I'm writing this article for the person who knows nothing about baseball, the person who doesn't know the difference between the Triple Crown and an unassisted Triple Play. I'm not going to write about the history of baseball so if that's what you want look somewhere else, I'm going to tell you the necessary information so you can sit down on a Saturday afternoon and watch a baseball game. Even if you do know a lot I'm hoping you can learn a little.
Introduction
Baseball is a bat and ball sport played by 2 teams of 9 players a side. The goal of baseball is to score runs by hitting a ball that is thrown by the pitcher and run around the bases. The bases are arranged on the corners of a 90 foot square called the diamond. Players on the batting team take turns hitting while the fielding team tries to get them out. Once a player on the batting team gets on base he can choose to stop in the hope that a teammate will drive him in. The teams switch between batting and fielding when the fielding team gets 3 outs. Once each team gets 3 outs that is an inning, there are 9 innings in a MLB game. The team with the most runs at the end of the game wins.
Major League Baseball
In the United States and Canada the professional baseball league is called Major League Baseball (MLB.) MLB is divided into 2 leagues, the National League (NL) and the American League (AL) which in turn, are divided into 3 divisions: East, Central and West. To determine the champion of baseball MLB uses an 8 team playoff. The teams that make it are all 6 division winners plus a Wild Card. The wild card is the team with the best record that isn’t a division winner. The first round is best of 5 while the second round and the World Series are best of 7. Each major league team has a farm system of minor league teams at various levels. These teams allow players to gain improve while playing against opponents with a similar skill level.
Equipment and Field
There are 4 basic tools in baseball: the bat, the ball, the mitt and the field
The bat is an offensive tool used by the batter that is either wood or aluminum depending on the league. It is a long stick maybe 35 inches long, 2 inches wide and 35 ounces heavy.
The mitt otherwise known as a glove is worn by the fielding team to assist in catching the ball. Mitts take various shapes and sizes to accommodate the needs of individual positions.
A baseball is about the size of a fist and white with red lacing (Although other colors could be used.)
Baseball is played on a field in which the dimensions vary depending on age. However every field has bases which are arranged on a diamond that offensive payers try to run around counterclockwise. The part of the field closest to the bases is the infield and the part farther away is the outfield.
Game Play
Baseball is played in a series of 9 innings, each of which are divided in to 2 halves, top and bottom. In each half-inning, the offensive team attempts to score runs until three of its players are put out. After the third out, the teams switch roles for the other half of the inning. The home team plays defense first, and so plays defense in the top of every inning and offense in the bottom of every inning. At the beginning of each half-inning, the nine defensive players arrange themselves on the field. One defensive player is called the pitcher and stands at the center of the diamond on a designated spot, called the mound or the rubber. Another defensive player is called the catcher and stands on the other side of home plate from the pitcher. Typically four more players are arranged along the lines between first, second, and third bases, and the other three are in the outfield.
Runs are scored as follows: starting at home plate, each offensive player attempts to earn the right to run to the next base of the diamond, then to touch the base at that corner, continuing on to each following base in order, and finally returning to home, whereupon a run is scored. Often an offensive player will achieve a base but be forced to stop there; on future plays the player may continue to advance, or else be put out.
A play begins with an offensive player called a batter standing at home plate, holding a bat. The batter then waits for the pitcher to throw a pitch (the ball) toward home plate, and attempts to hit the ball with the bat. If the batter hits the ball into play, the batter must drop the bat and begin running toward first base. There are other ways to earn the right to run the bases, such as walks or being hit by a pitched ball. The catcher catches pitches that the batter does not hit (either by choice or simple failure to make contact) and returns them to the pitcher.
If the batter fails to hit a well-pitched ball (one within the strike zone) or if he hits it so that it goes outside of the field of play it is called a strike. However, if the ball is hit over the outfield and exits the field there, it is instead (one type of) a Homerun: the batter and all other offensive players on bases may complete a tour of the bases and score a run.
When a batter begins running, he or she is then referred to as a. Runners attempt to reach a base, where they are safe and may remain there. The runner defensive players attempt to prevent this by putting the runners out using the ball; runners put out must leave the field (returning to the bench or Dugout the location where all the other inactive players and managers observe the game).
There are many ways that the team on defense can get an offensive player out. For the sake of simplicity, only the five most common ways are listed here:
1. The Strikeout: occurs when the batter acquires three strikes before hitting the ball (within the field); the batter never becomes a runner.
2. The Groundout: when the batter hits the ball but a defensive player retrieves it after it has touched the ground and throws it to another defensive player standing on first base before the runner arrives there.
3. The Forceout: occurs when a runner is required to run to advance bases ahead of a teammate's hit but fails to reach it before a defensive player reaches the base with the ball. The "ground out" is actually a special case of "force out."
4. The Flyout: if a defensive player catches a hit ball before it touches the ground, the batter (now a runner) is out (regardless of his location).
5. The Tagout: while between bases, a runner is out if a defensive player touches him with a held ball.
Baseball Statistics
Statistics play an important role in summarizing baseball performance and evaluating players in the sport. Since the flow of baseball has natural breaks to it, the game lends itself to easy record keeping and statistics. This makes comparisons between players' on field performance relatively easy, and therefore gives statistics more importance in baseball than in most other sports. Statistics have been kept for professional baseball since the creation of each league.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
What are softball bats made out of?
Softball bats were at one time made chiefly of wood, but advances in technology have introduced materials such as aluminum, graphite, and composites. Each material has its positive and unique features.
Wood: Wood softball bats are very rare but are slowly regaining favor with softball enthusiasts who would rather hear a whack and not a ping when the bat meets ball. A wood softball bat is bottle-shaped and can weigh between 32-35 ounces (around 8 ounces heavier than an aluminum bat). Traditionally, wood bats have been made from ash. However, ash is light and soft and bats made from ash tend to splinter and dent fast. Wood from maple, oak, and bamboo is also used for these bats. Maple is harder and its grain is denser as compared to ash, making it less susceptible to splintering and chafing. Bats made from Chinese bamboo are the closest wood bat equivalent of an aluminum bat. Bamboo is extremely light-weight and ha a tensile strength higher than that of steel.
Wood: Wood softball bats are very rare but are slowly regaining favor with softball enthusiasts who would rather hear a whack and not a ping when the bat meets ball. A wood softball bat is bottle-shaped and can weigh between 32-35 ounces (around 8 ounces heavier than an aluminum bat). Traditionally, wood bats have been made from ash. However, ash is light and soft and bats made from ash tend to splinter and dent fast. Wood from maple, oak, and bamboo is also used for these bats. Maple is harder and its grain is denser as compared to ash, making it less susceptible to splintering and chafing. Bats made from Chinese bamboo are the closest wood bat equivalent of an aluminum bat. Bamboo is extremely light-weight and ha a tensile strength higher than that of steel.
Aluminum: The increased research and engineering in the science of bat making has resulted in high-tech aluminum softball bats that can cost upward of $300. Aluminum bats are lighter thereby enabling batters to generate greater bat speed and control. They are stronger and more durable than wood bats and they do not break; however, they may dent or crack over a period of time. Aluminum bats are available in different alloy and weight combinations. Light aluminum alloys that are thinner are more resilient and provide a larger hitting zone or "sweet spot". Aluminum bats are made in single-layer and double-layer combinations; double-layer bats are used by the power-hitters.
Graphite/Titanium lined: Aluminum bats are lined with graphite or titanium. These light, durable, and strong materials are added to aluminum bats with thin walls in order to make the bats lighter. Lighter bats help batters to generate more power in their swing. Bats lined with graphite or titanium have a greater hitting zone or "sweet spot". These materials are shock-absorbent as well and aid in reducing the shock felt when a stroke is mistimed.
Composite materials: Bats made from composite materials such as carbon, glass, or Kevlar are light weight, rigid, and sturdy. Composite materials enable bat manufacturers to incorporate varying strengths and stiffness in different parts of a bat. The result is a bat with stiff bat handles for greater control, low stiffness hitting areas for better performance and reduced shock, and differentiated swing weights. Bats made from composite materials have a large hitting surface with a more pronounced "sweet spot". However, the extreme velocities at which the ball rebounds off the bat can pose a safety hazard to the pitcher who has to react in a very limited time.
About the Author:
Samuel Johnston recommends that you visit http://www.kellysultimatesports.com/ for more information on softball bats.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
How To Collect Autographs Of Your Favorite Baseball Players
If by any chance you live in the United States of America, there is a high chances that you are a baseball fan. As the game of baseball gets more and more popular all around the world, you can find baseball fans in more and more areas of the world. And, if you do love this sport, you are likely to be one of the many baseball fans who would love to get autographs of their favorite baseball players.
The general opinion is that it is almost impossible to get autographs of the best baseball players. In reality, things are not like that at all. Getting the autograph of your favorite player is much easier than you might think. Don't be a geek and think that the only way to get an autograph to the player you admire more is going to the stadium and fighting with the large crowd for a chance to get an autograph.
There are several ways to accomplish your goal easier. The first of them is getting an autograph through the mail. Many players sign the majority of their autographs outside the ball park, one of them is through mail. How do you go about it? It is quite simple. First of all, visit the official site of the club. You will surely find on it an address where you can send fan e-mail to he players. E-mail a picture, sports card or letters through the e-mail, and in a few days you will get it back signed by the favorite player. Nowadays, many professional athletes will sign an autograph and send it back to you. Be thoughtful and remember to send a self-addressed stamped envelope so that the player can send it back where you want it.
Another way to collect the autographs of your favorite baseball players is to buy them. How is that possible? Well, just visit E-bay, and you will be surprised on what you can find there. Do watch out for fakes. It's always best to deal with the people who have been doing business on E-bay for a while. Many of the top autograph sellers are power-sellers. What I've also found lately on the web is some internet addresses where you get guidelines on getting the autographs of famous people, and among those several baseball players. They sell the addresses and they guarantee the information are reliable. I personally don't know if it works, but you can at least try it. Just give it a shot, and if you really get an autograph, it will be worth it.
The other possibility is to go to autograph sessions. Just pay attention to the news on the official sites of the baseball clubs and even on the personal sites of the baseball players. The serious clubs regularly organize autograph sessions with some of their players, and you might get lucky. So, in conclusion, no matter what method you try, it will likely be easier to succeed attaining that autograph than going to the baseball stadium and clawing your way through thousands of people to get to your favorite ball player for an autograph.
The general opinion is that it is almost impossible to get autographs of the best baseball players. In reality, things are not like that at all. Getting the autograph of your favorite player is much easier than you might think. Don't be a geek and think that the only way to get an autograph to the player you admire more is going to the stadium and fighting with the large crowd for a chance to get an autograph.
There are several ways to accomplish your goal easier. The first of them is getting an autograph through the mail. Many players sign the majority of their autographs outside the ball park, one of them is through mail. How do you go about it? It is quite simple. First of all, visit the official site of the club. You will surely find on it an address where you can send fan e-mail to he players. E-mail a picture, sports card or letters through the e-mail, and in a few days you will get it back signed by the favorite player. Nowadays, many professional athletes will sign an autograph and send it back to you. Be thoughtful and remember to send a self-addressed stamped envelope so that the player can send it back where you want it.
Another way to collect the autographs of your favorite baseball players is to buy them. How is that possible? Well, just visit E-bay, and you will be surprised on what you can find there. Do watch out for fakes. It's always best to deal with the people who have been doing business on E-bay for a while. Many of the top autograph sellers are power-sellers. What I've also found lately on the web is some internet addresses where you get guidelines on getting the autographs of famous people, and among those several baseball players. They sell the addresses and they guarantee the information are reliable. I personally don't know if it works, but you can at least try it. Just give it a shot, and if you really get an autograph, it will be worth it.
The other possibility is to go to autograph sessions. Just pay attention to the news on the official sites of the baseball clubs and even on the personal sites of the baseball players. The serious clubs regularly organize autograph sessions with some of their players, and you might get lucky. So, in conclusion, no matter what method you try, it will likely be easier to succeed attaining that autograph than going to the baseball stadium and clawing your way through thousands of people to get to your favorite ball player for an autograph.
About the Author:By Michael Shapiro for http://www.baseball-bats-hq.com Find a large selection of maple bats, ash bats, fungo bats in addition to the batting cages & baseball gear.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Baseball Sunglasses - a Home Run in Sports Eyewear
by Trevor Mulholland
Baseball, the greatest pastime of America. It's such a part of many Americans' lives: little children pitch and bat in the Little League while their parents proudly look on. The same intensity can be felt by baseball players in the Big Leagues. They feel pressure not only from public scrutiny, but also from making sure that they take every step possible to avoid injury or sickness, because time away from the field means less money and more chances of being replaced by someone younger and stronger. Baseball sunglasses are part of a player's arsenal of protective bodywear and accessories for staying in the game.
Many baseball games are played at night, but about just as many are played outdoors in broad daylight, too. This is when baseball sunglasses are indispensable. Without such sports sunglasses, trying to catch a ball - especially one that is hit up high - is very difficult indeed. Staring straight up into the sun while trying to ascertain the ball's location and speed of descent can strain the eyes and increase the chance that the ball will be missed. It is partly for this reason that baseball players wear sunglasses - to enhance their playing performance. Many baseball sunglasses come with lenses that are optimized to eliminate glare and enhance vision, especially on sunny days. Baseball players prefer wearing so-called amber sunglasses on such days, even though the lenses aren't really amber. More often than not, they are either brown or gray.
There are also baseball sunglasses that are suitable for games played at night, but the tint of the lenses need to be considered very carefully. It is best to use clear lenses that have an anti-reflective coating to offset or absorb the glare of bright stadium lights. Baseball players sometimes use sunglasses with yellow lenses for indoor games, but experts warn that such colored lenses can compromise visual discernment and can affect reaction times.
Another aspect of the importance of sports eyewear is their ability to shield players from serious injury. In fact, figures from the National Society to Prevent Blindness show that thousands of injuries were caused directly or indirectly by playing baseball. Many of the injuries were inflicted on players' eyes when the ball would hit them there. A baseball that has been pitched or batted can travel at very fast speeds, and the injuries they can cause have the potential to be very serious indeed. For this reason, it is recommended that baseball players choose sports sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses, which are able to withstand the impact of a baseball and are virtually shatterproof. Having a lightweight but durable frame is just as important. Polycarbon frames are likewise resistant to breaking and are suitable for baseball players. Some baseball sunglasses have a shield design where the entire front of the frame is a polycarbon lens while the temples are another material. What's good about this type of design is that the lens can be changed to suit the daylight condition of a particular game.
Players who need prescription sports sunglasses or goggles need not worry. Many brands now offer customized eyewear to fit any prescription. There are even models where the user can change the lenses to fit lighting conditions while maintaining lens prescription. Rudy Project is one such brand that offers prescription sunglasses.
There are many other baseball sunglasses brands in the marketplace, the vast majority of which offer the high quality and stylistic design that athletes want and need. Some brands use their own proprietary technology in their sports sunglasses. For instance, Oakley incorporates its Polaric Ellipsoid technology in its lenses to ensure purity of vision, one that is not hampered by distortions. Akadema is another popular brand whose shades offer 100% ultraviolet radiation protection and shatter-proof frames and lenses. Kaenon, Nike, Bolle - these and many more grace the faces of baseball players and other athletes, both in the professional and non-professional leagues.
Baseball sunglasses are part of the whole package that contributes to how a pitcher pitches, a batter bats, or a catcher catches. They can enhance playing performance and play a major role in protecting players from eye injuries caused by either sunlight or an errant ball. On top of all that, they can make a player look cool, too! This proves that baseball sunglasses are not only useful and functional, but that they are attractive pieces of sports eyewear as well.
Many baseball games are played at night, but about just as many are played outdoors in broad daylight, too. This is when baseball sunglasses are indispensable. Without such sports sunglasses, trying to catch a ball - especially one that is hit up high - is very difficult indeed. Staring straight up into the sun while trying to ascertain the ball's location and speed of descent can strain the eyes and increase the chance that the ball will be missed. It is partly for this reason that baseball players wear sunglasses - to enhance their playing performance. Many baseball sunglasses come with lenses that are optimized to eliminate glare and enhance vision, especially on sunny days. Baseball players prefer wearing so-called amber sunglasses on such days, even though the lenses aren't really amber. More often than not, they are either brown or gray.
There are also baseball sunglasses that are suitable for games played at night, but the tint of the lenses need to be considered very carefully. It is best to use clear lenses that have an anti-reflective coating to offset or absorb the glare of bright stadium lights. Baseball players sometimes use sunglasses with yellow lenses for indoor games, but experts warn that such colored lenses can compromise visual discernment and can affect reaction times.
Another aspect of the importance of sports eyewear is their ability to shield players from serious injury. In fact, figures from the National Society to Prevent Blindness show that thousands of injuries were caused directly or indirectly by playing baseball. Many of the injuries were inflicted on players' eyes when the ball would hit them there. A baseball that has been pitched or batted can travel at very fast speeds, and the injuries they can cause have the potential to be very serious indeed. For this reason, it is recommended that baseball players choose sports sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses, which are able to withstand the impact of a baseball and are virtually shatterproof. Having a lightweight but durable frame is just as important. Polycarbon frames are likewise resistant to breaking and are suitable for baseball players. Some baseball sunglasses have a shield design where the entire front of the frame is a polycarbon lens while the temples are another material. What's good about this type of design is that the lens can be changed to suit the daylight condition of a particular game.
Players who need prescription sports sunglasses or goggles need not worry. Many brands now offer customized eyewear to fit any prescription. There are even models where the user can change the lenses to fit lighting conditions while maintaining lens prescription. Rudy Project is one such brand that offers prescription sunglasses.
There are many other baseball sunglasses brands in the marketplace, the vast majority of which offer the high quality and stylistic design that athletes want and need. Some brands use their own proprietary technology in their sports sunglasses. For instance, Oakley incorporates its Polaric Ellipsoid technology in its lenses to ensure purity of vision, one that is not hampered by distortions. Akadema is another popular brand whose shades offer 100% ultraviolet radiation protection and shatter-proof frames and lenses. Kaenon, Nike, Bolle - these and many more grace the faces of baseball players and other athletes, both in the professional and non-professional leagues.
Baseball sunglasses are part of the whole package that contributes to how a pitcher pitches, a batter bats, or a catcher catches. They can enhance playing performance and play a major role in protecting players from eye injuries caused by either sunlight or an errant ball. On top of all that, they can make a player look cool, too! This proves that baseball sunglasses are not only useful and functional, but that they are attractive pieces of sports eyewear as well.
About the Author:Sunglassology.com provides you with information on baseball sunglasses, where to buy, which are crap and which are slick. From prescription sunglasses to baseball sunglasses. http://www.sunglassology.com/
Saturday, July 26, 2008
What I Know and Remember about Baseball - Successful Hitting
For Successful Hitting,in my opinion, there are numerous hitting methods and styles that exist for baseball. They all claim the same thing: that they are the best; who is right and who is wrong? They all can work depending on the ability of the individual. Individual style from how you lace your cleats to the position of your hat and the 400 or so moving parts in between all add up to one result; smacking a round ball with a round bat in the sweet spot of both while getting down the baseline as fast as possible.
Different approaches, stances and swing, wrist speed etc. See what works and does not work for you. The consensus is that there are 7 common traits shared among great hitters, no matter what hitting method is used.
1. Comfort, What is there or worry about?
Relax, the guy 45 or more feet away is going to throw a ball at you. You have seen it before, you will see it again. So what if you take one for the team, stay in there and drive it right back at the person who threw it at you. The batter is really in control of the outcome. How many times have you seen players hit the ball when its over their head, way inside or even bouncing off the plate. Calm down, you can put the bat on the ball whenever you decide.
2. Confidence, Do not let your mind strike you out before you begin.
If you are convinced you can hit the ball, what is to stop you? Believe in yourself and let it happen. Be mindful of the count, when you are ahead, look for the good ones, when behind, smack it! If you leave it up to the Umpire to see it the way you do, chances are you will be walking back to the dug out. You have tons of time at the batting cages and practice, you can hit it!
3. See the Ball.
Watch the pitcher, does he release the ball from over his head, off to the side, under hand? The key is the ball is in his hand and the release point will be within fractions of an each on each pitch. So, if it always starts in the same place, how does it get all over? Simple, its variation in the motions it takes to get to the release point. But get over all that, when you see where it starts, you can determine where its going and your bat will follow your eyes instructions.
4. The Twitch.
Your reaction to the ball being released is the twitch, the quicker your twitch, the longer you can watch the ball. If your twitch is slower, start it sooner. I have seen batters wait for half the distance before they start their swing, I have seen others begin their step as soon as the pitcher leaves their balance point.
5. Core Power.
It really begins with the feet, then torso then hands. But you need to have all three work in rhythm. Power is transferred form the feet to the torso which multiplies the power by expanding the circle and creating speed, which is then transferred into the hands. If any part over-powers the following, you loose the build up of momentum. Work on getting all three to work together.
6. Swing, Let Mr. Baseball out.
Keep it short and sweet! You are closer to the plate than you think, so keep the hands inside and let the bat do the work. Step, turn the hips while keeping your hands back, power is loaded and transferred through the core, whamo, let it all out at once! Do not be timid about swinging at the ball! Swing, Swing, Swing! Remember #2, believe in yourself, you can hit anything! And it does not matter how well it is driven each time, the point of the matter is putting the bat on the ball period.
7. Balance, You cannot hit well from the ground.
There cannot be enough said about balance. It allows you to see the ball, transfer power to the ball and get out of the box. The quickest way to learn is hitting soft toss from a teeter board, if you can do it there, there is no question you can do it from the dirt. Learn to swing through the ball with the bat, not your whole body. If your body follows your arms you are taking away from the power sent up from your legs. Bring the bat around and keep your feet.
So what does it all add up to?
You will hit the ball the way your body, skill and ability sees best for you to assemble your 400 or so moving parts. Work on the elements of hitting on their own. And remember, batting practice is just that, batting practice! Plan your practice accordingly, some time on each of the pieces, then more time putting it all together. Do not try to do both at the same time, it is a sure recipe for frustration. To commit good habits to muscle memory, do your conditioning first, get the muscles nice and tired; this is the moment you must make every effort to do motions correctly. If your lazy about the particulars when you are tired, it will come out at the game. You want to train yourself and your body to react quickly and correctly. Only perfect practice can make perfect.(to quote form Cal Ripken Sr.)
Different approaches, stances and swing, wrist speed etc. See what works and does not work for you. The consensus is that there are 7 common traits shared among great hitters, no matter what hitting method is used.
1. Comfort, What is there or worry about?
Relax, the guy 45 or more feet away is going to throw a ball at you. You have seen it before, you will see it again. So what if you take one for the team, stay in there and drive it right back at the person who threw it at you. The batter is really in control of the outcome. How many times have you seen players hit the ball when its over their head, way inside or even bouncing off the plate. Calm down, you can put the bat on the ball whenever you decide.
2. Confidence, Do not let your mind strike you out before you begin.
If you are convinced you can hit the ball, what is to stop you? Believe in yourself and let it happen. Be mindful of the count, when you are ahead, look for the good ones, when behind, smack it! If you leave it up to the Umpire to see it the way you do, chances are you will be walking back to the dug out. You have tons of time at the batting cages and practice, you can hit it!
3. See the Ball.
Watch the pitcher, does he release the ball from over his head, off to the side, under hand? The key is the ball is in his hand and the release point will be within fractions of an each on each pitch. So, if it always starts in the same place, how does it get all over? Simple, its variation in the motions it takes to get to the release point. But get over all that, when you see where it starts, you can determine where its going and your bat will follow your eyes instructions.
4. The Twitch.
Your reaction to the ball being released is the twitch, the quicker your twitch, the longer you can watch the ball. If your twitch is slower, start it sooner. I have seen batters wait for half the distance before they start their swing, I have seen others begin their step as soon as the pitcher leaves their balance point.
5. Core Power.
It really begins with the feet, then torso then hands. But you need to have all three work in rhythm. Power is transferred form the feet to the torso which multiplies the power by expanding the circle and creating speed, which is then transferred into the hands. If any part over-powers the following, you loose the build up of momentum. Work on getting all three to work together.
6. Swing, Let Mr. Baseball out.
Keep it short and sweet! You are closer to the plate than you think, so keep the hands inside and let the bat do the work. Step, turn the hips while keeping your hands back, power is loaded and transferred through the core, whamo, let it all out at once! Do not be timid about swinging at the ball! Swing, Swing, Swing! Remember #2, believe in yourself, you can hit anything! And it does not matter how well it is driven each time, the point of the matter is putting the bat on the ball period.
7. Balance, You cannot hit well from the ground.
There cannot be enough said about balance. It allows you to see the ball, transfer power to the ball and get out of the box. The quickest way to learn is hitting soft toss from a teeter board, if you can do it there, there is no question you can do it from the dirt. Learn to swing through the ball with the bat, not your whole body. If your body follows your arms you are taking away from the power sent up from your legs. Bring the bat around and keep your feet.
So what does it all add up to?
You will hit the ball the way your body, skill and ability sees best for you to assemble your 400 or so moving parts. Work on the elements of hitting on their own. And remember, batting practice is just that, batting practice! Plan your practice accordingly, some time on each of the pieces, then more time putting it all together. Do not try to do both at the same time, it is a sure recipe for frustration. To commit good habits to muscle memory, do your conditioning first, get the muscles nice and tired; this is the moment you must make every effort to do motions correctly. If your lazy about the particulars when you are tired, it will come out at the game. You want to train yourself and your body to react quickly and correctly. Only perfect practice can make perfect.(to quote form Cal Ripken Sr.)
About the Author:
Mr. Dowdy is an Official Distributor for Kelley Athletic You can also visit his site for more news/tips/articles on the subjects of baseball, construction, building codes. Thanks for reading my article!
Mr. Dowdy is an Official Distributor for Kelley Athletic You can also visit his site for more news/tips/articles on the subjects of baseball, construction, building codes. Thanks for reading my article!
Friday, July 25, 2008
What I Know and Remember About Baseball - Seasons
The shift from 1974 to 2007 has been dramatic. Baseball once relegated to the dreams and comforts of summer is now a year round ambition. Not only for paid players but for the amateurs as well.
Way back when, well if you were born after 1985, pre Baseball season followed the winter sports of basketball and in some areas soccer. As each Team Sports season has gotten longer in all age groups, with the exception of High School Sports, the down time and need for pre season conditioning has diminished.
Many training exercises in other sports cross over. Running, Sprint Training and over all Conditioning are several of the cross over items. Some movements are specific to baseball.
Fielding, butt down hands out, and batting are the most notable. Time should be set aside every couple of weeks to reacquaint the muscles with those movements. Simple stationary fielding drills in the back yard are excellent. Taking 30 correct swings with the bat, nothing to hit or strike, is also excellent.
These simple drills not only provided muscle memory for doing them correctly, but when the parents are involved on such an individual and intimate setting, well, it makes up for a lot of the shows kids watch on Nick.
Parents have a lot to compete with to gain the attention of their children. In 1974, competition was with the radio, shortly thereafter, MTV. Today, kids are bombarded from the moment they wake up until they fall asleep with sounds and noise from all sorts of things vying for their attention and spending dollars.
As a Parent, the most important thing you can give to your child is yourself. What better opportunity than to separate your and your child from all the noise and participate together in a single activity. This is where baseball memories start. These memories are held closest to the heart.
So, once or twice a month, regardless of the season or the weather, take time with your child to practice a little baseball. Keep things simple, keep them brief and try a few yourself.
Much of baseball is situational. If this happens then I do that. Learning correct technique is best learned when you teach. Let your child teach you a little. It is amazing what you each will learn.
Copyright 2007 may be reprinted in whole with all links
About the Author:Mr. Dowdy is an Official Distributor for NW Kelley USA Baseball Visit Hirsch Group LLC for more news/tips/articles on the subjects of baseball, construction, building codes or check out the Hirsch Group Official Blog for what is going on now.
Way back when, well if you were born after 1985, pre Baseball season followed the winter sports of basketball and in some areas soccer. As each Team Sports season has gotten longer in all age groups, with the exception of High School Sports, the down time and need for pre season conditioning has diminished.
Many training exercises in other sports cross over. Running, Sprint Training and over all Conditioning are several of the cross over items. Some movements are specific to baseball.
Fielding, butt down hands out, and batting are the most notable. Time should be set aside every couple of weeks to reacquaint the muscles with those movements. Simple stationary fielding drills in the back yard are excellent. Taking 30 correct swings with the bat, nothing to hit or strike, is also excellent.
These simple drills not only provided muscle memory for doing them correctly, but when the parents are involved on such an individual and intimate setting, well, it makes up for a lot of the shows kids watch on Nick.
Parents have a lot to compete with to gain the attention of their children. In 1974, competition was with the radio, shortly thereafter, MTV. Today, kids are bombarded from the moment they wake up until they fall asleep with sounds and noise from all sorts of things vying for their attention and spending dollars.
As a Parent, the most important thing you can give to your child is yourself. What better opportunity than to separate your and your child from all the noise and participate together in a single activity. This is where baseball memories start. These memories are held closest to the heart.
So, once or twice a month, regardless of the season or the weather, take time with your child to practice a little baseball. Keep things simple, keep them brief and try a few yourself.
Much of baseball is situational. If this happens then I do that. Learning correct technique is best learned when you teach. Let your child teach you a little. It is amazing what you each will learn.
Copyright 2007 may be reprinted in whole with all links
About the Author:Mr. Dowdy is an Official Distributor for NW Kelley USA Baseball Visit Hirsch Group LLC for more news/tips/articles on the subjects of baseball, construction, building codes or check out the Hirsch Group Official Blog for what is going on now.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Simple Tips For Playing Baseball
by Jason Roberts
Baseball is a game of skill and for that reason the best athlete is not always the best player. Baseball involves thrilling, pitching, catching, baserunning, fielding, and hitting. If you want to improve in all of these areas and skills then you must practice regularly using drills. Practicing must be fast and include jumping from one drill to the other. A good baseball player must always focus on making the most out of every drill session instead of just going through the motions which can often lead to bad habits. If you want to improve your baseball game focus on top form in as many drill opportunities as you can. Here's some information to help you while work on improving your baseball game.
Throwing the ball
You should grab the baseball with your index finger and middle finger along the long seams of the baseball while keeping your thumb underneath it to provide support. When you throw be sure to square your shoulders with your target and while moving towards the target throw with a 3/4 arm action.
Fielding the Ball
If you keep your feet spread and stay down you'll ensure good balance. You do not want the ball to go between your legs and you always want your glove in front of you so you can block the ball and see it go into your glove.
Catching Fly Balls
If you're out in the outfield you'll want to be striding towards your target and you'll want to be behind the ball. You need to be able to see the ball and you need to be able to quickly get your stride to throw to your target. Finally, be sure to catch the ball above the shoulder with your elbow bent. This will help cushion when catching.
Batting Stance
When batting your stance should consist of your feet shoulder length apart with your toes pointed inward slightly. This stance will help you keep your balance. Be sure to look at the pitcher with your head level.
Base Running
Always run in a way to give yourself the best chance for top speed. For example, if you plan on running more than one base try to time your steps so you hit the base with your right foot as you get less arc and stay consistently striding without losing speed towards the next base.
Pitching
Good pitchers focus on making consistent strikes with proper mechanics. Proper mechanics will reduce the chances of an injury. If you vary the speed of your pitch the batters will remain confused and their timing will be off.
These tips for improving your baseball are just beginning. It is important that you practice on all of these skills if you want to become a well-rounded baseball player.
Throwing the ball
You should grab the baseball with your index finger and middle finger along the long seams of the baseball while keeping your thumb underneath it to provide support. When you throw be sure to square your shoulders with your target and while moving towards the target throw with a 3/4 arm action.
Fielding the Ball
If you keep your feet spread and stay down you'll ensure good balance. You do not want the ball to go between your legs and you always want your glove in front of you so you can block the ball and see it go into your glove.
Catching Fly Balls
If you're out in the outfield you'll want to be striding towards your target and you'll want to be behind the ball. You need to be able to see the ball and you need to be able to quickly get your stride to throw to your target. Finally, be sure to catch the ball above the shoulder with your elbow bent. This will help cushion when catching.
Batting Stance
When batting your stance should consist of your feet shoulder length apart with your toes pointed inward slightly. This stance will help you keep your balance. Be sure to look at the pitcher with your head level.
Base Running
Always run in a way to give yourself the best chance for top speed. For example, if you plan on running more than one base try to time your steps so you hit the base with your right foot as you get less arc and stay consistently striding without losing speed towards the next base.
Pitching
Good pitchers focus on making consistent strikes with proper mechanics. Proper mechanics will reduce the chances of an injury. If you vary the speed of your pitch the batters will remain confused and their timing will be off.
These tips for improving your baseball are just beginning. It is important that you practice on all of these skills if you want to become a well-rounded baseball player.
About the Author:
Robert Michael is a writer for www.faubaseball.com which is an excellent place to find baseball links, resources and articles. For more information go to: http://www.faubaseball.com
Robert Michael is a writer for www.faubaseball.com which is an excellent place to find baseball links, resources and articles. For more information go to: http://www.faubaseball.com
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
A Brief Look At The History Of Baseball In America
by Gregg Hall
Baseball is probably the most watched sport in America today. The way the game is played is two teams are formed with 9 players each. The pitcher will try to haul the baseball to the batter. The pitcher is trying to strike out the batter, three strikes and your out but the batter can hit the ball. The other 8 person playing with the pitcher are the 1st baseman, 2nd baseman, 3rd baseman, shortstop, left fielder, center fielder, right fielder and the catcher which catches the ball that the pitcher throws unless the batter hits the ball.
People will argue where the sport was originated but the real origin of baseball lies here in the good old United States. The game was played here back to the early part of the 19th century, but back then it was all white baseball no other players could play until the 60s and 70s came around where they allowed all players to try out and could play if they were good enough.
The National League was formed in 1876 where they started first playing baseball. After that more leagues and teams were added on and they started to play more and more of baseball and soon it grew to what we now know today as baseball. With Barry bonds and Alex Rodriguez hitting home runs every time up to bat, the players are getting better but the game is still the same. Maybe they need to start making the fields larger so it makes it harder for those good players to get a lot of home runs.
After the world wars baseball was a world wide sport and everyone wanted to play it. By then there were so many teams that they could have a baseball world series which didn't start till later on down the road. There were baseball teams from all over the world like Puerto Rico, Cuba, Netherlands, Australia , Africa, south Africa, Europe, England, great Brittan, anywhere that you could think of as a country there was a baseball team for it that's how popular baseball got after the world wars ended. If you wanted to play all you had to do in those days was go try out and if you could run and catch the ball with ease and actually hit the ball when you batted you were going to be on the team.
That's just how it was back in those days; they just wanted players so they could player each others teams and have something to talk about every day. Back then all you heard talk about all day was baseball. Now today all you hear about is news about the Iraq war and occasionally talk of baseball. The big talk on baseball at the moment is the steroid issue.
People will argue where the sport was originated but the real origin of baseball lies here in the good old United States. The game was played here back to the early part of the 19th century, but back then it was all white baseball no other players could play until the 60s and 70s came around where they allowed all players to try out and could play if they were good enough.
The National League was formed in 1876 where they started first playing baseball. After that more leagues and teams were added on and they started to play more and more of baseball and soon it grew to what we now know today as baseball. With Barry bonds and Alex Rodriguez hitting home runs every time up to bat, the players are getting better but the game is still the same. Maybe they need to start making the fields larger so it makes it harder for those good players to get a lot of home runs.
After the world wars baseball was a world wide sport and everyone wanted to play it. By then there were so many teams that they could have a baseball world series which didn't start till later on down the road. There were baseball teams from all over the world like Puerto Rico, Cuba, Netherlands, Australia , Africa, south Africa, Europe, England, great Brittan, anywhere that you could think of as a country there was a baseball team for it that's how popular baseball got after the world wars ended. If you wanted to play all you had to do in those days was go try out and if you could run and catch the ball with ease and actually hit the ball when you batted you were going to be on the team.
That's just how it was back in those days; they just wanted players so they could player each others teams and have something to talk about every day. Back then all you heard talk about all day was baseball. Now today all you hear about is news about the Iraq war and occasionally talk of baseball. The big talk on baseball at the moment is the steroid issue.
About the Author:
Gregg Hall is an author living with his 18 year old son in Jensen Beach, Florida. Find more about baseball as well as baseball equipment
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Baseball... Anyone?
by Lanny Hintz
How it all began
What comes into your mind when you hear the word baseball? For those of you who have been in a real baseball event would it lead you to think of a huge stadium, an open field, the heat of the sun, the cheer of crowds, the cracking of the bat as it hits the ball, or the shout of the umpire of what decision he has for the teams? For those of you who in anyway have not experienced being in a baseball game but have seen it through sports channels or heard it on the radio or viewed it online, you might also have the same perception of the game. For those who are not into baseball but may have had the chance to observe a game or two, it might be obvious that the spectator watches two teams playing against each other, there is a presence of a pitcher, a batter, an umpire or referee and the people guarding the bases. If that spectator figures out the way of scoring then he might have probably learned the basics of the sport.
In the context of an in depth look at the sport itself, only a few people, minus the avid baseball fans and players would even care to understand who thought about it, where it came from and where it is most popular at as a sport...
Baseball, which can be classified as a game of bat and ball and which is also sometimes identified as hard ball to differentiate it from a similar game known as softball (a more compact version of the game) can be traced back to accounts of being an evolved version of the game called rounders, which was said to have originated in Great Britain and Ireland dating back to as early as the 17th century. There are similar accounts about the existence of the game but the pioneering full documentation of baseball in North America was by Dr. Adam Ford in his modern description of the game that took place on June 4, 1838 in Beachville, Ontario. It was on June 19, 1846 in Hoboken, New Jersey that the first game of baseball in U.S. history was officially recorded with the New York Nine defeating the Knickerbockers in a 23-1 four innings game.
Today, Baseball is recognized as the national sport of the United States. The sport also has spread its popularity, is being patronized and played in most of the American regions, the Caribbean and East Asia.
What comes into your mind when you hear the word baseball? For those of you who have been in a real baseball event would it lead you to think of a huge stadium, an open field, the heat of the sun, the cheer of crowds, the cracking of the bat as it hits the ball, or the shout of the umpire of what decision he has for the teams? For those of you who in anyway have not experienced being in a baseball game but have seen it through sports channels or heard it on the radio or viewed it online, you might also have the same perception of the game. For those who are not into baseball but may have had the chance to observe a game or two, it might be obvious that the spectator watches two teams playing against each other, there is a presence of a pitcher, a batter, an umpire or referee and the people guarding the bases. If that spectator figures out the way of scoring then he might have probably learned the basics of the sport.
In the context of an in depth look at the sport itself, only a few people, minus the avid baseball fans and players would even care to understand who thought about it, where it came from and where it is most popular at as a sport...
Baseball, which can be classified as a game of bat and ball and which is also sometimes identified as hard ball to differentiate it from a similar game known as softball (a more compact version of the game) can be traced back to accounts of being an evolved version of the game called rounders, which was said to have originated in Great Britain and Ireland dating back to as early as the 17th century. There are similar accounts about the existence of the game but the pioneering full documentation of baseball in North America was by Dr. Adam Ford in his modern description of the game that took place on June 4, 1838 in Beachville, Ontario. It was on June 19, 1846 in Hoboken, New Jersey that the first game of baseball in U.S. history was officially recorded with the New York Nine defeating the Knickerbockers in a 23-1 four innings game.
Today, Baseball is recognized as the national sport of the United States. The sport also has spread its popularity, is being patronized and played in most of the American regions, the Caribbean and East Asia.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Baseball Memorabilia – Bats and Balls, Maketh a Difference
by Robert Riles
Baseball memorabilia belongs to the sport that is played by every single person in the United States of America. Baseball, the game where there are a striker and a pitcher and is played on a unique shaped pitch is the national sport of America and there are many teams that are world champions in this. Just like how cricket souvenirs are famous in most of the world, baseball memorabilia is popular here. Also the collection of Baseball memorabilia includes everything from an autographed ball to a cap worn by a famous player.
There are TV channels dedicated to this sport and people flock the stadiums to watch a baseball match between their favorite teams. Recently, there has been a spurt in the sales of the Baseball memorabilia because there are a couple of new websites which have come up where they sell baseball related objects and items. There are autographed helmets, T shirts, shoes worn by players during a major game and some other products for sale. And people don’t hesitate to spend thousands of dollars to get their hands on one of these. This makes them the proud owners and they get to boast to all their friends and family that they own a piece of history at home.
A Derek Jeter jersey or the bat he used to play with are all cherished items that will go for high prices. Similarly, there are a few pictures of Babe Ruth still available on some websites waiting to be snatched away by a baseball fan. All this goes to show the kind of passion and craze people have towards sports, especially baseball. If one were to scrounge on the net, am sure they would find a hat or a jacket worn by a famous player back in the 1900s up for sale. And some sites while trying to lure people into buying these memorabilia have slashed prices and offer them at a discounted rate. This reflects on the personality of all these people and how much in love with the sport they are. There are also a multitude of photos and photo frames available which are said to belong to players of yesteryears. And there will be thousands of fans waiting in line to make it theirs. Such is the world of sports today where men are said to be more into them than women, atleast sports like football and baseball.
The baseball memorabilia in a person’s house would be priceless, and he would make sure no one touches it or damages it. And some might go to an extent of insuring the same against robbery as they are more valuable than any piece of jewellery. Baseball memorabilia are collected by people from a very young age, right from baseball cards they begin developing their passion towards the sport and as they grow older it grows stronger and stronger. As long as one doesn’t get addicted and over protective of their possessions, there will be a good balance at home.
There are TV channels dedicated to this sport and people flock the stadiums to watch a baseball match between their favorite teams. Recently, there has been a spurt in the sales of the Baseball memorabilia because there are a couple of new websites which have come up where they sell baseball related objects and items. There are autographed helmets, T shirts, shoes worn by players during a major game and some other products for sale. And people don’t hesitate to spend thousands of dollars to get their hands on one of these. This makes them the proud owners and they get to boast to all their friends and family that they own a piece of history at home.
A Derek Jeter jersey or the bat he used to play with are all cherished items that will go for high prices. Similarly, there are a few pictures of Babe Ruth still available on some websites waiting to be snatched away by a baseball fan. All this goes to show the kind of passion and craze people have towards sports, especially baseball. If one were to scrounge on the net, am sure they would find a hat or a jacket worn by a famous player back in the 1900s up for sale. And some sites while trying to lure people into buying these memorabilia have slashed prices and offer them at a discounted rate. This reflects on the personality of all these people and how much in love with the sport they are. There are also a multitude of photos and photo frames available which are said to belong to players of yesteryears. And there will be thousands of fans waiting in line to make it theirs. Such is the world of sports today where men are said to be more into them than women, atleast sports like football and baseball.
The baseball memorabilia in a person’s house would be priceless, and he would make sure no one touches it or damages it. And some might go to an extent of insuring the same against robbery as they are more valuable than any piece of jewellery. Baseball memorabilia are collected by people from a very young age, right from baseball cards they begin developing their passion towards the sport and as they grow older it grows stronger and stronger. As long as one doesn’t get addicted and over protective of their possessions, there will be a good balance at home.
About the Author:
Article written by Robert Riles III, owner of skyfireproducts.com a store for allSports Fans.
Article written by Robert Riles III, owner of skyfireproducts.com a store for allSports Fans.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Baseball and Network Marketing
by Charlie Wolter
With the advent of another baseball season upon us it reminds me of just how much network marketing is like baseball. In baseball you have guys who hit .300 making millions of dollars. Quite the same as a closing rate of 30% can earn you millions of dollars as a marketer, especially in the network marketing business. So basically baseball players and marketers are getting paid to loose 70% of the time. That's a sobering thought but one that can frustrate the average network marketer into quiting. So how do we look at this in a different light to improve our mindset on this matter.
We have to like in baseball look at this as a numbers game, because honestly that's all it is, that really all baseball is. That's why you see tons and tons of books, newspapers and magazines spend so much time on statistics in baseball. In baseball people have even invented new mathematics to support a player's worth, Bill James calls is saber-metrics for example. The worth of a baseball player is measured by his production over a period of time in numbers. So if we take that and really use it for our own mental well being in our network marketing we would be very much more mentally fit for the endeavor we are undertaking.
First thing we have to realize is that it is extremely rare that a player hits .300 from their first day or months playing baseball, whether that is in the big leagues, minor leagues or youth leagues. We much learn a skill set over time. The key here is over time, specifically repetition over time. No one makes it to the big leagues, hits .300 on his first day of playing baseball. Network marketers, just like ball players must practice over time. And the next key here is that every attempt is really just practice, its the practice of failing 70% of the time! As we practice our average may start at .100 gradually move to .200 and then to .300 or better, but it is the practice of failure. So how many attempts do we take? Ask yourself this, does a ballplayer ask or tell himself I will take 600 at bats this year and if I don't hit .300 I'll quit? No, there is no idea of quiting or a goal that he has to make to keep practicing, they love the game so they keep on playing whether they are hitting .100 or .300. Now granted the may or may not stay in the big leagues, but that does not mean they quit. Take a look at how many minor league teams there are in the country. Point is they keep on playing, practicing and failing most of the time. We as network marketers can do the same but we must keep practicing.
The amount of practice time we may have to put in as network marketers, scares a lot of people away. Again how many at bats do you think major league players take before they hit .300. Yes the answer is thousands, once again thousands and yes they still may not hit .300. But doesn't that make you feel better about our craft, isn't that better than working a job with a set salary for life. If we are going to step into this arena and ask for the millions of dollars we want to generate, it seems to me that a thousand or even ten thousand prospecting calls, presentation calls and closing calls is a very small price to pay. In addition we have very little threat of injury, due to being thrown at by a 90 mph fastball over a thousand times!
So the next time your feeling a bit frustrated about not growing your network marketing down-line think of two things. One baseball it keeps most things in perspective and two this article and the web site that can help keep everything in perspective in your network marketing growth. I do love baseball and network marketing, I did not make it the big leagues because I did not learn this lesson until I was introduced to network marketing. I am grateful for that because I believe I can change more lives for the better as a business growth specialist than I could as a ball player. Whether you take the next step in following up to my web site or not, good luck in all of your pursuits and remember to "Root, root, root for the home team at the Ole' Ball Game !"
We have to like in baseball look at this as a numbers game, because honestly that's all it is, that really all baseball is. That's why you see tons and tons of books, newspapers and magazines spend so much time on statistics in baseball. In baseball people have even invented new mathematics to support a player's worth, Bill James calls is saber-metrics for example. The worth of a baseball player is measured by his production over a period of time in numbers. So if we take that and really use it for our own mental well being in our network marketing we would be very much more mentally fit for the endeavor we are undertaking.
First thing we have to realize is that it is extremely rare that a player hits .300 from their first day or months playing baseball, whether that is in the big leagues, minor leagues or youth leagues. We much learn a skill set over time. The key here is over time, specifically repetition over time. No one makes it to the big leagues, hits .300 on his first day of playing baseball. Network marketers, just like ball players must practice over time. And the next key here is that every attempt is really just practice, its the practice of failing 70% of the time! As we practice our average may start at .100 gradually move to .200 and then to .300 or better, but it is the practice of failure. So how many attempts do we take? Ask yourself this, does a ballplayer ask or tell himself I will take 600 at bats this year and if I don't hit .300 I'll quit? No, there is no idea of quiting or a goal that he has to make to keep practicing, they love the game so they keep on playing whether they are hitting .100 or .300. Now granted the may or may not stay in the big leagues, but that does not mean they quit. Take a look at how many minor league teams there are in the country. Point is they keep on playing, practicing and failing most of the time. We as network marketers can do the same but we must keep practicing.
The amount of practice time we may have to put in as network marketers, scares a lot of people away. Again how many at bats do you think major league players take before they hit .300. Yes the answer is thousands, once again thousands and yes they still may not hit .300. But doesn't that make you feel better about our craft, isn't that better than working a job with a set salary for life. If we are going to step into this arena and ask for the millions of dollars we want to generate, it seems to me that a thousand or even ten thousand prospecting calls, presentation calls and closing calls is a very small price to pay. In addition we have very little threat of injury, due to being thrown at by a 90 mph fastball over a thousand times!
So the next time your feeling a bit frustrated about not growing your network marketing down-line think of two things. One baseball it keeps most things in perspective and two this article and the web site that can help keep everything in perspective in your network marketing growth. I do love baseball and network marketing, I did not make it the big leagues because I did not learn this lesson until I was introduced to network marketing. I am grateful for that because I believe I can change more lives for the better as a business growth specialist than I could as a ball player. Whether you take the next step in following up to my web site or not, good luck in all of your pursuits and remember to "Root, root, root for the home team at the Ole' Ball Game !"
About the Author:
Charlie Wolter is a business growth specialist, primarily working with individuals who have network marketing businesses."http://www.RepstheEasyWay.com"
Charlie Wolter is a business growth specialist, primarily working with individuals who have network marketing businesses."http://www.RepstheEasyWay.com"
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Youth Baseball Coaching Rules and Regulations
by John Nowly
The following article is an excerpt from the free online course "Learning to Coach Youth Baseball".
When you get the job as a new coach, it is important that you meet the league director. You might have already met the league director as he or she may have been the person that hired you. If this is not the case, I recommend you set up a meeting as soon as possible to review several things.
Get your notebook handy, as I will give you a list of some questions to ask them.
First, you should ask: May I get the final copy of the league rules and a game schedule if available? It is obviously important to get a finished copy as soon as possible, as this will be a blueprint for your calendar.
When you get the job as a new coach, it is important that you meet the league director. You might have already met the league director as he or she may have been the person that hired you. If this is not the case, I recommend you set up a meeting as soon as possible to review several things.
Get your notebook handy, as I will give you a list of some questions to ask them.
First, you should ask: May I get the final copy of the league rules and a game schedule if available? It is obviously important to get a finished copy as soon as possible, as this will be a blueprint for your calendar.
About the Author:ProfessorNow.com™ offers free educational courses in an easy to follow format in various subjects. To view a free online course covering the subject of this article, please visit ProfessorNow.com.
Second, you should ask: Will I have any assistant coaches? Do you know where I can find a couple?
Next I suggest you ask, What fields will we be playing at?
And, Do we have a block of time available for baseball practice and which diamonds?
The next question should be, What type of equipment do we have available?
Finally, inquire about special days that the team needs to get together. These days will probably include a picture day, uniform day and end of year tournament.
With this information in hand, you have the basis for some advanced planning and organization. I have found that being organized will help with everything you do for the coming season. I recommend you buy a spiral notebook or create a ring binder for the coming season. Notebooks tend to be easier to carry around and write on, while binders have the sleeves for handouts, schedules and other things. Either way you go, it is important to have one of the two.
You will need to write down phone numbers, dates, contact names and other miscellaneous notes about your team. Later on, as you gain more experience, you might even find yourself writing down different batting lineups to try in the upcoming games. On the front of your notebook, you will write down the year and your teams' name.
The director has probably given you a set of local city rules. These rules more than likely will be modifications to particular national, state or high school sets of rules. Some of the more common local rules address game length, safety of players, batting orders, player substitution and re-entry. When you get your league rules, make sure you read them thoroughly. Give them to your assistant coaches and have them read the rules thoroughly. Try and get the rules in your hands as soon as possible so you can do your homework.
While reading them, I suggest you take notes in a notebook on interpretations or any questions you may have. If you do not have any questions on the rules, you did not read them well enough. Do not be afraid to get your questions answered at a coaches meeting or at league wide tryouts. There probably will be a league wide meeting where you can network with some of the other coaches who will have similar questions.
Pay particular attention to substitution and re-entry rules. Understanding these will be very important when switching pitchers, pinch hitting, pinch running, and getting all your players in the game. Finally, obtain your game schedule as soon as possible, so everyone can begin planning his or her summer.
Second, you should ask: Will I have any assistant coaches? Do you know where I can find a couple?
Next I suggest you ask, What fields will we be playing at?
And, Do we have a block of time available for baseball practice and which diamonds?
The next question should be, What type of equipment do we have available?
Finally, inquire about special days that the team needs to get together. These days will probably include a picture day, uniform day and end of year tournament.
With this information in hand, you have the basis for some advanced planning and organization. I have found that being organized will help with everything you do for the coming season. I recommend you buy a spiral notebook or create a ring binder for the coming season. Notebooks tend to be easier to carry around and write on, while binders have the sleeves for handouts, schedules and other things. Either way you go, it is important to have one of the two.
You will need to write down phone numbers, dates, contact names and other miscellaneous notes about your team. Later on, as you gain more experience, you might even find yourself writing down different batting lineups to try in the upcoming games. On the front of your notebook, you will write down the year and your teams' name.
The director has probably given you a set of local city rules. These rules more than likely will be modifications to particular national, state or high school sets of rules. Some of the more common local rules address game length, safety of players, batting orders, player substitution and re-entry. When you get your league rules, make sure you read them thoroughly. Give them to your assistant coaches and have them read the rules thoroughly. Try and get the rules in your hands as soon as possible so you can do your homework.
While reading them, I suggest you take notes in a notebook on interpretations or any questions you may have. If you do not have any questions on the rules, you did not read them well enough. Do not be afraid to get your questions answered at a coaches meeting or at league wide tryouts. There probably will be a league wide meeting where you can network with some of the other coaches who will have similar questions.
Pay particular attention to substitution and re-entry rules. Understanding these will be very important when switching pitchers, pinch hitting, pinch running, and getting all your players in the game. Finally, obtain your game schedule as soon as possible, so everyone can begin planning his or her summer.
Friday, July 18, 2008
The Best Baseball Colleges In Ohio
by Ian Koch
Since there are readers not only from USA but also from other countries, I don't take for granted that everybody knows what baseball actually is. According to The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia baseball is "bat-and-ball sport known as the national pastime of the United States. It derives its name from the four bases that form a diamond (the infield) around the pitcher's mound.
Teams consist of nine players who use a leather-covered hard ball, a wooden (in the professional game) or aluminum bat, and padded gloves. Additionally, the batter, catcher, and home-plate umpire wear special protective gear. Teams alternate turns in the field and at bat, the home team batting last. One turn at bat for each team constitutes an inning, and nine innings constitute a game. In the field there are a pitcher, a catcher, four infielders, and three outfielders. The pitcher throws overhand, employing a variety of deliveries (fastball, curve, knuckleball, etc.), from the raised pitcher's mound to home plate, a distance of 60.5 ft (18.4 m). An opposing batter attempts to hit the pitches and safely reach base, while the fielders attempt to put the batter out through various plays. A batter who misses three pitches, or fails to swing at three judged hittable, is out on strikes; but if the pitcher first throws four pitches out of the strike zone, the batter obtains a base on balls, or walks to first base. A run is scored every time a batter becomes a runner and crosses home plate after touching each base in the prescribed order. When the fielding team puts out three batters (or runners), the teams exchange places. If the score is tied at the end of nine innings, play continues into extra innings until one team has scored more runs than the other in an equal number of turns at bat."
While Ohio may not immediately come to mind when you think about baseball it does have a number of colleges and universities that offer outstanding sports college programs focusing in on baseball. Whether you are ramping up for a career in the major leagues or just want to try out for the college team while you pursue your degree, athletic departments are often ranked up there with quality of education when it comes to choosing which higher educational institution to pursue your degree at.
Sports and colleges go together. In any region of the country college athletics usually play a big part in the community. So important has athletics grown in higher education that many students and parents can base decisions on which school to attend based partly on the reputation of their sports program. After all, college game days can rank up there with mid-terms examine in many people's minds in terms of importance.
When deciding which college offers the most robust program it often comes down to reputation of the team or family tradition. It is not uncommon to see 3rd or 4th generations of families attend the same school because of school spirit and pride. In some places your last name can be your ticket to joining just about any team you wish based on past performance by family members.
If you want to obtain more information about which school offers exceptional programs you only have to turn as far as the Internet where you can research statistics, program history and variety of programs offered. Many schools even offer summer introductory programs where you can pick up the bat and give a swing with other members from the school team to experience the program first hand.
Teams consist of nine players who use a leather-covered hard ball, a wooden (in the professional game) or aluminum bat, and padded gloves. Additionally, the batter, catcher, and home-plate umpire wear special protective gear. Teams alternate turns in the field and at bat, the home team batting last. One turn at bat for each team constitutes an inning, and nine innings constitute a game. In the field there are a pitcher, a catcher, four infielders, and three outfielders. The pitcher throws overhand, employing a variety of deliveries (fastball, curve, knuckleball, etc.), from the raised pitcher's mound to home plate, a distance of 60.5 ft (18.4 m). An opposing batter attempts to hit the pitches and safely reach base, while the fielders attempt to put the batter out through various plays. A batter who misses three pitches, or fails to swing at three judged hittable, is out on strikes; but if the pitcher first throws four pitches out of the strike zone, the batter obtains a base on balls, or walks to first base. A run is scored every time a batter becomes a runner and crosses home plate after touching each base in the prescribed order. When the fielding team puts out three batters (or runners), the teams exchange places. If the score is tied at the end of nine innings, play continues into extra innings until one team has scored more runs than the other in an equal number of turns at bat."
While Ohio may not immediately come to mind when you think about baseball it does have a number of colleges and universities that offer outstanding sports college programs focusing in on baseball. Whether you are ramping up for a career in the major leagues or just want to try out for the college team while you pursue your degree, athletic departments are often ranked up there with quality of education when it comes to choosing which higher educational institution to pursue your degree at.
Sports and colleges go together. In any region of the country college athletics usually play a big part in the community. So important has athletics grown in higher education that many students and parents can base decisions on which school to attend based partly on the reputation of their sports program. After all, college game days can rank up there with mid-terms examine in many people's minds in terms of importance.
When deciding which college offers the most robust program it often comes down to reputation of the team or family tradition. It is not uncommon to see 3rd or 4th generations of families attend the same school because of school spirit and pride. In some places your last name can be your ticket to joining just about any team you wish based on past performance by family members.
If you want to obtain more information about which school offers exceptional programs you only have to turn as far as the Internet where you can research statistics, program history and variety of programs offered. Many schools even offer summer introductory programs where you can pick up the bat and give a swing with other members from the school team to experience the program first hand.
About the Author:Ian Koch likes to publish College Education Info Resources and related stuff. You can go to the-best-colleges.com for more.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
A Little History of Baseball
by BJ Johnson
Baseball is probably the most watched sport in America today. The way the game is played by two teams are made up of 9 players each. The pitcher will try to pitch the baseball to the hitter or batter. The pitcher is trying to strike out the batter and with three strikes the batter is out, but the batter can hit the ball. The 8 other people playing with the pitcher are the 1st baseman, 2nd baseman, 3rd baseman, shortstop, left fielder, center fielder, right fielder and the catcher who catches the ball that the pitcher throws unless the batter hits the ball.
People will say where the sport was originally started, but the true origin of baseball is here in the good old USA. The game was played here in the early 19th century, but at the time it was all white baseball no other colors could play until 60 and 70 years has come close to where they allowed all players to try and could play if they are good enough.
The National League was formed in 1876 when they start playing baseball. After a greater number of leagues and teams have been added and they began to play more and more of baseball and soon he grew up in what we know today as baseball. With Barry Bonds and Alex Rodriguez hitting home runs every time up to bat, the players are better but the game is always the same. Maybe they need to start making the biggest fields, it makes it more difficult for good players to get a large number of home runs.
After the world wars baseball is a sport around the world and everybody wanted to play. At that time, there were so many teams that they could have a world baseball series that did not start later on the road. There were baseball teams from all over the world, as Puerto Rico, Cuba, Netherlands, Australia, Africa, South Africa, Europe, England, Great Brittan, anywhere you might think as a country, it was a baseball team so how popular baseball was after the world wars ended. If you want to play all you had to be done in the days go try and if you could run and catch the ball with ease and actually hit the ball when you batted going to be on the team.
That's how it was back in those days, they just wanted the players to enable them to each player and other teams have something to talk about it every day. At that time everything that you hear about all day was baseball. Now, today all you hear is news about the war in Iraq and occasionally to talk about baseball. The major speech on baseball at the moment is the question of steroids.
About the Author:
For more baseball information visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baseball. Also for baseball bats visit http://www.justbats.com.
People will say where the sport was originally started, but the true origin of baseball is here in the good old USA. The game was played here in the early 19th century, but at the time it was all white baseball no other colors could play until 60 and 70 years has come close to where they allowed all players to try and could play if they are good enough.
The National League was formed in 1876 when they start playing baseball. After a greater number of leagues and teams have been added and they began to play more and more of baseball and soon he grew up in what we know today as baseball. With Barry Bonds and Alex Rodriguez hitting home runs every time up to bat, the players are better but the game is always the same. Maybe they need to start making the biggest fields, it makes it more difficult for good players to get a large number of home runs.
After the world wars baseball is a sport around the world and everybody wanted to play. At that time, there were so many teams that they could have a world baseball series that did not start later on the road. There were baseball teams from all over the world, as Puerto Rico, Cuba, Netherlands, Australia, Africa, South Africa, Europe, England, Great Brittan, anywhere you might think as a country, it was a baseball team so how popular baseball was after the world wars ended. If you want to play all you had to be done in the days go try and if you could run and catch the ball with ease and actually hit the ball when you batted going to be on the team.
That's how it was back in those days, they just wanted the players to enable them to each player and other teams have something to talk about it every day. At that time everything that you hear about all day was baseball. Now, today all you hear is news about the war in Iraq and occasionally to talk about baseball. The major speech on baseball at the moment is the question of steroids.
About the Author:
For more baseball information visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baseball. Also for baseball bats visit http://www.justbats.com.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
The Experts Guide to Baseball Training
by Jimmy Cox
Batting or putting the wood to the ball, is the key to the success or failure of the ball club and the individual.
There is no great mystery about what makes a boy a good hitter. He has to have:
1.A certain amount of natural ability
2.A mastery of the fundamentals
3.Confidence in his ability to hit
The phrase natural ability covers a great deal. It means strong arms, wrists and hands; quick reflexes, good coordination, perfect eyesight and speed afoot.
Regardless of how much natural ability a boy has, however, he will not hit as well as he should if he does not master the fundamentals and believe in his ability to hit the ball as it comes through the strike zone. Self confidence, of course, stems from success. Moreover, success in batting comes from practice. The following text describes the mechanics of hitting as they apply to ball players in general. By following the principles involved, the well coordinated boy could easily become the batting star of his team; the average boy could certainly become a better than average hitter.
In learning about batting there are some key points you will need to know. These include areas of
The Stance
The Stride
Arm and Hand Positions
The Swing
The stance required depends on the side they favor. If a boy is right handed, he should turn his left side to the pitcher; the right side if left handed.
The body should be fairly erect and relaxed with the weight distributed evenly on both feet. The hips and shoulders should be level. The feet should be shoulder width apart with the toe of the front foot even with the instep of the rear foot. When the ball is being delivered, the batters heels should be up slightly, his knees flexed slightly.
The stride covers how the call should be hit. As the ball is being delivered to the plate, the batter should raise his front foot just above the ground and slide it forward (toward pitcher) about six inches. This step, a critical part of hitting, begins what is generally termed timing. All other movements that are a part of batting flow from it.
Practice with this formula:
Ready?
Step and twist.
Back to starting position.
Again, step and twist. Back.
Step and twist. Back
Arm and hand positions coordinate with both the stance and the stride. Right handed batters: place your left palm against the front of your right shoulder, little finger down, thumb up. Move the left hand forward about six inches and make a fist.
Left handed batters: place your right palm against the front of your left shoulder, little finger down, thumb up. Move the right hand forward about six inches and make a fist.
The elbow of the arm that is now extended across the body should have almost no bend in it and there should be no strain on the arm. This is the arm and hand that guide the bat through the swing. The opposite arm and hand provide the power.
Make a fist with the Power Hand and place it on top of the Guiding Hand.
Raise the elbow of the Power Arm so it is level with the top of the shoulder. There will be some strain there. Drop this elbow slowly until there is no strain. The elbow of the Power Arm should come to a stop about two inches below the top of the shoulder.
Keep elbows and hands away from the body!
There is no great mystery about what makes a boy a good hitter. He has to have:
1.A certain amount of natural ability
2.A mastery of the fundamentals
3.Confidence in his ability to hit
The phrase natural ability covers a great deal. It means strong arms, wrists and hands; quick reflexes, good coordination, perfect eyesight and speed afoot.
Regardless of how much natural ability a boy has, however, he will not hit as well as he should if he does not master the fundamentals and believe in his ability to hit the ball as it comes through the strike zone. Self confidence, of course, stems from success. Moreover, success in batting comes from practice. The following text describes the mechanics of hitting as they apply to ball players in general. By following the principles involved, the well coordinated boy could easily become the batting star of his team; the average boy could certainly become a better than average hitter.
In learning about batting there are some key points you will need to know. These include areas of
The Stance
The Stride
Arm and Hand Positions
The Swing
The stance required depends on the side they favor. If a boy is right handed, he should turn his left side to the pitcher; the right side if left handed.
The body should be fairly erect and relaxed with the weight distributed evenly on both feet. The hips and shoulders should be level. The feet should be shoulder width apart with the toe of the front foot even with the instep of the rear foot. When the ball is being delivered, the batters heels should be up slightly, his knees flexed slightly.
The stride covers how the call should be hit. As the ball is being delivered to the plate, the batter should raise his front foot just above the ground and slide it forward (toward pitcher) about six inches. This step, a critical part of hitting, begins what is generally termed timing. All other movements that are a part of batting flow from it.
Practice with this formula:
Ready?
Step and twist.
Back to starting position.
Again, step and twist. Back.
Step and twist. Back
Arm and hand positions coordinate with both the stance and the stride. Right handed batters: place your left palm against the front of your right shoulder, little finger down, thumb up. Move the left hand forward about six inches and make a fist.
Left handed batters: place your right palm against the front of your left shoulder, little finger down, thumb up. Move the right hand forward about six inches and make a fist.
The elbow of the arm that is now extended across the body should have almost no bend in it and there should be no strain on the arm. This is the arm and hand that guide the bat through the swing. The opposite arm and hand provide the power.
Make a fist with the Power Hand and place it on top of the Guiding Hand.
Raise the elbow of the Power Arm so it is level with the top of the shoulder. There will be some strain there. Drop this elbow slowly until there is no strain. The elbow of the Power Arm should come to a stop about two inches below the top of the shoulder.
Keep elbows and hands away from the body!
About the Author:Tips and Tricks On How To Play Baseball For Boys. These Little Known Secrets Will Have Your Youngster Hitting The Longest Yard Over The Boundary Fence! FREE For A Limited Time http://baseball-training.org
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
How To Play Fantasy Baseball
The first thing you want to do to play fantasy baseball is find, or form, a fantasy baseball league. Ten to twelve teams is usually the norm in a league, though you may have anywhere from four to 24 teams in a given league. Each team in the fantasy league must consist of 23 players. Many of the leagues you will find use only American or National League players, so the number of quality players is limited.
Your team's roster will consist of nine pitchers, five outfielders, two catchers, one player for each of the three bases, a middle infielder, one corner man, and a miscellaneous player (designated hitter in AL based fantasy leagues, utility man in NL based fantasy leagues.
Players: Choosing Your Team
Each owner is given a list of players, and their eligible positions on draft day. There are two methods used to select your team in a fantasy baseball league. One method is the draft method, the other is the auction method.
Draft method- The teams are arranged in a random order. Following this order, owners take turns selecting players until all teams have twenty three players. The draft order is usually reversed for even numbered rounds. Before drafting starts, decide if the league will wipe the slate clean for the next season, or whether it will protect seven to fifteen players.
Auction method- In the auction method, each fantasy baseball team owner will start with 260 units of credit. Owners will take turns opening bids on players. Bidding proceeds, as with a normal auction, until only the highest bidder remains. Bidding will have a minimum increase of one unit of credit. With the auction method, you can force teams to stay under the 260 credit unit salary cap, or allow the purchase of remaining players once the bidding is complete and the owners have their teams completed.
Players and Their Eligibility
A player may play any position that he played in at least 20 major-league games the previous year. If he doesn't have a position that he did play 20 times, he is eligible for the position he played the most often. The player is also allowed to play any position that he may appear in through the season.
How Fantasy Baseball is Scored
Cumulative scoring system-
There are a total of eight categories each team will be scored on. These are batting averages (pitcher excluded), home runs, runs batted, stolen bases, run average, wins, saves, and WHIP (Walks and Hits divided by total Innings Pitched). At the end of the season, each team is ranked from first to last in each category. In a ten team league, first place in each category will receive ten points. Second place receives nine, so on and so forth. The champion of the league is determined by the highest score at the end of the year.
Head to head scoring system-
Based on the same eight categories, teams play a game each week with another franchise. Each team will receive a point for each category they win, and ties are thrown away. Alternatively, teams can receive two points for wins, and one point for ties. If tied games will not be allowed to stand, strikeouts, doubles, runs, triples, and home team wins are excellent tie breaking categories.
Your team's roster will consist of nine pitchers, five outfielders, two catchers, one player for each of the three bases, a middle infielder, one corner man, and a miscellaneous player (designated hitter in AL based fantasy leagues, utility man in NL based fantasy leagues.
Players: Choosing Your Team
Each owner is given a list of players, and their eligible positions on draft day. There are two methods used to select your team in a fantasy baseball league. One method is the draft method, the other is the auction method.
Draft method- The teams are arranged in a random order. Following this order, owners take turns selecting players until all teams have twenty three players. The draft order is usually reversed for even numbered rounds. Before drafting starts, decide if the league will wipe the slate clean for the next season, or whether it will protect seven to fifteen players.
Auction method- In the auction method, each fantasy baseball team owner will start with 260 units of credit. Owners will take turns opening bids on players. Bidding proceeds, as with a normal auction, until only the highest bidder remains. Bidding will have a minimum increase of one unit of credit. With the auction method, you can force teams to stay under the 260 credit unit salary cap, or allow the purchase of remaining players once the bidding is complete and the owners have their teams completed.
Players and Their Eligibility
A player may play any position that he played in at least 20 major-league games the previous year. If he doesn't have a position that he did play 20 times, he is eligible for the position he played the most often. The player is also allowed to play any position that he may appear in through the season.
How Fantasy Baseball is Scored
Cumulative scoring system-
There are a total of eight categories each team will be scored on. These are batting averages (pitcher excluded), home runs, runs batted, stolen bases, run average, wins, saves, and WHIP (Walks and Hits divided by total Innings Pitched). At the end of the season, each team is ranked from first to last in each category. In a ten team league, first place in each category will receive ten points. Second place receives nine, so on and so forth. The champion of the league is determined by the highest score at the end of the year.
Head to head scoring system-
Based on the same eight categories, teams play a game each week with another franchise. Each team will receive a point for each category they win, and ties are thrown away. Alternatively, teams can receive two points for wins, and one point for ties. If tied games will not be allowed to stand, strikeouts, doubles, runs, triples, and home team wins are excellent tie breaking categories.
About the Author:Billy is a contributer to the Big Show Baseball MLB News & Opinion Blog which includes a page on Fantasy Baseball
Monday, July 14, 2008
Babe Ruth Baseball Cards, Still A Good Investment?
The legend of Babe Ruth is still just as much alive today than it was during his reign of baseball in the early 1900's. There isn't a baseball fanatic, or baseball cards collector in the world that would not want to get their hands on an official Babe Ruth baseball card, and he continues to have die-hard fans that weren't even thought of being born when he was hitting home runs.
Babe Ruth, born in Baltimore Maryland was actually named George Herman Ruth Jr., but became known by many names including The Great Bambino, The Home Run King, and The Sultan of Swat. His record speaks for itself with 714 home runs which remained unbeatable by baseball players to follow for an astounding 39 years. He was born to Kate Schamberger-Ruth and George Herman Ruth, Sr., but did not live out his entire childhood with them. They worked long hours, and when Babe Ruth was seven years old his father took him to St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys and gave them custody of him. There, he didn't conform well to their rigid environment. Family visiting days were not even highlights he could look forward to because his family didn't come to visit.
As you can see, his father was not to be thanked for enhancing his then, unreal baseball abilities. The man who has the right to that claim is Brother Matthias of the St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys, who eventually became a father figure of sorts. He played on the school's baseball team, starting out as a catcher, and then given the chance to play the pitcher's position. His talent was evident. Babe Ruth was signed to the Baltimore Orioles at the age of 19 by their owner, Jack Dunn. It was during this time that he obtained the nick name Babe, because people viewed him as "Jack's newest babe"... Jack Dunn had the reputation as a top scout at that time. The Orioles were a Boston Red Sox minor league team, but Ruth's contract was bought out by the Red Sox after playing on the Orioles for only five months. He was now playing with the big boys in the major league.
Babe Ruth is, of course, mostly known for his amazing batting talent. However, for the first six years on the Boston Red Sox he was a pitcher. He set unbelievable records, in both pitching and batting positions in the years to follow. Good times rolled for the Red Sox until 1919, when Harry Frazee became the new owner of the team and chose to sell Ruth to the Ney York Yankees. What did he get in return for handing over the legend in this transaction? Ruth was sold for $100,000 and a $350,000 loan that Frazee in turn used to finance his Broadway productions dream.
It was this turn of events that led to the "Curse of the Bambino". The Yankees experienced tremendous victories, while the Red Sox wouldn't earn a World Series title again until many years later in 2004. The legend of Babe Ruth will always carry on, and the Curse will always be felt in the heart of Red Sox fans. Therefore, Babe Ruth baseball cards will always be highly sought after.
Babe Ruth, born in Baltimore Maryland was actually named George Herman Ruth Jr., but became known by many names including The Great Bambino, The Home Run King, and The Sultan of Swat. His record speaks for itself with 714 home runs which remained unbeatable by baseball players to follow for an astounding 39 years. He was born to Kate Schamberger-Ruth and George Herman Ruth, Sr., but did not live out his entire childhood with them. They worked long hours, and when Babe Ruth was seven years old his father took him to St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys and gave them custody of him. There, he didn't conform well to their rigid environment. Family visiting days were not even highlights he could look forward to because his family didn't come to visit.
As you can see, his father was not to be thanked for enhancing his then, unreal baseball abilities. The man who has the right to that claim is Brother Matthias of the St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys, who eventually became a father figure of sorts. He played on the school's baseball team, starting out as a catcher, and then given the chance to play the pitcher's position. His talent was evident. Babe Ruth was signed to the Baltimore Orioles at the age of 19 by their owner, Jack Dunn. It was during this time that he obtained the nick name Babe, because people viewed him as "Jack's newest babe"... Jack Dunn had the reputation as a top scout at that time. The Orioles were a Boston Red Sox minor league team, but Ruth's contract was bought out by the Red Sox after playing on the Orioles for only five months. He was now playing with the big boys in the major league.
Babe Ruth is, of course, mostly known for his amazing batting talent. However, for the first six years on the Boston Red Sox he was a pitcher. He set unbelievable records, in both pitching and batting positions in the years to follow. Good times rolled for the Red Sox until 1919, when Harry Frazee became the new owner of the team and chose to sell Ruth to the Ney York Yankees. What did he get in return for handing over the legend in this transaction? Ruth was sold for $100,000 and a $350,000 loan that Frazee in turn used to finance his Broadway productions dream.
It was this turn of events that led to the "Curse of the Bambino". The Yankees experienced tremendous victories, while the Red Sox wouldn't earn a World Series title again until many years later in 2004. The legend of Babe Ruth will always carry on, and the Curse will always be felt in the heart of Red Sox fans. Therefore, Babe Ruth baseball cards will always be highly sought after.
About the Author:Find more information about Babe Ruth baseball cards. Veronica Davis is a full time freelance writer. You can find out more about her at http://www.vgal.info/
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Better Youth Baseball Gloves
by Scott White
A good ball glove can have a big effect on youth's enjoyment of playing baseball and even about whether baseball is a worthwhile sport for them to participate in. Kids could be playing many other sports, and in fact, participation in basketball and soccer is growing fast in the US. There's no better summer sport or pastime than baseball though. It has a rich American tradition that other sports don't possess and that's an important part of your own child's sports experience.
Baseball is a game that is dependent on equipment though, and if the equipment is poor quality or in doesn't suit the kids using them, it can dampen their enthusiasm for little league baseball. It's important to buy youth baseball gloves for your child, not small adult baseball gloves which will discourage your youngster.
They had poor equipment back in the old days, including rotted out or horribly stiff leather gloves. Some would actually throw the glove down and try to catch with their bare hands. It may not be that bad today, but in visiting your local sporting goods store, you've probably wondered about the quality of the gloves on the store shelves. Some are weird shapes and feel uncomfortable and the selection is many times limited.
The Good Old Days
Have you ever wondered whether baseball glove manufacturers are producing better ball gloves now than in decades past? Well, if you happen to have an old baseball glove still around and compare it to modern youth baseball gloves, you'll notice a big difference. Those old gloves didn't make catching and fielding easy for infielders, outfielders and especially catchers. You actually had to have some outstanding athletic skills and knowledge of catching to make a catch. In those days, you used both hands to catch a ball because you had to.
That's not to say these new gloves are suited to the ball player that's using them. These kids range in physical size greatly, and play different positions. The child that has a new, well-fitted glove is going to catch the ball better and play with a lot more confidence.
Young ball players with their metal bats are hitting the ball hard, so infielders and outfielders need good gloves just to catch them, let alone throw the runner out at first. We shouldn't just assume that any glove would do for our child. Each youngster has their own level of coordination and confidence, along with their own style and preferences, and fortunately, there are so many types and styles of gloves available now, that you should be able to find one they like. You don't see kids get hurt often but it does happen and it will happen more often with the child that feels uncomfortable with the baseball equipment they're using.
Bad Bounces
Last week, while watching a youth baseball game (11 year olds) a batter hit a ball hard up the middle, fortunately missing the pitcher. The ball hit the side of the mound and bounced up to hit the base umpire in the shoulder. She was hurt and lay on the ground several minutes before getting up. That highlighted well, the speed the balls are reaching and that the young infielder playing with awkward baseball glove is going to playing with fear. Yes, some fear is good, as it keeps them sharp and makes the game exciting, but too much fear and they're going to get discouraged.
Many of the kids on these teams have gloves that are too small, and overwhelmingly, you see their reluctance to catch well-hit grounders. They generally wave at it going by them and sigh in relief that it wasn't hit right at them. One youngster in the outfield ran to make a diving catch only to have the ball pop out of his glove. They used to see that if your glove touched a ball, you should have caught it and it is an error for you. When a ball is in your glove, it should stay in there. In this kid's case, the ball was clearly in his glove and yet it popped out. The reason for that is that the glove didn't fit his hand and the web wouldn't close tightly.
He walked dejectedly back to centerfield, his position, and cursed at himself for dropping it. It was like a scene out of a Charlie Brown episode. If he'd hung onto that ball, he would have been walking on clouds and be the pride of the team. I don't have to tell you how important peer pressure is with kids these days and when kids never catch the ball, it can deflate the team and even the crowd of parents watching the game. Sometimes, it's downright torture to watch a ball game if the kids can't catch or throw properly.
Young pitchers too, can have trouble throwing strikes, and after walking batter after batter, you can sense disappointment. The glove on the pitcher's hand acts as a counterbalance when throwing and if it doesn't feel comfortable for him, you may be in for a long inning.
A fair number of kids come from homes that can't afford a new glove every year and they may not be able to afford baseball shoes. If there's one piece of equipment you need to focus on for youth baseball players, it has to be the glove. Your child is out there standing for half of the game, with this glove on their hand. If it's uncomfortable, and doesn't fit, that has to take some of the enjoyment out of it.
There's a mind-boggling array of youth baseball brands out there to choose from Rawling, Mizuno, Wilson, Spalding, Rawlings, Nokona, Akadema, Kelly, Nike, Louisville, SSK and more. The problem with many of these big brand names is not only the inflated prices associated with these brands, it's the weight and stiffness of the gloves. The materials and the stitching are sewn well enough. They aren't designed with kids in mind who after all, don't have time to break the glove in. Within one year, they will have likely outgrown the glove, so what's the point of buying a glove like that? The glove ends up unused in a closet or on the garage floor becoming a nuisance object.
Baseball is a game that is dependent on equipment though, and if the equipment is poor quality or in doesn't suit the kids using them, it can dampen their enthusiasm for little league baseball. It's important to buy youth baseball gloves for your child, not small adult baseball gloves which will discourage your youngster.
They had poor equipment back in the old days, including rotted out or horribly stiff leather gloves. Some would actually throw the glove down and try to catch with their bare hands. It may not be that bad today, but in visiting your local sporting goods store, you've probably wondered about the quality of the gloves on the store shelves. Some are weird shapes and feel uncomfortable and the selection is many times limited.
The Good Old Days
Have you ever wondered whether baseball glove manufacturers are producing better ball gloves now than in decades past? Well, if you happen to have an old baseball glove still around and compare it to modern youth baseball gloves, you'll notice a big difference. Those old gloves didn't make catching and fielding easy for infielders, outfielders and especially catchers. You actually had to have some outstanding athletic skills and knowledge of catching to make a catch. In those days, you used both hands to catch a ball because you had to.
That's not to say these new gloves are suited to the ball player that's using them. These kids range in physical size greatly, and play different positions. The child that has a new, well-fitted glove is going to catch the ball better and play with a lot more confidence.
Young ball players with their metal bats are hitting the ball hard, so infielders and outfielders need good gloves just to catch them, let alone throw the runner out at first. We shouldn't just assume that any glove would do for our child. Each youngster has their own level of coordination and confidence, along with their own style and preferences, and fortunately, there are so many types and styles of gloves available now, that you should be able to find one they like. You don't see kids get hurt often but it does happen and it will happen more often with the child that feels uncomfortable with the baseball equipment they're using.
Bad Bounces
Last week, while watching a youth baseball game (11 year olds) a batter hit a ball hard up the middle, fortunately missing the pitcher. The ball hit the side of the mound and bounced up to hit the base umpire in the shoulder. She was hurt and lay on the ground several minutes before getting up. That highlighted well, the speed the balls are reaching and that the young infielder playing with awkward baseball glove is going to playing with fear. Yes, some fear is good, as it keeps them sharp and makes the game exciting, but too much fear and they're going to get discouraged.
Many of the kids on these teams have gloves that are too small, and overwhelmingly, you see their reluctance to catch well-hit grounders. They generally wave at it going by them and sigh in relief that it wasn't hit right at them. One youngster in the outfield ran to make a diving catch only to have the ball pop out of his glove. They used to see that if your glove touched a ball, you should have caught it and it is an error for you. When a ball is in your glove, it should stay in there. In this kid's case, the ball was clearly in his glove and yet it popped out. The reason for that is that the glove didn't fit his hand and the web wouldn't close tightly.
He walked dejectedly back to centerfield, his position, and cursed at himself for dropping it. It was like a scene out of a Charlie Brown episode. If he'd hung onto that ball, he would have been walking on clouds and be the pride of the team. I don't have to tell you how important peer pressure is with kids these days and when kids never catch the ball, it can deflate the team and even the crowd of parents watching the game. Sometimes, it's downright torture to watch a ball game if the kids can't catch or throw properly.
Young pitchers too, can have trouble throwing strikes, and after walking batter after batter, you can sense disappointment. The glove on the pitcher's hand acts as a counterbalance when throwing and if it doesn't feel comfortable for him, you may be in for a long inning.
A fair number of kids come from homes that can't afford a new glove every year and they may not be able to afford baseball shoes. If there's one piece of equipment you need to focus on for youth baseball players, it has to be the glove. Your child is out there standing for half of the game, with this glove on their hand. If it's uncomfortable, and doesn't fit, that has to take some of the enjoyment out of it.
There's a mind-boggling array of youth baseball brands out there to choose from Rawling, Mizuno, Wilson, Spalding, Rawlings, Nokona, Akadema, Kelly, Nike, Louisville, SSK and more. The problem with many of these big brand names is not only the inflated prices associated with these brands, it's the weight and stiffness of the gloves. The materials and the stitching are sewn well enough. They aren't designed with kids in mind who after all, don't have time to break the glove in. Within one year, they will have likely outgrown the glove, so what's the point of buying a glove like that? The glove ends up unused in a closet or on the garage floor becoming a nuisance object.
About the Author:kidsportsinc.com's selection of youth baseball gloves and youth baseball equipment is outstanding. They are the place to buy children and youth's baseball gloves.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Dice Sports Games That Are Fun; The Baseball Game
by John Dejong
This is the third installment in a world of incredibly fun sports games played with dice. In the first installment I taught you how to play the college version of Dice Football. Then in the second you learned the Pro Football dice game. Now it is Dice Baseball, which is the first dice game that I ever invented. Just as in my football games you will need two dice, notebook paper and a pen or pencil to play dice baseball.
You will recall that in the college football game you got your box score set up so that you can begin the game and just take turns for four quarters. In the baseball game you will have to make a box score sheet that has nine boxes split in half. These two halves represent the home team and the visitors. Remember that in baseball the home team always bats last and should be on the bottom of the two box halves.
As in real baseball each team rolls for nine innings. The exception of course is the home team. If the home team is winning after the visitor has finished his half of the ninth, then there is no need for the home boys to roll the ninth. Just like in real baseball the game is over and the dice can hit the showers.
Batting is pretty simple. Each team gets to start their half of an inning by rolling the dice once. If the two die total an even number then they can roll again. That is because even dice totals equal one single. An even dice total will be one of the following combinations; 1+3=4, 1+5=6, 2+4=6, 2+6=8, 3+5=8, 4+6=10. If the next roll yields an even number then there has been another hit. Now in baseball terms this means that there are, two men on base. The rolling player now gets a third roll. As you can see where this is going, another even number means that the bases are loaded. A fourth consecutive even dice result will bring home the first run and each consecutive roll will continue to bring home runners until the roller finally rolls an odd dice total.
Any odd dice total represents the end of an inning. Thus, if a player rolls an odd number on his first roll, then that inning is over. The odd dice totals are as follows; 1+2=3, 1+4=5, 1+6=7, 2+3=5, 2+5=7, 3+4=7, 3+6=9, 4+5=9, 5+6=11. A really cool thing to do during this game is to see if you can get a no-hit game. You can do this by simply putting a dot in the innings that a player rolls an odd number. You can start this on their initial first inning roll. Each consecutive inning thereafter that the player continues to perform a first odd roll continues the no-hitter up until the player finally rolls an even number. If they fail to roll at least one even number in nine innings that means you pitched a no-hitter. Time to call Cooperstown!
So where are the homeruns? I bet you are glad that I asked. Any time a player rolls a double-dice roll, he has hit a Homerun! That is all that it takes; doubles aka, two of a kind. Better yet, if there are any men on base then they score with the homerun. Yes, with the bases loaded a homerun is a grand slam.
This is an example of how the baseball game can be played. Let us say the visitors roll a 2+3 on his initial first inning roll. The visitors inning is considered over and with no hits. The home team rolls a 4+6 (10) on the first roll. That represents a base hit or one man on base. The home player then rolls a 3+5 (8) thus getting a second man on base. Then he rolls a 1+4 (5). The inning is over. End result of the first inning is 0 to 0.
The visitor starts his second inning with a pair of threes (3+3). Boom, he hit a homerun. He then rolls a 2+5 (7), which means the inning is over. The visitor has scored a run in their half of the second and leads the game, 1 to 0. The home team starts with a 2+4 (6) single. Then on the next roll the home player rolls a pair of fours (4+4). The home player has hit a two run homerun since there was a man already on base. The next roll is a 3+4 (7) out and that ends the second inning with the home team ahead, 2-1.
Now for the rest of the game neither team scores again until the ninth inning when the visitor strings together six consecutive even numbers before rolling the inevitable odd number. That means the visitor scored three runs and now leads the game, 4-2. Then the home team follows with three consecutive rolls of doubles (homeruns); which means they won the game, 5-4. What a comeback!
If the score ends in a tie after nine innings then just keep playing one inning at a time until someone finally wins. That is what baseball calls, extra-innings. In the next article I will attempt to teach you about the college basketball dice games. Till then, keep on rolling.
You will recall that in the college football game you got your box score set up so that you can begin the game and just take turns for four quarters. In the baseball game you will have to make a box score sheet that has nine boxes split in half. These two halves represent the home team and the visitors. Remember that in baseball the home team always bats last and should be on the bottom of the two box halves.
As in real baseball each team rolls for nine innings. The exception of course is the home team. If the home team is winning after the visitor has finished his half of the ninth, then there is no need for the home boys to roll the ninth. Just like in real baseball the game is over and the dice can hit the showers.
Batting is pretty simple. Each team gets to start their half of an inning by rolling the dice once. If the two die total an even number then they can roll again. That is because even dice totals equal one single. An even dice total will be one of the following combinations; 1+3=4, 1+5=6, 2+4=6, 2+6=8, 3+5=8, 4+6=10. If the next roll yields an even number then there has been another hit. Now in baseball terms this means that there are, two men on base. The rolling player now gets a third roll. As you can see where this is going, another even number means that the bases are loaded. A fourth consecutive even dice result will bring home the first run and each consecutive roll will continue to bring home runners until the roller finally rolls an odd dice total.
Any odd dice total represents the end of an inning. Thus, if a player rolls an odd number on his first roll, then that inning is over. The odd dice totals are as follows; 1+2=3, 1+4=5, 1+6=7, 2+3=5, 2+5=7, 3+4=7, 3+6=9, 4+5=9, 5+6=11. A really cool thing to do during this game is to see if you can get a no-hit game. You can do this by simply putting a dot in the innings that a player rolls an odd number. You can start this on their initial first inning roll. Each consecutive inning thereafter that the player continues to perform a first odd roll continues the no-hitter up until the player finally rolls an even number. If they fail to roll at least one even number in nine innings that means you pitched a no-hitter. Time to call Cooperstown!
So where are the homeruns? I bet you are glad that I asked. Any time a player rolls a double-dice roll, he has hit a Homerun! That is all that it takes; doubles aka, two of a kind. Better yet, if there are any men on base then they score with the homerun. Yes, with the bases loaded a homerun is a grand slam.
This is an example of how the baseball game can be played. Let us say the visitors roll a 2+3 on his initial first inning roll. The visitors inning is considered over and with no hits. The home team rolls a 4+6 (10) on the first roll. That represents a base hit or one man on base. The home player then rolls a 3+5 (8) thus getting a second man on base. Then he rolls a 1+4 (5). The inning is over. End result of the first inning is 0 to 0.
The visitor starts his second inning with a pair of threes (3+3). Boom, he hit a homerun. He then rolls a 2+5 (7), which means the inning is over. The visitor has scored a run in their half of the second and leads the game, 1 to 0. The home team starts with a 2+4 (6) single. Then on the next roll the home player rolls a pair of fours (4+4). The home player has hit a two run homerun since there was a man already on base. The next roll is a 3+4 (7) out and that ends the second inning with the home team ahead, 2-1.
Now for the rest of the game neither team scores again until the ninth inning when the visitor strings together six consecutive even numbers before rolling the inevitable odd number. That means the visitor scored three runs and now leads the game, 4-2. Then the home team follows with three consecutive rolls of doubles (homeruns); which means they won the game, 5-4. What a comeback!
If the score ends in a tie after nine innings then just keep playing one inning at a time until someone finally wins. That is what baseball calls, extra-innings. In the next article I will attempt to teach you about the college basketball dice games. Till then, keep on rolling.
About the Author:John DeJong is the lead creative designer for NotMeUSA. He has been writing humorous advertisements for over twenty-five years. All of the funny t-shirts, pill bottles, and gag spray bottles were created by him.You can view these by visiting him at NotMeUSA
Friday, July 11, 2008
Dr. Stat's Fantasy Baseball Waiver Prescription
The Doctor is in! Here is my weekly showcase of players who are most likely available in your league and could be valuable to your team.
HITTERS
Delmon Young: OF, Minnesota Twins After showing so much promise in his first full season (.288/13/93), Young has struggled since being traded to Minnesota. Not only has he yet to hit a home run, and he's had difficulty reaching base altogether. That said, the former first overall pick is showing signs of finally getting it going. His average is .270, and this week saw him have a three doubles game against the Yankees on Monday and another 2-hit night on Friday. His OPS has jumped a full point in the last month, and last week he hit .321 and had 5 RBIs. Fantasy Diagnosis: His issue all season has been consistentcy, so this is hopefully the start. He's proven he can hit and be a valuable fantasy player, and I fully expect him to do so again over the rest of the season.
Alexi Casilla: 2B/SS, Minnesota Twins If you've never heard of Casilla, he had a cup of coffee in the majors last year, hitting .222 with no home runs and 9 RBIs in 56 games. He was struggling in AAA-Rochester this season, until an injury to Nick Punto gave Casilla another chance, which he's taken full advantage of. In 70 at-bats, he wass hitting .347 with 3 HRs, 18 RBIs, 14 runs and 2 stolen bases. He's on an eight game hitting streak and has hit in 16 of his last 18 games. Fantasy Diagnosis: If you're in need of a middle infielder, or one of your current ones just isn't getting it done, Casilla is well-worth your consideration. He'll boost your batting average and give you runs and the occasional stolen base. Think of him along the lines of a Luis Castillo-type player. While it remains to be seen what Casilla can do over a whole season, you really have nothing to lose by giving him a chance.
Ben Francisco: OF, Cleveland Indians Who's the only Indians player hitting over .300? That would be rookie outfielder Ben Francisco. Nevermind his name sounds like a pasta dish and makes you want to say it with an Italian accent. After getting called up in late April, Francisco has quietly put together some very fantasy-worthy numbers. In 30 games, he's hitting .330 with 3 HRs, 17 RBIs, 14 runs and 2 stolen bases. His .OPS is over .900, and he hit .407 and drove in 5 runs last week.
Fantasy Diagnosis: Francisco is a great option as a third or fourth OF. So far, what's there not to like about him? If you don't pick him up, someone else in your league most likely will soon.
Fred Lewis: OF, San Francisco Giants Lewis made a good first impression last season, but got off to a slow start this season. His numbers (.273/4/14) are hardly anything to give a second glance, but he has 38 runs and 11 stolen bases. He's hit .310 over his last ten games, so hopefully his average will continue to rise. As it does, the rest of the numbers will come. His home ballpark hurts him, but the Giants offense has been much better than expected.
Fantasy Diagnosis: Unless you're desperate for runs and/or steals, I'd wait and see. This is his first full season in the majors, but he's shown some promise.
Rod Barajas: C, Toronto Blue Jays
After the top eight or so catchers, you often wonder if it's even worth having one on your fantasy team. They drag down your average, hit for little power and don't drive in many runs. Thus, it's important to note when a catcher gets hot like Barajas has. His current numbers (.297/5/19) are boosted by his recent 16-game tear, in which he hit .392 with 3 HRs and 13 RBIs. In fact, over the last month, only Benji Molina had better numbers at the catcher position, and Barajas led all catchers with a 1.126 OPS.
Fantasy Diagnosis: He's a career .242 hitter and typically a player who's almost worthless in fantasy, but if you didn't draft one of the top catchers or yours is not producing, Barajas is your man. At worst, you can ride out his hot streak, and then drop him.
Mark Teahen: 1B/OF, Kansas City Royals At first glance, Teahen's .258 average steers fantasy owners away almost immediately. Yet he hit .304 and homered in three straight games this week, and he's hit in 9 of his last 10 games.
Fantasy Diagnosis: After hitting 18 HRs in 2006, Teahen hit just 7 last season. He's career batting average is 15 points higher after the All-Star Break than before, while his OPS is 66 points higher. June has always been his best month (career .295 hitter), so now is the time to pick him up. Just don't expect gaudy numbers.
PITCHERS
Manny Parra: SP, Milwaukee Brewers
In his last two starts (13 combined innings), Parra is 2-0, has allowed 2 runs on 8 hits and has struck out 14. Both starts came at home, where he's been remarkably better this season. His ERA at home is 2.90, but it's 6.95 on the road. He hasn't lost since May 3, and is 3-0 with a 3.12 ERA and 31 Ks over the last month.
Fantasy Diagnosis: Pretty self-explanatory. He'll help you when he pitches at home, and kill you when he pitches on the road. Thus, if you pick him up, don't start him away from Milwaukee.
Josh Banks: SP, San Diego Padres Who? He's so fresh, I couldn't even find a picture of him in a Padres uniform. You've most likely never heard of Josh Banks, but he's quickly become a name you should know. With three of the Padres starting pitchers on the DL, Banks got the call and answered it with stellar numbers. Up until Thursday night, he'd pitched in just three games, but hadn't allowed a run and had struck out 10 in 17 innings. On Thursday against the Mets, he gave up 1 run in 6 innings, walking none and striking out 3.
Fantasy Diagnosis: No matter how young or inexperienced he is, 2-0 with a 0.39 ERA in 23 innings is nothing to sneeze at. My biggest concern is the Padres lack of ability to score runs. That said, his fantasy value is questionable. He most likely won't get many wins and his K/BB ratio isn't great, but he'll help you in ERA and WHIP. Tread cautiously.
Jonathan Sanchez: SP, San Francisco Giants After the imploded Zito, hard-luck Cain and lights-out Lincecum, no Giants starting pitchers are worth anything in fantasy, right? Wrong. Let me introduce you to Jonathan Sanchez. Because of his 4-3 record, 4.08 ERA and general lack of run support, Sanchez is still a free agent in some leagues. The Giants organization has been high on this kid for several years, and this season Sanchez is showing us why. He's tied for 10th in baseball with 71 Ks, and has given up just 2 runs in each of his last 4 starts.
Fantasy Diagnosis: If he can bring his walks down (36 in 68.1 innings), and subsequently lower his WHIP (1.43), Sanchez's value will go up. If you need strikeouts and Sanchez is available, pick him up.
Ricky Nolasco: SP, Florida Marlins He hasn't lost since May 3 and has given up just 9 combined runs over his last 5 starts. He's 4-0 in that stretch, lowering his ERA from 5.35 to 4.48.
Fantasy Diagnosis: His K/BB ratio is only 1.72, but he's pitching well and getting wins. More importantly, the Marlins have scored 6+ runs in four of his last five starts. Over the last month, he's 4-0 with a 2.76 ERA. Nolasco is definitely worth picking up if you've got pitchers on the DL or struggle in the wins category.
Jose Contreras: SP, Chicago White Sox Contreras is a mystery. After going 10-17 with a 5.57 ERA last season, he's 5-3 with a 2.89 ERA this season. He's allowed only one run in six of his 11 starts. An interesting note is that since he first came to the majors, he's never put together good back-to-back seasons. His good seasons (2003, 2005) are always followed by bad seasons (2004, 2006, 2007). It's crazy, but apparently it's time for Contreras to have another good season, as he's on pace for his best one yet.
Fantasy Diagnosis: The only reason he's still a free agent in many leagues is that fantasy owners don't believe he can keep it up. The way he is pitching, give him a chance. However, if he begins to blow up, drop him faster than Tony Romo did Jessica Simpson. Like Simpson, he'll be your sweetheart for a while, but deserves to be shown the door when he starts costing your team wins.
Keep An Eye On
Alexei Ramirez: 2B/OF, Chicago White Sox Ozzie Guillen refers to him as "the Missile". He's raised his average from .194 to .275 in two weeks. He's hit .329 over the past month, and last week he hit .391 with 2 HRs and 5 RBIs.
Fantasy Diagnosis: He's taken over Juan Uribe's starting spot and doesn't appear to be going anywhere. In shallow leagues, he doesn't warrant your attention just yet, but keep an eye on him. In deep leagues, especially those with multiple IF positions, Ramirez deserves your consideration.
Sean Gallagher: SP, Chicago Cubs
He got called up in early May and entered the rotation shortly after. In his last 4 starts, he's 3-1, twice giving up only 1 run. His 4.55 ERA is due to two bad outings, but he went 6 innings in his last start, giving up 3 runs and striking out 8.
Fantasy Diagnosis: He's young (22) and inconsistent, but you know he'll get run support. Watch his next few starts carefully, as they will help to better determine his fantasy value.
HITTERS
Delmon Young: OF, Minnesota Twins After showing so much promise in his first full season (.288/13/93), Young has struggled since being traded to Minnesota. Not only has he yet to hit a home run, and he's had difficulty reaching base altogether. That said, the former first overall pick is showing signs of finally getting it going. His average is .270, and this week saw him have a three doubles game against the Yankees on Monday and another 2-hit night on Friday. His OPS has jumped a full point in the last month, and last week he hit .321 and had 5 RBIs. Fantasy Diagnosis: His issue all season has been consistentcy, so this is hopefully the start. He's proven he can hit and be a valuable fantasy player, and I fully expect him to do so again over the rest of the season.
Alexi Casilla: 2B/SS, Minnesota Twins If you've never heard of Casilla, he had a cup of coffee in the majors last year, hitting .222 with no home runs and 9 RBIs in 56 games. He was struggling in AAA-Rochester this season, until an injury to Nick Punto gave Casilla another chance, which he's taken full advantage of. In 70 at-bats, he wass hitting .347 with 3 HRs, 18 RBIs, 14 runs and 2 stolen bases. He's on an eight game hitting streak and has hit in 16 of his last 18 games. Fantasy Diagnosis: If you're in need of a middle infielder, or one of your current ones just isn't getting it done, Casilla is well-worth your consideration. He'll boost your batting average and give you runs and the occasional stolen base. Think of him along the lines of a Luis Castillo-type player. While it remains to be seen what Casilla can do over a whole season, you really have nothing to lose by giving him a chance.
Ben Francisco: OF, Cleveland Indians Who's the only Indians player hitting over .300? That would be rookie outfielder Ben Francisco. Nevermind his name sounds like a pasta dish and makes you want to say it with an Italian accent. After getting called up in late April, Francisco has quietly put together some very fantasy-worthy numbers. In 30 games, he's hitting .330 with 3 HRs, 17 RBIs, 14 runs and 2 stolen bases. His .OPS is over .900, and he hit .407 and drove in 5 runs last week.
Fantasy Diagnosis: Francisco is a great option as a third or fourth OF. So far, what's there not to like about him? If you don't pick him up, someone else in your league most likely will soon.
Fred Lewis: OF, San Francisco Giants Lewis made a good first impression last season, but got off to a slow start this season. His numbers (.273/4/14) are hardly anything to give a second glance, but he has 38 runs and 11 stolen bases. He's hit .310 over his last ten games, so hopefully his average will continue to rise. As it does, the rest of the numbers will come. His home ballpark hurts him, but the Giants offense has been much better than expected.
Fantasy Diagnosis: Unless you're desperate for runs and/or steals, I'd wait and see. This is his first full season in the majors, but he's shown some promise.
Rod Barajas: C, Toronto Blue Jays
After the top eight or so catchers, you often wonder if it's even worth having one on your fantasy team. They drag down your average, hit for little power and don't drive in many runs. Thus, it's important to note when a catcher gets hot like Barajas has. His current numbers (.297/5/19) are boosted by his recent 16-game tear, in which he hit .392 with 3 HRs and 13 RBIs. In fact, over the last month, only Benji Molina had better numbers at the catcher position, and Barajas led all catchers with a 1.126 OPS.
Fantasy Diagnosis: He's a career .242 hitter and typically a player who's almost worthless in fantasy, but if you didn't draft one of the top catchers or yours is not producing, Barajas is your man. At worst, you can ride out his hot streak, and then drop him.
Mark Teahen: 1B/OF, Kansas City Royals At first glance, Teahen's .258 average steers fantasy owners away almost immediately. Yet he hit .304 and homered in three straight games this week, and he's hit in 9 of his last 10 games.
Fantasy Diagnosis: After hitting 18 HRs in 2006, Teahen hit just 7 last season. He's career batting average is 15 points higher after the All-Star Break than before, while his OPS is 66 points higher. June has always been his best month (career .295 hitter), so now is the time to pick him up. Just don't expect gaudy numbers.
PITCHERS
Manny Parra: SP, Milwaukee Brewers
In his last two starts (13 combined innings), Parra is 2-0, has allowed 2 runs on 8 hits and has struck out 14. Both starts came at home, where he's been remarkably better this season. His ERA at home is 2.90, but it's 6.95 on the road. He hasn't lost since May 3, and is 3-0 with a 3.12 ERA and 31 Ks over the last month.
Fantasy Diagnosis: Pretty self-explanatory. He'll help you when he pitches at home, and kill you when he pitches on the road. Thus, if you pick him up, don't start him away from Milwaukee.
Josh Banks: SP, San Diego Padres Who? He's so fresh, I couldn't even find a picture of him in a Padres uniform. You've most likely never heard of Josh Banks, but he's quickly become a name you should know. With three of the Padres starting pitchers on the DL, Banks got the call and answered it with stellar numbers. Up until Thursday night, he'd pitched in just three games, but hadn't allowed a run and had struck out 10 in 17 innings. On Thursday against the Mets, he gave up 1 run in 6 innings, walking none and striking out 3.
Fantasy Diagnosis: No matter how young or inexperienced he is, 2-0 with a 0.39 ERA in 23 innings is nothing to sneeze at. My biggest concern is the Padres lack of ability to score runs. That said, his fantasy value is questionable. He most likely won't get many wins and his K/BB ratio isn't great, but he'll help you in ERA and WHIP. Tread cautiously.
Jonathan Sanchez: SP, San Francisco Giants After the imploded Zito, hard-luck Cain and lights-out Lincecum, no Giants starting pitchers are worth anything in fantasy, right? Wrong. Let me introduce you to Jonathan Sanchez. Because of his 4-3 record, 4.08 ERA and general lack of run support, Sanchez is still a free agent in some leagues. The Giants organization has been high on this kid for several years, and this season Sanchez is showing us why. He's tied for 10th in baseball with 71 Ks, and has given up just 2 runs in each of his last 4 starts.
Fantasy Diagnosis: If he can bring his walks down (36 in 68.1 innings), and subsequently lower his WHIP (1.43), Sanchez's value will go up. If you need strikeouts and Sanchez is available, pick him up.
Ricky Nolasco: SP, Florida Marlins He hasn't lost since May 3 and has given up just 9 combined runs over his last 5 starts. He's 4-0 in that stretch, lowering his ERA from 5.35 to 4.48.
Fantasy Diagnosis: His K/BB ratio is only 1.72, but he's pitching well and getting wins. More importantly, the Marlins have scored 6+ runs in four of his last five starts. Over the last month, he's 4-0 with a 2.76 ERA. Nolasco is definitely worth picking up if you've got pitchers on the DL or struggle in the wins category.
Jose Contreras: SP, Chicago White Sox Contreras is a mystery. After going 10-17 with a 5.57 ERA last season, he's 5-3 with a 2.89 ERA this season. He's allowed only one run in six of his 11 starts. An interesting note is that since he first came to the majors, he's never put together good back-to-back seasons. His good seasons (2003, 2005) are always followed by bad seasons (2004, 2006, 2007). It's crazy, but apparently it's time for Contreras to have another good season, as he's on pace for his best one yet.
Fantasy Diagnosis: The only reason he's still a free agent in many leagues is that fantasy owners don't believe he can keep it up. The way he is pitching, give him a chance. However, if he begins to blow up, drop him faster than Tony Romo did Jessica Simpson. Like Simpson, he'll be your sweetheart for a while, but deserves to be shown the door when he starts costing your team wins.
Keep An Eye On
Alexei Ramirez: 2B/OF, Chicago White Sox Ozzie Guillen refers to him as "the Missile". He's raised his average from .194 to .275 in two weeks. He's hit .329 over the past month, and last week he hit .391 with 2 HRs and 5 RBIs.
Fantasy Diagnosis: He's taken over Juan Uribe's starting spot and doesn't appear to be going anywhere. In shallow leagues, he doesn't warrant your attention just yet, but keep an eye on him. In deep leagues, especially those with multiple IF positions, Ramirez deserves your consideration.
Sean Gallagher: SP, Chicago Cubs
He got called up in early May and entered the rotation shortly after. In his last 4 starts, he's 3-1, twice giving up only 1 run. His 4.55 ERA is due to two bad outings, but he went 6 innings in his last start, giving up 3 runs and striking out 8.
Fantasy Diagnosis: He's young (22) and inconsistent, but you know he'll get run support. Watch his next few starts carefully, as they will help to better determine his fantasy value.
About the Author:
Dr. Stat is the resident fantasy baseball writer at RootZoo.com, and reports regularly about fantasy baseball news at RootZoo's FantasyZone.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Baseball Instruction Tips on Finding the Best Instructor
by Jack Elliott
If you are dead set on becoming the best baseball player possible, there is no substitute for quality baseball instructor. A quality instructor can save you time, remove bad habits, and get you motivated to play your best ball ever.
In searching for a good instructor, I would focus on three things:
(1) baseball experience,
(2) individual coaching experience and
(3) reputation.
Baseball Experience
For baseball experience, you are looking for someone who has been around baseball for a number of years as either a player or a coach. Preferably you want someone with experience at the college level or higher. If you are trying to become a better pitcher, I would focus on someone with pitching experience. If it is hitting; then, focus on someone with this type of experience. The focus should be on whether you feel the person has enough experience to know what they are talking about.
Coaching Experience
For individual coaching experience, you are looking for someone who has experience training people your age. Ultimately, you want someone who is used to conveying his baseball knowledge to an individual audience and has the patience to convey his teachings to you.
Reputation
For reputation, I would ask for references or ask around to other baseball players to see who they really liked getting instruction from. This is important because if you believe that your instructor wants you to succeed and has helped others, it will go along way towards your acceptability of his teachings.
If you are having difficulty finding an appropriate instructor, contact local select baseball teams, adult baseball teams, batting cage businesses, Baseball equipment stores or professional baseball teams. Any of these teams, should have coaches who are knowledgeable in these areas or at least be able to point you in the right direction.
In searching for a good instructor, I would focus on three things:
(1) baseball experience,
(2) individual coaching experience and
(3) reputation.
Baseball Experience
For baseball experience, you are looking for someone who has been around baseball for a number of years as either a player or a coach. Preferably you want someone with experience at the college level or higher. If you are trying to become a better pitcher, I would focus on someone with pitching experience. If it is hitting; then, focus on someone with this type of experience. The focus should be on whether you feel the person has enough experience to know what they are talking about.
Coaching Experience
For individual coaching experience, you are looking for someone who has experience training people your age. Ultimately, you want someone who is used to conveying his baseball knowledge to an individual audience and has the patience to convey his teachings to you.
Reputation
For reputation, I would ask for references or ask around to other baseball players to see who they really liked getting instruction from. This is important because if you believe that your instructor wants you to succeed and has helped others, it will go along way towards your acceptability of his teachings.
If you are having difficulty finding an appropriate instructor, contact local select baseball teams, adult baseball teams, batting cage businesses, Baseball equipment stores or professional baseball teams. Any of these teams, should have coaches who are knowledgeable in these areas or at least be able to point you in the right direction.
About the Author:
Jack Elliott, is a former player and fan of the game. To read more tips and techniques like the ones in this article, please click here: http://www.baseballtrainingtechniques.com.
Jack Elliott, is a former player and fan of the game. To read more tips and techniques like the ones in this article, please click here: http://www.baseballtrainingtechniques.com.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Baseball Training – Technology Enhances Equipment
by George
Baseball Training – Technology Enhances Equipment
Baseball training has made tremendous strides in recent years due to the technological advances of baseball softball training equipment. As an adjunct to coaching and mentoring, softball baseball training equipment can produce amazing results for hitters and pitchers through repetition and feedback. The Batters Edge™ and the VLM Pitchtracker are the most advanced hitting and pitching products available on the market today.
Baseball Training – Repetition Keys Performance
Muscle memory and skills training are the two major ingredients in successful performance outcomes. We perform functions daily that have been engrained through repetition. For example, piano players utilize skills training and muscle memory acquired through repetitive actions in order to achieve high performance levels. In much the same way, baseball hitting drills and softball hitting drills can effect superb results based on muscle memory and skills training.
Baseball Training – Good Practice Habits Buoy Outcome
As youngsters we are taught by our parents and coaches the basic techniques of baseball training. Parents often engage in hitting drills in baseball with their youngsters, or they may participate in softball hitting drills. In softball/baseball training, repetition keys muscle memory, which is the memory used by the muscle sets involved in a particular activity. In the same way that we adopt a particular penmanship through muscle memory, hitters can develop good technique through repetitive skills training.
Baseball Training – Technology Advances Muscle Memory
Through technological advancement, players of all ages can develop the muscle memory and skills training necessary to excel. Historically, Mom may have been able to provide some softball batting training for her daughter, while Dad worked on softball stride training at the plate. Mentors, however, can assist just so much.
Today, there are baseball training equipment supports that will facilitate softball/baseball training. A-Game Technology has recently developed two baseball training supports that are revolutionizing the way the game is taught.
Baseball Training – The Batter’s Edge™
The Batter’s Edge™ is a revolutionary baseball training product designed to reinforce the proper balance and hip rotation needed to perfect the swing. The Batter’s Edge™ is a platform that embraces the body’s muscle memory to enable hitters to maintain a balanced swing.
Through repetitions, the balanced swing becomes second nature to hitters and, as a result of the augmentation of their muscle memory; the adjustment to live pitching in a game is seamless. The Batter’s Edge™ is a baseball training device that is suitable for players age 8 years and up.
The product is ideal for use in dirt, grass, or artificial surfaces. It can be used in hitting drills in softball and baseball off a tee, from a pitching machine, or in soft toss.
Baseball Training – VLM Pitchtracker
A-Game Technology has brought the art and science of pitching into the 21st Century with the VLM Pitchtracker. Now, pitchers are able to refine their skills through the marriage of modern technology with the development of muscle memory and proper skills training.
Through this cutting edge development designed to enhance pitcher training, pitchers can perfect their release points in order to achieve incredible results. This device tracks the movement, velocity and location of a pitch and it presents the results for coaches, parents, mentors and players for review in a user-friendly visual format.
Pitchers are able to perfect their mechanics and see immediate and remarkable improvements in their ability to throw a pitch where it’s meant to go. Coaches can use the VLM Pitchtracker to analyze multiple pitching factors and to chart progress over a period of time.
Both the Batter’s Edge and the VLM Pitchtracker are available at www.agametechnology.com , and further information on both these amazing baseball training aids can be obtained at the website.
Baseball training has made tremendous strides in recent years due to the technological advances of baseball softball training equipment. As an adjunct to coaching and mentoring, softball baseball training equipment can produce amazing results for hitters and pitchers through repetition and feedback. The Batters Edge™ and the VLM Pitchtracker are the most advanced hitting and pitching products available on the market today.
Baseball Training – Repetition Keys Performance
Muscle memory and skills training are the two major ingredients in successful performance outcomes. We perform functions daily that have been engrained through repetition. For example, piano players utilize skills training and muscle memory acquired through repetitive actions in order to achieve high performance levels. In much the same way, baseball hitting drills and softball hitting drills can effect superb results based on muscle memory and skills training.
Baseball Training – Good Practice Habits Buoy Outcome
As youngsters we are taught by our parents and coaches the basic techniques of baseball training. Parents often engage in hitting drills in baseball with their youngsters, or they may participate in softball hitting drills. In softball/baseball training, repetition keys muscle memory, which is the memory used by the muscle sets involved in a particular activity. In the same way that we adopt a particular penmanship through muscle memory, hitters can develop good technique through repetitive skills training.
Baseball Training – Technology Advances Muscle Memory
Through technological advancement, players of all ages can develop the muscle memory and skills training necessary to excel. Historically, Mom may have been able to provide some softball batting training for her daughter, while Dad worked on softball stride training at the plate. Mentors, however, can assist just so much.
Today, there are baseball training equipment supports that will facilitate softball/baseball training. A-Game Technology has recently developed two baseball training supports that are revolutionizing the way the game is taught.
Baseball Training – The Batter’s Edge™
The Batter’s Edge™ is a revolutionary baseball training product designed to reinforce the proper balance and hip rotation needed to perfect the swing. The Batter’s Edge™ is a platform that embraces the body’s muscle memory to enable hitters to maintain a balanced swing.
Through repetitions, the balanced swing becomes second nature to hitters and, as a result of the augmentation of their muscle memory; the adjustment to live pitching in a game is seamless. The Batter’s Edge™ is a baseball training device that is suitable for players age 8 years and up.
The product is ideal for use in dirt, grass, or artificial surfaces. It can be used in hitting drills in softball and baseball off a tee, from a pitching machine, or in soft toss.
Baseball Training – VLM Pitchtracker
A-Game Technology has brought the art and science of pitching into the 21st Century with the VLM Pitchtracker. Now, pitchers are able to refine their skills through the marriage of modern technology with the development of muscle memory and proper skills training.
Through this cutting edge development designed to enhance pitcher training, pitchers can perfect their release points in order to achieve incredible results. This device tracks the movement, velocity and location of a pitch and it presents the results for coaches, parents, mentors and players for review in a user-friendly visual format.
Pitchers are able to perfect their mechanics and see immediate and remarkable improvements in their ability to throw a pitch where it’s meant to go. Coaches can use the VLM Pitchtracker to analyze multiple pitching factors and to chart progress over a period of time.
Both the Batter’s Edge and the VLM Pitchtracker are available at www.agametechnology.com , and further information on both these amazing baseball training aids can be obtained at the website.
About the Author:
For more information regarding baseball training, Technology enhance Equipment, VLM Pitchtracker and BATTER'S EDGE please visit: www.agametechnology.com
For more information regarding baseball training, Technology enhance Equipment, VLM Pitchtracker and BATTER'S EDGE please visit: www.agametechnology.com
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