Summary

This week we're all about the art of getting those elusive outs with pitching. We’ll start by profiling various hitter archetypes, because understanding who’s at the plate is half the battle. From leadoff hitters looking to get on base to power drivers just trying to crush it, we’ll dissect what makes each type tick and how pitchers can best approach them. We’ve got some great insights lined up, including the nuances of pitch selection and how to sequence pitches like a pro, all while keeping it fun and relatable.

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

• 00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts
• 01:46 - The Role of a Leadoff Hitter
• 14:40 - The Evolution of the Leadoff Hitter
• 17:52 - The Contact Clubber: A New Perspective on Hitting Strategy
• 28:00 - The Evolution of Hitting Strategies
• 37:24 - The Evolution of Power Hitters in Baseball
• 43:05 - Transitioning to New Perspectives on Players
• 46:51 - The Philosophy of Hitting: Lessons from Ted Williams
• 57:15 - Understanding Hitting Strategies
• 01:01:08 - Understanding Player Development and Strategies
• 01:09:10 - Understanding Player Profiles and Lineup Strategies

Key Takeaways:

• In this episode, we delve into the art of getting outs through strategic pitching techniques, emphasizing the need to profile hitters accurately.
• We break down various hitter archetypes, from leadoff men to power drivers, discussing their unique roles and how they impact game strategy.
• A key takeaway is the importance of pitch selection and sequencing, tailored to each hitter's profile to maximize effectiveness on the mound.
• Listeners will learn how understanding a hitter's tendencies can guide pitchers in adjusting their approach during games for better outcomes.

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week we continue our Defensive Directives series by finishing our discussion about getting outs with pitching. Don't miss it.

Companies mentioned:

• Glovehound
• MDI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball

Summary

Baseball fans, you’re in for a treat as we dive deep into the art of clutch hitting in this episode. We’re joined by the legendary George Foster, renowned for his clutch performances, and we’ll be breaking down what it truly means to bring runners home under pressure. We’ll also share some of our favorite clutch hitters and reminisce about their unforgettable moments on the field. So, grab your favorite snack, kick back, and let’s chat about how to turn those high-pressure situations into sweet victories!

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

• 00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast
• 00:52 - Clutch Hitters and Their Impact
• 23:15 - The Importance of Mental Toughness in Sports
• 56:06 - The Importance of Positive Reinforcement in Coaching
• 01:30:59 - Clutch Situations and Mental Toughness

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the mental aspects of clutch hitting is crucial for young players to succeed.
• To score runs, players need to be prepared and practice their skills consistently, not just during games.
• The importance of individual practice cannot be overstated; it builds the confidence needed for clutch situations.
• Players must take personal responsibility for their performance and continually seek to improve their skills.

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week we begin our Defense Directives series by discussing how to Get Out with Pitching. Don't miss it.

Companies mentioned:

• Glovehound
• MDI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball

Summary

We're talking about being a "hitter with options," this week. We're focusing on how to move runners effectively in various game situations. The fellas get into the weeds on laying down sweet bunts and hit a gap shots. So get ready to take some notes this week on the Complete Game Podcast!

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Exciting Announcement: Our First Live Episode
• 12:15 - The Importance of Bunting in Baseball
• 13:06 - Strategies for Effective Bunting
• 29:37 - Starting a New Season: Preparing for Success
• 44:43 - Understanding Hitting Techniques and Strategies
• 01:02:23 - The Evolution of Baseball Statistics and Hitting Techniques
• 01:13:35 - The Importance of Hitting Mechanics

Key Takeaways:

• We're super pumped about our first live episode on November 8th, so mark your calendars!
• If you're into youth baseball, come hang out after the podcast to ask questions and chat with us.
• The new facility by Keith Vonderhaar is top-notch, with amazing equipment and a sweet setup.
• Being a hitter with options can really elevate your game, so learn to adapt to different situations.
• Remember, hitting for contact is just as crucial as hitting for power when it comes to moving runners.
• Next week's episode will dive into scoring runners, so don't miss out on that!

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week we'll wrap up our Offensive Objectives series by discussing strategies for getting runners in and across the plate. Don't miss it.

Companies mentioned:

• Glovehound
• MDI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball

Summary

Today, we're diving into the world of baseball statistics with a spotlight on an essential aspect of the game: getting on base. The episode kicks off with a deep dive into on-base percentage (OBP), a stat that is crucial to any team's success. It’s not just about the numbers, though—we’re also dishing out some solid insights on the mental game and the strategy behind being a smart hitter. So grab your bat, settle in, and let’s learn how to get on base!

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

• 00:02 - Introduction to the Complete Game Podcast
• 00:33 - Introduction to Offensive Objectives in Baseball
• 09:01 - Baseball Legends: On-Base Percentage and Hall of Fame Discussion
• 17:07 - Understanding On-Base Percentage and Scoring Runs
• 24:50 - The Seven Ways to Get on Base
• 34:32 - Strategies in Youth Baseball Coaching
• 47:10 - Understanding the Game: Baserunning and Fielder's Choice
• 48:33 - The Art of Hitting: Overcoming Fear of Strikeouts and Hit by Pitches
• 55:55 - The Art of Hitting: Lessons from George Foster
• 01:09:13 - Understanding Hitting Approaches in Baseball

Key Takeaways:

• In baseball, getting on base is not just about hits; understanding on-base percentage (OBP) is crucial for player success and team strategy.
• Ethan broke down OBP mathematically, illustrating how every player can benefit from knowing their stats, emphasizing the importance of walks and hits.
• We discussed legendary players like Joey Votto and Ted Williams, showcasing different styles of getting on base and how their approaches impacted their careers.
• A solid plate approach involves knowing your situation and being aggressive, especially when runners are on base, to increase your chances of scoring.
• The podcast emphasized that striking out isn't the end of the world, but players should prioritize putting the ball in play to help their teams win games.
• Situational hitting is vital; players should practice with purpose and simulate game conditions to develop their skills effectively.

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week in Part 2 of our Offensive Objectives series, we look at top strategies for moving runners.

Companies mentioned:

• Glovehound
• MDI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball

Summary

Today, we're diving into what it really takes to make it to the postseason. We'll explore the five essential ingredients every team needs to secure their spot in October. Spoiler alert: mindset is a biggie! You can’t just show up and hope for the best; teams need that competitive fire to truly contend. We’ll also chat about the importance of talent, depth, and the ever-elusive consistency. So grab your favorite snack, kick back, and let’s get into some serious baseball talk that’ll have you thinking about the game in a whole new way!

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

• 00:22 - Introduction to Baseball Topics
• 00:44 - Mindset and Strategy for Postseason Success
• 16:11 - The Intensity of Postseason Play
• 24:51 - Coaching Strategies in Youth Baseball
• 37:36 - The Importance of Mental and Physical Preparation in Baseball
• 49:01 - The Importance of Coaching in Youth Development
• 57:26 - Postseason Records and MVPs
• 01:02:55 - Bob Gibson: The Dominant Pitcher

Key Takeaways:

• To make it to the postseason, teams need to cultivate a winning mindset and push through challenges, especially for lower market teams that might not be in contention.
• Consistency is key for teams aiming to reach the postseason; you can't just rely on late-season bursts of performance to secure your spot.
• Having a strong bench is crucial in the postseason, as it allows teams to rest starters and maintain performance throughout a grueling playoff schedule.
• Pitching depth is vital; injuries happen, and a solid bullpen can make or break a team's chances in tight playoff games.
• The importance of situational hitting cannot be overstated; knowing when to sacrifice or play aggressively can define a postseason game.
• Team unity is essential in the postseason; players need to be on the same page and support each other for the best chance at success.

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week we kick off our 3 part series called Offensive Objectives where we get deep into offensive strategy and skills for getting on base. Don't miss it.

Companies mentioned:

• Glovehound
• MDI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball

Summary

Today's episode is all about the world of minor league baseball. George Foster, the Reds Hall of Famer, shares his journey through the minors, giving us a peek into the experiences, the quirks, and the unexpected challenges that come with climbing the baseball ladder. George’s tales will make you appreciate every little moment of the game. We wrap up this week with a hilarious round of "mascot or make believe," where we’ll test the fellas on their knowledge of minor league mascots. Trust me, you won't want to miss this—it's gonna be a blast!

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

• 00:02 - Introduction to the Game
• 01:12 - George's Journey in the Minor Leagues
• 11:41 - Transition to the Big Leagues
• 14:33 - Transition to Professional Baseball
• 23:16 - Transition to 1971: A New Beginning
• 28:18 - Welcome to the Big Leagues
• 36:10 - The Dynamics of Team Relationships
• 44:42 - The Journey of Development in Baseball
• 51:40 - Life Skills and Experiences in Minor League Baseball
• 56:55 - Exploring the Joy of Minor League Baseball
• 01:03:25 - Mascots and Make Believe
• 01:06:01 - New Mascots in Minor League Baseball
• 01:09:41 - The Importance of Mascots in Minor League Baseball
• 01:15:00 - The Conclusion of a Great Episode

Key Takeaways:

• In this episode of the Complete Game Podcast, we dive deep into the fascinating world of minor league baseball, exploring its quirks and the unique experiences it offers to players and fans alike.
• George Foster shares some stories from his time in the minors, including the challenges, triumphs, and the friendships that formed along the way.
• The guys play a fun game called 'Mascot or Make Believe,' which reveals some of the wildest and most creative minor league team names out there, which are often just as entertaining as the games themselves.
• We discuss the importance of the minor leagues in player development and how players like George Foster learned invaluable lessons that prepared them for the big leagues.
• The episode highlights the affordability and accessibility of minor league games, making it a great family outing compared to the often steep prices of major league tickets.
• Listeners get to hear about George's journey from humble beginnings to becoming an MVP, emphasizing the role of perseverance and hard work in achieving one's dreams.

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week we talk about all kinds of equipment from George's famous black bat to everyone's favorite glove, shoes, and more. Don't miss it.

Companies mentioned:

• Glovehound
• MDI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball...

Summary

This conversation is essential for parents looking to ensure their kids have the best experience possible while navigating the often chaotic world of youth sports. We’ll offer you a list of helpful questions to ask your child’s potential coach about the team and the program to ensure that it's a good fit for you. Whether you’re a parent trying to advocate for your player or a kid just trying to figure out where you fit in, we’ve got insights that’ll help you make informed decisions. It’s all about laying the groundwork for clear communication and setting realistic expectations, because let’s face it, nobody wants to be that parent grumbling in the stands when things go sideways! So, grab a seat and let’s break it down together!

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

• 00:02 - Introduction to the Complete Game Podcast
• 01:56 - Interviewing Prospective Coaches
• 31:22 - Navigating Expectations in Travel Baseball
• 36:43 - Understanding Coaching and Mentorship in Youth Baseball
• 01:03:56 - Managing Expectations in Youth Baseball

Key Takeaways:

• Interviewing a prospective coach is crucial to ensure that expectations align for everyone involved, especially the players.
• Understanding the philosophy and practice structure of a coach can help parents make informed decisions about their child's development.
• Youth baseball today is a mixed bag of positives and areas in need of improvement, reflecting the evolving landscape of youth sports.
• Navigating the world of youth baseball requires proactive communication between parents and coaches to avoid misunderstandings about playing time and roles.
• Parents should not shy away from asking about travel plans and costs to better manage expectations and budget for the season.
• Encouraging kids to play for fun can lead to a more fulfilling experience, especially if competitive aspirations don't align with family values.

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week we trace George's journey through the Minor Leagues and discuss the importance of the Minor League system. Then we finish with some fun Minor League Mascot trivia. Join us!

Companies mentioned:

• Glovehound
• MDI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball

Summary

This week, we tackle a topic that hits home for a lot of coaches and players alike: how to play all of your players and remain competitive. We’ll discuss the importance of practice, creative game-time strategies, and how to keep kids engaged, even when they're not in the game. So grab your glove and settle in, because we’re about to break down some clever techniques to make sure every player gets the chance to contribute the team success!

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

• 00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast
• 01:56 - Exploring Playing Time Dynamics
• 10:39 - The Evolution of Youth Baseball Coaching
• 17:58 - Coaching Mindsets and Player Development
• 23:10 - Opportunities in Youth Sports
• 31:16 - The Importance of Flexibility in Sports
• 36:51 - Strategies for Managing Players in Tournaments
• 46:11 - The Importance of Autonomy in Youth Sports
• 52:41 - The Importance of Coaching Strategies
• 01:01:32 - Introduction to George Foster's Hitting Techniques
• 01:06:26 - Maturity Through Team Play

Key Takeaways:

• Baseball coaching is about balancing competitiveness with ensuring all players get fair playing time, which can be a tricky situation.
• Effective player development involves understanding the nuances of each player's skills and being adaptable to change positions if needed.
• Parents should engage with coaches about their child's playing time and development, rather than solely focusing on winning.
• Creating a culture of maturity and teamwork in young players is crucial for their growth, both on and off the field.

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week we talk about how to interview a perspective coach/program.

Companies mentioned:

• Glovehound
• MDI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball