Pitching advice with Coach Opalewski

In this insightful episode of the Baseball Blueprint Podcast, host Cody Dennis engages with Dr. Jimmy Onate, Director of Human Performance at The Ohio State University, to explore the critical aspects of injury prevention and player development in baseball. Dr. Onate shares his extensive expertise on how scientific research and practical application converge to enhance athletic performance and reduce injury risks. Key Discussion Points: Insights from the ABCA Convention: Dr. Onate reflects on the recent American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) convention, highlighting its unique contributions to the baseball community. ​RPP Baseball Role at Ohio State's Performance Lab: An overview of Dr. Onate's work in advancing human performance through innovative research and application. ​RPP Baseball Integrating Research into Practice: Strategies for applying scientific findings to everyday training and coaching to optimize player outcomes.​ Injury Prevention Techniques: Effective methods and protocols to minimize injury risks among baseball players.​RPP Baseball+1YouTube+1 Enhancing Player Development: Approaches to developing comprehensive training programs that address both physical and mental aspects of performance.​ This episode is essential listening for coaches, players, and parents committed to understanding the science behind athletic performance and implementing practices that foster both safety and excellence on the field.​ Download the Baseball Bluebook app—your comprehensive resource for connecting with college programs, recruiters, and staying informed with insights from industry experts like Dr. Onate and Cody Dennis. Available now on iOS and Android. Search “Baseball Bluebook” in your app store and get in the book today!​ 🧤 Sponsored by Valley Glove: This episode is proudly sponsored by Valley Glove—crafting custom leather gloves tailored for the modern ballplayer. Experience unparalleled quality and performance. Explore their collection at valleyglove.com and elevate your game with a glove designed just for you.​ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of The Baseball Blueprint, host Cody Dennis welcomes Caleb Cox, Recruiting Coordinator at SportsForce, for a deep-dive into the real-world challenges and solutions of college baseball recruiting. From player evaluation to managing expectations and finding the “right fit,” Caleb shares insights from the front lines—working with families, players, and coaches across all levels. 🔹 Why recruiting is about relationships—not rankings 🔹 The biggest mistakes families make when chasing D1 🔹 JUCO and NAIA: underrated but powerful pathways 🔹 How to approach the recruiting timeline for 2025s and 2026s 🔹 What college coaches really want to see in a recruit Whether you're a parent trying to make sense of the shifting recruiting landscape or a player looking to take the next step, this episode delivers straight talk and actionable advice from someone who lives in the trenches every day. Download the Baseball Bluebook app—your go-to platform for finding college programs, connecting with recruiters, and getting real-time updates from trusted insiders like Caleb Cox and Cody Dennis. Available now on iOS and Android. Just search “Baseball Bluebook” in the app store and get in the book today! 🧤 Sponsored by Valley Glove: This episode is brought to you by Valley Glove—custom leather gloves made for the modern ballplayer. Built to perform, designed to last. Check out their full lineup at valleyglove.com and bring big league quality to your game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Baseball Blueprint Podcast, we sit down with Donnie Murphy, Minor League Infield Coordinator for the Toronto Blue Jays, to dive deep into player development, coaching philosophies, and the evolution of analytics in baseball. Murphy, a former 13-year pro and MLB player, shares his journey from big-league infielder to coach, breaking down the differences between being a player, a hitting coach, a manager, and now an infield coordinator. He also details his experiences working with elite players like Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and how developing trust, relationships, and mindset is just as important as mechanics. 📢 Key Topics: ✅ The transition from playing to coaching & what young coaches need to know ✅ How elite hitters like Bichette & Guerrero developed their skills ✅ The importance of analytics & defensive metrics in player evaluation ✅ Why relationship-building & trust are essential in coaching success ✅ The realities of player development—from low-A ball to the big leagues ✈️ Special Thanks to Our Travel Partner! A huge shoutout to Low-Cost Airlines, your go-to for saving big on baseball travel! Whether you're flying out for tournaments, college visits, or scouting trips, they search every airline to find the best fares. Call 866-984-4800 and start saving today! ⚾ If you're a coach, player, or parent looking for real insight into player development, this is an episode you can't afford to miss! #BaseballDevelopment #MLBCoaching #PlayerMentorship #BaseballBlueprint #LowCostAirlines Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Baseball Blueprint Podcast, host Cody Dennis sits down with Joel Avina, assistant coach at Towson University, to dive into his incredible journey from JUCO player to Division I coach and the evolution of infield development. Coach Avina shares his unique baseball path, including time spent in the Dominican Republic, where he saw firsthand how baseball changes lives. He breaks down why infield training is more than just reps, the importance of finding the right fit as a player, and how defensive analytics are shaping modern coaching. 📢 Key Topics: ✅ The power of JUCO baseball & transitioning to the next level ✅ Lessons from training in the Dominican Republic with MLB stars ✅ How infield coaching has evolved with new defensive analytics ✅ Why finding the right fit matters more than chasing D1 dreams ✅ How Towson is developing elite infielders for the next level ✈️ Special Thanks to Our Travel Partner! A huge shoutout to Low-Cost Airlines, your go-to for saving big on baseball travel! Whether you're flying out for tournaments, college visits, or scouting trips, they search every airline to find the best fares. Call 866-984-4800 and start saving today! ⚾ If you're a player, coach, or parent serious about development, this episode is a must-listen! #InfieldDevelopment #JUCOtoD1 #BaseballRecruiting #AreYouInTheBook #LowCostAirlines Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cody sits down with Pitching coach Jeff Opalewski and talks pitching techniques and coaching philosophy, Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coach Gabe Ortiz, a minor league coach with the Miami Marlins, shares his insights and experiences in player development, particularly working with high school-age athletes in the Dominican Summer League. From mastering outfield fundamentals to optimizing defensive strategies, Gabe discusses his transition from high school and junior college coaching to professional baseball. This episode dives deep into Gabe's evidence-based coaching methods, the importance of baseball IQ, and innovative outfield techniques like reading hops and developing proper angles. Gabe also reflects on his journey, the impact of mentors, and the value of lifelong learning and collaboration in coaching. A must-listen for anyone passionate about player development and the art of coaching! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the inspiring journey of Coach Joey Cunha, a trailblazer in baseball player development and founder of the Farm System. From overcoming personal challenges as a junior college player to becoming a leading hitting coach and entrepreneur, Joey shares his unique story filled with resilience, faith, and a passion for helping athletes thrive. In this episode, Joey delves into his evidence-based approach to training, creative drills for explosiveness and stability, and the mental strategies that unlock peak performance. Gain valuable insights into the art of coaching, the power of perseverance, and the profound impact of authentic leadership. A must-listen for athletes, coaches, and baseball enthusiasts alike! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Baseball Blueprint Podcast, your go-to resource for player development and insights from some of the best instructors in the game! Broadcasting live from the 2025 ABCA Convention in Washington, D.C., this episode features a special guest: Brandon Szink, Director of Baseball Operations at Bo Jackson Elite Sports in Columbus, Ohio. Join host Cody as he and Brandon dive deep into throwing progressions, pocket presentation techniques, and innovative drills to help players improve their skills. From movement-based throwing methods to infield-specific drills, Brandon shares his experience and creative strategies to enhance player development at every level. We also discuss the importance of relationships in coaching, fostering creativity in training, and building an environment where both players and staff can thrive. Plus, Brandon opens up about his journey as a coach, the lessons he's learned along the way, and his vision for improving player development at Bo Jackson Elite Sports. Takeaways for the Viewers: Learn about athletic throwing progressions and how movement-based drills can enhance arm strength and accuracy. Understand the importance of pocket presentation and tools like mini gloves and weighted mitts. Discover how zone-based footwork drills can improve timing, rhythm, and game-like decision-making. Gain insights into designing effective practice plans that ramp up intensity and simulate real-game scenarios. Explore the value of building relationships and fostering creativity within coaching environments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Baseball Blueprint Podcast, Cody welcomes Joey Romence, Director of BSF Pitching at Bodome Columbus. Joey shares his journey from player to coach, detailing his experience across collegiate and professional baseball. The discussion dives into his innovative approaches to pitching development, emphasizing the importance of understanding athletes, using cutting-edge technology like TrackMan and edutronic cameras, and tailoring training tools such as water bags and plyo balls to individual needs. Listeners gain insights into emerging pitching trends, the impact of biomechanics on player performance, and Joey’s philosophy on mentoring players of all ages. He also offers actionable advice for aspiring players and coaches, emphasizing the value of hard work, confidence, and continuous learning. Whether you're an amateur or pro, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to elevating your pitching game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Baseball Blueprint Podcast, Cody sits down with Pedro Montero, the Major League Video Coordinator for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Pedro shares his incredible journey from coaching in the Dominican Summer League to working at the heart of one of MLB’s most successful organizations. Learn how Pedro manages data, supports player development, and helps stars like Mookie Betts and Shohei Ohtani prepare for greatness. With insights on coaching, technology, and perseverance, Pedro’s story is a must-listen for anyone passionate about baseball and player development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices