Hitting Fundamentals

In this week's episode, we sat down with Alex Kikos, CEO of Vizual Edge, to break down our vision test results, learn more about the history of Vizual Edge and explore how vision training can improve performance both inside and outside of baseball. Get 30 days of FREE access to Vizual Edge with code ATB—includes free 3D glasses and shipping, and you can cancel anytime. Sign up now at VizualEdge.com!

In this episode, we kick things off with a few spring break baseball stories including the time Johnny took a shot to the face in 6th grade, played the rest of the game with one eye shut and ended the day with a trip to the ER. Then we shift to the World Baseball Classic and break down everything you need to know from the 17-year-old rising star who wants to face Aaron Judge, to the pride and passion of Team Puerto Rico, dark horse contenders and which country has the best chance to win it all. One team we forgot to mention that has a shot at winning? Oh Canada 🇨🇦

Proper nutrition plays a critical role in athletic performance especially for young athletes. In this episode, we talk about fueling up before, during and after games as well as how to recover on and off the field. We hope you enjoy!

Making the jump to the 60/90 field changes everything about how the game is played. In this episode, we discuss key defensive strategies, positioning, communication, the catcher’s role and the pitcher’s responsibilities. We hope you enjoy!TANDEM RELAY INFO:SituationBases empty.The ball is hit to the left-center field fence.When the outfielder shows numbers, we know this hit is at least a double.Our goal now is simple:Do NOT let the double turn into a triple.Defensive ResponsibilitiesLeft Fielder (LF)Fields the ball cleanly off the wallMakes a strong, accurate throw toward the cutoffShortstop (SS) – Primary CutoffGoes out to the outfield grass as the main cutoffGets square to the ball and the targetControls the throw and decides where it goes nextSecond Baseman (2B) – Tandem / BackupTrails the shortstop by 10–15 feetBacks up the shortstop in case of an errant throwReady to receive the ball if neededFirst Baseman (1B)Watches the runner touch first baseTrails the runner toward second baseGets in position to receive any throw to secondRight Fielder (RF)Moves in to back up throws to second basePitcher (P)Hustles to back up third basePrevents extra bases on overthrowsCoaching EmphasisEveryone has a job—no spectatorsHustle and communication matterGood positioning turns doubles into routine doublesThis play is about team defense, not arm strengthGoalKeep the double from becoming a triple.

Making the jump to the big diamond is one of the toughest transitions for young hitters. Longer base paths, faster pitching and bigger fields can expose bad habits fast. In this episode, we focus on what hitters really need when moving up in competition — strong fundamentals, simple routines and a smart approach instead of quick-fix gadgets. We break down hitting styles, how to use video feedback effectively, ways to improve eye-hand coordination and the movement patterns that translate to success on the bigger field. We also share practical do’s and don’ts for parents and coaches trying to support players through this critical stage. If you have a player preparing for the big diamond, this episode gives you a clear roadmap. We hope you enjoy!

Stop guessing on the Big Diamond. This year, we’re breaking down exactly how 11-14 year olds can master the transition to the big field. In this episode, we're covering safety measures, the fundamentals, and building confidence. We hope you enjoy!

This week, we had the chance to talk to Andrew Lysy, a strength and conditioning coach at Cressey Sports Performance. He shares his journey from high school ball and Tommy John surgery to coaching pro athletes at Cressey’s Florida and Massachusetts facilities. We also dive into off-season training, their soon-to-launch app and building strong habits in young athletes. We hope you enjoy!

This week, we’re talking about what youth baseball and softball players should be doing in the off-season. We share insights from Cressey Sports and answer real questions from parents on training, conditioning, and skill work between now and January.

This week, we’re talking about hitting, specifically for the overlooked youth hitters. From the most common struggles we see to the must-have fundamentals that every practice should include, we’re breaking it all down—plus sharing how to boost confidence at the plate. We hope you enjoy!

This week, we talk with Tyson Ward, longtime friend and first-year Head Coach at St. John Paul II High School. Hear how his early love for baseball, travel ball experiences and coaching philosophy shape his leadership style. From overcoming injuries, conducting high school tryouts and becoming a head coach, we get into it all. We hope you enjoy!