development</li> <li>Mental Game</li> <li>Recruiting</li> <li>Strategic Planning </li></ol>--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

KPB's Guide to Improving in Self-Quarantine

The best source of college baseball recruiting information on the go! Like all Keep Playing Baseball ("KPB") resources, the KPB Podcast provides free, accessible, and accurate player-to-player information and advice on the college baseball recruiting process. Keep Playing Baseball is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping high school baseball players have the opportunity to play college baseball. Visit our site to learn more about why we are working to make college baseball and a degree accessible for every high school player. Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

Really love all the information you guys put out.  Please keep it up, especially now that we’re all in unknown territory with the pandemic and don&#39;t know what it means for this summer&#39;s recruiting season (and beyond)!  I have a 2021 hoping to get recruited by a high academic D3, and we’re really wondering how that’s going to happen now.  Thanks for all you do

Extremely Informative

Recruiting info is way harder to come by than it should be. KPB makes it so much easier.

Straightforward, honest content

The best source of college baseball recruiting information on the go! Like all Keep Playing Baseball ("KPB") resources, the KPB Podcast provides free, accessible, and accurate player-to-player information and advice on the college baseball recruiting process. Keep Playing Baseball is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping high school baseball players have the opportunity to play college baseball. Visit <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">our site</a> to learn more about why we are working to make college baseball and a degree accessible for every high school player. Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

KPB Podcast

Brian Dempsey

Keep Playing Baseball dives deep into the recruiting process with Brian Dempsey, Owner/Director of Power Baseball and Turn2 Sports &amp; Performance in Central Florida. We take advantage of Dempsey's experience working the recruiting process from virtually every angle and talk about what he's learned in guiding over 450 players and families through the recruiting process. Dempsey has helped players find programs at every level of college baseball and has strong ties to the college baseball community up and down the east coast. A former high intensity college player, Dempsey's passion for helping others comes through in this episode. You wont' want to miss this brutally honest and incredibly informative discussion on the college baseball recruiting process!Find Coach Dempsey on Twitter: @BrianDempsey11Topics:Recruiting, Recruiting Process, Parents' Role in the Recruiting Process, Choosing a Program, Questions to Ask College Coaches, Recruiting Mistakes, Recruiting Red Flags + More--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

Keep Playing Baseball dives deep into the recruiting process with Brian Dempsey, Owner/Director of Power Baseball and Turn2 Sports &amp; Performance in Central Florida. We take advantage of Dempsey's experience working the recruiting process from virtually every angle and talk about what he's learned in guiding over 450 players and families through the recruiting process. Dempsey has helped players find programs at every level of college baseball and has strong ties to the college baseball community up and down the east coast. A former high intensity college player, Dempsey's passion for helping others comes through in this episode. You wont' want to miss this brutally honest and incredibly informative discussion on the college baseball recruiting process! Find Coach Dempsey on Twitter: @BrianDempsey11 Topics: Recruiting, Recruiting Process, Parents' Role in the Recruiting Process, Choosing a Program, Questions to Ask College Coaches, Recruiting Mistakes, Recruiting Red Flags + More --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

7| Brian Dempsey (Owner/Director Power Baseball, Florida)

This podcast is the audio version of the written article by the same title on the KPB website. You can find that article here and we strongly suggest you check that article out and dive into the links it shares that are referenced in the podcast.  We know that social media is becoming increasingly important in the recruiting process, but what does that mean for you? How can you avoid the negative consequences of social media while still benefiting from the information and free exposure that social media platforms provide? We discuss all that, talk about what we have learned about social media in recruiting from our college coaches survey, and more! Listen in.  ---   Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

This podcast is the audio version of the written article by the same title on the KPB website. You can find that article <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/how-are-you-trending-on-social-media-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here </a>and we strongly suggest you check that article out and dive into the links it shares that are referenced in the podcast. We know that social media is becoming increasingly important in the recruiting process, but what does that mean for you? How can you avoid the negative consequences of social media while still benefiting from the information and free exposure that social media platforms provide? We discuss all that, talk about what we have learned about social media in recruiting from our college coaches survey, and more! Listen in. --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

Daily KPB| How Are You Tending on Social Media?

Brett Thomas

On This Episode On this episode, we talk catching with Founder of the Catching Academy, Brett Thomas. Thomas played his college baseball at UC Berkeley and immediately jumped into the college coaching ranks when his playing career was done. His coaching career has included stops at the D1, JUCO, and high school levels, including time at UC Berkeley and College of San Mateo.  Thomas has always had a passion for working with catchers and felt the need to develop catchers at a lower level to prepare them for the next step in their playing careers and started the Catching Academy in 2014. Going on nearly 5 years, the Catching Academy works with over 100 catchers a year, helping develop physical skills, but more importantly people and leadership skills.  On this episode, we pick Thomas' brain about what it takes to be a great catcher, including stance, receiving, throwing, blocking, mentality, staff management, and much more. In addition to our in-depth discussion on catching, we dive into the recruiting process, what catchers need to do to make it to the next level, and the characteristics of a good college catcher.  Contact Brett Thomas:  Email: info@catchingacademy.com Instagram: @catchingacademy Twitter: @CatchingAcademy Website:  http://www.catchingacademy.com/  Topics: Recruiting, Catching, Receiving, Throwing, Blocking, Managing a Pitching Staff, Development, --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

On This Episode On this episode, we talk catching with Founder of the Catching Academy, Brett Thomas. Thomas played his college baseball at UC Berkeley and immediately jumped into the college coaching ranks when his playing career was done. His coaching career has included stops at the D1, JUCO, and high school levels, including time at UC Berkeley and College of San Mateo.  Thomas has always had a passion for working with catchers and felt the need to develop catchers at a lower level to prepare them for the next step in their playing careers and started the Catching Academy in 2014. Going on nearly 5 years, the Catching Academy works with over 100 catchers a year, helping develop physical skills, but more importantly people and leadership skills.  On this episode, we pick Thomas' brain about what it takes to be a great catcher, including stance, receiving, throwing, blocking, mentality, staff management, and much more. In addition to our in-depth discussion on catching, we dive into the recruiting process, what catchers need to do to make it to the next level, and the characteristics of a good college catcher.  Contact Brett Thomas:  Email: info@catchingacademy.com Instagram: @catchingacademy Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/CatchingAcademy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@CatchingAcademy</a> Website:  <a href="http://www.catchingacademy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.catchingacademy.com/</a> Topics: Recruiting, Catching, Receiving, Throwing, Blocking, Managing a Pitching Staff, Development, --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

40| Brett Thomas: Founder of The Catching Academy

The most comprehensive and important #KPBpodcast episode on parents' role in the recruiting process is here! Following the same format as our Parents' Role in the Recruiting Process mini-series, we break down everything a parent needs to know to understand their role in the recruiting process and successfully help their son find a college baseball fit. In this episode, we break down: 1) An overview of parents' role in the recruiting process and how to how to appropriately be involved in the process 2) What parents can do during each of the 10 steps of the recruiting process  to help their son 3) The 5 most important responsibilities and roles of parents throughout the entire process  You won't want to miss it. Click play now and follow up on the additional parent resources we mention by reading the articles on the site!  ---   Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

The most comprehensive and important #KPBpodcast episode on parents' role in the recruiting process is here! Following the same format as our <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/parents-role-in-the-recruiting-process-part-1/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Parents' Role in the Recruiting Process</a> mini-series, we break down everything a parent needs to know to understand their role in the recruiting process and successfully help their son find a college baseball fit. In this episode, we break down: 1) An overview of parents' role in the recruiting process and how to how to appropriately be involved in the process 2) What parents can do during each of the 10 steps of the recruiting process  to help their son 3) The 5 most important responsibilities and roles of parents throughout the entire process You won't want to miss it. Click play now and follow up on the additional parent resources we mention by <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/parents-role-in-the-recruiting-process-part-1/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">reading the articles</a> on the site! --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

The Ultimate Guide: Parents' Role in the Recruiting Process

Daily KPB This podcast episode corresponds to our written article by the same title, The Importance of a Diverse Recruiting Plan. In this episode, we discuss the many different ways that college coaches are finding the players who end up playing in their program and discuss the importance of having a diverse recruiting plan that gives coaches multiple ways to connect with you, evaluate you, and recruit you. Listen in to find out why it's so important!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

Daily KPB This podcast episode corresponds to our written article by the same title, <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/the-importance-of-a-diverse-recruiting-plan-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Importance of a Diverse Recruiting Plan</a>. In this episode, we discuss the many different ways that college coaches are finding the players who end up playing in their program and discuss the importance of having a diverse recruiting plan that gives coaches multiple ways to connect with you, evaluate you, and recruit you. Listen in to find out why it's so important!--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

Daily KPB| The Importance of a Diverse Recruiting Plan

Demetre Kokoris

KPB sits down with Demetre Kokoris, Pitching Coach at Point Loma Nazarene University in sunny San Diego, California. The care level and information shared in the 1st of 2 episodes with Coach K is off the charts as he opens up about how he develops pitchers at Point Loma and how high school players can use that information to prepare themselves for playing at the next level. With prior experience on the staff at highly successful programs in the University of South Carolina, Cal State Fullerton, University of Oregon, and Santa Barbara City College, Coach K has learned from some of the college game's most successful coaches and mentors. A true student of the game and teacher, he generously shares his knowledge with us to help you improve your chances of success at the college level. You won't want to miss an opportunity to learn from this passionate leader. Coach Kokoris on Twitter: @CoachKokorisTopics:Training, Development, Pitching, Arm Care, Throwing Program, College Baseball, D2--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

KPB sits down with Demetre Kokoris, Pitching Coach at Point Loma Nazarene University in sunny San Diego, California. The care level and information shared in the 1st of 2 episodes with Coach K is off the charts as he opens up about how he develops pitchers at Point Loma and how high school players can use that information to prepare themselves for playing at the next level. With prior experience on the staff at highly successful programs in the University of South Carolina, Cal State Fullerton, University of Oregon, and Santa Barbara City College, Coach K has learned from some of the college game's most successful coaches and mentors. A true student of the game and teacher, he generously shares his knowledge with us to help you improve your chances of success at the college level. You won't want to miss an opportunity to learn from this passionate leader. Coach Kokoris on Twitter: @CoachKokoris Topics: Training, Development, Pitching, Arm Care, Throwing Program, College Baseball, D2 --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

8| Demetre Kokoris(Pitching Coach, Point Loma Nazarene) Pt 1

Virgil Vasquez

On this episode...  "I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times." -Bruce Lee  In this episode, we take a deep dive into the mental game, mindset, and preparation of successful baseball players with former Big League pitcher Virgil Vasquez.  Our first conversation with a Big Leaguer on the KPB podcast will not disappoint, as we pick the brain of someone who has had success at the highest level of the game. Someone who is passionate about helping people and improving the game, Vasquez is passing his experiences on to his players as a minor league pitching coach and now you get the same advice and insight! Vasquez is entering his 5 season as a pitching coach in the Minnesota Twins organization. For the 2019 season, Vasquez will be the pitching coach for the Class A affiliate, Cedar Rapids Kernels. A graduate of Santa Barbara High School, Vasquez was drafted in the 7th round as a high schooler. He decided to play in college at UC Santa Barbara and was drafted again in the 7th round as a junior. After signing, Vasquez pitched for over a decade in professional baseball, including two Big League seasons, one each with the Tigers and Pirates. His journey in baseball has included stops at every single level from Little League to the Big Leagues and legendary status in the Australian Baseball League. On this episode, we pick his brain about the draft process for high school players, his baseball career, coaching, the mental game, and much, much more.  Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the game's great minds! Virgil Vasquez Bio  Contact Virgil Vasquez  Email: itsmevirgil@gmail.com Twitter: @itsmevirgilv  Website: www.revolutionthrowing.com (coming soon)  Topics...  Mindset, Mental Game, Meditation, Process, Draft, Agent, Advisor, Throwing, Arm Path, Mechanics, Training, Pitching, MLB, College, D1  ---   Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

On this episode...  "I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times." -Bruce Lee  In this episode, we take a deep dive into the mental game, mindset, and preparation of successful baseball players with former Big League pitcher Virgil Vasquez.  Our first conversation with a Big Leaguer on the KPB podcast will not disappoint, as we pick the brain of someone who has had success at the highest level of the game. Someone who is passionate about helping people and improving the game, Vasquez is passing his experiences on to his players as a minor league pitching coach and now you get the same advice and insight! Vasquez is entering his 5 season as a pitching coach in the Minnesota Twins organization. For the 2019 season, Vasquez will be the pitching coach for the Class A affiliate, Cedar Rapids Kernels. A graduate of Santa Barbara High School, Vasquez was drafted in the 7th round as a high schooler. He decided to play in college at UC Santa Barbara and was drafted again in the 7th round as a junior. After signing, Vasquez pitched for over a decade in professional baseball, including two Big League seasons, one each with the Tigers and Pirates. His journey in baseball has included stops at every single level from Little League to the Big Leagues and legendary status in the Australian Baseball League. On this episode, we pick his brain about the draft process for high school players, his baseball career, coaching, the mental game, and much, much more.  Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the game's great minds! <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virgil_Vasquez" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virgil Vasquez Bio</a> Contact Virgil Vasquez Email: itsmevirgil@gmail.com Twitter: @itsmevirgilv  Website: <a href="http://www.revolutionthrowing.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.revolutionthrowing.com</a> (coming soon) Topics...  Mindset, Mental Game, Meditation, Process, Draft, Agent, Advisor, Throwing, Arm Path, Mechanics, Training, Pitching, MLB, College, D1 --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

37| Virgil Vasquez: Former MLB Pitcher and Current Twins Class A Pitching Coach

Tyler Cook

In this episode we are excited to share our conversation with University of South Carolina Upstate (D1, South Carolina) assistant coach and recruiting coordinator Tyler Cook. A native of Bloomington, Illinois, Cook is in his 4th season coaching at his alma mater after a brief stint as a coach for Eastern Kentucky University. Cook works with the Spartan outfielders and hitters, as well as helping in number of other capacities, which he discusses during the interview. You won't want to miss this episode as we take a deep dive into D1 mid-major baseball and pick Cook's brain about the daily grind and schedule of college baseball, recruiting, player development, and much more.Topics:Recruiting, Outfield Defense, Daily Schedule, Communication, D1, Mid-Major Baseball, Hitting, Offense, Program Culture, Program Fit--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

In this episode we are excited to share our conversation with University of South Carolina Upstate (D1, South Carolina) assistant coach and recruiting coordinator Tyler Cook. A native of Bloomington, Illinois, Cook is in his 4th season coaching at his alma mater after a brief stint as a coach for Eastern Kentucky University. Cook works with the Spartan outfielders and hitters, as well as helping in number of other capacities, which he discusses during the interview. You won't want to miss this episode as we take a deep dive into D1 mid-major baseball and pick Cook's brain about the daily grind and schedule of college baseball, recruiting, player development, and much more. Topics: Recruiting, Outfield Defense, Daily Schedule, Communication, D1, Mid-Major Baseball, Hitting, Offense, Program Culture, Program Fit --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

19| Tyler Cook (Recruiting Coordinator, University of South Carolina Upstate)

Travis Beausoleil

On This Episode: He took over as college baseball's youngest head coach at 23 years-old. Fast forward 8 seasons and he has amassed the best winning percentage in the region over the last 5 years and lead the program to new heights. You won't want to miss our conversation with Mitchell College skipper Travis Beausoleil. Since taking over the Mariner program, Beausoleil has transformed the once marginal program into a perennial powerhouse, breaking records along the way. In addition to the best record over the last 5 years, Beaus has helped his program collect tons of hardware, including NECC championships and numerous player awards, including conference player of the year and All-American honors. Prior to his time at Mitchell, Beas spent time on the staff at UCONN where he helped the team earn a Super Regional bid and coached numerous former Big Leaguers. No stranger to higher levels of college baseball, Beaus has spent time coaching for the Chatham A’s in the prestigious Cape Cod Summer League and the DC Grays in the Cal Ripken League. We take a deep dive into recruiting, D3 baseball, team culture, and much more. Listen in and you'll quickly see why Coach Beausoleil's program has taken off. Contact Coach Beausoleil: Twitter: @CoachBeau7 Email: beausoleil_t@mitchell.edu  Topics:  D3, Recruiting, College Decision, Practice, Hitting, Infield, Financial Aid, Day-to-Day student life, Student-Athlete Experience, Mitchell College, Team Culture--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

On This Episode: He took over as college baseball's youngest head coach at 23 years-old. Fast forward 8 seasons and he has amassed the best winning percentage in the region over the last 5 years and lead the program to new heights. You won't want to miss our conversation with Mitchell College skipper Travis Beausoleil. Since taking over the Mariner program, Beausoleil has transformed the once marginal program into a perennial powerhouse, breaking records along the way. In addition to the best record over the last 5 years, Beaus has helped his program collect tons of hardware, including NECC championships and numerous player awards, including conference player of the year and All-American honors. Prior to his time at Mitchell, Beas spent time on the staff at UCONN where he helped the team earn a Super Regional bid and coached numerous former Big Leaguers. No stranger to higher levels of college baseball, Beaus has spent time coaching for the Chatham A’s in the prestigious Cape Cod Summer League and the DC Grays in the Cal Ripken League. We take a deep dive into recruiting, D3 baseball, team culture, and much more. Listen in and you'll quickly see why Coach Beausoleil's program has taken off. Contact Coach Beausoleil: Twitter: @CoachBeau7 Email: beausoleil_t@mitchell.edu  Topics:  D3, Recruiting, College Decision, Practice, Hitting, Infield, Financial Aid, Day-to-Day student life, Student-Athlete Experience, Mitchell College, Team Culture--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

38| Travis Beausoleil: Head Coach, Mitchell College (D3, Connecticut) 

Daily KPB In this episode, we follow the lead of our popular written article about the risks and rewards of walking on. You can read the written article here.  Listen in to learn about: 1. Different types of walk-on opportunities 2. Questions to ask when offered a walk-on opportunity 3. Risks and rewards that come with walk-on opportunities--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

Daily KPB In this episode, we follow the lead of our popular written article about the risks and rewards of walking on. You can read the written article <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/walking-on-the-real-story/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.  Listen in to learn about: 1. Different types of walk-on opportunities 2. Questions to ask when offered a walk-on opportunity 3. Risks and rewards that come with walk-on opportunities--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

Daily KPB| Walking On: What You Need to Know

Daily KPB This episode provides insight on mistakes that parents are making at the ballpark and mirrors the content in the written article found HERE.  College coaches may be recruiting high school players, but they are paying very close attention to what the parents of recruits are doing at the field as well. Parents make many unintended mistakes that can hurt their son's chances of getting recruited. We don't want that to happen to you, so we discuss 5 common mistakes that are made at the baseball field by parents and provide suggestions for more constructive alternative behavior. Listen in so you don't hurt your son's chances of getting recruited and playing at the next level.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

Daily KPB This episode provides insight on mistakes that parents are making at the ballpark and mirrors the content in the written article found <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/dos-and-donts-for-parents-common-mistakes-at-the-ballpark-2019/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a>.  College coaches may be recruiting high school players, but they are paying very close attention to what the parents of recruits are doing at the field as well. Parents make many unintended mistakes that can hurt their son's chances of getting recruited. We don't want that to happen to you, so we discuss 5 common mistakes that are made at the baseball field by parents and provide suggestions for more constructive alternative behavior. Listen in so you don't hurt your son's chances of getting recruited and playing at the next level.--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

Daily KPB| 5 Do's and Don'ts For Parents at the Ballpark

This longer Daily KPB covers our 3-part mini-series on important considerations for summer baseball. Here's a bit of an intro before we dive in:   The dog days of summer are ahead and that can only mean one thing– summer baseball is right around the corner. If you are trying to decide what showcases or events to attend, what team to play for, and how to balance development, exposure, and rest this summer, this 3-part mini-series is for you! We start off by exploring showcases and camps in this article, we follow up by tackling how to decide where to play in Part II, and Part III brings everything together with a discussion on balancing development, exposure, and rest.  For each of these summer baseball decisions, your skill level and financial situation will dictate the options available to you. Your goals as a ball player and knowledge about each option will help you make educated decisions about what’s best for you in the short and long-term. Let’s explore some of these ideas and help you figure out what’s best for you.    First, consider your skill level. Are you getting invited to invite-only events? Have schools already expressed interest? Are you one of the better players at your school or in your league?  If the answer to these questions is yes, then you are well on your way in the recruiting process. If you are still working hard to get noticed and improve your game, that’s okay too. There are good summer options for players at every stage of the recruiting process. It’s important to remember that last year the D1 recruiting rules have changed. Since you will be unable to visit with college coaches on campus tours prior to junior year of high school, really pushing the exposure envelope in the underclassmen (freshman and sophomore) years of high school doesn’t make sense. You won’t be able to make a fully informed decision until junior year at the earliest. This is a big difference from summer’s past when top tier players could commit to a school with all the information they needed at any point of high school. With these changes in mind, let’s look at important summer baseball considerations when it comes to camps, showcases, choosing a team, and balancing recruiting, development, and health.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

This longer Daily KPB covers our 3-part mini-series on important considerations for summer baseball. Here's a bit of an intro before we dive in: The dog days of summer are ahead and that can only mean one thing– summer baseball is right around the corner. If you are trying to decide what showcases or events to attend, what team to play for, and how to balance development, exposure, and rest this summer, this 3-part mini-series is for you! We start off by exploring showcases and camps in this article, we follow up by tackling how to decide where to play in Part II, and Part III brings everything together with a discussion on balancing development, exposure, and rest.  For each of these summer baseball decisions, your skill level and financial situation will dictate the options available to you. Your goals as a ball player and knowledge about each option will help you make educated decisions about what’s best for you in the short and long-term. Let’s explore some of these ideas and help you figure out what’s best for you.    First, consider your skill level. Are you getting invited to invite-only events? Have schools already expressed interest? Are you one of the better players at your school or in your league?  If the answer to these questions is yes, then you are well on your way in the recruiting process. If you are still working hard to get noticed and improve your game, that’s okay too. There are good summer options for players at every stage of the recruiting process. It’s important to remember that last year the <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/d1-recruiting-rule-changes-to-take-effect/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">D1 recruiting rules have changed</a>. Since you will be unable to visit with college coaches on campus tours prior to junior year of high school, really pushing the exposure envelope in the underclassmen (freshman and sophomore) years of high school doesn’t make sense. You won’t be able to make a fully informed decision until junior year at the earliest. This is a big difference from summer’s past when top tier players could commit to a school with all the information they needed at any point of high school. With these changes in mind, let’s look at important summer baseball considerations when it comes to camps, showcases, choosing a team, and balancing recruiting, development, and health.--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

Daily KPB| Important Considerations for Summer Ball: Showcases, Camps, Teams, and Balancing What's Important

On our www.KPBrecruiting101.org site, we break the recruiting process into 10 manageable steps. This resource acts as a guide for recruits as they move through the recruiting process from start to finish. For each step, we provide detailed recruiting information and advice about what to do, when to do it, and how to do it right. In this episode, we continue our release of short #MoundVisit episodes, breaking down the details of each step and providing some general guidance. Episode 13 looks at Step 2: Learning About the Recruiting Process. Building off of a more broad understanding of all college baseball has to offer (Step 1), Step 2 encourages players and families to take a 30,000 foot view of the process from start to finish. In 5 minutes, you'll have a better understanding of why preparing for the future is so important and why you need to know what comes next.For more information, visit: http://kpbrecruiting101.org/step-2-learn-about-the-college-baseball-recruiting-process/--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

On our <a href="http://www.KPBrecruiting101.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.KPBrecruiting101.org</a> site, we break the recruiting process into 10 manageable steps. This resource acts as a guide for recruits as they move through the recruiting process from start to finish. For each step, we provide detailed recruiting information and advice about what to do, when to do it, and how to do it right. In this episode, we continue our release of short #MoundVisit episodes, breaking down the details of each step and providing some general guidance. Episode 13 looks at Step 2: Learning About the Recruiting Process. Building off of a more broad understanding of all college baseball has to offer (Step 1), Step 2 encourages players and families to take a 30,000 foot view of the process from start to finish. In 5 minutes, you'll have a better understanding of why preparing for the future is so important and why you need to know what comes next. For more information, visit: <a href="http://kpbrecruiting101.org/step-2-learn-about-the-college-baseball-recruiting-process/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://kpbrecruiting101.org/step-2-learn-about-the-college-baseball-recruiting-process/</a> --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

13| Recruiting Process Step 2: Understand the Entire Process

Daily KPB This is the audio version of our Early Season Lessons From MLB: Plate Discipline (2019) article. Click on the article for more information on how the 3 players discussed transformed their offensive approach and the numbers that resulted. Over the last 3 years, we have profiled MLB players who are having great seasons due in large part to changes in their plate discipline. This year, that player is Hunter Dozier. Like Andrelton Simmons and Eric Thames the two prior years, Dozier's breakout year is showing hitters at every level of baseball from Little League on up the importance of plate discipline. Regardless of your physical size or tools, improved plate will make you a better offensive player and it's something you can start improving today! Improved plate discipline means you are swinging at good pitches to hit, which translates to hitting the ball harder more consistently. Being patient enough to wait for a pitch you can handle forces pitchers to throw in the strike zone and beat you with their stuff. It also allows a hitter to see more pitches, get on base more consistently, and strike out less. Plate discipline is a sign of maturity and understanding in the box, a trait that college coaches love. Plate discipline goes beyond swinging at strikes and taking balls. It also doesn’t mean that you are passive at the plate. You should still take a "Yes, yes, yes, YES!" or "Yes, yes, yes, NO!" approach to hitting. Plate discipline has to do with swinging at pitches you are looking for and that you can hit hard at a high rate. It’s a skill that helps distinguish between a batter and a hitter. A batter has an approach and a plan that changes from pitch-to-pitch and situation-to-situation. Batters understand that there are ways to help generate offense beyond trying to get a hit on every pitch. A lineup of batters is much more consistent than a lineup of hitters. Hitters are streaky—on a constant roller-coaster. When you rely on getting a hit every AB, you are likely to expand the zone, start pressing when the results aren’t coming, and be at the mercy of the pitcher. When a player swings at pitches he can hit hard on a regular basis and lays off pitches that hitters get themselves out on, he no longer relies on pitchers to make mistakes to be successful. So how can you improve your plate discipline and turn yourself into a batter that is a true offensive weapon?  Start by understanding which pitches you hit well and which you don’t. Practice working in certain hitting zones during BP and drill work. For example, take inside strikes and swing at strikes on the outer half. Then switch. Or do the same on pitches up and down. Always provide context and situation for your swings. Next, watch the game closely. Pitchers have tendencies and patterns. If you watch every hitter during the game intently, you will gain a lot of information and be able to make much more educated/accurate guesses on what pitch is coming in a given count or situation. This will allow you to sit on a pitch or a speed during leverage counts. Another thing to do is train your eyes like you do your swing! Find ways to get as many visual reps as possible. Stand in on bullpens. Look into vision strengthening games and exercises. Finally, become a student of the game. The more you learn about approach and plate discipline, and the better you understand which pitches you hit well, the tougher out you will become. Not only will these skills turn you into the batter that college coaches want, your team’s offense will benefit immensely as well. You don't need to have Hunter Dozier's physical tools to improve your offensive value, but you would be smart to copy his blueprint for success. Focus on plate discipline and watch your offensive production improve.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

Daily KPB This is the audio version of our <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/early-season-lessons-from-mlb-plate-discipline-2019/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Early Season Lessons From MLB: Plate Discipline (2019)</a> article. Click on the article for more information on how the 3 players discussed transformed their offensive approach and the numbers that resulted. Over the last 3 years, we have profiled MLB players who are having great seasons due in large part to changes in their plate discipline. This year, that player is Hunter Dozier. Like Andrelton Simmons and Eric Thames the two prior years, Dozier's breakout year is showing hitters at every level of baseball from Little League on up the importance of plate discipline. Regardless of your physical size or tools, improved plate will make you a better offensive player and it's something you can start improving today! Improved plate discipline means you are swinging at good pitches to hit, which translates to hitting the ball harder more consistently. Being patient enough to wait for a pitch you can handle forces pitchers to throw in the strike zone and beat you with their stuff. It also allows a hitter to see more pitches, get on base more consistently, and strike out less. Plate discipline is a sign of maturity and understanding in the box, a trait that college coaches love. Plate discipline goes beyond swinging at strikes and taking balls. It also doesn’t mean that you are passive at the plate. You should still take a "Yes, yes, yes, YES!" or "Yes, yes, yes, NO!" approach to hitting. Plate discipline has to do with swinging at pitches you are looking for and that you can hit hard at a high rate. It’s a skill that helps distinguish between a batter and a hitter. A batter has an approach and a plan that changes from pitch-to-pitch and situation-to-situation. Batters understand that there are ways to help generate offense beyond trying to get a hit on every pitch. A lineup of batters is much more consistent than a lineup of hitters. Hitters are streaky—on a constant roller-coaster. When you rely on getting a hit every AB, you are likely to expand the zone, start pressing when the results aren’t coming, and be at the mercy of the pitcher. When a player swings at pitches he can hit hard on a regular basis and lays off pitches that hitters get themselves out on, he no longer relies on pitchers to make mistakes to be successful. So how can you improve your plate discipline and turn yourself into a batter that is a true offensive weapon?  Start by understanding which pitches you hit well and which you don’t. Practice working in certain hitting zones during BP and drill work. For example, take inside strikes and swing at strikes on the outer half. Then switch. Or do the same on pitches up and down. Always provide context and situation for your swings. Next, watch the game closely. Pitchers have tendencies and patterns. If you watch every hitter during the game intently, you will gain a lot of information and be able to make much more educated/accurate guesses on what pitch is coming in a given count or situation. This will allow you to sit on a pitch or a speed during leverage counts. Another thing to do is train your eyes like you do your swing! Find ways to get as many visual reps as possible. Stand in on bullpens. Look into vision strengthening games and exercises. Finally, become a student of the game. The more you learn about approach and plate discipline, and the better you understand which pitches you hit well, the tougher out you will become. Not only will these skills turn you into the batter that college coaches want, your team’s offense will benefit immensely as well. You don't need to have Hunter Dozier's physical tools to improve your offensive value, but you would be smart to copy his blueprint for success. Focus on plate discipline and watch your offensive production improve.--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

Daily KPB| Lessons From MLB Hitters: Plate Discipline

Jordan Stampler

In This Episode: A year from his first appearance on the #KPBpodcast, we catch back up with one of our most popular guests, Pfeiffer University Head Coach Jordan Stampler. In this episode, we talk about the summer of recruiting ahead, how coaches do their “homework” on players, red flags in recruiting, and much, much more!  Open and honest about the recruiting process and how he's created a strong winning culture in his program during his 2 years at the helm, you won't want to miss this conversation with Jordan Stampler, one of the college game's great young coaches.  Contact Coach Stampler:  Twitter: @TheRealJStamp Email:  Jordan.Stampler@pfeiffer.edu   Topics:  Recruiting, Exposure, Summer Ball, Development, Culture, Parents and Recruiting, Recruiting Red Flags  ---   Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

In This Episode: A year from his first appearance on the #KPBpodcast, we catch back up with one of our most popular guests, Pfeiffer University Head Coach Jordan Stampler. In this episode, we talk about the summer of recruiting ahead, how coaches do their “homework” on players, red flags in recruiting, and much, much more!  Open and honest about the recruiting process and how he's created a strong winning culture in his program during his 2 years at the helm, you won't want to miss this conversation with <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealJStamp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jordan Stampler</a>, one of the college game's great young coaches. Contact Coach Stampler:  Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealJStamp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@TheRealJStamp</a> Email:  <a href="mailto:Jordan.Stampler@pfeiffer.edu">Jordan.Stampler@pfeiffer.edu</a> Topics:  Recruiting, Exposure, Summer Ball, Development, Culture, Parents and Recruiting, Recruiting Red Flags --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

41| Jordan Stampler: Head Coach, Pfeiffer University (North Carolina)

We continue our conversation with Demetre Kokoris, Pitching Coach at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California. The care level and information shared in this episode mirrors that of part 1 of our interview. In Episode 9, Coach K opens up about the various levels of college ball, recruiting, and how to find a college program fit. With coaching stops at University of South Carolina, Cal State Fullerton, University of Oregon, and Santa Barbara City College, Coach K has learned from some of the college game's most successful coaches and mentors. A true student of the game and teacher, he generously shares his knowledge with us to help you improve your chances of success at the college level. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with one of baseball's great minds!Contact Coach Kokoris...Twitter: @CoachKokorisEmail: dkokoris@pointloma.eduTopics:College Baseball, Recruiting, Finding a Fit, Program Research, Levels of Competition, D1, D2, D3, JUCO, SEC, Big West, Pac 12--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

We continue our conversation with Demetre Kokoris, Pitching Coach at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California. The care level and information shared in this episode mirrors that of part 1 of our interview. In Episode 9, Coach K opens up about the various levels of college ball, recruiting, and how to find a college program fit. With coaching stops at University of South Carolina, Cal State Fullerton, University of Oregon, and Santa Barbara City College, Coach K has learned from some of the college game's most successful coaches and mentors. A true student of the game and teacher, he generously shares his knowledge with us to help you improve your chances of success at the college level. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with one of baseball's great minds! Contact Coach Kokoris... Twitter: @CoachKokoris Email: dkokoris@pointloma.edu Topics: College Baseball, Recruiting, Finding a Fit, Program Research, Levels of Competition, D1, D2, D3, JUCO, SEC, Big West, Pac 12 --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

9| Demetre Kokoris (Pitching Coach, Point Loma Nazarene)Pt 2

Mike Neu

 On This Episode:  We are excited to welcome former College World Series champion, Big League pitcher, and current Cal Baseball Head Coach Mike Neu to the podcast. There aren’t many things in the game of baseball that Neu hasn’t accomplished. He started his college career playing for baseball legend Jerry Weinstein at Sacramento City College where he won a state title before transferring to University of Miami. At Miami, Neu was an All-American pitcher and recorded the final out of the College World Series for the champion Hurricanes. Neu was drafted out of Miami by the Reds and worked his way to the Big Leagues where he pitched with both the A’s and Marlins. After his playing career ended, Neu started out as an assistant coach at Diablo Valley CC before quickly assuming the head coaching role at DVC. He made his first move to Cal as the pitching coach and recruiting coordinator. He left Cal in 2015 to become the Head Coach at University of Pacific (D1 in Stockton, CA) and after helping turn the program around, returned to lead the Cal program in 2018. In his first two years as the Head Coach at Cal, Neu has coached the Golden Spikes winner in Andrew Vaughn and lead the Golden Bears to an NCAA Regional Appearance. He has a reputation as an outstanding recruiter and if his career to this point is any indication, Neu and the Bears will have continued success as they look to return to Omaha. We talk Big League lessons, recruiting, the Pac-12, development and much more in this can't miss episode. Topics: D1, Pac-12, Recruiting, Development, Culture, Academics, Life Skills, Multi-Sport Athletes, Daily life   ---   Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

On This Episode:  We are excited to welcome former College World Series champion, Big League pitcher, and current Cal Baseball Head Coach Mike Neu to the podcast. There aren’t many things in the game of baseball that Neu hasn’t accomplished. He started his college career playing for baseball legend Jerry Weinstein at Sacramento City College where he won a state title before transferring to University of Miami. At Miami, Neu was an All-American pitcher and recorded the final out of the College World Series for the champion Hurricanes. Neu was drafted out of Miami by the Reds and worked his way to the Big Leagues where he pitched with both the A’s and Marlins. After his playing career ended, Neu started out as an assistant coach at Diablo Valley CC before quickly assuming the head coaching role at DVC. He made his first move to Cal as the pitching coach and recruiting coordinator. He left Cal in 2015 to become the Head Coach at University of Pacific (D1 in Stockton, CA) and after helping turn the program around, returned to lead the Cal program in 2018. In his first two years as the Head Coach at Cal, Neu has coached the Golden Spikes winner in Andrew Vaughn and lead the Golden Bears to an NCAA Regional Appearance. He has a reputation as an outstanding recruiter and if his career to this point is any indication, Neu and the Bears will have continued success as they look to return to Omaha. We talk Big League lessons, recruiting, the Pac-12, development and much more in this can't miss episode. Topics: D1, Pac-12, Recruiting, Development, Culture, Academics, Life Skills, Multi-Sport Athletes, Daily life --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

44| Mike Neu: Head Coach, Cal Baseball (D1)

In this episode...Community college (JUCO, JC, junior college, etc.) baseball gets overlooked as an option by many recruits who either think they are "too good" or have been mislead about the breadth of opportunities that community college baseball provides. In this 12 minute #MoundVisit episode, we offer 4 reasons why we love community college baseball and encourage you to consider it as one of your many options for playing at the next level. Among the reasons we love the JUCO route are affordability, less restricted training opportunities in the fall, a chance to improve academic skill set and grades, and a chance to get drafted each year. By no means is this quick look at the JUCO route a comprehensive review of all the reasons a high school player should consider community college baseball, but the goal is to get you thinking about community college as an option. Consider looking into our other resources that tackle community college baseball with more depth to continue the conversation! (See Link Below) Topics: Community College Baseball, JUCO, JUCO Route, JC Baseball, Academics, MLB Draft, Affordability, DevelopmentFollow Up Reading: https://keepplayingbaseball.org/considering-community-college-plan-ahead/--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

In this episode... Community college (JUCO, JC, junior college, etc.) baseball gets overlooked as an option by many recruits who either think they are "too good" or have been mislead about the breadth of opportunities that community college baseball provides. In this 12 minute #MoundVisit episode, we offer 4 reasons why we love community college baseball and encourage you to consider it as one of your many options for playing at the next level. Among the reasons we love the JUCO route are affordability, less restricted training opportunities in the fall, a chance to improve academic skill set and grades, and a chance to get drafted each year. By no means is this quick look at the JUCO route a comprehensive review of all the reasons a high school player should consider community college baseball, but the goal is to get you thinking about community college as an option. Consider looking into our other resources that tackle community college baseball with more depth to continue the conversation! (See Link Below) Topics: Community College Baseball, JUCO, JUCO Route, JC Baseball, Academics, MLB Draft, Affordability, Development Follow Up Reading: <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/considering-community-college-plan-ahead/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://keepplayingbaseball.org/considering-community-college-plan-ahead/</a> --- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

17| 4 Reasons to Be Open to Community College Baseball

Daily KPB This is the podcast version of the written article titled, Networking: Your Secret Weapon in the Recruiting Process.  When it comes to the recruiting process, surrounding yourself with a good network of people can make a big difference. Not only can a quality network help you make sound decisions throughout the recruiting process, having ties with people who are well connected in the college game can go a long way to opening doors and providing opportunities. There are many stories of players getting a foot in the door with a college coach because a former teammate, current coach, or someone they know has a connection to open that door. While your talent, work ethic, character, and skills are ultimately what will get you to the next level, at times recruiting can feel like it’s more about who you know than what you can do. If you are worried that you don’t have a strong network behind you, don’t worry! On this podcast we will discuss how you can use your connections to strengthen your network and how you can use your network to help in the recruiting process. Listen to the episode for more on how you can: 1) Assess the strength of your social network 2) Grow your social network 3) Use your social network to help you in the recruiting process--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

Daily KPB This is the podcast version of the written article titled, <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/networking-your-secret-weapon-in-the-recruiting-process-2019/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Networking: Your Secret Weapon in the Recruiting Process</a>.  When it comes to the recruiting process, surrounding yourself with a good network of people can make a big difference. Not only can a quality network help you make sound decisions throughout the recruiting process, having ties with people who are well connected in the college game can go a long way to opening doors and providing opportunities. There are many stories of players getting a foot in the door with a college coach because a former teammate, current coach, or someone they know has a connection to open that door. While your talent, work ethic, character, and skills are ultimately what will get you to the next level, at times recruiting can feel like it’s more about who you know than what you can do. If you are worried that you don’t have a strong network behind you, don’t worry! On this podcast we will discuss how you can use your connections to strengthen your network and how you can use your network to help in the recruiting process. Listen to the episode for more on how you can: 1) Assess the strength of your social network 2) Grow your social network 3) Use your social network to help you in the recruiting process--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

Daily KPB| Using Your Social Network to Help You Get Recruited

Daily KPB What does your college baseball fit look like?  It's a straightforward questions that can make or break your recruiting process before it even begins. If you want to improve your chances of finding a college baseball fit, you first need to know what that fit looks like. In this episode, we give you resources and suggestions to to help you answer that question, starting with  this worksheet  to help you sort out your college preferences. For more information and insight, listen to the episode or read the written version here.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support

Daily KPB What does your college baseball fit look like?  It's a straightforward questions that can make or break your recruiting process before it even begins. If you want to improve your chances of finding a college baseball fit, you first need to know what that fit looks like. In this episode, we give you resources and suggestions to to help you answer that question, starting with  <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Step-3-College-Interests-Worksheet.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this worksheet</a>  to help you sort out your college preferences. For more information and insight, listen to the episode or read the written version <a href="https://keepplayingbaseball.org/what-does-your-college-baseball-fit-look-like-2019/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here.</a>--- Support this podcast: <a href="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/keep-playing-baseball/support</a>

Daily KPB| What Does Your College Baseball Fit Look Like?

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