Baserunning 201: The Four S's in Action

Greetings All,

As promised, here is my updated paper on baserunning. High school players should be familiar with it ... and let it sink into your DNA.

I. Introduction

A. Good baserunners need three things:

1) Focus

2) Judgment (which is knowledge plus experience); and

3) Enthusiasm. We run with our "hair on fire", always.

B. Why is it important to run hard?

1) The opposition may misplay the ball, and we want to be in a position to capitalize

2) Our hustling, in fact, might create misplays by putting pressure on the defense; and

3) We give our best at everything. I Cor. 10:31.

C. Message to "slow guys": Base stealing is not baserunning. Rather, base stealing is a part of baserunning. Understand this and grow as a player. Every player can be a good baserunner.

D. According to "The Mental Game of Baseball", a player who has shown the commitment to become a good baserunner has shown the commitment to become a complete player.

E. Important note: Understand the difference between rules and principles. It is important to understand the rules of the game that affect what we can do on the bases. Equally important is that we understand the principles that govern what is the best move to make in various situations.

II. We begin at home

A. On a dropped third strike, the ball is live and the batter can advance to first unless first base is occupied and there are less than two outs. With two outs, the ball is always live on a dropped third strike.

1) If a runner is advancing on a dropped third strike, then force plays are in order. For example, if the bases are loaded the catcher should simply step on home plate to force the runner coming home. Why? It gets an out without a throw.

2) Catchers especially need to learn this rule ... to the point where it is automatic.

3) For the batter/runner ... the principle is that we should run always. Why? Because the opposition often will not know this rule and will make unnecessary throws. If a ball gets thrown away, the batter may be out (i.e., if 1B is occupied with less than two outs), but other runners can advance on an overthrow.

B. When we make contact, we take a quick glance to see if the ball is going to the outfield. If we can't tell, then we assume there will be a play at first. No admiring hits allowed. Run with a purpose.

1) If the ball is through the infield, we take the turn at first and put pressure ... always we put pressure ... on the defense. We make a good turn, starting about 12-15 feet from the bag, swinging out to the right about 5 feet or so to where we can hit the inside corner of the bag and push off hard toward second.

2) Note: Angles are basically the same for all bases, with the idea being to cut down unnecessary steps and reduce the time it takes to get to the next base.

3) If the ball is on the infield and there is a play at 1B, we run hard through the bag and decelerate only after we clear the bag.

a) When we run through the bag, we automatically take a quick glance over our right shoulder to see if the ball has been overthrown, and if so, we are off to 2B unless held up/called back by the 1B coach.

b) Extremely important: A high school runner should be an informed, aggressive runner. We run hard and think aggressively and ahead, always. We run hard first, and listen for confirmation from base coaches. The days of waiting to be told to run before moving are over. To be clear, when a ball gets away or is put in play, (absent specific instructions to the contrary and/or a play being on ... i.e., instructions to hold at third) our runners are moving. Base coaches can override and/or confirm.

4) The running lane to first ... Runner only required to stay here (3 feet to the right of 1B line) when the play is behind him and the C or P is trying to make a play at 1B.

5) Rule: If the runner makes any move toward 2B after running through 1B, he is not considered to have run through the bag and must get to the base before being tagged or he is out. Principle: If you, as a runner, think you have made a move toward 2B, hustle back to 1B before you can be tagged. If you are playing 1B, then you should watch for any such move and then tag a runner coming back toward first. Many times, an umpire will call the runner out (and correctly so).

D. What about sliding into first? No sliding into first unless you are trying to avoid a tag. When you slide, you slow down. Sliding is for avoiding tags (either before getting to a bag or if we cannot run through the particular base). Note: Sliding into first head first is particularly dangerous (as is sliding into home this way) because of the elevated bag and the likelihood that the 1B will leave his feet to get an errant throw.

II. Okay, now we are at first.

A. We take our lead, and unless we are the first baserunner of the day we have already been studying the pitcher's move to first from the dugout.

1) Righty: Usually will move left shoulder toward first and his left leg while stepping off with back (right) foot. But all are unique. Study them.

2) Lefty: Tends to be trickier. Watch for the left shoulder coming toward you, and study how they move their right leg when coming home and going to 1B.

3) Baserunners need to know the balk rule. We will cover that later and in detail. But know this: A pitcher cannot fake to 1B while touching the rubber. He can fake to the other bases.

4) Once the runner arrives at 1B, he must know where the ball is at all times and not take a lead unless he see the pitcher with the ball an the pitcher is on the rubber (unless we have a play on).  Eyes on the ball. 

B. What all runners need to know when they are on base ...

1) Situation details, i.e., locate the ball, what's the score/inning (because it might affect what our plan might be), the pitcher's pattern, the count, what you will do if the ball is hit to all places on the field, what if it's in the air/on the ground?  Know the first "S."  Good baserunning starts -- and ends -- with knowing the situation. 

a) As an example, if we are on first and the ball is hit on the ground, we are always moving. Be aware that if a tag is made behind the runner that the force is off.

2) Offense -- Before every pitch, the runner looks over for the sign. The second "S" is "Sign." It is your responsibility as a runner to get it ... early. 

3) Once the runner is committed to second, he is then the responsibility of the 3B coach and should pick up that coach when he heads toward 2B.

C. Now, we are trying to take/steal 2B.

1) First, we fight for a good lead.  Third "S" is we stretch our lead ... always.  We work for it. We take a primary lead, and when not stealing, we take a secondary lead of at least 2-3 steps (from all bases) and are ready to move.

2) If the pitcher makes a move, we go back in head first with our heads turned away from the play (for safety, but also to help us to pick up an overthrow).

3) We get a good jump ... always. We push with our back arm while pulling our front arm back. Should crossover with our left foot.

4) When we are running, unless the take sign is on we look back for a quick glance once we are up to full speed. It is primarily the runner's job to pick up the ball once it is put in play and to adjust accordingly.

D. A steal has three elements: A good lead, a good jump, and a good slide.

1) Three types of slides: Pop-up, hook, and head-first.

2) A pop-up slide is designed to enable the runner to pop up quickly after sliding in order to faclitate a quick move to the next base. On the pop-up and hook slides, the runner comes in with hands cupped and up, the leg is tucked under on a pop-up, and the runner leans back to avoid the tag.

3) On a hook slide, the runner slides down and away from the tag, hooking the base with the inside foot.

4) A head-first slide has the advantage of speed, but the runner is typically disoriented for a moment when sliding in this fashion. The body is, after all, designed to land on the feet and not the hands.

5) When do we slide? Whenever there is a close play at 2B, 3B, or home, or we are avoiding a tag play (with the first baseman pulled off the bag) at 1B.

6) Where do we slide? To the bag and away from the tag.

III. Now we are at second

A. Lead is dependent upon position of the middle infielders. Runner keeps eye on second baseman and 3B coach watches SS. Runner should be listening for 3B coach, and not the dugout or other players. Learn to listen for 3B coach.

B. As on first, we fight for a good lead and always check the sign before every pitch. Yes, before every pitch.

C. It's crucial to know when to move on a grounder when you are on 2B and there is no runner on first. What is the principle?

1) We run when the ball is hit at us or to our left, unless it is right to the pitcher.

2) But this is only a principle, and we look for other opportunities to move. We evaluate how the particular ball is put in play ... always. For instance, is it a liner? A one-hopper?  A nubber?  We are ready to make this judgment when the ball is hit because we know the situation. 

3) If the ball is in front of us, we see it through the infield and then advance to 3B (and home, if possible).  We are going to be looking to move more often than not on balls hit in front of us, but we have to wait until a play is made across the diamond in front of us. 

4) So, we stay alert on a grounder to 3B on in the hole deep at SS, for often with a nice lead we can make it to 3B after the throw goes to 1B. Think aggressively. Note: Our lead will be determined by where the second baseman is when a ball is hit into the hole.

IV. So, the ball is hit in the air and there are less than two outs. What do we do? If there are two outs, we are always running hard, of course.

A. How far off the base does the runner go before it is clear if a catch will be made? It depends.

1) The principle is for the runner to go far enough that he can make it to the next base without being forced or tagged (or advance as far as possible) while still being close enough to the base to avoid being doubled off. So, it depends on where the ball is hit and the arm of the outfielder involved.

2) Some specifics ... Remember, it depends.

a) Example: Runner on first, and the ball is hit into the air to ...

1) RF -- Go less than halfway to 2B. Why? If it drops, you have to be concerned about a force and RF is the closest to all the OF positions to 1B, so there is the greatest risk here of being doubled off. Tough tag play almost always.

2) CF -- Go more than half-way to 2B. Why? Greatest risk of being forced at 2B because CF is closest OF position to 2B. Longer throw to 1B to attempt to double off runner.

3) LF -- Go two-thirds of the way to 2B. Why? LF is the farthest OF position from 1B and relatively close to 2B.  Remember, too, that all of the foregoing can require adjustment based on other factors, too, such as the strength of the respective OF arms. 

b) Runner on second, and the ball is hit in the air to ...

1) RF -- We want to stay pretty close to the bag if it looks like it is going to be caught -- less than one-third of the way. Why? This is a great tag situation if the RF catches the ball with any depth, and advancing to 3B won't be difficult if the ball drops. Remember: We are thinking aggressively and want to get home if possible, too.

2) CF -- This could also be a tag play, but the CF is closer to 3B than the RF. What this tells us is that we generally will want to get farther off the bag here than on a ball hit to RF, unless the ball is really deep.

3) LF -- A tag play is going to be difficult. Note that the LF is close to both 2B and 3B. This tells us that we need to get far enough off (probably more than a third to almost half) to guard against both getting doubled off and also to avoid a force if there is a runner on 1B. If there is no runner on 1B, we are going to stay closer to 2B.

c) Runner on third ... We always return to tag on a fly ball as soon as it's hit in the air. If it drops, we are going to score, any way. We don't need a jump to get home. Remember: Coach will send or not send on all tags.

d) What about tagging from 1B? Only when a really deep fly or lead runners moving up. Always be moving if the lead runner is stealing or advancing.

e) Runners on 1B and 2B ... We return to the bag (after being the appropriate distance off, depending on where the ball is hit) as soon as we can see it's going to be caught.

B. What's the rule pertaining to tagging up?

1) We don't leave until the ball is caught. Listen to the coach and be ready to move. Coach will give "go" or "take three" (bluff). Coach responsible for the lead runner will be responsible for giving "go" sign. Trailing runner prepare to also tag when the lead runner tags, looking where the throw may be to adjust, as necessary.

2) Can we tag on foul flies? Absolutely.

C. But what is the principle? We always at least bluff when we can. We may force a misplay or a bad throw. When the ball is caught, we are always ready to move from the base.

V. So, we've made it to third.

A. Here, it's important to be aggressive. Unless told otherwise by the 3B coach, we are always moving on a ball that gets away from the catcher (again, unless called back by the 3B coach). We are always looking to take the next base. Here, it means a run.  A default is to move.   We have the "go" sign. 

B. Default on 3B again will be to move on contact on a grounder (if not right in front of the plate or to the pitcher), unless told or given sign to hold. Note: The runner on 3B checks the sign before every pitch, too.

C. On flies, we tag always. We bluff if we are not going. We wait at the bag ... always.

D. The lead

1) A lead off of 3B is important, but not as important as moving 2-3 hard steps with the pitch and being ready to move on contact or a passed ball/wild pitch.

2) We lead in foul territory and return to the bag (and not too quickly and tentatively) in fair territory. Why? If we are hit by a batted ball in foul territory, we are not out. Likewise, a thrown ball hitting a runner is a live ball, and the runner is safe. Also, it is a harder throw for a catcher to 3B if the runner is in fair territory.

E. Note: When coming home on a ball hit to 3B or coming to third on a ball hit to SS, the runner doesn't have to get down or even at all. This makes it a much more difficult defensive play.

F. When you have just scored or are on deck, you are the coach for the runner coming home (telling him when and where to slide to avoid the play at home).

VI. Special Situations

A. Infield fly rule: With runners on 1B and 2B and/or bases loaded with less than two out, and a pop is hit on the infield (and fair). The umpire calls "Infield fly, the batter's out." Runners can advance at their own risk after the ball is caught or hits the ground. Best move is to get back to the base you came from, unless the ball squirts away from the fielder after it comes down.

1) What if the umpire doesn't call it? Regular rules apply, and we'll have no problem because our runner will be hustling to 1B.

B. With two outs, a 3-2 count, and a force in front of the runner, it is automatic that the runner will be moving on the pitch. Treat this situation as a steal sign.

C. If the picther forgets and winds up, treat this as a steal sign.

D. Line drives ... "See" them through rather than simply freezing. If you see it's going to be caught, hustle back.

E. If a batted ball hits a runner in fair territory, the runner is out; if a thrown ball hits a runner in fair territory, the runner is safe (unless he is not in the running lane -- the 3 feet to the right of the first baseline -- and the play is behind him when he is running to first).

1) What if the runner and a fielder collide and the runner is going for the next base and the fielder is going for the ball? This is a judgment call, but it will often go to the fielder. Principle: Runners should avoid contact with fielders, but can/should use their bodies to shield the ball and make a fielding play more difficult. If a fielder runs into a runner while not making a play, the runner will be awarded the next base.

F. When the third out is made, when does the run scoring from 3B count? When it scores before the last out is made, unless that out is a force play. Pay attention and keep your cool in walk-off situations. Runners touch all bases and the guy getting the winning hit needs to at least make it to first. Why? Because if he is forced at first, then the run doesn't count. Could that happen, you ask? Well, yes, it has.

G. Rundowns. Our job as runners, even if we have blown it and gotten picked off, is to never give up. We always make the defense work and make as many throws as possible. The next throw may get away. We may stay alive long enough for a run to score or another runner to advance. (See F. above). In general, we always make the defense make the more difficult play. If you can make them make a throw to force you instead of running into a tag, do it.

H. The baseline ... is three feet on either side of a straight line between the runner and the next base, on a tag play (that is, this rule only applies when a runner is trying to avoid a tag). If the runner runs outside the baseline to avoid a tag, he is out.

I. You can't pass your own runner, or you are out. Also, if two runners end up at the same base and are tagged, the trailing runner will be declared out. If encountering such confusion, wait for the umpire to tell you if you are out before leaving the base. In fact, if you don't know, stay there in all circumstances. If the opposition does this, tag them all ... early and often.

J. "Malicious contact". An umpire in HS baseball can call a player out (and eject him) for contacting a fielder without making a legitimate effort to make it to the bag via a slide. The solution? Make sure you can always reach the bag when you slide. If you are heading home and the catcher is blocking your path to the plate, you can make an effort to get there. However, no lowering your shoulder and/or trying to run his over.  Make an effort to get to the bag by sliding there.  If you can't do that, get in a rundown. Be aggressive but smart. Note: A defensive player can't block the plate without the ball in HS ball any more.

VI. Finally, remember ...

A. The Four "S's" -- Situation (Know it), Sign (Get it), Stretch (your lead), Say it again (what are you going to do on the next play?).  Be ready. If you think ahead and keep the "ticker" running, you will do fine. 

B. If you have a question, ask it. It's not hard to be a good baserunner. With some knowledge and a lot of determination, you can get there.

See you on the field.

Whatever it takes ...

... to do my part to be as good as we can be in 2013.  That's what I hope is the answer to the question I posed in the last post -- "So, what are you working on this off-season?"  We talked about a number of ideas.  So, what are you doing?  What more are you willing to do? Fall Training is right around the corner, and a new crop of Mustangs will be hitting the field to work for roster spots and positions.

As for me, I am doing a number of things, including reading a couple of books (as we discussed at the last summer game at Cooper) and going over my notes from last season to incorporate some new training exercises in our fall program. Actually, there is a lot going on. 

Then there is something else ... Back in June and along the way to my 30th high school reunion, I was contacted by some old teammates who challenged each other (and me) to a weight-loss contest.  To make a long story shorter (and less painful) the deal is ... well, I was the heaviest of all of these guys, including our HS nose guard.  I had become the fat guy ... "Jabba the Rut" is what they called me.  Ouch.

So, with some impetus from these guys (okay, well, really some serious and relentless ribbing), I got started.  And then when I realized that I really was committed to doing this, I decided to cement my plans.  I told the Mustangs, and the rest is history.

So, now I feel compelled to finish the job.  My goal is 200 lbs. by Opening Day (that would be 2/14 vs. Northland Christian).  That will make 50 pounds total. As a stopping point between now and then, my goal is 220 by Fall Training.  And that will enable me to be sprinting with the Mustangs this fall, like olden times.  I think this will help me be better on a lot of levels.  I am looking forward to that very much ... and our baseball season.

I am learning a lot and being reminded again of some important things on this journey.  Here are some of them:

1) We all have things we want to do, but a lot of times we need a push to get going.

2) But keeping going after the push is hard.  I've wanted to quit a few ... no, more than a few days.  But remembering what my old teammates said, but more importantly what I said to the Mustangs has been key.  I gotta do it. The Mustangs have helped me be better on many, many days through the years.

3) Goals are huge.  When we get separated from direction, purpose, and goals ... we drift.  I sure do.  What about you?

4) Accountability is key.  We need people around us.  We need teammates.  You Mustangs have teammates. And knowing you are out there keeps me going (and getting better), as well.  If you want to go somewhere you need to go, call upon your teammates to walk alongside.

5) In the end, though, we really do have to walk alone ... into the gym, on the field, into the batter's box, to the mound,  etc.  It's a personal decision as to how badly you want your life and game to change.  How badly to you want to take your game and life to the next level?  Your decisions, and ultimately your actions, will answer the question.

Progress ... and excellence ... are hardly natural. They are intentional.

It is time for all of us ... each Mustang ... each coach ... every one ... to really dig deep to make excellence happen each day ... each pitch ... each play.

See you on the field (and sprinting) and Fall Training,

So, what are you working on this off-season?

By now, I have been in touch with all of our Varsity returning players with areas to work on during the off-season.  I hope you are getting to it.  


I am committed to being better than ever in 2013.  What about you? 


I get asked a lot regarding what players need to be doing.  The short answer is ... it depends.  I know, there I go again. 


Most all of you need work on at least one (if not two or all) of the following:  1) arm strength; 2) core work; and 3) speed work.  Before addressing some of the individual elements of these three areas, let's talk about some general principles.  


First, make sure that you are alternating work in each area.  As an example, do sprints and core work on M/W/F and heavy throwing work (long toss) on T/Th/S.  You can certainly throw, run, or do other work on a more frequent basis, but your muscles/related muscle groups need time to heal and rebuild in order to get better.  


If you are working a weight, weighted ball, or other strength/conditioning program, adjust your other work accordingly.  Weights certainly have their place in baseball training, but bear in mind, that there is really no substitute for throwing in terms of building arm durability and strength. A lot of guys can throw every day because ... golly, they throw every day. 


If you are working on all three of the areas below (as many of you are), then consider mixing in two on one day, i.e., core exercises in between sprints.  


Throwing Work -- I would encourage you to consider long-tossing at least a couple of days per week.  For those wanting to improve your off-speed pitch, I would suggest spending the better part of at least one day doing off-speed long toss (where you throw your off-speed pitch at about 90-120 feet and work on the feel and grip).  Pitchers, at least one of the days that you throw either a bullpen, play 21, or work hitting your spots/target.  Make sure that you also are long-tossing to a target, as well, and only backing up when you have hit your target within a few feet a couple/three times before backing up.  We are training to throw, rather than simply chunk.  Make every throw purposeful. 


Speed Work -- You will note that I said speed work.  Whenever you are running, make sure you are sprinting or striding hard.  Keep it short and explosive.  I would recommend keeping your sprints at/under the farthest you will run on a baseball field.  I know that some other teams (there are fewer all the time) are jogging around slowly, but such work really benefits players little, if at all.  The only reason to be doing distance running if if you need to drop weight.  But ... think about it ... do you ever jog during a baseball play? We train like we play, and baseball is a game of controlled explosions with short rest intervals in between.  We are training baseball athleticism (rather than football, cross-country, etc.). Really, for our purposes, sprinting at 60 yards and under will work just fine.  For those needing to work on your quickness, practice exploding out of a ready position at 20 yards.  Work in core exercises between sprints for a workout that will really kick your tail.  


For exceptional results (particularly if you want to drop weight), run sprints with a weighted vest.  You absolutely can get faster ... maybe even a lot faster.  We have seen it done, so go do it again. 


Core Work -- The core essentially is the body minus the arms and legs.  It's where your center of gravity is located, and it is also the foundation for all the major movements necessary to succeed on the baseball field. Throwing, hitting, and running explosiveness and power start in the core.  Thus, it is vital to strengthen your core.  


There are myriad ways to this.  Here are some:  All manner of push-ups -- i.e, diamond, knee up (both after each pushup); squat run with weights, lunges (reach with weights), squat x-reach, leg lifts and bananas (reverse leg lifts, try holding for a minute), sit-ups and crunches, mountain climbers, towel hops (set of 50), steam engine (set of 50, with right elbow to left knee and vice versa).


And, oh, by the way, our ladder work is great for your core.  But you have to push it.  No coasting.  


Bonus Work:  Yes, bonus work.  Train your mind.  A lot of you I have addressed specifically about this, that is, to get better understanding certain aspects of the game.  But let's take it another step.  We talk a lot about the "mental game" but we still have a lot of work to do in this regard.  Each of you must own  it to make it yours ... to make it work for you.  


So, I'd like to challenge/encourage each of you players to read "The Mental Game of Baseball," by H.A. Dorfman.  If you have yet to read it, try it.  It will change your game and maybe your life in the process.  You will under stand the importance of having a routine and plan like never before.  


Also, I would like each of our high school pitchers to read "The Mental ABC's of Pitching," by Dorfman.  This book is a practical guide to addressing all manner of issues/challenges/situations that pitchers face.  This is a great book that for all pitchers to read ... and apply. 


Finally, if you plan on swinging a bat on the Varsity level next season, read "The Mental Game of Hitting," also by Dorfman.  This book marries up a mental game and "Moneyball" concepts and will help you better understand hitting so that you'll have a better chance to succeed in the batter's box in 2013.  


No, I am not related to the late H.A. Dorfman ... no commissions, either.  But he is the father of the modern mental game in baseball.  Pretty much all successful teams at the higher levels are employing the mental game.  If you want some other mental game or baseball reading, let me know.  


Besides reading the foregoing, I 'd also like to encourage you to watch as much baseball at all levels in the off-season.  I mean, what else are you going to do in your free time?  It's a great way to learn.  But ... watch as a student.  Watch aspects of the game that you need to learn.   You can learn something every time you are on a baseball field or watching a game. 


So, train your body.  Train your mind.  Accept nothing from yourself other than excellence.  Trust your teammates to take care of themselves.  Concentrate on being the type of teammate you want to be. 


If you have questions about any of this, let me know.  Ultimately, each of you has to decide how good you want to be.  As for me, I want to be excellent and I want players who want the same. 


See you on the the field ... 

"Wherever I Wind Up -- My Search for Truth, Authenticity, and the Perfect Knuckleball" by R.A. Dickey -- My Review

A busy season has led to busy off-season and now our summer schedule in the Cooper League.  The Astros are falling back, so my focus on all things MLB has been a little, let's say, unfocused of late.  I had the TV on in my office Monday night when I heard the crew of my favorite show -- "Baseball Tonight" on ESPN -- talking about who they believed was the best pitcher in baseball right now.  The consensus was that baseball's best pitcher at the present is the guy who had just thrown his second consecutive one-hitter.  That would be R. A. Dickey of the N.Y. Mets.


For those who don't know, R.A. Dickey's main pitch (he throws it 85% of the time) is the knuckleball.  So, yes, baseball players and fans, the best pitcher going right now is R.A. Dickey, the knuckleballer.  His fastball, which he occasionally uses to surprise hitters or disrupt their timing, tops out at about 86 MPH. That would be a big enough story itself.


But there is more.  Actually, there is much more.


While perusing Facebook the morning after Dickey's latest one-hitter, I come across a book review by Eric Metaxas, the author of Bonhoffer, Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy.  My wife is reading Metaxas's book, and I recently watched the video of his amazing keynote at the National Prayer Breakfast.  So, I am an instant fan.  Metaxas is an authentic Christian, a real man with a sense of humor.  He is an English major from Yale, too, and he knows good books.  Metaxas's review that catches my eye is of the autobiography of R.A. Dickey:  "Wherever I Wind Up."  This post is Tuesday morning, June 19, the day after Dickey's one-hitter.


I am intrigued, and now I feel compelled to read this book.  So, I adjust my lunch plans and go get it at Barnes and Noble.  I read through the lunch hour, pick it up again at night.  Then,  I read some more the next morning and the lunch break on June 20.  By 6:30 p.m. on June 20, I am finished with this 325-page book.  I have finished it in 36 hours.  And I am a slow reader.


I stopped to underline in a few places, too.  I underlined less than I usually do when digging into a book, though, because frankly a lot of the book was so consequential that it seemed to be writing notes in my mind ... and heart.


Wherever I Wind Up is one of the most powerful books I have read.  Note, I didn't say most powerful baseball  books. I said most powerful books. The two works that come to mind that are close are The Shack by William P. Young and So You Don't Want to Go to Church Anymore by Wayne Jacobsen.  But this book is different that those two for two key reasons.  First, it is non-fiction, and two, it is a baseball book. Thus, this book -- the compelling story of R.A. Dickey's incredible journey to the top of the baseball pitching heap in New York, New York -- deeply resonates with me.


Wherever I Wind Up masterfully chronicles Dickey's journey from the risk-taking son of an alcoholic mother and aloof father to a remade, top of the rotation guy (and probable NL starter in the 2012 All-Star game) for the Mets.


A number of readers may already be familiar with Dickey's remarkable journey.  The twists, turns, staggering adversity, and serial setbacks are amazing.  But more stunning still are Dickey's perseverance, the love of his wife and family, and ultimately God's grace and plan for his life.


As one reads how Dickey's journey unfolds, the fingerprints of God are everywhere, down to the smallest detail.  For instance, while he was a 95-MPH fireballer leading the University of Tennessee to its first College World Series berth in more than 50 years, Dickey majored in English Literature and developed a love for the printed word and communicating well.  And so ... the story-teller was trained and prepared along the journey before he even knew there was a story to tell.


The climax of the book occurs when Dickey, while on a road trip with his teammates five years ago near the end of his minor-league career (Note: 2012 is Dickey's 16th professional season, and he has spent all or part of 14 of those seasons in the minors), decides to swim the mighty Missouri River.  This effort, though, turns into a metaphorical baptism of sorts.  Indeed, when Dickey emerges from the river, he is humbled to the point where he can turn the corner both personally and professionally.


I have been going over the various things that make this book so meaningful to me.  It's hard to nail down entirely, but I think that it particularly meant so much because I know the feeling of being doubted (both by myself and others), of being knocked down and struggling to get up, of working through my parents divorce when I was seven, and of experiencing tremendous pain and loneliness as a kid.  And I know the power and joy of God's grace, of redemption, and of finding His purpose in my life.


Also, as a coach, I really enjoyed learning how this great pitcher became great.  Here is what I saw:  A willingness to be honest with himself and do whatever it takes to succeed (Dickey was remade as a knuckleballer in the middle of his minor-league career); support from his friends and family, especially his godly wife;  a deliberate, uncommon work ethic and a competitive fire; the help of mentors along the way (knuckleballing greats Charlie Hough, Tim Wakefield, and Phil Niekro all helped Dickey's development); a tried and true routine, plan, and solid stay-in-the-moment approach; teammates who were willing to go the extra mile and work with him; and also coaches and managers who believed in him when others had given up.  Buck Showalter and Orel Hershiser are notable in this regard.


Ultimately, though, it is Dickey's authentic faith -- his honesty with God and others -- that becomes his greatest asset to take his game and life to the next level.  He sees his development as a player and man as connected.  He writes, "... [I]f I have it in me to be fully present in one realm of my life, it will overflow into the other realms."


My principal takeaways from this book are:  1) Keep believing in what God is doing in your life and never let go of what He has placed before you as your calling; 2) Be open to do whatever is necessary to get the best that God has for you because His plan is greater than any fiction book you could imagine; and 3) God's grace is more powerful than the mighty Missouri River and any other force in the universe. 


And really, there is a fourth takeaway, and that is, "A righteous man may fall seven times ... but he rises again." Prov. 24:16.  R.A. Dickey would probably quibble with the description of him as a "righteous" man, but indeed, the core of the true pursuit of God is to keep at it ... always ... keep striving ... to get up.  As much as any figure in sports today, R.A. exemplifies this.  


So, who is this book for?  Baseball people, people who know baseball people, Christians, people who are not Christians but might need or want a reason to believe, people who wonder how one deals with dark secrets and the worst adversity imaginable, people who think they have blown it so bad that there is no hope for them, people who want to hope again that something good can happen after so many things have gone wrong, and people who have been deeply hurt and want to get better, to name a few.


I give it my highest recommendation and look forward to hearing your reviews.


See you on the field ... 

My Underlines ... "Wherever I Wind Up"

When I read a book ... a really good book that I am reading to learn from ... I underline, circle, and make notes.  Here are the passages from R.A. Dickey's "Wherever I Wind Up" that I noted (lots of plan, routine, deliberate practice, hard work, and good thinking below, you will see):


"The best pitchers are the guys who have a plan and know how to execute it -- who know how to compete and never stop doing it."    

"The mental is to the physical as four to one."


"I keep throwing, and keep thinking of Larry Bird in his number 33 Boston Celtics uniform as I throw. Bird did an interview once where he talked about never letting himself be outworked, about being haunted by a fear that somebody, somewhere, was taking shots while he was resting.


"I don't want anybody to outwork me, either.  I may not make it as a big-league knuckleballer, but it won't be from lack of effort.  So I keep throwing against the cinder blocks, picking out a particular block to hit with every pitch, knowing that whatever happens, I will never regret not putting in more time.  Even when I'm not in Uncle Ricky's gym, I am working.  I keep a baseball in my car and drive around Nashville with only my left hand on the wheel so I can practice my knuckleball grip with my right hand."


"It's another one of Charlie's [Hough] suggestions.  There's no substitute for having the ball in your hand.  I still keep a baseball in my car.  You never stop working on your grip."


"I am not obsessing about how good I have to be to get back to the big leagues, or what numbers I have to put up, or about the time pressure because of my age.  I am focusing not on the next month or year or uniform but on the next pitch, putting all my energy into the process of pitching."


"You get the best results not when you apply superhuman effort but when you just are -- when you let the game flow organically and allow yourself to be fully present."


"I'm just pitching knuckleball to knuckleball and surrendering to the results."


"You have lived your whole life as a survivor, doing what you need to get by, to flee from pain, to seek safety.  Now I want more.  I want much more.  I don't want my life to be about settling.  I don't want it to be about avoiding pain.  I want it to be about pursuing joy."


"I learn from Tim [Wakefield] that not every [pitch] has to be perfect.  I drive myself batty trying to make every one perfect.  They just have to be good enough to get an out, Tim says."


"Ichiro's routine is calibrated to the minute, from the time he gets to the park every day to when he uses the bathroom before the game.  He takes the same amount of swings in the cage during batting practice.  He eats the same pregame meal (a salmon rice ball) at the same time (ninety minutes before game time).  His stretching routine is so thorough and intricate, you wonder if he moonlights as a contortionist for Cirque du Soleil. ... Ichiro's approach over 162 games never varies.  Nothing changes regardless of the results.  The man is so vigorously regimented that all you can do is simply surrender to the fact that you can try to match his discipline, but you never will."


" ... if I have it in me to be fully present in one realm of my life, I know it will overflow into the other realms.  The only way to prove it is by showing up every day and being someone who is worthy of trust."


"The effort, it occurs to me later that night, is really what matters the most, isn't it? Outcomes can get completely convoluted, buffeted by all manner of forces and factors.  You honor yourself and your game when you pour all you have into it, when you live in the athletic moment."


"You manage them [regrets] by forgetting them as soon as the ball leaves your hand, or leaves the park, and turn 100 percent of your intensity and your competitiveness to the next pitch.  It's the only pitch you can throw, after all."


"I like to keep a very specific routine before I pitch, because it helps lock me in for the competition to come. ... This is my routine and I don't deviate from it."


"If you aren't willing to face your demons -- if you can't find the courage to take on your fear and hurt and anger -- you might as well wrap them up with a bow and give them to your children.  Because they will be carrying the same thing ... unless you are willing to do the work."


"God, you've blessed me in so many ways this year, and I am so grateful for that.  As I prepare to take the ball for the last time this year, please help me to be trustworthy one more time and to be in the moment every pitch, to glorify you in in everything I do.  Amen."


As you can see from the foregoing quotes, this book is full of wisdom about baseball, about faith ... about life.  I encourage you to read the whole thing and get on with the hard work in your life and game.


See you on the field,

Florida Redux ...

Greetings All,

I am back from the Sunshine State and I have (as I usually do) Mustangs baseball on the brain.  It was a fun, rewarding, exhausting ... very good trip.  Of course, we always want to get into the higher divisions and compete for a championship, but on the whole, I was pleased with how we played and especially how we finished with two good wins on our last day.  

There is a lot to be gleaned from our third trip to Auburndale.  Here are some of my thoughts in that regard: 

1) With such a young roster (we had a number of players making their first trip to the HWS and another group who were making their first appearance as starters), we held our own and resisted the temptation to be overwhelmed.  We were a little-bit wide eyed vs. Memphis in the first game, but we settled down after that.  In 2013, we will bring an experienced roster and be prepared from the first pitch. 

2) Overall, we played well in Auburndale.  This is what we have come to expect.  Our challenging schedule and practice routine have us prepared when we come here.  Thus, we generally play some of our best baseball here, and that was again the case. Once again, we saw nothing that was surprising to us, or that we were unprepared for.


3) Our conditioning was good.  We played double-headers in the Florida sun twice during the week.  Normally, we would play two only once but we were up to it.  I thought we played hard and pretty well in the second games on both occasions.  We rallied late against Tulsa, and we played a complete game against Hendersonville.  In both games, I thought our opponents were dragging late, and we were still strong.


4) Related to 3), we used our whole roster, thus allowing our team to be prepared to play in each game.  Utilizing courtesy runners, pinch hitters, and rotating starters, we go to Florida with team goals and this helps us in the end.   This is why it so important for players to buy in to sacrificing individual desires for team goals.  In the end, it's a lot more rewarding and fun for all when we do so.


5) We have a long way to go to get where we want to be.  We have work to do in building arm durability, athleticism, and command, running the bases, making solid decision in the field (consistent with the "R's"), and also in becoming a more complete offensive team that can win any type of game.  We will get to work ASAP on doing these things.


6) The Mustang Nation was great.  Our fans did their part, and they kept the Mustang tradition of great support and sportsmanship alive.  Of note, I appreciated how our fans were so supportive, regardless of how the games were going.  And the horns were ... fun ... and nice touch.


7) We grew up a lot this week as a team, I think.  That's good, because we need to bring a more businesslike approach to Florida in 2013 both on and off the field, and you have my word that we will do just that.  Our team will return with the goal and plan to have our fun on the field ... and complete our work on late Saturday afternoon.  

See you on the field ... 

From Coach Aaron Weintraub: Initiative Breeds Success

Guys like Aaron Weintraub, Tom Hanson, and H.A. Dorfman have really influenced and encouraged me to be a better coach. Check out the following advice -- pure gold in my opinion -- that I recently got from Coach Traub in an email:

"Success, according to John Wooden, is 'the peace of mind that comes from knowing you did your best.' It's not a result of merely thinking about doing well; action is required. Unfortunately, watching TV, being lazy, procrastinating, and 'just hanging out' seem to be pretty popular in our society. This provides you and I with a great opportunity to get an edge over average people. With initiative, we will try and try again. Then, if we can manage to keep what's working and change what's not working, we'll have a fail-proof formula for success.

"Harvey Dorfman said that the three levels of mental toughness are: 1) Want it; 2) Know what to do, and 3) Do what you know.

"First you need to figure out what you want. This can be difficult for everyone, but is particularly challenging for young people who are still learning about themselves and exploring the many opportunities that life has to offer. Next, figure out what to do. Great young teams consistently come from a culture where the kids are constantly watching, talking about, and playing their game. This is not the norm! Everyone can learn what's right and what's wrong in this information age. When the pupil is ready, the teacher will appear. This is so because the person who urgently wants to learn what to do to get what he or she wants will take the initiative to look for this information. If you wait for an outside force to throw the answers in your lap, they may never come. Constantly asking WHY and HOW breeds greatness! Whether from trial and error, other people, books, the internet, or elsewhere, a person with the initiative to persistently ask the right questions will find the right answers.

"The top level is doing it. Take action. Give it your best effort, because the reality is that this step will define your self-esteem (the reputation you acquire of yourself) and your success. You cannot fake peace of mind -- you've either earned it or you haven't. Doing what you know as best you can also maximizes your chances for superb outcomes (the stuff outside your control that many people call success). The gap between good and great is wide, but the work it takes to make that huge leap is often a very small increase over what you are already doing. Small differences made consistently over time separate high achievers and the first source for these difference-makers is initiative. So, initiative breeds success."

So, go take the initiative and another step toward being everything you were created by God to be -- today.

See you on the field,

A Season is a Time ... and a Process

I am reminded this time of year every season how we start to see our team take shape. We see guys fitting into roles. We always have some surprises and some twists and turns along the way. Through our scheduling, preparation, and deliberate work, we invariably improve and are playing about our best baseball when we get to the end of the season.

However, this year's team has had to battle through more injuries than any I have seen in my nine years of coaching the Mustangs. So, it makes embracing the process that much more important.

With a lot of young players ... new players .... and players recovering from injuries ... players playing new positions ... broken bones in multiple players ... it's been a little topsy-turvy around here.

But we are making it and I see us getting better.

When I see adversity like we have, I see a real opportunity. I really do. I see us on the precipice of doing some great things.

And we get there one day ... one game ... one practice ... one pitch ... one play at a time.

See you on the field,

Principles of Effective Hitting

Mustangs and Mustang Fans,

What follows is a short piece by Coach Matt Breuer in his own words outlining how to apply an effective approach at the plate. As with everything, your own approach may have some tweaks around the edges, but the basic outline here is outstanding ... and effective.

Matt is as smart as any hitter that has ever played for us. So, pay attention ... and apply the knowledge:

"Something I've noticed in our team so far this year, is a lack of uniformity when it comes to batting and how we go about doing it. It's good to identify these sorts of things early in the season so that we have time to work through them and become better players because of it.

"Below is a list of things that will improve your approach at the plate and make you much better hitters. I will be harping on you guys about these things because, if followed, they'll make you all better, smarter hitters.

"I. Know the Pitcher Before You Go to the Plate

"This means you need to observe the pitcher during his warm-up and throughout the game. The time you have in the dugout is an excellent opportunity to study the pitcher and learn everything you can about him. A player that goofs off or doesn't pay attention while in the dugout puts himself at a disadvantage by failing to learn everything he can about the pitcher. Think of it this way: If you were going into battle against a formidable opponent, would you want to walk into the fight blind, or would you try to learn everything you possibly could about the person who you're about to go to battle against? By observing the pitcher, you give yourself a fighting chance by familiarizing yourself with how he throws.

"Ask yourself questions like: What sort of patterns does he follow? Does he throw a specific pitch on a certain count? Does he show his pitch early? What does his delivery look like?

"II. Breathe

"You would be surprised how essential this is. It's also a very underused tool. It allows for increased bloodflow to your brain and to your muscles, but more importantly it helps clear your mind and allows you to act on instinct instead of letting your mind become clouded by thoughts and distractions. Excessive thinking is a hitter's worst enemy.

"While on deck, begin taking deep breaths and letting them out slowly. It's an excellent thing to add to your routine in between pitches.

"III. Have a Routine

"As mentioned at the retreat, a routine is something that you do repeatedly and become used to doing. A routine is essential to becoming a good hitter because as you go through the motions before, or during, an at-bat, it puts you in a state of mind to hit. If done consistently, a routine helps your brain make the connection between that routine and the fact that it's time to hit.

"If you don't already have a routine for in-between pitches, get one. I would recommend something involving a deep breath or two, a shrug of your shoulders, or maybe something to help you get mentally prepared. Do whatever feels most comfortable to you. If you have a question about something to add to your routine, ask a coach.

"IV. Use Broad to Fine Focus

"IF YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND THIS TALK TO ONE OF THE COACHES. It is an essential part of hitting and will benefit you greatly if you use it. I don't think I can explain it very well through text.

"V. Have a Plan

"It amazes me how many people go up to the plate without the slightest idea of what they are going to do or how they plan to hit the baseball. Truly, it does. Getting in the box and swinging at the first thing you see is not a plan of attack. Look at the stuff below and learn it well, because this is the approach you should take to the plate every time you step in the batter's box.

"If the count is 0-0, 1-0, 2-0, or 3-0 (No strikes on you, the batter) :

"The only reason you should ever swing at a pitch at this point is if you see your pitch. When I say "your pitch" I mean the pitch that you like to hit the most, your favorite pitch. Personally, mine was up and in. If it was any of the above counts and I saw a pitch that wasn't "my pitch", I didn't swing at it. Even if it was a strike. This is because you still have strikes to give up, and if you wait instead of hacking at a pitch that you don't like, you're more likely to see a better pitch. However, this is NOT an excuse to be passive at the plate. If you see your pitch, beat the living tar out of it.

"Also, if you have a 3-0 count and you swing at anything but a beach ball served to you on a silver platter in your EXACT favorite spot, I may never speak to you again. Just a heads up.

"If the count is 0-1, 1-1, 2-1, or 3-1 (One strike on you):

"The spot where "your pitch" is gets a little bit bigger. What I mean is, if you see a pitch that's close to the pitch that you like, go ahead and swing. What I mean by "close" is about 6 inches around wherever you like the ball. This will commonly be called expanding the zone. All it means is that you are taking your favorite spot for a pitch, and making it a little bigger.

"When you have this kind of count, it is important to realize that expanding the zone is necessary. You don't want to be quite as picky here because though a pitch may not be exactly where you wanted it, if it is close to your pitch it may be the best pitch you get. Be aggressive, but also be smart. If you like it up and in, and the pitch is down and away, don't swing. You still have one more strike.

"If the count is 0-2, 1-2, 2-2, or 3-2 (Two strikes on you):

"At this point, this is when your pitch should expand to the entire strike zone. You need to know the umpire's strike zone (you learn it while observing the pitcher, step one), and you need to be ready to pull the trigger at a strike. This is when it's vital that you be an aggressive, yet smart, hitter. Something I would repeat to myself when I had two strikes on me was "I'm swinging at a strike, I'm swinging at a strike." This allows for instinct to take over instead of excessive thoughts. If you're not sure, always load early to prepare to swing. That way, you're ready if you need to be.

"Something I feel I should say is don't be afraid of having two strikes on you. A lot of people are scared to have two strikes because all they can think about once they step in the box is striking out. I used think that all the time. You know what happened? I froze and ended up striking out looking more often than anything else. Instead of thinking negatively(striking out), think positively (If it's a strike, I'm swinging).

"The approach at the plate I have outlined above does a couple of things. 1) It allows you to be more selective with your pitches. Instead of simply swinging at strikes, you swing at your pitch. When you swing at your pitch, good things are much more likely to happen. 2) It forces the pitcher to throw more pitches. This is good not only because it wears him out faster (and believe me, it does), but it also gives your teammates an opportunity to view the pitcher and see what he throws like (step one).

"That's pretty much all I got, fellas. If you come in the dugout wondering what went wrong, this is the kind of stuff I'm going to be inquiring about, because it's what separates the great hitters from the rest. It requires dedication and perseverance to follow, but the rewards will be more than evident. With that being said, don't focus on the results. If you do everything right, you still might ground out occasionally. That's just part of the game. Instead of worrying about what happened, think about the process and how you are working to improve. If you focus on the process instead of the results, the results will come naturally."

Opening Day ... from Hope to Confidence

There is something almost magical about the Opening Day of a baseball season ... on any level.

All things are new. Every one gets a fresh start. Every one has high hopes. It's a great day.

But most every one's hopes are unrealistic. Sorry to be a party pooper, but it's true. It's true because hoping is different than believing.

To the prepared, Opening Day is an opportunity to finally start putting it all together. We are excited because we are ready. We are confident. It's the beginning of a long journey, but we know in our gut that we have what it takes to get there. We know because we have developing that "it" for a long time.

Confidence comes primarily from preparation ... then then from previous successes ... which, in turn, were based upon preparation.

As for us, we've been preparing for Opening Day since June, back in the summer Cooper League. We've been building, conditioning, selling, working, sweating, learning how we play and why, addressing the truth about where we are ... all in preparation to be better than ever in 2012.

If the foregoing paragraph describes some one other than you (and let's be honest, it describes none of us perfectly as we all miss the mark at times) then it's time to take stock and see where you are. You can start over right now.

The beauty of baseball ... and life ... is that each day is, in a sense, it's own Opening Day. We have the opportunity to prepare for and live each day and game to our absolute best. Prepare smart. Learn from mistakes, and work deliberately on those things we need to improve. We can, and will, continue to grow and improve greatly both as individuals and as a team in 2012. I love watching this process come together each year.

The key to our success will be the following: Keep your eyes on your personal progress each day. Shrink your areas of weakness and deepen strengths by working on your own. Keep the mindset of a learner. Stay humble and go above and beyond expectations of you personally each day. Decide that nothing will keep you from getting better each day and having the baseball season of your life. Nothing. If we do this as individuals, our team results will take care of themselves.

Remember the Championship Path.

If we do this, then we can (and will) go from hope to confidence.

And remember ... a baseball season is indeed a path, a journey. It's one step, one day at a time. There will be times and days when you are tempted to give in, or where it looks like the journey is heading south. That's baseball, and that's life. But keep at it. Keep focused on what you can personally do, this hour, this minute, this play. Then do it. Then do it again ... but better this time.

Time to get started.

It's Opening Day.

See you on the field,

The Championship Path

We had a great time at our 6th Annual High School Retreat. The theme of the weekend was "The Championship Path." It's the qualities that teams possess to go from good to great.

The H.S. Retreat is sort of like Vegas. What happens there stays there. That is, what individual players say/share is up to them to disclose. But our theme and such is open to all of you and beyond. We keep pressing on.

It works better with the visual of of a mountain, but here are the elements of The Championship Path ... from the foundation up:

1) Mental Toughness ... Responding to adversity and the truth. Nothing is too much for us;

2) An Uncommon Commitment to the Welfare of our Team. We will each embrace our roles -- whatever we are called upon to do -- and make them a key part of our journey together;

3) Ownership mentality – It’s our team. We all have a stake and we do the things -- big and small -- that owners do.

4) Deliberately practicing to minimize weaknesses and turn them into strengths (this requires self awareness). We do whatever we need to do.

5) Resilience/Perseverance. Nothing keeps us down or stops us.

6) Courage. Nothing scares us off of completing our mission.

7) Destiny. Finally … like the great Sir Winston Churchill was kept going in his darkest days by a sense of destiny ... we likewise have a a mission … a explains the foregoing and makes it doable.

See you on the field,

Retreat this Weekend ...

I am excited to get our preparation in full gear as we head into our second week of practice. The second week historically means retreat week.

I will have an update from our time together, including more on the Championship Mindset next week.

In the meantime ...

See you on the field,