Friday, April 29, 2011

Tips To Play Baseball Like A Professional

By Christy Hoyle


Whether you are a baseball player, coach or parent, there are always new things that you can learn about this game. Baseball has plenty of aspects. There are different ways to hit, pitch and field. There are plenty of mental in addition to physical parts of this game. In this article, we'll be looking at some expert baseball tips that can give you and your team an edge when you play.

One of the hard parts for any sport that is played seasonally is being able to remain fit for the entire year. If players start the baseball season out of shape, it will be very difficult for them to perform physically or mentally. That's why participating in a fitness program in addition to during practice drills is very important during the year. Pitchers should do skills throwing the ball. Hitters should practice swinging the bat. That way, when the season starts, players will be ready to give it their best and won't be starting from scratch.

One of the most alluring things about baseball is that when a hitter is at the plate, there are tons of things to consider. Aside from the score, who's on base and how many outs there are, the hitter has to always be aware of the count. When you first get up to the plate, you have the freedom to pick your pitches. If you get behind in the score, your main focus should be to make contact with the ball so that your main focus is to hit the ball and not strike out. If you are ahead in the score, you can be selective and depending on the circumstances, even take pitches and get a walk. The main point is, as a hitter, you have to think about the count at all times.

Outfielders have to be very knowledgeable about what is going on in the game and what things are more important at that time. Obviously, as an outfielder, your main job is to catch any balls headed your way. But it is also important that you know where to throw the ball once you get it. It is very common for outfielders to throw the ball to the wrong base. This can be a error that pays the price. Basically, you should throw to a deter a run from scoring or to stop a runner from being able to score. This basically means to throw the ball to the base before the runner gets there. So if the batter gets a hit and is on first when you get the ball, you'd throw to second base.

In conclusion, baseball is a complicated game. For the team to play good, everyone has to understand what must be done at all times. This means that everyone should practice drills that help them improve their skills, and also that the team stays alert about what's going on around them at all times. The tips that we have covered in this article can help you and your team play like pros.




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New Manager Takes Over Toronto Blue Jays

By Bobby Barton


Last season, the last managed by Cito Gaston who has retired, the Toronto Blue Jays finished 85-77, good for fourth place behind the Tampa Bay Rays, New York Yankees, and Boston Red Sox. New manager John Farrell comes over to manage after serving as pitching coach under Terry Francona in Boston from 2006 through 2010. Farrell takes over a young team full of power hitters and promising pitchers.

Gone from last years team is closer Kevin Gregg who saved 37 games and also Jeremy Accardo, both of whom left to join the division rival Baltimore Orioles. Replacing them though are a cast of pitchers who once were closers on other clubs.

John Farrell is the new manager. Farrell was pitching coach of the division rival Boston Red Sox from 2006 to 2010, so he knows the A. L. East well. After working with star pitchers like Josh Beckett, Jon Lester, Clay Buchholz and Jonathan Papelbon, he will now oversee a nucleus of Blue Jays pitchers who could be on the verge of accomplishing great success.

If Hill falters again, Brett Lawrie could press him for playing time. Lawrie came over from the Brewers in an off season trade for pitcher Shaun Marcum. Lawrie is considered a potential future all star and a possible rookie of the year candidate if he can find a spot in the lineup. He might have to play some outfield, but it is also possible that Hill could hit in the designated hitter spot with Lawrie playing some at second base.

With a few all or nothing hitters in the lineup, the Blue Jays made some moves in hopes of getting more contact hitters who can get on base ahead of their big sluggers. Rajai Davis was brought in after hitting . 284 last season with the Oakland Athletics. Davis stole 50 bases while providing speed in the outfield and he could hit lead off for Toronto. Another lead off candidate is Scott Podsednik, a key member of the 2005 World Champion Chicago White Sox. Last year while playing for the Kansas City Royals and Los Angeles Dodgers, Podsednik hit . 297 while stealing 35 bases.

With the departure of Marcum, lefty Ricky Romero becomes the ace of the Toronto staff. Romero went 14-9 with a 3.73 era, 174 strikeouts in 210 innings last season. He is joined by fellow lefty Brett Cecil, 15-7, 4.22 era, 117 strikeouts in 172.2 innings last season. Brandon Morrow is a hard throwing right hander who could one day lead the league in strikeouts. He came over prior to last season in a trade with the Seattle Mariners for reliever Brandon League. Morrow finished 2010 strong, with a 10-7 record, a 4.49 era, with 178 strikeouts in 146.1 innings.

At just 23, outfielder Travis Snider is already entering his third major league season. Injuries plagued Snider last year, but he still hit . 255 with 14 homers and 32 RBIs, but he finished the season strong, hitting six homers in September. If he puts it all together as expected, Snider is seen as easily a 30 homer, 100 RBI hitter.

In addition to strong pitching and an improved bullpen, the Toronto Blue Jays feature one of the most powerful lineups in the American League. Leading the offense is third baseman Jose Bautista who had an unbelievable season in 2010, pounding out 54 home runs while driving in 124 with a . 260 average and a . 617 slugging percentage. The Jays are sure to score plenty of runs and with the potential contribution from Drabek, Toronto could contend with the Red Sox and Yankees in 2011.




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Thursday, April 28, 2011

Tips For Picking The Perfect Baseball Gear

By Cole T. Simstein


Anyone playing baseball will be able to improve their game faster if they have the right gear. While pitchers, catchers, infielders and outfielders all need specialized equipment, and some items are necessary for everyone on the team. Having top quality gear that fits can give you the extra edge on the field that can make all the difference. In this article we'll be covering some useful tips to keep in mind for choosing the best baseball gear.

Batting helmets don't make you a better hitter but they do protect you from harm. Many people underestimate how dangerous baseball can be compared to other sports, but players have been killed by speeding pitches. Getting hit by a ball is no small thing, so always wear a helmet when you're at bat. This is mandatory when playing in a league but this also applies to when you're practicing. Look for a high quality helmet that fits well and won't interfere with your vision.

If you are serious about the game you can consider a custom made set. You can get customized gloves in a variety of colors, leather types, webbings and weltings. If you are well versed in what works for you this is a consideration you may want to make. If you so desire you can choose a bat that is customized to your material, weight and logo specifications. If you are particular about the gear you want this is a great option for you although it will likely be more expensive than off the shelf retail equipment.

You need to take good care of your baseball glove which is one of your main accessories. You should use an oil or conditioner to keep the glove clean and protected from the elements. It's best to use a product specifically designed for conditioning gloves because using something that is too harsh can wear down the leather. When not using your glove, store it in a cool and dry place. Exposure to heat isn't good for leather and you also want to avoid dampness. The laces on your glove will have to be replaced every so often, so inspect them to make sure they're not broken or getting brittle.

There are practical reasons baseball players wear caps with visors in addition to them being part of the uniform. When it's raining but not hard enough to cancel the game, wearing a well fitted cap can help keep your head dry. It can be easier to keep track of the ball because the visor will help keep the sun out of your eyes. Finally, a good cap will have a headband that prevents sweat from getting into your eyes. While baseball cap is a basic part of your uniform and it isn't the most important or costly gear, it can help you focus on your game. In the above article we've given you some examples of the baseball gear that you'll want to consider and why it may be right for you. It may take some time to get to know what is perfect for you as an individual. If you play more than one position, you may need a wider variety of gear, such as the right glove for each position. Use the above information as a guideline when shopping for baseball gear.




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Expert Baseball Concepts Every Player Should Know

By Harlet Kaye Benson


Anyone who plays or coaches baseball has to know different techniques that can be used at different times of the game. Although it is very important for players to practice the physical skills to improve performance, it is also imperative that they know how to handle different situations. Also, it is a necessity that good teamwork and communication is used during the entirety of the game. The focus of this article will be on effective baseball tactics that can help you win more games.

Defensive strategy in baseball depends on the circumstances. You never know what players are thinking if, for example, they suddenly inch closer to the white foul line. What they are doing is simply minimizing scoring opportunities by tightening up the field coverage. But it is not wise to be too extreme as it allows for opportunities in the center of the playing field. Sometimes you just have to take your chances and cope with whatever happens. So this is the type of circumstance that all coaches face, and they have to be flexible with how they react defensively.

Hitters should practice swinging the bat. Everybody should continue on with a high sense of conditioning. This way, when the season first begins, players will be available to give their best performance and will not begin from scratch.

Outfielders have to be very knowledgeable about what is going on in the game and what things are more important at that time. Simply put, your job is to catch the balls that come in your area. But it is also essential that you know where the ball should be thrown once it comes to you. It's fairly common for outfielders to throw to the wrong base. This can be a mistake that can cost the game.

It makes a huge difference during the game when players talk to each other. This is really true in the outfield. This happens when they are confused about who should get the ball. If players aren't communicating properly, there can be confusion or even collisions in the outfield. The player in the center field is given the most attention. So, the left and right fielders shouldn't intrude into his territory. Players should always yell when they are going for the ball. Once a player does this, the remaining players should avoid the area. There is more to being a baseball expert than just memorizing a few key plays. You must know how to utilize the strengths of each team member and be able to deal with any weaknesses. In addition to practice drills that will improve skills, the players must know how to pinpoint both the good and bad things of each game. These are some guidelines that can help any player and team improve its performance. The more you know about baseball, the better you will get and enjoy it more.




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Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Expert Baseball Strategies You Should Know About

By Toddie Cassey Billwroth


Anybody who plays baseball or who coaches players has to know many different techniques to use a different points in the game. While it is very important that players practice physical skills to increase performance, it is also very important that team players are prepared for all situations. Also it is important that good teamwork and communication are used throughout the game. The focus of this article will be to talk about baseball tactics that will make you a winner.

One of the hard parts for any sport that is played seasonally is being able to remain fit for the entire year. If players begin playing baseball while they are out of shape, it will be difficult for them to do well physically or mentally. This is why taking part in physical fitness programs and doing practice drills is very important for the whole year. Pitchers should do skills throwing the ball.

While a few hitters have a greater ability to make contact with the ball than others, the best method for improving hitting skills is to practice. A batting tee can be a resourceful tool for any age from young to old. This is a resource that can be used during the off season just as much as the regular baseball season. So it can help hitters to practice and their swing for the entire year. Even when you practice swinging at the ball in the air is helpful if you can actually see yourself hitting the ball. Coaches should also try monitor every batter very closely and see if there are things that need to be improved. This is because some hitters need to change their stance or their grip on the bat.

Base running is an important part of baseball, and in some cases doing this right can be the difference between winning and losing. You can easily shave time off your base running by being smarter about how you do it. Your right foot only needs to touch the base when going from first to second. The effect is to shorten the line from that base to the next one. What you sometimes can see are runners who turn too wide and have to come back to the base line. Improving your base running speed and technique will make you a more valuable player.

As this article shows, playing baseball involves working as a team and many other such factors. It's important to learn from your mistakes as well as from your victories. So coaches should talk about the games with mistakes as a way to teach players how to do better and not ridicule them. While the main goal of baseball is to have fun, no one can say that losing is more fun than winning.




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Baseball Safety Tips You Should Think About

By Riley T. Griffit


There are many aspects to baseball safety, but a lot of it comes down to fundamentals and staying alert. No matter what type of team or league you're involved with, safety should always be a priority. The coach and manager should not only encourage players to play their best, but also to do everything they can to ensure safety. You can increase baseball safety by adhering to the practices we'll be discussing below.

The player who should have the most safety gear is the catcher. It is imperative that it is worn at all times. The catcher risks being hit by a pitch at any time. So, the most vulnerable parts of the body must be protected. This consists of a helmet, face mask, chest protector and the right gloves. The catcher's mask has to have a throat protector clipped to it. This is because an extremely fast to the throat can be fatal. Although though every team member should be knowledgeable about safety, the catcher has the most dangerous position on the team and has to really focus on being safe. Catchers have to be careful not only because of pitches being thrown but because they're right behind batters as well. More than any other player, the catcher has to be alert at all times.

That's why coaches should instruct players who should cover which parts of the field to avoid confusion. Both infielders and outfielders must learn to keep an eye on other players as well as the ball for safety reasons.

Base running is an activity that can cause injuries if players don't know the proper techniques. Running around the bases is not always a straightforward task. Running the bases is not a natural straight movement, but one where you have to constantly shift direction from one base to the next. Someone running the bases has to decide whether to land on the base, slide or continue on to the next base. Good base running is an essential skill, both for playing well and for staying safe during games. Players who stay in good physical shape will lower their risk of injury when base running, of course. Good base running skills are something that every coach should instill in players, as this promotes safety, and it also helps in creating a winning team.

Paying attention to details as you can see from this information is key to baseball safety. Coaches and managers should remind players of the need to wear protective gear as well as knowing what is happening at each moment. The best way for everyone involved in baseball to stay safe and avoid unnecessary collisions is to stay alert of your surroundings at all times.




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A Look At The St Louis Cardinals

By Bobby Barton


Since joining the American National League in 1891, the St Louis Cardinals have claimed ten championship titles in the Baseball World Series. Three-times champions over the New York Yankees, they have twice beaten both the Boston Red Sox and the Detroit Tigers, and seized individual victories from the Philadelphia Athletics, St Louis Browns and the Milwaukee Brewers. The World Series is a best of seven championship, which means that the contest can be won in as few as four games or, in a really thrilling tournament, victory may not be won until all seven matches have been completed.

The team known colloquially as 'the Cards' has faced the New York Yankees five times (1926, 1928, 1942, 1943 and 1964). The 1926 Series is famous for the moment Babe Ruth failed to steal second base when pitcher Grover Cleveland Alexander struck out Tony Lazeri, thus securing victory for the Cardinals. Named after 22nd American President Grover Cleveland, the championship pitcher was later portrayed in the film, 'The Winning Team', by Ronald Reagan, who later became the 40th President of the United States. Sixteen years later, in 1942, the Cardinals beat the Yankees convincingly, winning four games to New York's one. During that month in history, the Alaska Highway was completed. St Louis achieved their third World Series victory in 1964. Manager Yogi Berra was subsequently fired.

Appearing in three contests with the Boston Red Sox, the St Louis team have won twice. The first time was in 1946, when they beat the beat the Dodgers two games to nil to secure the pennant. During the same month Eugene O'Neill's play, 'The Iceman Cometh' premiered in New York City and an unmanned rocket ship took photographs of Earth from outer space. Their second victory took place in 1967, when Lyndon Johnson was President of the United States and 'Hair' premiered on Broadway.

The Detroit Tigers lost their first Series to St Louis in 1934. This was also the year in which Claudette Colbert and Clark Gable won Oscars for their performances in the film, 'It Happened One Night'. More than half a century later, in 2006, the Tigers fell once more to the mighty team from Missouri, this time in only five games. During the same month, the American population reached 300 million.

The team lost their first World Series encounter to the Philadelphia Athletics in 1930, coming back the next year winning four games out of seven. Burleigh Grimes distinguished himself by being baseball's last legal spitball pitcher. This year saw the inauguration of scheduled transcontinental air travel.

World Series 1944 was a St Louis derby, pitching the Cards against the Browns. Embroiled as the nation was in the war between the Allies and the 'Axis of Evil', many players were engaged in a more serious battle. The tournament was decided in six games, with the Cardinals winning four. Their local rivals have not met them in a championship tournament since. During this time, French women acquired the right to vote and 'Ozzie and Harriet' made their CBS radio debut.

On October 3, 1982, Scott Weiland ran the Detroit marathon backwards in five hours. Two weeks later, the Cards beat the Milwaukee Brewers four games to three in the 79th World Series. Soon after, Steve Carlton became the first pitcher to win 4 Cy Young awards and China announced its population had grown to more than one billion.

In their 120-year history in National League baseball, the St Louis Cardinals are the second most successful with ten World Series' to their name. Only the New York Yankees have taken more championships.




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How To Improve Your Baseball Skills

By Sue Hamrick


A person can learn the basics of baseball, but executing them with competence is another story. Just like playing music, years of devotion and practicing the art or skill is necessary. But still, it is worth the time and effort to find out useful information. The more you know and experience, it only follows that you will improve your game. The playing of the game is not an issue because hopefully you want to play it. You really can learn from the experts, pro players, by watching what they do when they play. You can add to your overall knowledge by simply reading the rest of this article.

What particular choices you make with defensive moves really depends on what is going on. You never know what players are thinking if, for example, they suddenly inch closer to the white foul line. What they are doing is simply minimizing scoring opportunities by tightening up the field coverage. But it is not wise to be too extreme as it allows for opportunities in the center of the playing field. When you think about this, it is a question of minimizing the most dangerous scoring opportunities. Often times the situation hinges on just a run, and that is when the defensive playing is most critical.

One of the most demanding positions on the field is pitching, and there is little reason to wonder why. It is not very easy to maintain the kind of focus required for successful pitching. It is not very easy to score a lot of hits against a pitcher who mainly gets the throws in the right place. That is the key to keep the runs scored by the other team to an absolute minimum. However, it is possible to improve one's control in pitching through specific drills. One of the most powerful drills you can do is visualizing, and the best way to do it is see everything being perfectly executed.

No question about the importance of efficient base running. You can easily shave time off your base running by being smarter about how you do it. Your right foot only needs to touch the base when going from first to second. That is how you become a more efficient base runner. The mistake so often seen is when the runner is facing the far side of the diamond and must cut back to get on track. Improving your base running speed and technique will make you a more valuable player.

There is no substitute for hard work and practice if you want to play better or learn how to coach others. But some things you just cannot learn until you use them in real game, and that is why experience is often the best teacher.




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Winning Baseball Tips That The Experts Use

By Will Schlepinger


There's no simple formula for playing baseball like an expert. It takes years of practice and hard work. On the other hand, someone can gain quite a bit by knowing expert knowledge that is hard to come by. There are many nuances in everything, and baseball is no different. Of course you can learn by observing the pros, but nothing beats hands-on practice. You really can learn from the experts, pro players, by watching what they do when they play. You can add to your overall knowledge by simply reading the rest of this article.

Defensive strategy in baseball depends on the circumstances. That is why you will sometimes see the infield playing closer to the line than other times. That strategy is all about containing any offensive plays that are made. On the other hand, this creates an opening in the middle of the field, making base hits easier to hit. So it is clear that there is an overall strategy with give and take occurring. Things like this happen when the game is almost over, and perhaps the score is pretty close and could go either way.

Pitching is one of the most difficult positions in baseball, and pitchers are more physically active for longer periods of time than anyone else in the game. The greatest task facing any pitcher is controlling each pitch throughout the entire game. A huge part of the key is being able to consistently throw strikes which minimized base hits. However, if you can't hit the strike zone, the game will slip quickly out of your control as you walk batters and possibly even throw wild pitches. That's why pitchers should practice drills that stress control. Always see the target in your mind, and then practice making the perfect pitch in your mind as well.

Being able to run fast matters such as when you are running from one base to the next. Remember there are ways to compensate for just about anything, and one example is insufficient base running speed. For example, when passing through a base just use the outer part of your right foot to touch the base. You want to make the straightest line between bases when you are running very fast. What you want to avoid is rounding a base with a wide curved angle path. So this is another drill you can practice, and obviously you should work on your speed.

It is absolutely possible to learn how to become a terrific baseball player, but be prepared to do the work. Having said all of that, there is nothing better than playing the game and gaining valuable playing experience.




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Tuesday, April 26, 2011

How to Improve Baseball Safety for all Players

By Amirah Long


If all players remain aware of what's going on around them, baseball safety can be significantly increased. All players should have the right equipment and adhere to safety guidelines throughout the game. Safety principles should be enforced by managers and coaches so players are reminded of their importance. You can increase baseball safety by adhering to the practices we'll be discussing below.

Communication is an important part of safety in any sport. A fly ball, for example, can present a danger when outfielders aren't clear about who's going to get it. Players must be taught to call out when they're going for a ball, especially if other players are in the vicinity. Of course, confusion can still occur if two players both call for it at the same time, but at least then they'll be aware of each other's presence and can hopefully sort it out.

Bases are a danger few people know about. If a player slides into a stationary base too hard it's pretty easy to injure a leg or foot. A head, hand or arm injury is imminent for those who may slide headfirst into a stationary base. One solution to this is using breakaway bases, that are designed to come apart when someone slides into them. Under normal conditions the base will remain in place. If your league is not already implementing this safety feature you should suggest it. Aside from this, players should practice proper sliding techniques and be aware that bases can be dangerous.

Base running is an activity that can cause injuries if players don't know the proper techniques. Running around the bases is not always a straightforward task. To begin with, you don't run straight ahead, but around the shape of the infield, which can make it easier to trip or sprain something. There's also the fact of uncertainty, when the runner may hesitate and then speed up again, along with the potential for collisions with other players. Good base running is an essential skill, both for playing well and for staying safe during games. Of course, injuries can be minimized by players staying in good condition and running or other aerobic activity off the field. Good base running skills are something that every coach should instill in players, as this promotes safety, and it also helps in creating a winning team.

If safety guidelines are always followed, baseball can be enjoyed with far fewer injuries and problems. That's one of the responsibilities of coaches, especially when coaching kids' leagues, as younger players may have to be reminded to wear the right gear and follow safety guidelines. The unexpected can always occur, but the fact is, many baseball accidents are completely preventable if such simple principles are followed.




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Looking At The San Diego Padres

By Bobby Barton


1969 saw the introduction of four new teams into Major League Baseball. The two expansion teams added to the American League were the Kansas City Royals and the Seattle Pilots (later to become the Milwaukee Brewers.) The National League added the Montreal Expos (now the Washington Nationals) and the San Diego Padres. Success for these new teams was to be elusive. This was particularly true for the Pads.

The coming of the Padres filled the city with excitement. Fans were full of hope when it came to their new ball club. They had good reason to be. There was a brand new stadium, an experienced front office and a young team to look forward to. Their enthusiasm would turn out to be short lived. Frankly, the team was terrible. They came in last on their division for the first six years of play. In four of those last place finishes, they amassed 100 or more losses.

There were a few highlights along the way. First was Nate Colbert. This first baseman proved to be a power hitter who once hit five homeruns during a double header. Hall of Fame player Stan Musial was the only other player to have this accomplishment. During that double header, he also drove in thirteen runs, a record he still holds today.

The next glimmer was the new ownership of Ray Kroc. Kroc, owner of the world's largest fast food chain, wanted to win. He took many steps to achieve this, including a PA announcement during a game. He spoke directly to Padre fans, introducing himself and promising team improvement. He also apologized for the team's "stupid ball play." His speech may have been less impactful than it might have been, had his audience not been distracted by a streaker running across the field.

The club did begin to improve slowly but surely. They finished over . 500 (5 games over to be exact) for the first time ever in 1978. This accomplishment owes a lot to some of their better players like Gaylord Perry, Dave Winfield and Rollie Fingers. Sadly for the Pads, Winfield and Fingers both left as free agents.

San Diego did manage to see success with National League Pennants and World Series appearances in 1984 and 1998. Alas, they were facing a powerful force in 1984, the Detroit Tigers who had started the season 35-5 and did not look back. The Friars lost in five games.

The 1998 series proved to be another uphill battle against another premier American League foe - the Yankees. The Yankees had won 114 games during the regular season and were regarded by many as one of the best teams to ever take the field. But even though the Yanks swept the series, the Padres played with pluck. Three of the four games were nail biters.

The 2000s have seen unevenness of play. They were the division champs in 2005 and 2006 but other years turned out to be disappointments. Today, they remain decent, but not terrific. Time will tell what is in store for them.




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Monday, April 25, 2011

Getting the Best Baseball Gear

By Andrew Hoffmann


Baseball, like any sport, has certain gear that is required and you have to make sure it fits you well. Certain equipment is fairly standard, while items such as gloves will differ depending on the position you play. Having top quality gear that fits can give you the extra edge on the field that can make all the difference. We'll now list some essential factors to be aware of when picking your baseball gear.

A batting helmet won't make you a better hitter, but it will protect you from dangerous pitches. Many people underestimate how dangerous baseball can be compared to other sports, but players have been killed by speeding pitches. You should always wear a helmet when at bat because getting hit by a ball is no small thing. If you play in any kind of league, this will be mandatory, but you should also keep this in mind when practicing as well. You want to get a helmet of high quality, and one that fits you well, so that it doesn't interfere with your vision.

One of your main accessories is your baseball glove which is why you need to take good care of it. You should use an oil or conditioner to keep the glove clean and protected from the elements. It's best to use a product that's made especially for conditioning gloves, as using something that's too harsh can wear down the leather. You should keep your glove in a cool and dry place when not in use. Dampness and heat are not good for leather. Be sure to inspect your gloves laces often to make sure they don't need to be replaced because they're broken or brittle.

When you have a baseball uniform, you don't have to worry about what to wear, but there are still some items you have to pick yourself. If you feel chilly, damp or like you can't move freely, this can all detract from the way you play, so make sure everything is just right.

If you want to play your best the above information is important to consider when purchasing baseball equipment that's right for you. Sometimes, as with gloves, you may have to experiment a little before you find the style that suits you best. If you play multiple positions you may find it necessary to have a variety of gear choices. As you begin looking for baseball gear you can use this information as a guideline for getting the best gear for you.




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The San Francisco Giants Historically

By Bobby Barton


The San Francisco Giants played their first game in 1883 but it did not take place in California and they were not called the Giants. It was the New York Gothams that took on the team from Boston and it happened at the Old Polo Grounds in New York. That game ended in a victory for the Gothams and the rest is baseball history.

The first change involved the name and it came in 1885 after a win in extra innings against Philadelphia. Then manager and co-founder Jim Mutrie praised his players in an emotional post game address by calling them his giants. The club dropped the Gothams label and from that time forward, they were known as the Giants.

They secured their first National League pennant in 1888 and then won the championship series against St. Louis in ten games. The following season was tumultuous as the club bounced from venue to venue before July 1889 when they finally landed at the Second Polo Grounds. That would be their home until 1957 when the organization left the east coast and headed to northern California.

The team escaped two subsequent moves. The first was in 1976 when a group led by Bob Lurie bought the franchise and blocked a possible move to Toronto. Sixteen years later, Lurie was frustrated at his inability to get a ballpark built downtown and agreed to sell to a group based in Florida. The team was spared another cross country trek when Peter Magowan spearheaded the effort by a local investment group to buy the team.

Games at Candlestick Park were as challenging for the players as they were for the fans. The location overlooking the bay guaranteed that most days were windy, cold, foggy or some combination of those conditions. The baseball team finally got their downtown stadium in 2000 with a move to China Basin.

With so much history, the Giants have had their share of firsts in the league. In 1902, they were the first squad to introduce the concept of using signs during a game. Manager John McGraw felt the easiest way to communicate with the only deaf-mute player on their squad was to order the players to learn sign language. This eventually led to silent communication between players on the field.

The Alou brothers, Jesus, Matty and Felipe, made Major League history on Sept. 15, 1963 when they took to the outfield at Forbes Park in Philadelphia for the Giants. It marked the first time an outfield was comprised of three brothers. Five days earlier all three went to bat in the same inning.

The players would probably rather forget 1984. That was a season that saw the squad lose 96 games. Fans, however, will remember it as the year Crazy Crab hit the field. The bug-eyed creature was supposed to be the anti-mascot. The intent was to mock traditional sports mascots but the poor thing bore the brunt of a frustrating season. By the time he was retired at the end of the season, Crazy Crab was universally abused by players as well as fans.

The rivalry between the San Francisco Giants and the Los Angeles Dodgers is legendary. It got its start in the 19th century when both clubs were based in New York. They made the jump to California together and the rivalry only grew fiercer with the change of scenery.




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The Iron Horse And The New York Yankees

By Bobby Barton


While playing for the New York Yankees Louis Gehrig participated in 2,130 games, he had four hundred and ninety three home-runs and had thirteen continuous 100-RBI seasons, three hundred and forty was his average for his career and he was in six world series. He had a dream of reaching 2,500 continuous games before he ended his career, if he hadn't been diagnosed with ALS he would probably have achieved that dream.

Henry Louis Gehrig also known as The Iron Horse lost his battle to ALS in 1941, 2 years after he said goodbye to all his fans at the Yankee Stadium. Louis Gehrig loved baseball and enjoyed every day and every minute that he played.

There is a lot of admiration for a person who enjoys their career and does it every day and ever single year which was shown by Carl Ripkin Jr. Ten years ago in 2002 when he broke the Iron Horses continuous game record which is now the most remembered moment in major league history.

First baseman Wally Pipp was replaced by the Iron Horse in 1925. He never missed a game unless ALS had him down. When he was a kid he would do his best not to miss class, he told someone once that he was ill one day and his mom asked him to stay home but as soon as she was out the door to work he left for school, she wind up having to go get him. Gary Cooper appeared in the movie "Pride of The Yankees" as Louis Gehrig.

The day he started with the team he hadn't brought a bat so once him and the team manager got to the cages he pulled a bat off the fence, he didn't know it but this bat belonged to Babe Ruth and was his preferred bat, astonishingly he didn't make him replace it instead he just said hi. Louis Gehrig batted after Babe Ruth in the line up, his RBI stats stayed extremely high.

Gehrig had 184 runs n 1931 which is an American League record to this day. In 1927 season The Iron Horse had 47 home runs the only person to ever get more was Babe Ruth. He ranks in the top 10 of the best major league baseball players. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of fame in 1939. Louis Gehrig actually got a scholarship to go to college to play football not baseball. It is said that if he had not been past draft age when World War II started he would have volunteered to join the Navy. Growing up his hobbies were playing baseball, football and doing gymnastics.

His Jersey #4 was the first number to be resigned from American professional sports. When he was grown he was six feet in height and was two hundred pounds. He was born to German immigrants. Louis Gehrig was brought into this world In NY on 6-6-03 and weighed fourteen pounds.

Louis Gehrig was an amazing asset to the New York Yankees before his death in 1939. His parents Christina and Heinrich Gehrig had four children of which he was the only survivor. One child passed before his birth and two passed after his birth.




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Sunday, April 24, 2011

Florida Marlins Now and Then

By Bobby Barton


In Major League Baseball, teams can qualify for playoff play even if they do not win their division. When a team does this, they are called a wildcard team. They have a disadvantage in that they are never given home field advantage during any of the playoff series. The Florida Marlins have been wildcards on two separate occasions and both times walked away with championships. This is not an easy thing to do and therefore the Marlins are a team worth talking about. Here we will talk about their history.

The Marlins entered the National League in 1993 as an expansion team. They play their games in Miami, Florida. From their inception they have played at Sun Life Stadium (formerly named Dolphin Stadium, one of many former names for the stadium.) Starting in 2012 the team is planning to play in a new park, the former site of the Orange Bowl.

From 1993 to 1996 things were bleak for the franchise. They finished their debut season in last place, losing 98 games. It is worth noting, though, that over the next few years, they got progressively better. They crept to 5th, then 4th, then 3rd. By 1996 they ended up only two games below . 500. This gave fans good reason to be hopeful about their team.

The wait for fans was not very long. 1997 was a season only usually dreamt about. They came in second that year, only two games behind division winner, the Atlanta Braves. They entered the playoffs as the wildcard. First they swept the San Francisco Giants in round one. In round two they defeated the Braves in six games. Next up would be the Cleveland Indians for the championship.

The Fish came into that series as sizeable underdogs. Cleveland had just polished off the New York Yankees in quite an impressive fashion. This Indian series would be a good one, going all seven games. Losing in the ninth, they were able to tie it up and send it into extra innings. They proceeded to win in the eleventh.

Looking ahead to 2003, we see them again coming in second to Atlanta. Again they were the wildcard. And again, they defeated the Giants in the first round. This time, they would be facing the Chicago Cubs in round 2. It did not look good for Florida, as they were trailing in the eighth inning of the sixth, and possibly last, game of the series. In a mind blowing turn of events, a Cub fan interfered with a Cub player who was attempting to make a catch for the third out. This breathed new life into the Marlin team, who went on to win that game and the next.

Now, we said that Florida was an underdog in 1997. To say they were underdogs in 2003 would be an understatement. Up against the New York Yankees, nobody gave them the slightest chance of winning. The Yanks had just had an amazing and tiring series against the Boston Red Sox. Maybe that is what caused them to come out a bit flat. Whatever the reason, the Marlin pitching was right on target and the Fish took another championship.

Recently, the team has been coming in around the middle of the standings. This is in no small part due to the fact that they consistently have one of the lowest payrolls in the league.




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Saturday, April 23, 2011

Baseball Safety Made Simple

By Ben U. Posey


There is a degree of safety concern is every sport and baseball is no different. Don't make the mistake of underestimating the danger of playing baseball. If you've seen other contact sports like hockey and football you have seen how well they are protected compared with baseball. If you think about it this game warrants some safety caution as well.

One aspect of safety in baseball involves players communicating with each other at all times. A fly ball, for example, can present a danger when outfielders aren't clear about who's going to get it. Players must be taught to call out when they're going for a ball, especially if other players are in the vicinity. When players call for a ball, this tells other fielders to stay out of their way, which is a basic safety practice.

Warming up well before games is a way to prevent many injuries. Everyone should stretch before a game, which is really true of any sport or physical activity.

Everyone should recognize the potential danger that bats represent. Players should only swing bats at specified times, and never carelessly. In general, the only times a player should swing a bat is when they're on deck or actually batting. The coach should remind players to keep a good distance from anyone holding a bat. Any player holding a bat should always look to make sure no one is nearby before swinging it. The potential danger of bats should be emphasized by coaches to ensure no one is careless about this issue.

No matter what sport or type of exercise you're involved with, wearing the right type of shoes is essential.

Baseball safety, then, is not complicated, but if everyone remembers the basic principles, accidents can be greatly reduced. Baseball is a little deceptive in some ways, as you may be able to get away with being careless for a while, but at some point a serious injury can occur if the right gear isn't worn or safety rules are ignored. The responsibility for players' safety is shared by the players themselves, managers and coaches, and younger players, naturally, need extra supervision.




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Suggestions to Play Baseball Like an Expert

By Gabriel Tripp


It does not matter if you are a baseball player, coach, or parent, there is so much to learn in reference to this game. Baseball has a lot of various components. There are different strategies for hitting, pitching and fielding. There are mental as well as physical aspects to the game. In this article, we will examine a few professional baseball tips that will give you and your players a jump up when playing the game.

Defensive strategy in baseball depends on the circumstances. The defense is always a dynamic situation such as when you see someone move close to the foul line. This helps prevent extra base hits that can score runs. But it is not wise to be too extreme as it allows for opportunities in the center of the playing field. When you think about this, it is a question of minimizing the most dangerous scoring opportunities. This is generally a choice the manager makes late in the game when the score is close and there are runners on base. Hitting is one of the most crucial as well as hardest component in baseball. It does not matter if someone is playing the little leagues or the major leagues, getting a good contact with the ball is of a necessity if anything is going to be completely done. The batter has to have a grounded stance and feel very balanced and comfortable when standing on the plate. The most important thing about being a wonderful hitter deals with being able to see the ball at all times. Don't tense up your shoulders when you turn to swing and also keep a solid, but not too rigid hold of the bat. Swinging drills can get the players to focus on the on the ball as they swing and give them the chance to make better contact with the ball.

One of the appealing things about baseball is that when a hitter is batting, there are so many things to think about first. Aside from the score, the runners on base, the number of outs, a hitter has many things to account for when at bat. When you first step up to the plate, you can afford to choose your pitches.

In conclusion, baseball can get quite confusing. For the team to do well, all players must understand what has to be done at all points of the game. This means that everybody should practice drills that help them get better skills, and make the team stay alert at all times.

The tips that we have covered in this article can help you and your team play like pros.




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How to Find Baseball Gear That Lets You Play Your Best

By Bruno W. Vickers


Having the right baseball gear is essential to being able to play your best. When getting your equipment, consider factors like your position, size, and age. There's also the matter of your budget and how much you're able to invest in your gear. Here are some helpful guidelines for choosing appropriate baseball equipment.

The game itself revolves around the ball. A typical baseball doesn't have a long lifespan in fact some games will use several dozen at least. Balls are easily damaged by hard swings and lost in various ways, which is why it makes sense to purchase them in bulk. Even if balls are supplied for you during games and official practice sessions, you should always have some of your own so you can practice in your spare time. It's not important to have major league quality for practicing with but they should still be of good quality synthetic or leather materials.

Some baseball gear is not essential for playing the game, but is nevertheless recommended for protection. One such item are wrist guards. It's easy to get hit in the wrist by a pitch when you're at bat, or get an injury when sliding or diving to make a catch.

There are enough ways to suffer this kind of injury that it's worth taking this extra precaution. When you're wearing wrist guards that fit well, you'll hardly know you have them on. The ideal wrist guards are light and won't make you feel restricted in any way.

Baseball is a very traditional game and many things have remained constant but some types of gear like the bats have changed slightly over the years. A glove that suits your hand and position, as well as clothing and protective gear that fits properly, will always be an essential part of this beloved game. Use this tips to find equipment that fits you and allows you to focus on the game.




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Appropriate Baseball Gear is Important

By Jonathan Woods


You can of course find many types of baseball gear due to the simple fact that gear needs differ from one person to another. Before you run out and buy gear you need to consider the position you play as well as the particular rules for your league or team. There are however some generalizations you can make and we'll look at those here.

The baseball glove is one of the most fundamental pieces of equipment you need to play the game. The kind of glove needed will depend on the position you play when in the field. If you play first base, you'll need a glove that's larger than usual, so you can easily catch balls thrown at a variety of angles. Outfielder's gloves, on the other hand, are long, so that you can catch fly balls that you have to chase. And to keep the batter from seeing what kind of pitch they're going to throw, pitchers use a glove with closed webbing. Catchers use wide gloves with extra padding to help them withstand the impact of fastballs and other pitches for an entire game.

Your baseball glove is one of your main accessories, which is why you should take good care of it. Use an oil or conditioner to keep the glove clean and protected from the elements. If you use something that is too harsh you can wear down the leather so it's best to use a product that's made especially for conditioning gloves. You should keep your glove in a cool and dry place when not in use. Exposure to heat and dampness isn't good for leather. You will need to replace the laces on your glove every so often, so you need to inspect them to make sure they're not broken or brittle.

When you have a baseball uniform, you don't have to worry about what to wear, but there are still some items you have to pick yourself. It's important to dress right for the weather and the conditions you'll be playing in, or you won't be comfortable and this can be a distraction.

A baseball cap is a basic part of your uniform, and while not the most important or costly piece of gear you own, it helps you focus on your game. When you have the right baseball gear, you can bring out the best in your game. Ideally, you don't want to have to think much about your equipment while you're playing, as it should fit well and serve its purpose so you can concentrate on the game itself. This is why you need to do some research and find the gear that's most suitable for you and the position you play.




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Friday, April 22, 2011

Taking A Better Look At Web Suppliers Such As M Powered Baseball.

By Phillip Parker


This article is going to be taking a much closer look at web suppliers of sports gears. Companies like M Powered Baseball have a lot to offer the any team. They are typically able to offer the best type of equipment for the lowest possible prices.

Team managers that have to shop for their teams are typically going to have a certain playing level to consider. The game has many playing levels with the top levels being college and pro. There are many levels under these such as little league and amateur. Teams used to have to find a supplier that specialized in a particular level, and this was often tough to do.

The type of online company that is being discussed here, offers all levels of gear so that all teams have only one place to shop. Since this type of supplier caters to all levels, they typically have enough business coming in to offer the lowest possible costs. This leaves the team manager with more money in his or her pocket.

Another really great thing to consider about many of these companies, is that they were around supplying teams long before the internet was even imagined. Many team managers learn the hard way how very little the average sporting goods chain store knows. These suppliers have been around many years, so they know the game!

While many team managers are going to want to purchase all types of gear from a supplier such as this, it is important to remember the type of savings that they offer on simple items like practice balls. They are going to typically sell practice balls in the larges kind of bulk amounts. The larger the bulk, the larger the savings.

It is now hoped that readers can better understand the benefits that are offered when shopping with the very large web suppliers such as M Powered Baseball. The two greatest features that any manager are sure to enjoy will be the very large selection, and the very effective prices!




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Thursday, April 21, 2011

MLB Picks What To Look For In A Service

By Jason Miles


Baseball is one of the most popular sports throughout the world. In turn many people like to bet on the games. For the most part this sport can be a tough to gauge when it comes to placing a bet. This is why many people are looking in a service that offers MLB picks. Finding the best service is sometimes a very tough decision. We have compiled some tips to help you choose the service that will give you the best chance for success.

Look for a service or company that has been online for a long time. Forget about the fancy graphics and website design. You want someone that has been around awhile and has proven over time they can pick winners. Many times people are caught up in design and graphics and overlook they must produce winners.

Baseball is a sport that is tough to bet on, so you will want detailed information from any company or service. The more detailed information that you have at your fingertips the better off you will be. If they do not provide detailed information you may want to avoid them altogether.

When it comes to MLB picks look for a company that will let you try before you buy. Many times this will help you determine if the company is worth your time and money. Once you try the service you will know if they are as good as they say, or just a waste of time.

Many times people are afraid to make a change when it comes to these types of services. If you start to lose money do not be afraid to switch services. It is your money and you do not want to keep losing it. Any service that is not performing to expectations should be replaced as soon as possible.

As you can see there are some things that you need to look at when choosing a service to give you MLB picks. Look at each one of the tips as they are important and should not be overlooked. Finding the right service for you will take time, but well worth it.




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The Popular Wooden Bats Available Online At M Powered Baseball

By Robert Witherspoon


In baseball, the most critical instrument is the wooden bat. The effectiveness of this piece of equipment is highly based on the skill of the user. However, many players are aware that the bat itself also plays an important part. Most professional players, college players, amateurs and even little league players can attest to the importance of M Powered Baseball wooden bats.

M Powered Baseball has been providing players with baseball equipment for more than 50 years. This company is dedicated to supplying equipment for every level of player. The most commonly used wooden bat which they supply is the Northern White Ash. This bat is popular because of the straight-grain design. This feature is important because it can insure early breakage. The M Powered Northern White Ash wooden bat has more than 40 strands of straight grain.

The Kentucky Coffee Wood bat also has a great deal of popularity. The Coffee Tree is a strong and sturdy tree. However, while very durable, this tree is also very lightweight. Its wood closely resembles red oak. The texture and appearance of the wooden finish of this bat is very attractive.

The Yellow Birch is another popular bat. M Powered pioneered this bat onto the wooden bat market. This bat sports a combination of wood from Quebec and also American wood. The mixture of wood gives this bat a unique which contributes to its effectiveness.

Another popular wooden bat is the Sugar Maple. This model is produced by fine Pennsylvanian Maple Trees and premium New York Maple Trees. M Powered utilizes this same bat for its professional scale clients.

M Powered baseball offers many more models in its assortment of wooden bats. This company is committed to utilizing the best material and a high level of efficiency in production. And each wooden bat comes with a guarantee.




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Tips On Breaking In A New Baseball Glove From M Powered Baseball

By Robert Witherspoon


Breaking in a new leather baseball glove has long been part of the magic of springtime for many a baseball player. There are as many techniques, tips and wives' tales associated with the subject as there are blades of grass in the outfield! This article will introduce you to but a few of the tried-and-true, basic techniques. Take it from there and with time and experience you will find what works best for you.

It is important to note that a lot of baseball gloves these days are synthetic, and the same rules do not apply to these gloves. Know your glove type beforehand and save yourself unnecessary work! This article will only provide steps for breaking in a leather baseball glove. Good luck!

Step 1: Beat it up!...The first thing to do with a new leather baseball glove is to beat it up a little bit. Bend it, punch it, slap it. Open it, close it. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. You get the idea. Loosen up the leather.

Step 2: Play catch!...Begin playing catch with your baseball glove right away. But keep it clean for now! Try not to get much dirt on it at first. Perhaps the best method to accomplish this is to play catch with yourself and a new, clean baseball. Just throw the ball into it with your free hand over and over and over again. Or try punching the pocket with your fist.

Step 3: Oil it up!...Mink oil, linseed oil and castor oil all make great leather conditioners. Of course, you can always purchase a formulated leather conditioner that is likely available where you bought your glove, but be careful of what's in it and make sure it is a conditioner and not a cleaner! Some won't even specify what exactly is in it! Keep it simple. Mink oil is cheap and readily available at any self-respecting feed store. Whatever conditioner you decide on, oil up that glove real well! And leave it overnight to allow the oil to work its magic! It'll make it soft and pliable.

Step 4: Form a pocket!...Playing catch the first day helped to begin to form the pocket. But let's fast-forward the process! After having oiled your baseball glove, put a softball in it and wrap it up snug with rubber bands or soft rope and leave your glove overnight. While the leather is being penetrated and conditioned by the oil, it will also develop a memory around the softball. Using a softball rather than a baseball helps create a large, deep pocket.

Step 5: Play ball!...Repeat Steps 1 and 2. Keep playing lots of catch! And now don't worry about keeping it so clean. Just play. It is a good idea to repeat the softball and rubber band trick until you feel you have formed a good pocket. Some players store their gloves this way year-round. Also oil your glove again if and when you feel it is necessary to make it easier to open and close around the ball. From now on, however, you will need to thoroughly clean the dirt from your glove before conditioning.




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Essential Baseball Safety Tips

By Kathleen Burch


In order to ensure baseball safety for all players, it's essential that everyone cooperates and follows some basic principles Depending on the league and the age of the players, it may be necessary to remind everyone to follow the rules and wear the proper gear at all times Safety principles should be enforced by managers and coaches so players are reminded of their importance You can increase baseball safety by adhering to the practices we'll be discussing below

One of the most important pieces of equipment for all baseball players is the glove, which is specialized for each position and player Gloves should be made from high quality materials, fit well and also be of the right size and shape for your position Catchers, for instance, need especially large and well padded gloves so they can take whatever the pitcher hurls at them First basemen have to catch and scoop balls that come from all over the field, so their gloves have to be longer than average You're both safer and able to play better when you have the right type of glove for your hand and your position

One of the most important ways to increase player safety during games is to ensure that everyone warms up first Everyone should stretch before a game, which is really true of any sport or physical activity After this, cardio type exercises such as running or cycling are recommended Some kind of workout should be done before play so everyone is well prepared As a parent or coach, you should also encourage players to maintain a high level of physical fitness at all times Since the game of baseball is not as aerobic as some sports, players sometimes need extra reminders to maintain a year round fitness program If players are encouraged to stay as fit and healthy as possible, there will be fewer injuries during games

In any sport, the right footwear is extremely important, and this holds true for baseball as well Sneakers that are worn out or poorly made should be cast aside in favor or real baseball shoes This can make a big difference when running the bases or running after a fly ball in the outfield Adequate support for your feet is essential, especially considering the variable conditions of baseball fields from one place to another or one day to another Without good baseball shoes, there's a greater chance of accidents and injuries It's always best to get shoes made especially for the sport you're playing, so baseball players should have baseball shoes or cleats

Baseball safety, as we've seen in this article, can be easily improved by following some common sense rules Baseball is a little deceptive in some ways, as you may be able to get away with being careless for a while, but at some point a serious injury can occur if the right gear isn't worn or safety rules are ignored That's why it's important that coaches and others supervising a game keep close watch on the field and players to make sure everyone is staying safe




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Ways To Ensure Baseball Safety

By Arthur Goldberry


In order to maximize baseball safety, coaches, managers and players alike must abide by certain guidelines and be attentive at all times Safe practices on the field should be stressed during both practices and games The coach and manager should not only encourage players to play their best, but also to do everything they can to ensure safety You can increase baseball safety by adhering to the practices we'll be discussing below

The baseball glove is a vital tool that's made a little differently for every player on the field Gloves should be made from high quality materials, fit well and also be of the right size and shape for your position Certain gloves, such as the catcher's, are quite specialized, and must be larger and better padded than typical gloves First basemen have to catch and scoop balls that come from all over the field, so their gloves have to be longer than average The more suitable your glove is, the more effective you'll be on the field, and the less likely it is that you'll be injured trying to make a catch

Players who warm up correctly before playing are much less likely to get injured than those who don't In order to have everyone's muscles loose, it's a good idea to stretch before playing General fitness levels should be maintained by doing regular workouts such as treadmills, cycling or running Some kind of workout should be done before play so everyone is well prepared Being in good physical condition at all times is one of the best ways to ensure the safety of players, in addition to allowing them to play their best While players in contact sports are usually aware of the importance of conditioning, it's also something baseball players need to be aware of While accidents can always occur, a high level of fitness can prevent many injuries

Footwear is critical in all sports, baseball included, so it's important for players to wear the right type of shoes You should wear bona fide baseball shoes/cleats, and certainly not shoes or sneakers that are old or worn Having the right shoes matters a great deal when you're rounding the bases or chasing a ball in the outfield or infield You can't always predict how the ground will be, as you may play at home one day and away the next, or on a muddy field one day and a dry one the next Many accidents, sprains and other injuries can be prevented by wearing high quality athletic shoes Players who are serious about baseball should get cleats or baseball shoes that are well made and fit well

Baseball safety, then, is not complicated, but if everyone remembers the basic principles, accidents can be greatly reduced While baseball is not usually perceived as a dangerous sport, and it's not if proper guidelines are followed, there are always potential dangers with balls traveling at high speeds and bats being swung Players have to be responsible for their own safety to a large extent, but coaches should also pay attention and point out any reckless or irresponsible behavior




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Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Becoming Your Own Batting Coach

By Dusty Mattingly, Batting Coach


You know how you swing right? Well I wouldn't be so sure! On the surface knowing your own swing seems easy. But, if I told you that you had to be your own batting instructor for the rest of your life, how do you think you would perform? My guess is the same thing would happen to you that happened to me. You see, I was always surrounded by great baseball batting coaches when I was younger. At the first sign of fault, they were quick to point me in the right direction so my performance never slipped. As a result, I didn't pay much attention to what they were saying or why, I just went with the flow!

In hindsight, all of my struggles rested directly on my ignorance as a baseball player when I was younger. During my baseball batting training sessions, I didn't pay enough attention to what I was being taught. Whenever something went wrong, my baseball coaches corrected it and I went on performing as usual. Well when I got to college, this wasn't the case! They expected me to perform without much instruction and it was on me if I didn't! Well for a good part of my career, I didn't!

In college, at least in my experience, they didn't care too much about correction or development. It was about getting stronger and performance. I effectively did one of the two! As a result, I had to go back and revisit every piece of baseball batting training info I had ever learned.

Given that I had been through dozens of camps and dozens of baseball coaches, it took awhile to figure out which information helped me perform the most consistently. Even though it took me awhile, I did figure it out! I spent the next two seasons as a Two-Time Captain batting over .300.

When push came to shove, all that I had to do was spend a little more time paying attention to what I was being taught when I was younger. Why am I making this correction? Why is coaching making this adjustment now? What caused me to fail? What caused me to succeed? If I had taken the time to just answers these questions, I would have known my own baseball swing a lot better!

Be ready for that moment, and come prepared. If you don't, you are sure to face the same type of struggles that I did.




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Tuesday, April 19, 2011

The Importance of Having the Right Baseball Gear

By Andrew Hoffmann


In order to play your best, it's important to have baseball gear that's right for you. When getting your equipment, consider factors like your position, size, and age. Your budget will also need to be considered, of course. The following guidelines will help you choose the appropriate baseball equipment.

When it comes to equipment, you may want to start with getting the right bat, which has to be the right size, weight and material for you. Bats also have to meet the requirements of the particular school, league or team on which you play. Some players like old fashioned wooden bats, and you can at least be sure these are allowed no matter where you play. Aluminum bats, and those made with materials such as titanium and graphite are more powerful and also can last longer than wood. In many leagues for young players, aluminum bats are not allowed to protect the players from injury. Bats must be chosen with your own size, swing and style of play in mind.

Custom made gear is best for the serious baseball player. A glove can be customized in a variety of ways such as type of leather, webbing, welting and color. If you are well versed in what works for you this is a consideration you may want to make. A seasoned player may even want a customized bat which can be made of wood or metal, be weighted to a certain spec and carry a logo if desired. Custom baseball gear is more costly than equipment you buy off the shelf or from a typical website, but if you're very particular in what you want, it may be worth it to you.

If you are really serious about improving your skills as a hitter consider a batting tee. This is an extremely effective tool for practicing your swing, and it's used by players of all ages and levels. It is important for every player to practice outside of regular practice which is why this is an essential piece of equipment. Even though it may seem like a tedious task it's still important to practice your swing repetitively.

Be sure you are setting your tee up correctly so that it mimics the swing you'd have during regular play. You can bring out the best in your game if you have the right baseball gear. You want to concentrate on the game when playing and not your equipment, which is why it needs to fit properly and serve its purpose. So it's important to do your research and find the gear that's suitable for you and the position you play.




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Monday, April 18, 2011

Choosing Baseball Gear That Brings Out The Best In You

By Harry Barber


Baseball, like any sport, has certain gear that is required and you have to make sure it fits you well. It's essential to get gear that's suitable for your position, as well as the standardized equipment everyone needs. When all your gear fits well and is high quality, you can focus on playing your best and not have to worry that your equipment will fail you. If you stick to the following guidelines, you'll be sure that all of your baseball gear is just right for you.

The bat is one of the most basic pieces of equipment you need in baseball, and the type you get will depend on several factors. There are certain restrictions on bats, depending on where you play, so you have to become familiar with the rules. Traditional bats are wooden, and many players still like the feel of these. Aluminum bats, and those made with materials such as titanium and graphite are more powerful and also can last longer than wood. Some leagues, especially for younger players, don't allow metal bats for safety reasons. You should experiment with different bats and find the type that's just right in terms of size and weight.

Some baseball gear is not essential for playing the game, but is nevertheless recommended for protection. Wrist guards are a good example of this. It's easy to overlook this, but there are many situations when you'll be glad you wore them, such as if you get hit by a pitch, or you're sliding into a base and your arm hits the ground. You want to do everything you can to avoid injuries, as they're not only painful but they can take you out of the game. When you're wearing wrist guards that fit well, you'll hardly know you have them on. They shouldn't interfere with your movements at all, but they can provide solid protection

If you play on a team, you probably have a uniform, but you still have to choose some clothing yourself. Depending on the weather and the field you're playing on, make sure you're dressed appropriately so that you feel loose and comfortable. If you wear a baseball jersey, make sure it's on the large side, as your arms have to be free to swing a bat and run after balls. If everything fits well and you're dressed right for the weather, you can focus on the game and give it your best.

Baseball gear has to be chosen so that it helps you play your best and also conforms with the rules or policies of the league in which you play. While you may be assigned certain items, such as a uniform, equipment such as gloves must be chosen carefully to make sure they're a good fit and are designed specifically for your position. The above points can be referred to when choosing baseball gear, though in many cases you may have to experiment with different brands and styles to find what's right for you.




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Sunday, April 17, 2011

Improve Your Shooting in Basketball

By Lavenia Sternal


Anyone who plays basketball wants to get better at shooting, as this is the objective of the whole game. In order to shoot accurately, you have to pick the best opportunities to shoot, and focus your mind completely on the task. You also have to remember that you can't learn to shoot properly without paying your dues by practicing continuously. Anyone can boost their basketball shooting skills, and in this article we'll be discussing some of the best ways you can start scoring more points.

One of the most essential things about making basketball shots is having the ability to tell when you should take the shot and when to just wait. Inexperienced, as well as egotistical players will often try to take a shot every whenever they have the ball. Many times, this is the wrong course of action to take. Remember that your purpose is to be a team player and not just score a lot of points. But then again, a few players do not feel comfortable enough to take the shots that they should. Knowing when to take these actions requires expertise. However, always be mindful of your environment while you are learning these new things. Shoot the ball if you are in the right position to do it. But, if you can get the ball in a better shooting position by giving it to someone else, then you have to make the decision. Another important aspect to remember is to put an arc on your shot when shooting it. There is more to this than making a pretty shot. It actually comes down to geometry. When shooting the ball, the straighter the shot, the less chance of making a mistake. This means that your chances for not getting the ball in the hoop greatly go down. There is a higher chance of the ball going in if you throw it higher and it bounces on the rim. A straighter ball can go in the basket, but it has t be thrown with a huge amount of accuracy. But with an arc, there is an opportunity for the ball to hit the rim side or backboard and get in the basket. As you work on your practice shots, attempt to get a good arc.

Jump shots are an important part of shooting, and for this reason you should work to improve your vertical jump as well as your shooting technique. Keeping your elbow in and under the ball will help you aim better as well as improve your control of the shot. You will need to jump higher to make shots that are further away. However, don't focus so much on jumping that you lose control of your hands and the ball.

The shot should be done in one fluid motion. Release the ball as you reach the peak of your jump. It will take practice to perfect your jumping and your jump shots.

Becoming a great basketball shooter can't be done with one single step. It takes hard work and lots of practice. You also have to identify the areas where you need the most work and focus on these. Making use of the above tips will help you improve your shooting skills.




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Saturday, April 16, 2011

How One Can Become a 5 Tool Baseball Player

By Thomas Wilson


The five tool player is one that offers remarkable quickness, has the ability to hit for average, hit for power, a really good throwing arm, and also is going to be very good defensively. Chase Utley, David Wright, Carl Crawford, Evan Longoria, as well as Josh Hamilton unquestionably are modern good examples of people that experts claim are proficient or exceed at every one of 5 tools. Now let's consider all of these separately.

Running Speed - This valuable tool is among the toughest to make sure you improve in. It can be practical to get a person to increase his speed, however his maximum will be reliant upon the particular person himself. Speed is without question incredibly critical when you consider that speed and agility happen to be used not merely in base running but also in defense also. In addition to being a great deal more physically fit, in order to increase your speed you will need to focus on your form, efficiency of motion, and also first-step quickness.

Arm Strength - Even though, some people frequently tell you that arm strength is the least valuable of the 5 tools, a person with an above average arm not only has a physical advantage over many other players, but also a psychological one. To illustrate, if a baserunner knows that an outfielder has an superb arm, they are not as likely to try and take an extra base than they might have with an outfielder with only an average arm. The outfielder did not even need to make a throw, but he still won the battle. In order to improve in arm strength you ought to work on weight training (if you happen to be physically mature enough) and participating in "long-toss."

Hitting for Average - Hitting for average calls for the ability to successfully hit to all fields as well as recognize when you should bunt. Being able to make contact often is a must. Hitting for average calls for good decision-making abilities and excellent pitch selection at the plate. Hitting for average is probably one of the most crucial tools considering that in order to score runs you have to have baserunners, and in order to have baserunners you need to get hits (or perhaps have especially great pitch selection and receive walks.)

Hitting for Power - This is without a doubt the most envied tool of young players, although not necessarily the most vital. The most clear advantage of power hitters are extra base hits in addition to home runs. Power hitters at the same time bring a psychological advantage of intimidation. Power hitters are generally the most famous players on a team simply because like fans, scouts like watching a player hit the long ball. To improve your power, a strength and conditioning schedule will be a must.

Fielding - Outstanding defensive abilities are becoming more and more in demand mainly because today's players are concentrating a lot more on hitting for power. Superb defensive players understand the best way to position themselves against particular hitters, and be capable of utilizing a combination of their "soft" hands, agility, speed, in addition to arm strength to make very difficult plays look simple. In order to refine your fielding, improving your speed and arm strength is vital, as is getting out there on the diamond regularly to field grounders and fly balls. It is a huge advantage if you can play a variety of positions.

As you can probably tell, 5 tool players are extremely scarce. Sometimes, being very good at a certain tool can possibly lower your value in a different one. One example is, if you are a big power hitter, you may be big and powerful, but it is likely that your speed might be lacking. Or, you might be really small and a extraordinary defensive player with great speed, but can't hit for power consistently. This is okay, and it is important to know yourself and your abilities and better yourself in areas that you are lacking as well as perfect your strengths. You can certainly still be a very good player without being a five tool player, however it certainly helps to work on all of these tools when picking your workouts.




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