PG ...very well put and thought out. I know Tom is thinking that most kids won't make it to the bigs and that's why a lot of numbers mean very little. He and I have seen tons of kids with desire and drive get a great education and have a lot of fun at the college level. On the other hand, as a GSB scout I need the numbers to get a franchise interested in a player but very few go as far as the Indy's or the foreign leagues anyway.
quote:Originally posted by Ozone:
A pitcher should run back to the dugout ...slowly, work on getting that FB to 87 and his off speed to 72.
Thank you for answering my question.
I deleted it because I thought I could find it on my own. Then my dear husband pointed out that a red light was blinking on my laptop.
quote:I know Tom is thinking that most kids won't make it to the bigs and that's why a lot of numbers mean very little. He and I have seen tons of kids with desire and drive get a great education and have a lot of fun at the college level.
Guess my point is that it doesn't matter if we are talking about the big leagues or the little leagues. Improving "numbers", in this topic running ability (running times) helps make a player a better and more valuable baseball player. To ignore that, would be just wrong! It's not something to worry about, it's something to work on. I would think anyone that possesses a great amount of desire and drive would be the first to get to work on improving.
BTW, I can't even count the number of kids with desire and drive that we have seen go on to play college baseball. It's entirely possible that we have seen more of those types than anyone else in the world.
PG, love your posts, informative as always!! Wondering if you would mind illuminating me on starting for the 60. Is it always measured by the standing start (as in a stance for running from 1st to 2nd) or is it timed from a sprint start (as in track and field)? Certainly times would probably be very different depending on the start position. J23
J23,
We actually wrote a manual about this very subject. I think I will describe the start we are talking about when I have time. In "every" single case it has resulted in a minimum .2 tenths improvement. With many it has resulted in much more improvement than .2. In fact, we were once invited to spring training to teach this technique to the Mets. We completely sold out the manual and haven't reprinted it. I think it was about 150 pages.
Anyway, the start is unlike the normal sprint. It is much like the position leading off a base. It is just importnat to understand there is no reason to go any direction except forward. It can still be used for stealing bases. In fact, the kid that helped me write the manual set the all time small college record for stolen bases. Not sure if that record is still alive. He stole 100 bases in 109 attempts and we played some DI teams during that year. He started off as a 6.75 runner and ended up running a 6.2 something at Busch Stadium for the Cardinals at a predraft tryout. It wasn't just him, the team also set the all time record for sb's. The publication "Collegiate Baseball" did a long story on all this and the technique. I actually see some running coaches using the technique. It has nothing to do with conditioning or power... it's all about technique. Mostly about the start!
I'll try to descibe the start within the next couple days. Pictures really help and I don't know if I can post any of them, but I will try. There's a lot more involved, but the most efficient start will absolutely cut time. It works "every" time! I would give a money back guarantee except it won't cost you anything to begin with.
We actually wrote a manual about this very subject. I think I will describe the start we are talking about when I have time. In "every" single case it has resulted in a minimum .2 tenths improvement. With many it has resulted in much more improvement than .2. In fact, we were once invited to spring training to teach this technique to the Mets. We completely sold out the manual and haven't reprinted it. I think it was about 150 pages.
Anyway, the start is unlike the normal sprint. It is much like the position leading off a base. It is just importnat to understand there is no reason to go any direction except forward. It can still be used for stealing bases. In fact, the kid that helped me write the manual set the all time small college record for stolen bases. Not sure if that record is still alive. He stole 100 bases in 109 attempts and we played some DI teams during that year. He started off as a 6.75 runner and ended up running a 6.2 something at Busch Stadium for the Cardinals at a predraft tryout. It wasn't just him, the team also set the all time record for sb's. The publication "Collegiate Baseball" did a long story on all this and the technique. I actually see some running coaches using the technique. It has nothing to do with conditioning or power... it's all about technique. Mostly about the start!
I'll try to descibe the start within the next couple days. Pictures really help and I don't know if I can post any of them, but I will try. There's a lot more involved, but the most efficient start will absolutely cut time. It works "every" time! I would give a money back guarantee except it won't cost you anything to begin with.
Ozone,
Just curious... What does GSB scout mean? I don't think I've ever heard of that.
Just curious... What does GSB scout mean? I don't think I've ever heard of that.
Global Scouting Bureau, we procure players for the Independent and foreign leagues. We have run pro showcases for some leagues and also do some college evaluation showcases.
Hey PG,
I look forward to you posting the technique over the next days or weeks. I bet you could sell that manual again very easily. Especially today with digital files commercial printers can print up 10 as easily and cheaply as 100 since there is no type setting.
Thank you in advance for sharing the info.
I look forward to you posting the technique over the next days or weeks. I bet you could sell that manual again very easily. Especially today with digital files commercial printers can print up 10 as easily and cheaply as 100 since there is no type setting.
Thank you in advance for sharing the info.
I whole heartedly second Floridafans' comment. And thanks for responding with info that I know will help those of out there wanting the info and hopefully our son's can benefit from it! 2010 son attending Stanford's prospect camp in late June, all the help he can get will only enhance his experience and improve his chances for future opportunities.
I will "try" to do it over the weekend and hopefully post it early next week.
Ya PG that would be great. I and others will definitely benefit from that information.
Thanks!
Thanks!
OK, with a little help from my friends and a scanner… Here it is! Link is at the bottom.
First thing to remember is that this is a couple pages in a manual that has well over 100 pages of running information. We have decided to post it at our site due to the length and give the link here. It sold for something like $45 or $50 and we sold out. We have not done a reprint because I have no interest in this getting big. I quit doing the lessons several years ago, but can honestly say that we have never worked with a runner that has not improved at least .2 of a second in the 60. We have seen some unbelievable improvements. Our accountant, had his son get involved in the program when he was 15 years old. He was a decent player for his age, but a very slow runner. In fact, he ran nearly a 9 second 60 when he first started. He ended up being a DII All American and running a pretty consistent 6.8 in the 60. He worked very hard at mastering both the physical and mental techniques. The technique was the starting point, he did the rest on his own.
Some may not agree with parts of what is in the manual, but that is the good part about it being free. You have nothing to lose. I’m sincerely hoping that this will help a few guys improve their running times and running ability. I really wish we had time to actually train runners, but we simply don’t have that time. However, if someone were to study this information and practice it… They will see some very positive results.
This article, pertains mostly to the 60 yard sprint. However, with a few minor adjustments, it can and has been, used to produce great base stealing results. In fact, the person who helped me write the manual, broke the all time stolen base record for small colleges. He stole 100 bases in 109 attempts and went from a 6.75 runner to a 6.25 runner in the 60. There are hundreds of success stories, including some that involve present Major League players. Yes, you do get what you pay for, but in this case you don’t have to spend any money, you just have to follow directions and go to work. It’s easy to learn and understand, but it needs to be practiced and that will take some work. You will not get faster by accident!
I may even post the rest of the book at some point. It’s pretty much all about technique and mentality. It’s all about running as it relates to baseball. Not much about training or power, which can be enhanced by finding a good sprint coach and I would recommend that. There are several things in the book about running form and running philosophy, that would definitely help. There are some things that “some” sprinting coaches might disagree with. But it took some 20 years of study and research to come up with this program. We continue to learn and some minor adjustments have been made over the years. They are included in the article.
Best of luck
Here is the link….
Do you want to run faster
First thing to remember is that this is a couple pages in a manual that has well over 100 pages of running information. We have decided to post it at our site due to the length and give the link here. It sold for something like $45 or $50 and we sold out. We have not done a reprint because I have no interest in this getting big. I quit doing the lessons several years ago, but can honestly say that we have never worked with a runner that has not improved at least .2 of a second in the 60. We have seen some unbelievable improvements. Our accountant, had his son get involved in the program when he was 15 years old. He was a decent player for his age, but a very slow runner. In fact, he ran nearly a 9 second 60 when he first started. He ended up being a DII All American and running a pretty consistent 6.8 in the 60. He worked very hard at mastering both the physical and mental techniques. The technique was the starting point, he did the rest on his own.
Some may not agree with parts of what is in the manual, but that is the good part about it being free. You have nothing to lose. I’m sincerely hoping that this will help a few guys improve their running times and running ability. I really wish we had time to actually train runners, but we simply don’t have that time. However, if someone were to study this information and practice it… They will see some very positive results.
This article, pertains mostly to the 60 yard sprint. However, with a few minor adjustments, it can and has been, used to produce great base stealing results. In fact, the person who helped me write the manual, broke the all time stolen base record for small colleges. He stole 100 bases in 109 attempts and went from a 6.75 runner to a 6.25 runner in the 60. There are hundreds of success stories, including some that involve present Major League players. Yes, you do get what you pay for, but in this case you don’t have to spend any money, you just have to follow directions and go to work. It’s easy to learn and understand, but it needs to be practiced and that will take some work. You will not get faster by accident!
I may even post the rest of the book at some point. It’s pretty much all about technique and mentality. It’s all about running as it relates to baseball. Not much about training or power, which can be enhanced by finding a good sprint coach and I would recommend that. There are several things in the book about running form and running philosophy, that would definitely help. There are some things that “some” sprinting coaches might disagree with. But it took some 20 years of study and research to come up with this program. We continue to learn and some minor adjustments have been made over the years. They are included in the article.
Best of luck
Here is the link….
Do you want to run faster
Maybe do a web search on speed training in the Toronto area. These type places exist most everywhere.
That said, true speed and athleticism are gifts one is born with, as are twitch muscles, hand-eye coordination, and other sorts of things that make a baseball player/athlete.
Learning technique and solid fundamentals accentuate the skillset, and constant adjustments are then required as the cream rises to the top.
In my opinion, the most important order of development for a position player are these:
Hit, and the ability to get the barrel in the zone against high-level pitching by age 16.
Hit, and hit with some power.
Field the ball properly.
Have a decent throwing arm at your best position.
Speed. I use game speed, good routes to the ball, ability to read the ball off the bat, good footwork and lateral movement, and smart fundamental baserunning skills.
Raw speed is for scouts and bunting teachers.
That said, true speed and athleticism are gifts one is born with, as are twitch muscles, hand-eye coordination, and other sorts of things that make a baseball player/athlete.
Learning technique and solid fundamentals accentuate the skillset, and constant adjustments are then required as the cream rises to the top.
In my opinion, the most important order of development for a position player are these:
Hit, and the ability to get the barrel in the zone against high-level pitching by age 16.
Hit, and hit with some power.
Field the ball properly.
Have a decent throwing arm at your best position.
Speed. I use game speed, good routes to the ball, ability to read the ball off the bat, good footwork and lateral movement, and smart fundamental baserunning skills.
Raw speed is for scouts and bunting teachers.
Oldslugger .....I kind of agree with you but speed is a big factor. At each level the game gets quicker. General speed does relate to all parts of the game. Of course you need to fill the 5 tool bill as much as possible , but speed can help bring those tools to the next level. Bat speed, hand speed, eye hand speed, foot speed ....they are all related. That's what a scout is looking for, future potential. Of course you don't need all the tools to have a great college career and get a great education but that means little at the next level.
Thank you Jerry for preparing the information so that those who wish to take advantage of the information may do so.
My guy has always spent most of his development time on hitting and has done so with some success. As OldSlugger suggests we then spent a significant time on fielding, glovework, etc.
My guy has run a 6.9. I know he has more that that in him. I don't know how to get it out of him. Any information that can somehow perfect his technique to show a 6.8 or better is information that I want to share with my son.
Thank you again Jerry, if anyone has one of those books around I would give $200 for it.
My guy has always spent most of his development time on hitting and has done so with some success. As OldSlugger suggests we then spent a significant time on fielding, glovework, etc.
My guy has run a 6.9. I know he has more that that in him. I don't know how to get it out of him. Any information that can somehow perfect his technique to show a 6.8 or better is information that I want to share with my son.
Thank you again Jerry, if anyone has one of those books around I would give $200 for it.
Think about this.
You have an outfielder with recorded 6.5 speed, and another with 6.7 speed.
The slower kid has better read skills and routes and the jackrabbit is clueless over and over again. Those 2/10ths mean little because the 6.7 kid blew that jump away with other abilities.
The slower kid(6.7) rakes, and the trackstar is a banjo hitter and 1st in line for bunting classes.
Who do you want in your lineup?
You have an outfielder with recorded 6.5 speed, and another with 6.7 speed.
The slower kid has better read skills and routes and the jackrabbit is clueless over and over again. Those 2/10ths mean little because the 6.7 kid blew that jump away with other abilities.
The slower kid(6.7) rakes, and the trackstar is a banjo hitter and 1st in line for bunting classes.
Who do you want in your lineup?
But its still nice to be fast, especially if you aspire to be a MIF. And if my guy ran a 6.7 I would not be in this thread!quote:Originally posted by floridafan:
Well, maybe I should be because we now get into the 5 tools.
In what order?
In my opinion, the most important order of development for a position player are these:
Hit, and the ability to get the barrel in the zone against high-level pitching by age 16.
Hit, and hit with some power.
Field the ball properly.
Have a decent throwing arm at your best position.
Speed. I use game speed, good routes to the ball, ability to read the ball off the bat, good footwork and lateral movement, and smart fundamental baserunning skills.
Raw speed is for scouts and bunting teachers.[/QUOTE]
Hit, and the ability to get the barrel in the zone against high-level pitching by age 16.
Hit, and hit with some power.
Field the ball properly.
Have a decent throwing arm at your best position.
Speed. I use game speed, good routes to the ball, ability to read the ball off the bat, good footwork and lateral movement, and smart fundamental baserunning skills.
Raw speed is for scouts and bunting teachers.[/QUOTE]
Oldslugger,
What is it that bothers you about this topic? In this case, this really was the topic. (Lowering 60 time, is the topic) If anyone were to ask me what tools are most important, I've gone on record many times... Hitting and hitting with power are the two most important tools in todays game!
However, the truth is no matter what routes you run, no matter how well you hit or field... The faster you can run, the more valuable a player you become and the better draft pick you become.
In this situation it doesn't matter fast twitch or slow twitch. Either way, if you can run faster you are better. Besides, if you are a slow twitch athlete, you are not likely to be a good prospect. It takes quick twitch to be good at any of the skills.
This thread started because someone was interested in running times. Why do you enter the discussion with negative responses after someone decided to help that person and others who care about this subject? This is not about the slower kid running better routes. This is about "every" kid being able to improve their running time... Period! In fact, one of the former students is in the NFL.
This is not about speed training (that you so politely mentioned) exist everywhere, if you bothered to check. This is about technique that has worked in every single case and this technique does not exist everywhere. The positive results include some major league players who would swear by it. It sure doesn't bother me if you or anyone else chooses to ignore it or belittle the information. That would just show ignorance IMO.
So what if the slower player runs better routes. Being faster doesn't cause players to run the wrong route. It just helps the player get to the ball quicker, no matter what route he takes. Both the good route guy and the bad route guy will get to the ball quicker than he did before. Both will gain distance in the same amount of time. If that doesn't make any difference, we wasted 20 years of study.
What is it that bothers you about this topic? In this case, this really was the topic. (Lowering 60 time, is the topic) If anyone were to ask me what tools are most important, I've gone on record many times... Hitting and hitting with power are the two most important tools in todays game!
However, the truth is no matter what routes you run, no matter how well you hit or field... The faster you can run, the more valuable a player you become and the better draft pick you become.
In this situation it doesn't matter fast twitch or slow twitch. Either way, if you can run faster you are better. Besides, if you are a slow twitch athlete, you are not likely to be a good prospect. It takes quick twitch to be good at any of the skills.
This thread started because someone was interested in running times. Why do you enter the discussion with negative responses after someone decided to help that person and others who care about this subject? This is not about the slower kid running better routes. This is about "every" kid being able to improve their running time... Period! In fact, one of the former students is in the NFL.
This is not about speed training (that you so politely mentioned) exist everywhere, if you bothered to check. This is about technique that has worked in every single case and this technique does not exist everywhere. The positive results include some major league players who would swear by it. It sure doesn't bother me if you or anyone else chooses to ignore it or belittle the information. That would just show ignorance IMO.
So what if the slower player runs better routes. Being faster doesn't cause players to run the wrong route. It just helps the player get to the ball quicker, no matter what route he takes. Both the good route guy and the bad route guy will get to the ball quicker than he did before. Both will gain distance in the same amount of time. If that doesn't make any difference, we wasted 20 years of study.
i find it interesting that most all players work at hitting ,fielding, throwing. don't often see or hear about them working on running.
my oldest son wasn't clocked very oftem. he ran a 7.2 at a showcase summer before sr yr. not a speed demon by any strech, he is a pitcher, pitchers run not for speed but they run.
he had to hit last summer,was 4.2 home to first from the left side. being a pitcher nobody cares, but he has gotten quicker by running, i can't imagine how much improvement a player can see, trying to be quicker/faster.
this is an under valued, but great topic.
my oldest son wasn't clocked very oftem. he ran a 7.2 at a showcase summer before sr yr. not a speed demon by any strech, he is a pitcher, pitchers run not for speed but they run.
he had to hit last summer,was 4.2 home to first from the left side. being a pitcher nobody cares, but he has gotten quicker by running, i can't imagine how much improvement a player can see, trying to be quicker/faster.
this is an under valued, but great topic.
I think a lot depends on what the player wants to be and he is thinking abnout this is HS---a speedster or a slugger--my son got his scholarship because of his speed and his bat and the schools philosophy about speed in the outfield---and my son wanted to be an outfielder-- he was 6.6 coming out of HS---it got down to a 6.4 in college as he matured physically
As for a MIF whether the kid has 6.7 or 6.5 speed it really does really matter---actually that sort of footspeed for a second sacker is not too common---that speed is usually at shortstop
A kid with a 7.0 to 7.2 footspeed can certainly play second base
But back to question--lowering footspeed---you can do this, as I have said, without spending money--let him work out with the track team and track coach at his HS--bettering the start can lower the number---then to out it in baseball sense learn to read pitchers motions better---
It just doen't happen--it takes time and hard work---but the player has to want it not daddy or mommy---my guy used to lerave on his own to meet the track team to work with them
Like anything else in this world the individual has to want it more than daddy and mmmy
As for a MIF whether the kid has 6.7 or 6.5 speed it really does really matter---actually that sort of footspeed for a second sacker is not too common---that speed is usually at shortstop
A kid with a 7.0 to 7.2 footspeed can certainly play second base
But back to question--lowering footspeed---you can do this, as I have said, without spending money--let him work out with the track team and track coach at his HS--bettering the start can lower the number---then to out it in baseball sense learn to read pitchers motions better---
It just doen't happen--it takes time and hard work---but the player has to want it not daddy or mommy---my guy used to lerave on his own to meet the track team to work with them
Like anything else in this world the individual has to want it more than daddy and mmmy
Once again here is the link for anyone interested. This is only about the start which we all know is different than what is used in Track. This is what a couple people asked for in this thread. It has worked "100%" of the time. It is absolutely free to anyone that wants to try it. Working with a good sprint coach is also a very good idea.
Run Faster
This will improve the 60 time, but even more important it will most improve the first 10-20-30 feet, which is vitally important no matter what else is considered.
Run Faster
This will improve the 60 time, but even more important it will most improve the first 10-20-30 feet, which is vitally important no matter what else is considered.
quote:Originally posted by PGStaff:
Oldslugger,
What is it that bothers you about this topic? In this case, this really was the topic. (Lowering 60 time, is the topic)
J, my initial reply was to have the young man search the Toronto area for Speed Training facilities/programs.
For what it's worth, our outfield from left to right is 6.9/6.4/6.7 and two of them were all-State in football and the other all-State in basketball in addition to baseball.
Multiple sport athletes are usually active the entire year so workouts and running are considered standard operating procedures.
Believe me... There is nothing standard about that link. It's all about the best possible "baseball" start! We see some of the best athletes in the country every year and most all of them could easily improve their already fast 60 times.
I don't really care if people choose to ignore the information. It was done for those who asked for it. Truth is... from the traditional sprint start or in the blocks... it would be very difficult to cut .2 tenths or more out of an already good 60 time. The obvious huge difference in running the 60 in baseball involves the START.
I don't really care if people choose to ignore the information. It was done for those who asked for it. Truth is... from the traditional sprint start or in the blocks... it would be very difficult to cut .2 tenths or more out of an already good 60 time. The obvious huge difference in running the 60 in baseball involves the START.
PGStaff,
Thank you for the link. Your post about the kid who was slow, nearly a 9 second 60 at age 15 and getting down to a 6.8 in the 60 is inspiration for my son. He is a 14 YO catcher and ran a 8.6 at a local ID camp recently. He is a good hitter (led his team in batting last three years), blocks well, and has a decent POP for a 14 YO (2.3). However, due to his speed he can sometimes get discouraged. He has been looking not only for training technique but hope as well. If sometime you post the rest of the manual or make it availabe for purchase sign us up.
BTW, what is considered an average and good 60 time for a catcher?
Thanks again
Thank you for the link. Your post about the kid who was slow, nearly a 9 second 60 at age 15 and getting down to a 6.8 in the 60 is inspiration for my son. He is a 14 YO catcher and ran a 8.6 at a local ID camp recently. He is a good hitter (led his team in batting last three years), blocks well, and has a decent POP for a 14 YO (2.3). However, due to his speed he can sometimes get discouraged. He has been looking not only for training technique but hope as well. If sometime you post the rest of the manual or make it availabe for purchase sign us up.
BTW, what is considered an average and good 60 time for a catcher?
Thanks again
catcher5dad,
Here are a few Major League catchers with the fastest time we got on them during their high school years. There are a few ML catchers who run average or better, but I would guess most ran between 7.2 to 7.5 as a high school player. Most of those same guys probably would actually run a bit slower than that now, they tend to get bigger and stronger and lots of time at that position takes its toll.
Brian McCann – 7.41
Geovany Soto – 7.23
Jarrod Saltalamacchia – 7.19
Jeff Clement – 7.20
JR Towles – 7.25
Your son is still very young. I really would recommend getting with someone who has a lot of expertise in this area. Our stuff is all about technique rather than power or training. Working on both gives the best results. Believe me there is hope for nearly everyone. I think any half way decent athlete without any physical problems is capable of running in the lower to mid 7s. Even the very fast guys can and sometimes do improve. I hate limitations!
Like every other athletic skill, running can be improved. Also like every other athletic skill, it takes practice. You don’t “accidentally” come close to reaching your potential at anything. And like all other athletic performance, it very much involves the mind. That hope you speak of, has to be replaced by a very strong desire, that desire has to be his, not ours. He has to “know” he is going to get faster, rather than “hope” he can get faster.
Maybe we will post more chapters if enough people are interested. I have no interest in making a profit on this stuff anymore. I just know it can help a lot of young players and that is a greatest reward there is.
We actually scanned the whole manual. Maybe we could reprint it and sell it for something real cheap and give it away to those who can’t afford it. Someone wanted us to do a video, but I don’t have the time or energy to do that properly. It is true that the best results always come from one on one teaching, but I don’t do that anymore either. Maybe we could take a bunch of photos which would make things easier to understand. I think the visual part would help a lot.
We worked with a kid that was a good young player, about the same running results as your son. He improved a lot, his dad couldn’t believe it! He ended up being an all state baseball player and then played football for 4 years at the University of Iowa. He was an outside linebacker there. We really have lots of success stories. Matt Macri who is with the Twins went from 7.0 to running a 6.5 at our predraft in less than 3 months. Casey Blake, Ryan Sweeney, and many others improved by at least .3 tenths. Casey was actually already an All American at Wichita State when he came to us in Cedar Rapids during the Christmas break in his senior year. He was labeled a below average runner by the many scouts who had followed him for years. He became an above average runner in about 2 weeks. He even ended up stealing a lot of bases that year.
I apologize if this sounds like BS or bragging, but I’m not into bragging or BSing, I want people to understand that they can do this and that it will work.
Best of luck to your son.
Here are a few Major League catchers with the fastest time we got on them during their high school years. There are a few ML catchers who run average or better, but I would guess most ran between 7.2 to 7.5 as a high school player. Most of those same guys probably would actually run a bit slower than that now, they tend to get bigger and stronger and lots of time at that position takes its toll.
Brian McCann – 7.41
Geovany Soto – 7.23
Jarrod Saltalamacchia – 7.19
Jeff Clement – 7.20
JR Towles – 7.25
Your son is still very young. I really would recommend getting with someone who has a lot of expertise in this area. Our stuff is all about technique rather than power or training. Working on both gives the best results. Believe me there is hope for nearly everyone. I think any half way decent athlete without any physical problems is capable of running in the lower to mid 7s. Even the very fast guys can and sometimes do improve. I hate limitations!
Like every other athletic skill, running can be improved. Also like every other athletic skill, it takes practice. You don’t “accidentally” come close to reaching your potential at anything. And like all other athletic performance, it very much involves the mind. That hope you speak of, has to be replaced by a very strong desire, that desire has to be his, not ours. He has to “know” he is going to get faster, rather than “hope” he can get faster.
Maybe we will post more chapters if enough people are interested. I have no interest in making a profit on this stuff anymore. I just know it can help a lot of young players and that is a greatest reward there is.
We actually scanned the whole manual. Maybe we could reprint it and sell it for something real cheap and give it away to those who can’t afford it. Someone wanted us to do a video, but I don’t have the time or energy to do that properly. It is true that the best results always come from one on one teaching, but I don’t do that anymore either. Maybe we could take a bunch of photos which would make things easier to understand. I think the visual part would help a lot.
We worked with a kid that was a good young player, about the same running results as your son. He improved a lot, his dad couldn’t believe it! He ended up being an all state baseball player and then played football for 4 years at the University of Iowa. He was an outside linebacker there. We really have lots of success stories. Matt Macri who is with the Twins went from 7.0 to running a 6.5 at our predraft in less than 3 months. Casey Blake, Ryan Sweeney, and many others improved by at least .3 tenths. Casey was actually already an All American at Wichita State when he came to us in Cedar Rapids during the Christmas break in his senior year. He was labeled a below average runner by the many scouts who had followed him for years. He became an above average runner in about 2 weeks. He even ended up stealing a lot of bases that year.
I apologize if this sounds like BS or bragging, but I’m not into bragging or BSing, I want people to understand that they can do this and that it will work.
Best of luck to your son.
Hey, if you wanted, you could just sell the PDF file and not even bother with printing or binding. The folks that are interested will not care what the format is. We can bind our own in a 3 ring binder!
If you can make that available that would be great.
Perhaps it can be given to hsbaseballweb.com and downloaded in pdf format for a price here (or donation) of $50 or more. If you don't really want to profit from it.
If you can make that available that would be great.
Perhaps it can be given to hsbaseballweb.com and downloaded in pdf format for a price here (or donation) of $50 or more. If you don't really want to profit from it.
Thanks PG!
I and many others appreciate the information and the willingness to help. 13 year old son decided he was tired of being the "turtle" on the team.
He did a number of things to help this over a 5 week period. None of these things took longer than 20 minutes for 3 days a week.
1. Ran short sprints... 5, 10, and 15 yards trying to improve his start. I wish he would have had this info then!
2. Ran longer interval training focusing on form.
3. Ran hills working on strength.
He was the 3rd fastest kid at the tryout in August.
He said that when he hit the base, he heard the coach say "Wow".
All of these ideas, I helped him find through this board. Thanks to all who give of their
knowledge and expertise. I love this baseball stuff!
I and many others appreciate the information and the willingness to help. 13 year old son decided he was tired of being the "turtle" on the team.
He did a number of things to help this over a 5 week period. None of these things took longer than 20 minutes for 3 days a week.
1. Ran short sprints... 5, 10, and 15 yards trying to improve his start. I wish he would have had this info then!
2. Ran longer interval training focusing on form.
3. Ran hills working on strength.
He was the 3rd fastest kid at the tryout in August.
He said that when he hit the base, he heard the coach say "Wow".
All of these ideas, I helped him find through this board. Thanks to all who give of their
knowledge and expertise. I love this baseball stuff!
PGStaff posted: "Maybe we will post more chapters if enough people are interested. I have no interest in making a profit on this stuff anymore. I just know it can help a lot of young players and that is the greatest reward there is."
PG, post away. This is great stuff for all players.
Info from this website: Pricless.
PG, post away. This is great stuff for all players.
Info from this website: Pricless.
Thanks for posting this information, PG. I would really like to have access to the entire manual if you decide to make it available.
I have three sons and all of them are pretty fast but it has taken them some time to understand that being the fastest on your team, even your travel team, doesn't mean much. My oldest son has run as fast as 6.85 but he tends not to stretch like he should and is apt to turn in a 7.05 - 7.11 at any time. Tight thighs along with poor form are the reason.
I've been searching for some good track coaches because I believe this his main issue is form - he has lots of wasted energy. His brothers are the same way. They need a coach or someone to help them do it. Dad isn't the answer in this case.
My oldest recently started some running training but it involves mainly strength with some form training thrown in. I've read your document and I think the information therein could be very helpful.
I have three sons and all of them are pretty fast but it has taken them some time to understand that being the fastest on your team, even your travel team, doesn't mean much. My oldest son has run as fast as 6.85 but he tends not to stretch like he should and is apt to turn in a 7.05 - 7.11 at any time. Tight thighs along with poor form are the reason.
I've been searching for some good track coaches because I believe this his main issue is form - he has lots of wasted energy. His brothers are the same way. They need a coach or someone to help them do it. Dad isn't the answer in this case.
My oldest recently started some running training but it involves mainly strength with some form training thrown in. I've read your document and I think the information therein could be very helpful.
BillBill,
Tightness is the enemy. Does your son run with his mouth open or do you see a lot of effort in his face when he runs?
Sometimes the loose lips don't sink the ship. Sometimes they make you run faster. There's a reason why those race horses have floppy jaws. Tight mouth leads to tight neck and shoulders which can lead to tight everything.
Often we coaches say things like run "hard". What we really mean is run "fast". The guys who run the "hardest" are usually the slower guys.
I'll see if our guys want to post more stuff.
Tightness is the enemy. Does your son run with his mouth open or do you see a lot of effort in his face when he runs?
Sometimes the loose lips don't sink the ship. Sometimes they make you run faster. There's a reason why those race horses have floppy jaws. Tight mouth leads to tight neck and shoulders which can lead to tight everything.
Often we coaches say things like run "hard". What we really mean is run "fast". The guys who run the "hardest" are usually the slower guys.
I'll see if our guys want to post more stuff.
Interesting tidbit about the "loose lips". Great stuff PG!
PG and Bill,
I agree 100% that stiffness in your legs will only pull you away from your full potential.
What confuses me is that there are realiable sources out there that state that stretching to a certain point can actually slow you down.
The question is: How much stretching is too much??
Also PG I read that article very thoroughly and I found it very helpful. The last time I ran the 60 I clocked in at a 7.29. After going out in 35 degree weather today in just shorts and without warming up or stretching I ended up running a 7.15! I even tweaked my groin right out of the start (Stupid). I know it doesn't sound like much but trust me I definitely felt the difference. The scary part is that I'm not even close to being in my best shape and have not lifted or worked out in over 2 months. I'm going to start working out with the track team this week and start lifting and working out again and get ready for that Sunshine Northeast Showcase.
My goal is to get or break a 6.8 by then. Is this possible?
Thanks !
I agree 100% that stiffness in your legs will only pull you away from your full potential.
What confuses me is that there are realiable sources out there that state that stretching to a certain point can actually slow you down.
The question is: How much stretching is too much??
Also PG I read that article very thoroughly and I found it very helpful. The last time I ran the 60 I clocked in at a 7.29. After going out in 35 degree weather today in just shorts and without warming up or stretching I ended up running a 7.15! I even tweaked my groin right out of the start (Stupid). I know it doesn't sound like much but trust me I definitely felt the difference. The scary part is that I'm not even close to being in my best shape and have not lifted or worked out in over 2 months. I'm going to start working out with the track team this week and start lifting and working out again and get ready for that Sunshine Northeast Showcase.
My goal is to get or break a 6.8 by then. Is this possible?
Thanks !
It's all up to you. For the most part, if you work hard you can attain a lot of things. I think a 6.8 is reachable from what you describe. Make sure you are always working harder than the next guy and never cheat yourself. Also about streching, I believe that doing static stretches such as toe touches and other things of that sort do not help you warm up. You need to do dynamic streching like butt kicks, high knees, and karaoke.
PGStaff,
Any chance you're going to post more of the manual?
Any chance you're going to post more of the manual?
PG,
Thanks for the info. My son was recruited by Adrian College in Mich (DIII) and he currently runs an 8.2. He is 6'2" 230, so he is big. Plays 1B and can hit with power also for avg. He used to be faster. But, he has played goalie in ice hockey for years and a running coach said that, that had probably slowed him down, much like a catcher. I, too, believe tehnique and the start has alot to do with his speed also. So I am going to give this to him to let him work on it and we'll see how he does. It's up to him now.
Thanks
Thanks for the info. My son was recruited by Adrian College in Mich (DIII) and he currently runs an 8.2. He is 6'2" 230, so he is big. Plays 1B and can hit with power also for avg. He used to be faster. But, he has played goalie in ice hockey for years and a running coach said that, that had probably slowed him down, much like a catcher. I, too, believe tehnique and the start has alot to do with his speed also. So I am going to give this to him to let him work on it and we'll see how he does. It's up to him now.
Thanks
It is possible - 6.4 may be very difficult but 6.6 - 6.8 is doable. My son ran a 7.8 as a freshman, 7.3 as a soph, 7.1 as a jr and now runs 6.6 consistently as a senior. He first learned how to run and start properly at a local speed and agility place. He worked out like crazy to get stronger (upper and lower body) and he stretches regularly. I am not saying it will definitely happen as there are so many variables but it can happen.