Moms and Baseball

Diana and Stephanie do a quick update on life, talk about the upcoming baseball season, and discuss  the hot topic of Alyssa Milano's gofundme for her son's Cooperstown baseball trip.Apologies for the robotic-sounding audio on this one -- we were having some technological difficulties on Diana's end!Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook pageMentions:Alyssa Milano GoFundMe storyNBC News Alyssa Milano Episode 19 Moms and Baseball Fundraising Ideas

Diana and Stephanie discuss The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman.Words of AffirmationActs of ServiceQuality TimeGiving GiftsPhysical TouchThey discuss what love language their teens speak. Take the quiz here to find out your love language, as well as your teens love language to improve the way you communicate.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

Holiday Gift Guide for Baseball FamiliesYouth Kids Electronic Baseball Pitching MachineCrocs with jibbitzBlitzball Starter PackWebGlove Training GloveSliding mitt, Black Friday deals on elbow guardsBaseball Lifestyle 101 clothesBaseballism clothesPersonalized Number Charm NecklaceSubscription boxes: Plate Crate, Inside the Batters Box, The Baseball Box, Sports Box Co.Camwood training batBaseball cards - holiday mega box at walmart $25, Topps Value box TeenBruce Bolt Batting GlovesWeighted Blanket: Black Friday Deal $34.87Necklace: Iced Out Diamond Chain, $16.88 with 20% off couponVictus No. 2 wooden batOakley Men's Sunglasses: Black Friday Deal $118.95Blenders sunglasses –Black Friday Deal $41.30Number necklace (black friday deal - $7.91)Beats by Dr. Dre Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones: Black Friday Deal $99.95Gym MembershipBatting Cage with HitTrax MembershipAdultsHooded Stadium Blanket: Black Friday Deal $29.58Hand Warmers Rechargeable- Black Friday Deal $24.99Portable Charger-Black Friday Deal $31.99Simple Modern 40oz tumbler $29.99GCI Outdoor Big Comfort Stadium Chair With Armrests $92.39GCI Rocker Chair Black Friday Deal $55.99Baseball diffuser necklace (charm - $8)Large (golf) umbrella Black Friday deal $20.90Weather pod $69.99 after $30 couponSavannah Banana ticketsGifts under $20Bat tape: Lizard skinsAthletic tape in team colorsPine tar grip sprayHydration packets: Prime, LMNT, Liquid IVSilicone wristbands with motivational wordsCustomized arm sleeve with initials or numberEye blackFollow Moms and Baseball:Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and Baseball

Stephanie and Diana discuss a poll from Parents and Baseball and share the honest truth about why we started down the travel baseball path.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

Diana and Stephanie sit down to update a bit about what our summer baseball season looked like and try to examine where the newfound feeling of baseball burnout is coming from.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

This episode we are reviewing the WWBA 2026 Grads Tournament with special guest, Patrick Malley. The WWBA 15u National Championship took place at East Cobb Complex and surrounding Atlanta facilities.Location(s):PG East Cobb Complex Hog Mountain Sports Complex, Flowery Branch, GA Alpharetta High School, Alpharetta, GANorth Forsyth High School, Cumming, GARatingFacility: 4/ 5 points Tournament Management: 4/ 5 pointsFees: 3/ 5 points Restrooms: 5/5 points Umpires: 3/ 3 pointsConcessions: 1/ 2 points Miscellaneous: 4/ 5 pointsTOTAL RATING: 24/ 30  (Triple)Note: Our reviews are completely based on our own personal opinions, and we are not receiving any compensation or incentives for our reviews (and if we ever did, we would disclose that information).If you have any corrections, please send them to us. -----------------------------------------Moms and Baseball Tournament Ratings Scale (30 possible points)28+: Grand Slam25-27: Home Run22-24: Triple19-21: Double16-18: Base HitUnder 16: StrikeoutFollow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

We all know how all the expenses from travel baseball can add up over the season, so today we are going to talk about why you are spending too much money on travel baseball, and what you can do to lower the overall cost.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook pageMentionsEpisode 019: Moms and Baseball Fundraising IdeasEpisode 026: Interview with Minor League Mom, Debbie Mikolajchak

Today we are talking about the inside scoop of college recruiting from a former Ivy League coach's perspective. To help us with this topic we invited special guest Kayla Noonan. Kayla was the head softball coach at Columbia University for 14 years and she is sharing her expertise on recruiting, athlete characteristics coaches look for, and expectations as a college freshman.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook pageMentions:Highest Degree: Former Bay City All Saints standout Kayla Noonan finishes her ninth season at the helm of the Columbia University softball program

Today we are reflecting on our 15-years-combined experience of being a baseball parent and discussing all the things we have learned that we wish we knew when our kids started travel ball. Listen and find out what made our top 9 list.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook pageMentions:Episode 7: Moms and Game Day EssentialsEpisode 100: Baseball and More from a 15 yo Perspective, Part 2"Going Out to Eat" Interview

This is our 100th episode and we want to thank all our listeners for continuing to share and listen to our episodes. We are so proud and happy to create some great content for parents, coaches, youth athletes and anyone else that loves baseball. Today, Stephanie interviews Keegan, her 15-year old son, to hear his perspective on some baseball topics. They discuss his favorite Little League memories, favorite tournament destination, and his thoughts on negative comments on social media, sports anxiety, his view on the new MLB rules, his goal of playing D1 college baseball, and more.You can follow Keegan and his journey on Instagram @Keegan_m.15 or on Twitter @Malley_k Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

We are so excited to welcome back special guest Susana Lluch. Susana is Alek Manoah & Erik Manoah's mom who previously joined us for Episode 65 back in November 2021. Today she joins Stephanie and Diana to catch up and talk baseball--especially the World Baseball Classic (WBC).Mentioned:Episode 65Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

Today we are discussing the dangers of Performance Enhancing Drugs (PEDs) including anabolic steroids, Human Growth Hormone (HGH), some energy drinks, and also some dietary supplements. We invited special guest Don Hooton, Jr. to talk about this important topic and why it is such an important topic to him. Don discusses the warning signs and the dangers of these drugs to parents and youth athletes.For more information you can visit the Taylor Hooton Foundation and learn about nutritional supplement safety, the All Me Assembly programs, All Me podcast, and the All Me League.And remember, there's no substitution for hard work!Mentioned:Episode 97NCAA Banned SubstancesMLB Prohibited Substances ListFollow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

Today we are discussing why nutrition is the most important piece of the performance puzzle for athletes. Our expert is Sports Dietitian, Tavis Piattoly. He's been working in the field of high performance and Sports Nutrition for the past 21 years designing personalized nutrition programs for high school, college, and professional athletes. Additional topics we discuss are:What to eat before, or during, tournament games.Hydration for hot weather baseball, electrolytes, and beet powder.Some of the most  most recommend supplements for athletes include an Omega 3 FA, Creatine 3-5 grams per day, and a multivitamin with Vitamin D.Supplement safety.Eat 2 Win Nutrition App If you have any additional questions for Tavis, you can contact him through our page or by email at tpiattoly@mysportsd.com.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

Today we are discussing our opinions about travel baseball and whether the travel baseball market is oversaturated with baseball organizations? And if there are too many teams, does it matter? What would that mean?On Deck:We speak with a sports dietician about nutritional needs for young athletes.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook pageMentions:- The Shift, by Walter Beede- Episode 14- DadsTakeover - Choosing a Travel Team- Episode 61 - Should I Stay or Should I Go? 10 Considerations Before Leaving your Travel Team

Today Diana interviews Xander, her 15-year old son, to hear his perspective on baseball. They discuss his experience with travel/select ball, rec ball and his thoughts on possible regrets, parent pet-peeves, the possibility of playing college baseball, and more. Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page 

Today we are talking about Damar Hamlin, commotio cordis and cardiac arrest, how it is relevant to baseball, and what if anything can be done to help prevent it.We recently witnessed the clip of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsing after a collision with Bengals wide receiver in a NFL football game. People have speculated that Hamlin went into cardiac arrest from commotio cordis. Our understanding is that for commotio cordis to occur, the impact has to occur in the right place (right over the heart), at the right time in the heart's rhythm, by an object of a specific size. In this case, an opponent's shoulder. The treatment is immediately administering CPR,  and using an AED (automated external defibrillator) until medical professionals arrive.The National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE)is an independent, non-profit organization that funded research to develop the world's first performance standard to protect against commotio cordis in 2018. The performance standard applies to the protectors worn in the sports of baseball and lacrosse. Today, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and NCAA require all catchers to wear protectors that meet the standard. Some of these products can include a traditional style chest protector but may also include compression shirts and coverings that are more suited for positional players or pitchers. For a complete list of current products that meet the standard, visit Safety Equipment Institute, which is the only entity that certifies equipment to NOCSAE standards.Disclaimer: we are not medical professionals so please consider that anything shared in this episode is NOT medical advice. We are just moms wanting to keep our kids as safe as possible while playing the sport they love, and doing some google research for you.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook pageArticles used for this episode:https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2023/01/05/commotio-cordis-mitigating-risks/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3445066/https://www.sportsmedtoday.com/commotio-cordis-va-88.htmhttps://www.chicagotribune.com/investigations/ct-chest-protectors-commotio-cordis-standard-met-20160408-story.htmlhttps://nocsae.orghttps://www.seinet.org/search.htmsection=SportsAthleticsandRecreation#sections=NOCSAE_collapse3,NOCSAE_Baseball_collapse31

Today we are sharing Stephanie's favorite episode of 2022, which was Episode 83: Moms and Pitch Counts.-----Today's episode we are talking about pitch counts and why parents need to be aware. Tommy John surgery is on the rise and not just for MLB pitchers either. Diana and Stephanie discuss Tommy John surgery, pitch counts and rest days, recommendations for parents to protect their youth players arm, and pitch count apps. One more tip discussed was NOT to use ice for muscle soreness or after pitching/throwing. Your youth player needs active recovery to help rebuild that muscle. If you want to hear more about recovery, check out our episode 24: Arm Care Advice, Part 2 with Dr. Ryan Brown.Recommendations/Guidelines to follow:Make sure to properly warm up before pitchingAvoid playing catcher while not pitchingPlayers should not pitch in multiple games on the same dayMonitor for other signs of fatigueNo pitcher shall appear in a game as a pitcher for three consecutive days, regardless of pitch countsNo overhead throwing of any kind for at least 2 to 3 months per year (4 months is preferred). No competitive baseball pitching for at least 4 months per year.MLB Pitch Smart GuidelinesLittle League Pitching RulesArticles:Tommy John Surgery Saves The Careers of Pitchers, But We May Need To Get Ready For A New Problem…Experts Warn Parents About Recent Uptick In Youth Baseball InjuriesApps:Gamechanger (free)Pitch X -Pitch Counter (free)Pitch Counter & Radar Gun (free)Pitch Locator Pro (fee)Mentioned in Episode:Episode 24: Arm Care Advice, Part 2 with Dr. Ryan BrownEpisode 83: Moms and Pitch Counts

For the last 2 episodes of 2022, we each pick our favorite episode to re-share. This is Diana's Favorite of 2022: Episode 73- College Athletic Recruiting with with Coach Renee Lopez. Coach Lopez is a 20-year coaching veteran, and an expert in the college recruiting process. She has served as the NCAA compliance director and has also learned the recruiting process from having worked as a high school varsity head coach for three years and a college coach for 14, in NCAA Division I, II, III, and NAIA.Coach Lopez has written a book, "Looking for a Full Ride? An Insider's Recruiting Guide," which has been featured on ESPN Radio & SiriusXMI.We found Coach Lopez through the Facebook group, "Educating Parents of HS Athletes on the College Recruiting Process," where she and a group of experts are helping over 50,000 member parents navigate the athletic recruiting process. This episode is jam-packed with helpful advice from Coach Lopez, including the following:Common misconceptions about the recruiting processWhen/how should kids start actively working to get on a college coach's radarConsiderations when making lists of potential collegesThe "broken leg test"How to contact a coach through social mediaWhat is the NCAA Eligibility Center and why should your athlete start checking his/her high school's core courses now?Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

Today is Part 2 of our mini-series with Lisa Messey.  Lisa is back to discuss college baseball camps, which were vital in the process of her son Drew's verbal commitment to University of Louisville as a 2026 grad. In particular, Lisa shares her son's experience at the week-long camp at Vanderbilt University. In addition, Stephanie shares her son Keegan's experience at the College Day Workouts he did with the Midwest Canes at the University of Cincinnati and Indiana University.Finally, Diana briefly compares those experiences to a camp that Xander attended at D3 Alma College.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook pageMentions:Episode 90: Verbally Committing as a Young Player- One Family's StoryEpisode 74: College Baseball Camps

In Part 1 of a 2-part series with return guest Lisa Messey, we discuss her son Drew's recent verbal commitment to the University of Louisville as a Class of 26 shortstop. Lisa walks us through what that process looked like for them, including the "why" and "how" of verbally committing as an underclassman.Mentioned:Episode 74: College Baseball CampsEpisode 73: College Athletic Recruiting with Coach Renee LopezFollow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

Ballparks of America, Week-long Tournament (12u & 13u)Location:Branson, MissouriGrading Scale:Fields: 5/5 pointsTournament Management: 4.5/5 pointsFees: 5/5 Restrooms: 4/5 points not many, long walk, a little messyUmpires: 3/3 pointsConcessions: 2/2 pointsMiscellaneous: 5/5 points pinsTOTAL RATING: 28.5/30 (GRAND SLAM)Note: Our reviews are completely based on our own personal opinions, and we are not receiving any compensation or incentives for our reviews (and if we ever did, we would disclose that information).If you have any corrections, please send them to us. We will keep the show notes updated with any corrected/updated information so please make sure to check those out on our website: https://momsandbaseball.weebly.com-------------------------Mentioned:Episode 51: Ripken Experience vs Ballparks of AmericaEpisode 52: Unofficial Guide to Ballparks of America-------------------------Moms and Baseball Tournament Ratings Scale (30 possible points)28+: Grand Slam25-27: Home Run22-24: Triple19-21: Double16-18: Base HitUnder 16: StrikeoutGrading System:5 pts: Fields/Facilities (maintained, fences, turf, lights, bleachers, nets, etc)5 pts: Tournament management (Scheduling, communication, rules, etc)5 pts: Fees (Tournament, parking, entry)5 pts: Restrooms3 pts: Umpires2 pts: Concessions5 pts: Miscellaneous (location, coolers, alcohol, dogs, playground, things to do, trophy type, etc.)Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and Baseball

Today we spoke with guest Matt Distelrath about a unique hybrid of travel baseball and community/Little League baseball in St. Clair, Michigan. We also learn all about when Matt coached Jake Cronenworth, star baseball player with the San Diego Padres, in Little League and what Jake was like as a 12-year old.Matt played both baseball and basketball at Concordia University, and then coached there for several years. He has also coached Little League and travel baseball for St. Clair Little League and the St. Clair Longhorns/Padres on and off since 2004, and is a high school basketball coach.MentionedEpisode 21 with Jason Ball  - Dads Takeover College RecruitingFollow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

Today we explain the rule changes that will be implemented in MLB in the 2023 season.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

In honor of National Suicide Prevention month,  we invited back our favorite Directors of Athletics-- Steve Young and Michael Gulino-- to discuss mental health of student athletes. Steve Young is a current Director of Athletics at New Rochelle School District (just outside Manhattan).Michael Gulino is a retired Director of Athletics from Byram Hills School District, also in New York.You can reach either of them via email:Michael at mjgulino88@gmail.com and Steve at syoung@nredlearn.org.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page*Mentions:Race to Nowhere InSideOut Coaching - Joe EhrmannThe Weight of Gold - Michael Phelps*We may have included affiliate links to earn a small commission for Moms and Baseball

Today we discuss commonly understood, yet mostly-unspoken "rules" of travel baseball etiquette for parents, players, and coaches.-----------------------------------------Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and Baseball

PBR Great Lakes Underclassmen Review in Toledo, OhioJune 3-614u-16u17  teams in 14u - Majors level teamsLocation(s):GLENWOOD ATHLETIC COMPLEX - TURF / Perrysburg, OHOTTAWA HILLS HS / Ottawa Hills, OHSIENA HEIGHTS UNIVERSITY - TURF / Adrian, MIOUSKY FIELD - TURF / Oregon, OHPEMBERVILLE LEGION / Pemberville, OHRatingFacility: 5/ 5 points Tournament Management: 5/ 5 pointsFees: 4/ 5 points Restrooms: 4/5 points Umpires: 2/ 3 pointsConcessions: 1/ 2 points Miscellaneous: 5/ 5 pointsTOTAL RATING: 26/ 30  (HOME RUN)Note: Our reviews are completely based on our own personal opinions, and we are not receiving any compensation or incentives for our reviews (and if we ever did, we would disclose that information).If you have any corrections, please send them to us. -----------------------------------------Moms and Baseball Tournament Ratings Scale (30 possible points)28+: Grand Slam25-27: Home Run22-24: Triple19-21: Double16-18: Base HitUnder 16: StrikeoutGrading System:5 pts: Fields/Facilities (maintained, fences, turf, lights, bleachers, nets, etc)5 pts: Tournament management (Scheduling, communication, rules, etc)5 pts: Fees (Tournament, parking, entry)5 pts: Restrooms3 pts: Umpires2 pts: Concessions5 pts: Miscellaneous (location, coolers, alcohol, dogs, playground, things to do, trophy type, etc.)-----------------------------------------Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and Baseball

Today's episode we are talking about pitch counts and why parents need to be aware. Tommy John surgery is on the rise and not just for MLB pitchers either. Diana and Stephanie discuss Tommy John surgery, pitch counts and rest days, recommendations for parents to protect their youth players arm, and pitch count apps. One more tip discussed was NOT to use ice for muscle soreness or after pitching/throwing. Your youth player needs active recovery to help rebuild that muscle. If you want to hear more about recovery, check out our episode 24: Arm Care Advice, Part 2 with Dr. Ryan Brown.Recommendations/Guidelines to follow:Make sure to properly warm up before pitchingAvoid playing catcher while not pitchingPlayers should not pitch in multiple games on the same dayMonitor for other signs of fatigueNo pitcher shall appear in a game as a pitcher for three consecutive days, regardless of pitch countsNo overhead throwing of any kind for at least 2 to 3 months per year (4 months is preferred). No competitive baseball pitching for at least 4 months per year.MLB Pitch Smart GuidelinesLittle League Pitching RulesArticles:Tommy John Surgery Saves The Careers of Pitchers, But We May Need To Get Ready For A New Problem…Experts Warn Parents About Recent Uptick In Youth Baseball InjuriesApps:Gamechanger (free)Pitch X -Pitch Counter (free)Pitch Counter & Radar Gun (free)Pitch Locator Pro (fee)Mentioned in Episode:Episode 24: Arm Care Advice, Part 2 with Dr. Ryan Brown

K Sports Ohio Valley Classic Scouted by PBR 14uLocation(s):First Watch Fields/WCBC - Kemba Baseball ComplexWest Chester, OhioBlue Ash Sports CenterCincinnati, OhioWarren County Sports ParkLebanon, OhioToday we talk about the K Sports Ohio Valley Classic that took place in and near Cincinnati, Ohio April  22-24.RatingFacility: 4.5/ 5 points Tournament Management: 5/ 5 pointsFees: 3/ 5 points Restrooms: 5/5 points Umpires: 3/ 3 pointsConcessions: 1/ 2 points Miscellaneous: 4.5/ 5 pointsTOTAL RATING: 25.5/ 30  (HOME RUN)Note: Our reviews are completely based on our own personal opinions, and we are not receiving any compensation or incentives for our reviews (and if we ever did, we would disclose that information).If you have any corrections, please send them to us. -----------------------------------------Moms and Baseball Tournament Ratings Scale (30 possible points)28+: Grand Slam25-27: Home Run22-24: Triple19-21: Double16-18: Base HitUnder 16: StrikeoutGrading System:5 pts: Fields/Facilities (maintained, fences, turf, lights, bleachers, nets, etc)5 pts: Tournament management (Scheduling, communication, rules, etc)5 pts: Fees (Tournament, parking, entry)5 pts: Restrooms3 pts: Umpires2 pts: Concessions5 pts: Miscellaneous (location, coolers, alcohol, dogs, playground, things to do, trophy type, etc.)-----------------------------------------Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and Baseball

We welcome back Amber to discuss our most controversial topic to date. This is an issue that we have seen cause teams to blow-up overnight. We discuss how we define guest players and fill-in players, and how/when we believe these players should be picked up by a coach. Amber also offers some especially interesting insight that families may want to consider before having their son/daughter play for another team on an "off" weekend.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook pageMentions:Episode 17: Moms Discuss GameDay and Baseball Youth EventsEpisode 18: Moms Discuss New Year's Baseball Fest

Today we are joined by special guest Jeff Petty, President & CEO of Canes Baseball, and coach of Canes Baseball 17u National Team.Jeff shares the history of Canes Baseball and explains what the organization looks like today.  He also talks about his National Mets Scouting team and how that works--and of course, what's up with the bus!Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook pageMentioned in Episode:Episode 72: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1348060/episodes/9883752Canes Baseball, MLB Opening Day Rosters:  https://twitter.com/TheCanesBB/status/1512194991841456129?s=20&t=cD7gEK2NCSockyHrj74PEQ

Diana's husband, Dr. Trevor Grice, returns to talk about a topic that is near and dear to his heart: how to be a more effective coach through communication and relationship building.Episode Mentions: Episode 71- The Car Ride Home - How Do Kids Really Feel?Episode 77-  How to Effect Culture Change in a Failing Athletic ProgramFollow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook and InstagramJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

Today we're talking about the difference between sports teams or programs with winning cultures vs. those with losing cultures and what can be done to effect a positive culture change. We are joined by guests Steve Young and Michael Gulino, who are well-regarded Directors of Athletics and educators in the state of New York and nationally. Steve Young is a current Director of Athletics at New Rochelle School District (just outside Manhattan).Michael Gulino is a retired Director of Athletics from Byram Hills School District, also in New York. We stumbled upon their names after doing a google search about how to change from a losing culture in athletics to a winning one. That search led us to a slideshow that had accompanied a presentation by Michael and Steve at the National Athletic Directors conference in Nashville in 2016. It was titled, "Changing the Climate and Culture in a Struggling Athletic Program." Michael and Steve share some fantastic insight about how to effect a positive culture change in this episode! You can reach Michael at mjgulino88@gmail.com and Steve at syoung@nredlearn.org.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook pageExtra Resources:https://www.nytimes.com/2001/09/02/nyregion/for-the-record-for-athletic-director-down-time-is-rare.htmlhttps://www.nytimes.com/2006/02/12/nyregion/for-the-record-its-not-the-sport-its-the-sportsmanship.htmlhttps://madisonwestathletics.sportngin.com/page/show/5731578-mental-health-resourceshttps://members.niaaa.org/

Today's "mini" episode is a part of our player spotlight series. Stephanie tells the story of a multi-sport collegiate level athlete that goes on to become a part of the NFL and the MLB at the same time. This episode was inspired by watching a lot of college baseball recently. Stephanie came across a highlight video of an Ole Miss baseball player that hit a home run 404 feet. His name is Tywone Malone, and he is also a nose tackle on the Ole Miss football team. Multi-sport athletes are pretty popular in youth sports but as you get to high school, coaches are more demanding and can put pressure on an athlete to choose one sport. So in the collegiate arena, a multi-sport athlete is pretty rare. And a multi-sport professional athlete is even more rare. Which brings me to one of my favorite baseball players, Bo Jackson.Bo Jackson personifies how hard work and determination can help you attain your goals, and dreams. Even in multiple sports.Hopefully you enjoy Bo's story as much as we do!Resources:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bo_Jacksonhttp://encyclopediaofalabama.org

Spring baseball is right around the corner, and we are getting ready by sharing baseball parent hacks. These are the top hacks we found on the Internet, as well as hacks suggested by friends and ones we have found ourselves.Mentions:007: Moms and Game Day EssentialsSandwich HackFollow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

This episode we are talking about Baseball College Camps. In our last episode with Coach Renee Lopez, she mentioned  attending college camps can be beneficial in the college recruiting process. So we enlisted another baseball mom, Lisa Messey, as our special guest to give us some insight on this experience.Lisa's son, Drew Messey, attended the  University Of Missouri (Mizzou Prospect)  Winter Baseball Camp December 18-19. Stephanie's son Keegan also attended the University of Michigan Baseball Winter Development Camp January 16th.Find out what was discussed about cost, age groups, schedule of events, coaching assessments,  and if this is an event you should check out for your youth athlete. Mentions:073: College Athletic Recruiting with Coach Renee LopezTop 11 Best College Baseball Camps To AttendFollow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

Today we talk about the college recruiting process with Coach Renee Lopez. Coach Lopez is a 20-year coaching veteran, and an expert in the college recruiting process. She has served as the NCAA compliance director and has also learned the recruiting process from having worked as a high school varsity head coach for three years and a college coach for 14, in NCAA Division I, II, III, and NAIA.Coach Lopez has written a book, "Looking for a Full Ride? An Insider's Recruiting Guide," which has been featured on ESPN Radio & SiriusXMI.We found Coach Lopez through the Facebook group, "Educating Parents of HS Athletes on the College Recruiting Process," where she and a group of experts are helping over 50,000 member parents navigate the athletic recruiting process. This episode is jam-packed with helpful advice from Coach Lopez, including the following:Common misconceptions about the recruiting processWhen/how should kids start actively working to get on a college coach's radarConsiderations when making lists of potential collegesThe "broken leg test"How to contact a coach through social mediaWhat is the NCAA Eligibility Center and why should your athlete start checking his/her high school's core courses now? Listeners can download Coach Renee Lopez's free "Strategies for Emailing A College Coach" and receive free shipping on "Looking for a Full Ride? An Insider's Recruiting Guide" by using the discount code "BBMOM" This offer will expire in 2 weeks!Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

Today's "mini" episode is a bit different. Diana tells a story that touched her heart--the story of Arizona Diamondback's Rookie Seth Beer, and how his aspirations of swimming in the Olympics changed over time to dreams of playing in the MLB.Thanks to No Crying in Baseball podcast for introducing us to Seth Beer and his incredible journey! You can check out the NCIB episode here. Seth Beer perfectly personifies how hard work and determination can help you attain your goals, and his parents are great examples of sports parents who knew how to support their child's goals and "fan the flames."Hopefully you enjoy Seth's story as much as we do!Resources:No Crying in Baseball Podcast: Our Boyfriends Are Back, and Locked OutAthletic.com: The Olympic Dreams of Prospect Seth Beer and Why He Gave Them Up for BaseballBaseballamerica.com: Freshman of the Year Swimswam.com: Former NAG Record Holder Seth Beer Hits Home Run in First MLB At-BatNevadasportsnet.com: A Fisherman Who Plays Baseball Aces Seth Beer Reelin in Big League Dreamazcentral.com: Diamondbacks Rookie Seth Beer Undergo Shoulder Surgery

Today we are talking about the often-dreaded car ride home and parent behavior at games.  Athletes often list “the car ride home after games with parents” as their least favorite memory of sports, and parents are often blamed as the reasons why athletes quit sports as kids.We decided to survey kids to see how they really feel about the the car ride home. We will share those results, and offer our advice based on those results, our own experiences, and shared expert advice.Mentions:https://www.kidsinthehouse.com/teenager/activities/sports/what-should-the-conversation-be-on-the-car-ride-home-from-a-gameCar ride home advice from Jay Thooft

This week is a Coaches Takeover with past guest hosts Trevor Grice & Chris Wilcox. Trevor and Chris share useful advice that travel baseball coaches of all levels may find useful to help select the right tournaments for their team.Mentioned:Episode 12 with Lale EsquivelFollow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

This episode we invited back special guest Shannon Robinson from Episode 19 when we discussed Fundraising. If you haven't listened, this is a must for all things fundraising for travel baseball. Shannon is discussing two Power! Showcase events that she attended with her 13-year old son, Reed Robinson. The first is a Pro-Series Power! Showcase 13u World Championship event with his Wisconsin Elite team which took place at Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays.The second event was the 14th Annual World Power! Showcase at LoanDepot Park, home of the Miami Marlins. This showcase has been a launching pad for great hitters like Bryce Harper, Anthony Rizzo, Kris Bryant, and others!Find out what was discussed about cost, competition, bats, age, and if this is an event you should check out for your youth athlete. Mentions:019: Moms and Baseball Fundraising IdeasPower Showcase Pro Series- 13u World Champs Wisconsin EliteFollow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballYou can also listen to episodes on Moms and Baseball Facebook page

This episode we are discussing baseball gifts for your player. We go through the gifts that are a need, tools for training, personalized items, fun toys, and experiences. Some items we discussed are below:PitchBack baseball and softball pitching net and rebounderJ-BandsRope Bat TrainerWeighted Training Baseballs for hittingPLYO weighted training baseballs for pitchingTraining tools like a  hitting net, pitching mound, tee, pocket radar.Oculus with Win Reality Membership Diamond Kinetics SwingTracker for Baseball or Softball  Diamond Kinetics PitchTracker baseballBatting cage time with HittraxCustom arm sleeves, gloves, baseball bags, blankets, water bottles (ETSY)Baseball Number NecklaceRing/Homerun ball display Subscription boxes: Sports Box Co. (Batters Up Box), Plate Crate, The Baseball Box, Inside the Batters BoxLED Lights for Bedroom & Extension CordBooks: Just Like Me: When the Pros Played on the SandlotSports Illustrated Kids: Big Book of WHO Baseball*May include affiliate linksFollow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballOn Deck:Power Showcase Tournaments with Shannon RobinsonMentions:Episode 29: MiLB Pitcher to Hand Protection GuruEpisode 15:  Kelly Park - When the Pros Played on the Sandlot

Throwback to Episode 16 when we discussed the GameChanger app and the new app, GameChanger Team Manager.Special Guests:Guest host Patrick Malley, from Dads takeover episodeKen Strnad, VP Marketing of GameChangerDavid Kennedy, Head of Consumer Experience at GameChangerA few things we love about GameChanger:      -Scorebook      -Stats auto-generated      -Fan/viewer experience      -Audio- use in the carWe discuss concerns about the new app- GameChanger Team Manager and our wishlist items, as well as new updates from GameChanger HQ.There is so much new news coming to GC Team Manager in 2021 and we are grateful for the opportunity to come on the show and share.LINK: https://home.gc.com/live-video-streaming/----------HELP SUPPORT MOMS AND BASEBALL by visiting our affiliate Mambe Blankets!Listeners will receive 10% off any Mambe product by using the discount code "MOMSANDBASEBALL"Mambe Hooded Waterproof Blankets:• 100% waterproof/windproof• Heat-reflective lining• Include a fleece-lined hood and snaps so you can wear it like a poncho• Wrap you from head to toe!• Made in the USA• Are the warmest, coziest blanket you will find, and were well-loved by Diana and Stephanie long before the podcast existed :)AFFILIATE LINK: https://mambeblankets.com?aff=13

Today we are joined by guest Celine Farner. Celine is mother to Lucas Farner, shortstop for the Little League World Series champs from Taylor North Little League in Michigan.Celine discusses the journey to the LLWS in Williamsport, Pennsylvania and talks about the strict COVID-19 protocols—including how long parents had to go without seeing their kids!Plus we talk about all the experiences the Little League World Series champs have been offered. We also compare and contrast Little League to travel baseball and discuss how the Taylor North players were able to balance the two teams.On Deck: Next week, we will re-release a favorite episode for the Friday after Thanksgiving.In the Hole: We talk about Christmas gift ideas for youth baseball players!Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and Baseball----------HELP SUPPORT MOMS AND BASEBALL by visiting our affiliate Mambe Blankets!Listeners will receive 10% off any Mambe product by using the discount code "MOMSANDBASEBALL"

You may remember Susana Lluch as the proud, emotional mom cheering on her son Alek Manoah during his major league debut as a starting pitcher with the Toronto Blue Jays earlier this year. If not, check out that video here!Susana has such a positive, enchanting personality and we thoroughly enjoyed being able to speak with her about that emotional day and what it was like raising 2 professional baseball players. (Alek's brother, Erik Manoah, is an up-and-coming pitcher in the Twins organization.) She talks about how competitive the brothers were as children and how that relationship has evolved for them as adults. Plus, she takes us through what her sons did to train and make sure they didn't lose a year in 2020 by opening their business, Manoah Driven.Susana talks about her own experience with baseball/softball, and how she was secretly able to play ball as a child. Then she explains when she noticed a special baseball talent in Erik and Alek and what she did to help support their dreams. Susana also discusses her personal superstition when her sons are pitching.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and Baseball----------HELP SUPPORT MOMS AND BASEBALL by visiting our affiliate Mambe Blankets!Listeners will receive 10% off any Mambe product by using the discount code "MOMSANDBASEBALL"Mambe Hooded Waterproof Blankets:100% waterproof/windproofHeat-reflective liningInclude a fleece-lined hood and snaps so you can wear it like a ponchoWrap you from head to toe!Made in the USAAre the warmest, coziest blanket you will find, and were well-loved by Diana and Stephanie long before the podcast existed :)AFFILIATE LINK: https://mambeblankets.com?aff=13Mambe Waterproof Blankets Use the discount code "MOMSANDBASEBALL" to get 10% off any MAMBE products

We are getting ready for (indoor) travel baseball practices to start for our teams in Michigan this weekend. We discuss practice schedules, private lessons/training, and how Stephanie's family plans to cope with practices 3 hours away!Mentions:023: Arm Care Advice, Part 1024: Arm Care Advice, Part 2- with Dr. Ryan Brown046: Strength & Conditioning w/ Alex Puskarich from Cincinnati Reds025: Semi-Pro Pitcher Lennon GwizdalaFollow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and Baseball----------HELP SUPPORT MOMS AND BASEBALL by visiting our affiliate Mambe Blankets!Listeners will receive 10% off any Mambe product by using the discount code "MOMSANDBASEBALL"Mambe Hooded Waterproof Blankets:100% waterproof/windproofHeat-reflective liningInclude a fleece-lined hood and snaps so you can wear it like a ponchoWrap you from head to toe!Made in the USAAre the warmest, coziest blanket you will find, and were well-loved by Diana and Stephanie long before the podcast existed :)AFFILIATE LINK: https://mambeblankets.com?aff=13 Mambe Waterproof Blankets Use the discount code "MOMSANDBASEBALL" to get 10% off any MAMBE products

Today we are talking with three individuals who are very passionate about reviving baseball as America's pastime through their project called Strikeout Baseball. They are working to get kids off the couch and bring backyard baseball back to cities for kids who wouldn't otherwise have easy or inexpensive access to the game.We are joined by guests John Smoltz Sr., Jeff Lazaros, and Vic Verchereau.John Smoltz Sr. is on the Strikeout Baseball advisory board as a project coordinator, and is father to legendary hall-of-fame pitcher John Smoltz.Jeff Lazaros is the creator and visionary behind Strikeout Baseball.Vic Verchereau is the director behind the Strikeout Baseball program for Lansing, Michigan.If you would like more information about how you could bring Strikeout Baseball to your hometown, or if you would like to offer financial support to this project, please contact Strikeout Baseball on their website: http://strikeoutbaseballusa.org/.On Deck: We are joined by guest Celine Farner, mother to Little League World Series Champ from Taylor North Little League. Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and Baseball

In today's episode about select baseball, we chat with ex-pro Sam Smith.How much baseball is too much?Should kids play multiple sports?What should parents do to support their young athletes?What trait is most evident in players making it to the big leagues today?And much more!Our expert Sam Smith from Johnson City, Texas has been involved with select baseball in some capacity since 1995. Sam was a 6th round draft pick for the Colorado Rockies in the 1997 MLB draft. He played in the Rockies minor leagues as an infielder from 1997-2003. Sam then worked as a select instructor and coach for 10u-18u teams. Currently, Sam coaches his son's 11u team and also runs camps and provides training for several other ages.If you are interested in reaching out to Sam Smith regarding lessons or to ask questions, check out his website at provirtuallessons.com.Mentions030: Mark Krzysiak - Coaching, Travel Ball, and Scouting "Turn-Ons" & "Turn-Offs"059: Mental Performance Training with Jay ThooftFollow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and Baseball----------HELP SUPPORT MOMS AND BASEBALL by visiting our affiliate Mambe Blankets! Listeners will receive 10% off any Mambe product by using the discount code "MOMSANDBASEBALL" Mambe Hooded Waterproof Blankets:100% waterproof/windproofHeat-reflective liningInclude a fleece-lined hood and snaps so you can wear it like a ponchoWrap you from head to toe!Made in the USAAre the warmest, coziest blanket you will find, and were well-loved by Diana and Stephanie long before the podcast existed :)AFFILIATE LINK: https://mambeblankets.com?aff=13 Mambe Waterproof Blankets Use the discount code "MOMSANDBASEBALL" to get 10% off any MAMBE products

Should I stay or should I go? Today we're going to talk about 10 things for parents and players to consider regarding whether you should stay with your current travel team or whether it's time to move on.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballMentionsEpisode 60: (Throwback Episode) Dads and Baseball Takeover - Choosing a Travel TeamEpisode 35: Mark Hammond II & the Nationally-Ranked 11u MC Hit Dogs MajorsEpisode 20: From 19u to the Big Ten: MI Select Coach on 2020 College Commits for Entire Team----------HELP SUPPORT MOMS AND BASEBALL by visiting our affiliate Mambe Blankets! Listeners will receive 10% off any Mambe product by using the discount code "MOMSANDBASEBALL" Mambe Hooded Waterproof Blankets:100% waterproof/windproofHeat-reflective liningInclude a fleece-lined hood and snaps so you can wear it like a ponchoWrap you from head to toe!Made in the USAAre the warmest, coziest blanket you will find, and were well-loved by Diana and Stephanie long before the podcast existed :)AFFILIATE LINK: https://mambeblankets.com?aff=13 Mambe Waterproof BlanketsUse the discount code "MOMSANDBASEBALL" to get 10% off any MAMBE products

Throwback Episode (Episode 14)Baseball dads took over the podcast this week to talk about how to choose a travel team/organization.Article Mentioned in Episode:https://travelballparents.com/2017/07/42-essential-questions-to-ask-before-joining-a-new-travel-team/----------HELP SUPPORT MOMS AND BASEBALL by visiting our affiliate Mambe Blankets! Listeners will receive 10% off any Mambe product by using the discount code "MOMSANDBASEBALL" Mambe Hooded Waterproof Blankets:100% waterproof/windproofHeat-reflective liningInclude a fleece-lined hood and snaps so you can wear it like a ponchoWrap you from head to toe!Made in the USAAre the warmest, coziest blanket you will find, and were well-loved by Diana and Stephanie long before the podcast existed :)AFFILIATE LINK: https://mambeblankets.com?aff=13 Mambe Waterproof BlanketsUse the discount code "MOMSANDBASEBALL" to get 10% off any MAMBE products

Today we discuss mental performance training with Jay Thooft. Jay is a mental performance expert from Denver, Colorado. He is the owner of PERC (Performance Excellence and Recovery Consulting) and also has an active YouTube channel - Train with PERC.Jay discusses 4 important aspects of youth training, including the often-overlooked mental aspect, and offers a telltale sign that an athlete could benefit from mental/performance training. He also talks about how parents can help foster confidence in young athletes. We also discuss the oh-so-important car ride home, and the difference between superstitions and routines in the mental aspect of baseball.You can contact Jay Thooft at his website, trainwithperc.com and parents can download a FREE mental preparation guide at trainwithperc.com/freeguide.Follow Moms and Baseball:Keep up with Moms and Baseball on our website: https://momsandbaseball.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TwitterJoin our Facebook group, Parents and BaseballMentions:Car Ride Home Advice videoTikTok Video