We are continuing with our offseason training this week.
As I noted last week – a player’s ability to put in the time and effort to improve even when coaches and teammates are not around is a big differentiator for players.
Commitment and self-motivation are skills that are applicable in many different areas of life. These skills can be developed and improved. These are not perfected in a week – keep at it.
Our training will remain essentially the same as last week. I’ve included the same links as last week in case you need a reference.
And remember these tips.
Approach to offseason training:
- Go hard – you should be at or even above game speed. See how far you can push yourself now so you are more prepared for games.
- Take chances, try new things – nothing is lost if it does not work. When you are training by yourself no one is even around to see if you mess up.
- Prioritize and build a routine – you are much more likely to complete your training consistently if you do this.
Hitting:
10 dry swing
40 quality hits off the tee
- 10 inside
- 20 middle
- 10 outside
I find it very helpful to watch the mechanics of top-notch players and hear about how they train. Here is a 10 minute video with Freddie Freeman (2020 Most Value Player in the National League) about how he uses the tee in his training.
Take the time to watch it. You will find some similarities in what we are doing at practice and you will pick up a few new tips from one of the best hitters in the world.
Throwing:
- 15 rotational throws OR 15 football throws (new drill from practice this week)
As I noted above, I like to look at successful pitchers (and ones without arm injuries) to find the common pitching mechanics.
Here is a freeze-frame of Justin Verlander. Most successful pitchers get into this position – long stride, chest out, arm cocked back and hand behind their head.
The medicine ball and football drill are designed to help us get into this position more consistently.
If you want to do your own research, the Pitching Ninja has catalogued and amazing amount of pitchers. You can find pitchers and videos of almost any pitcher you want here.
Strength:
We will keep it simple this week and do a few key movements. Break each one of these into as many sets you need.
25 push-ups.
25 rows (using a door frame, here is a resource on how: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8NzhNe9Res)
25 squats
25 sit-ups
That should do it. Keep working hard. We will see you soon!
– Coach Kevin
Pressure Baseball 