Dan Blewett and Bobby Stevens are baseball guys who want to apply what they've learned from the game into other avenues in life. Listen in as they help the next generation navigate their own careers and lives outside of baseball.
Anthony Silkwood, RHP for Louisville University and former United States Marine, joined the show to share his experience. Anthony's journey has taken him from service in the Marines, to Junior College Baseball, and now to perennial powerhouse Louisville where he will be a pitcher on staff for the 2021 season. We discuss his Anthony's path … EP64 – Former Marine and Current University of Louisville Pitcher Anthony Silkwood Read More »
Hitting coach Dan Hennigan of Brain and Barrel Hitting joins the show for a great hitting discussion. We dive into the mindset of the hitter and the role that confidence plays in the success of athletes. Dan describes how he tailors his role as hitting coach and mental coach to help hitters achieve success on … EP63 – Hitting Coach Dan Hennigan of Brain and Barrel Hitting Discusses Hitting and Working with High Draft Picks Read More »
University of Maryland strength and conditioning coach Will Franco joined the show with great insight into Division 1 baseball training. Watch the YouTube version here. We dive into programming for high level athletes and different positions and Will explains how creating a base of movement patterns is crucial to the training process. Will breaks down … EP62 – U Maryland Strength Coach Will Franco Discusses Baseball Training and Programming Read More »
Baseball analyst, suthor, podcast host, statistician, and Marine Corps Veteran Rayn Spaeder joined us to talk all things baseball. We touch on some baseball statistics and the craziness of the 2020 MLB season. Ryan gives his MLB postseason predictions and how this 2020 playoff baseball format was actually his idea! Follow Ryan on Twitter @theaceofspaeder … EP61 – Analyst Ryan Spaeder Joins the Show to Discuss Playoff Baseball Read More »
In episode 60, we discuss the MLB partnership with the major Independent baseball leagues around the country. Dan posted a twitter poll (@coachdanblewett) asking about players competing for playing time. Should you take the road less traveled? We discuss. And should youth players ramp down throwing after the summer season? A lot of great conversation … EP60 – Competing for Playing Time and Ramping Down Throwing Read More »
Former collegiate coach and current assistant executive director of the ABCA Ryan Brownlee joins the show for a great discussion. We cover collegiate coaching, parents involvement, development, ABCA convention, and more. Check out Ryan on Twitter @CoachB_ABCA for more information on the ABCA convention and all things coaching. Transcript: EP59 – ABCA Director Ryan Brownlee … EP59 – ABCA Director Ryan Brownlee Discusses Coaching, Recruitment, and Baseball Conventions Read More »
Mike Falsetti joins the show to discuss the new wave of defensive catching techniques. We touch on one-knee setup, blocking, pitch calling, and blending the old with the new in regards to catching style. Mike is the owner of Catchers Capital, an online platform for his catching techniques and tips. Check him out on Twitter … EP58 – Mike Falsetti of Catchers Capital Talks Catching Read More »
Strength Coach Andrew Sacks joins the show to discuss baseball strength, youth training, and programming for baseball players. We dive into movement, optimal exercises, and Andrew gives advice for the beginner that is looking to increase strength and athleticism. Dan and Andrew riff on bad research and data analysis in the baseball world. Great information … EP57 – Talking Baseball Strength with Coach Andrew Sacks Read More »
In this episode, we tackle what true player development actually constitutes. Training for development, tools for development, instincts for the game of baseball, and what young players should be doing to maximize their training time. We also discuss player physical development and how monotony of training turn into good habits. Spoiler Alert…whiffleball is great for … EP56 – What is True Player Development Read More »
In this episode we talked about all types of bunts and whether or not bunting is stupid in today's modern game of baseball. PFPs and more were also discussed. Watch the video version of this episode on YouTube here. Transcript: EP55 – Is Bunting a Stupid Play in Today's Game? Dan Blewett: welcome back. This … EP55 – Is Bunting a Stupid Play in Today's Game? Read More »
In this episode we discuss joining a new team and entering a new environment, as a player and a parent. Then we dive into good habits versus bad habits. Do people and athletes continuously work hard or are their habits established and automatic? We answer this question and more, tune in and enjoy! Follow us … EP54 – What are Good Habits and How Can They Improve Your Life Read More »
Dan and Bobby discuss outdated drills and the logic behind them – wrist flips and how the ball spins is a major topic of concern. They also discuss the new arm action shown by Trevor Bauer and Lucas Giolito, talking through the possible unseen consequences. Learn more about good pitching mechanics.
In episode 52, the guys discuss Fernando Tatis Jr's Grand Slam on a 3-0 count and the repercussions it has in the clubhouse. Baseball is full of ‘unwritten' rules that veterans and old-timers refer to when respecting the game. We dive into all rules at the professional and youth level. Agree with us? We want … EP52 – The Unwritten Rules of Baseball Read More »
Ryan Copeland, head baseball coach at the University of Illinois Springfield, joined us to talk about how technology helps his team win 40+ games a year, but how he finds a balance of old vs new school teaching. We discuss cameras like the Sony RX-10 and Edgertronic, Rapsodo, and go in depth about command and … EP51 – Ryan Copeland from U Illinois-Springfield Talks Slow-Mo Cameras, Rapsodo, High-Tech Training, Command and Diversity in the Dugout Read More »
Some pitchers throw more strikes than others, but we don't really know why. Mechanics matter, but many pitchers throw more strikes with worse mechanics. Liam Bowen, head coach at the University of Maryland Baltimore County, joins us yet again to talk about his view of command, what can be taught and what can't, and whether … EP50 – Where Does Pitching Command Come From? And Can We Actually Improve it? With Liam Bowen from UMBC Baseball Read More »
We discuss Mike Clevinger and Zach Plesac getting in trouble for breaking COVID rules, dating front office women, Marcus Stroman oping out; Shohei Ohtani – will he ever be healthy, and more. Watch the video version of this episode here.
The guys start off the discussion with Dan's favorite east coast treat, Old Bay. They dive into food and deciding whether to charge into a dugout of opposing players is a good idea (it's not). Dan and Bob recap the previous week's discussions about physics in baseball and list their top 3 places they would … EP48 – Dan and Bob Talk Food, MLB Brawls, and Recap our Week of Physics in Baseball Read More »
Barton Smith, professor of mechanical engineering at Utah State University, talked with us about pitch aerodynamics, seam shifted wake (SSW) pitches and how they work, cutters, sinkers, the discoball changeup, laminar express, and all sorts of interesting pitch design concepts. Follow him on twitter: https://twitter.com/notrealcertain or on the web at https://baseballaero.com. This episode contains LOTS … EP47 – Seam Shifted Wake, Discoball changeups and Everything Baseball Aerodynamics with Barton Smith Read More »
Alan Nathan, Doctor of physics, brings his expertise on the show to talk some science. We dive into aluminum bat standards, launch angle, exit velocity, bat speed versus pitch speed, pitch spin and more. How far did Mickey Mantle hit his legendary homerun? We discuss. Tune in to hear baseball's leading physics expert and learn … EP46 – Alan Nathan Joins the Show to Discuss Physics in Baseball Read More »
Independent College Recruiter Josh Rudd comes on the show with great insight into baseball recruiting for prep athletes and families. We discuss the approach players and parents should take in handling recruiting, different levels of baseball, and choosing schools and coaches that ‘fit' each player. A must listen for high school athletes and parents alike, … EP45 – Josh Rudd Joins Us to Discuss College Recruiting and Bridging the Information Gap for Families Read More »
Darren Gurney, assistant coach for Lehman College baseball in New York, joined us for a unique conversation. Also an economics teacher at New Rochelle HS, Gurney shares his views on free agency, contracts and how baseball has changed financially over the years. We covered international baseball (how Dominican players are so advanced for their age) … EP44 – Darren Gurney Talks International Baseball, MLB Economics, Free Agent Contracts, and Masks! Read More »
Dusty Napoleon, assistant coach at Northwestern University, joined us to talk about recruiting, tech, analytics, how college and pro baseball are changing, and much more. A high-academic school, Northwestern recruits a different type of player and has to look a bit beyond just baseball skills. Listen in for Dusty's real-world experience both as a former … EP43 – Dusty Napoleon of Northwestern Baseball talks recruiting, player development, tech, hitting and more Read More »
The guys discuss the importance of breathing and properly controlling your breath through the nose. The SF Giants had the first woman coach in an on-field capacity, how big a breakthrough is that? And we branch off into infield play, positioning, and the speed of the game at the youth level. Good conversation that bounced … EP42 – Importance of Breathing, Infield Play, and a Historic Breakthrough for Women in MLB Read More »
In this episode, Dan and Bob discuss the idea of “antifragility,” a concept Dan has been reading about of late in a highly recommended book called The Coddling of the American Mind. What should parents and coaches be doing to build tough, antifragile athletes? Bob rants on teams playing below their ability and age, and … EP41 – The Coddling of the American Ballplayer – Antifragility and Toughness + Playing Down an Age Bracket and More Read More »
On episode 40, we dive into pitchers and catchers. Is it safe for a catcher to go out and pitch in a tournament after catching all weekend? We also dive into the art of throwing a cutter. Is it a good pitch to learn and teach? Find out, enjoy!
Dan and Bob are joined by Prep Baseball Report New York/Pennsylvania Director Dan Cevette. They discuss amateur scouting of prep players and evaluating young players with metrics and movements. They also touch on showcases and the overall goal of attending a showcase and being recruited. Follow Dan Cevette on Twitter for more amateur baseball insights.
Dan and Bob discuss parents bringing drinks to the dugout and when is appropriate to approach the dugout during a game. They also dive into Mt. Rushmore, cost of college education, Hot Dog eating competitions, and Dan purchased a scooter.
Dan and Bobby recapped the hitting showdown between Jeff Frye and Richard Schenck, talked about Barry Bond and plate discipline. Plus, Asif Shah–former pro hitter–joined the call to talk about hitting approach and much more. Follow us on Twitter – Dan, Bobby and The Show. EP37 Full Transcript – Morning Brushback Podcast Dan Blewett: well, … EP37 – Recap of Hitting Showdown, Asif Shah Joins to talk Hitting Approach Read More »
The highly anticipated MBB with Rich and Jeff did not disappoint. We discuss hitting mechanics, former coaches, approach, mindset, and throw a few personal jabs. A fun back and forth for baseball enthusiasts to enjoy!
The guys talk about in-season weight training for athletes and how to program for muscle building. Bob and Dan also discuss recognizing 2020 MLB stats and their place in the history books. Plus they preview Tuesday's episode featuring Jeff Frye and Richard Schenck. Enjoy!
This morning on MBB we discuss Dan's Xpert Summit pitching debate victory. We also get into youth coaching, tournament company greed, and lack of enthusiasm for the MLB season. Plus we tease a few upcoming round table discussions. Enjoy!
Chelsea Ladd of Dugoutdish.com joined us to talk about her passion for old time players, indy ball, minor league baseball, and what it's like being a female baseball writer. In this fun conversation, she shared her perspective on the MLB negotiations, whether old time players could hit modern day pitching, how ballpark food has evolved, … EP33 – Chelsea Ladd, Baseball Writer and Founder of Dugout Dish Talks MLB, Indy Ball, Old Timers vs Modern Players and more Read More »
Adam Pohl, Baltimore Orioles AA affiliate Bowie Baysox radio announcer, joins the show to discuss the current MLB and MiLB situation, marketing, and the pace of play and frequency of the baseball season. Adam also shares some stories from Bobby's playing days, enjoy!
Charles Bolden, newly hired head baseball coach at UW-Eau Claire, comes on the show to talk baseball strategy and how a college coach analyzes recruiting video. We also dig into racism in sports and Coach Bolden's messaging to players, enjoy!
The guys talk a world currently with no baseball and losing the opportunity to usher professional sports back into the country. They also discuss some current world events, summertime personal choices, and Dan's domination of the baseball debate world.
Amanda Smith of White Zone Coaching talks softball recruiting, the skills players need, and her journey through D1 and D2 softball. Amanda is also an Aerospace Engineer, working for NASA on numerous space programs, so we talked a ton about academics, life after softball and finding the right fit in school. We discussed her new … EP29 – Amanda Smith talks D1 Softball Recruiting, Working for NASA and Throwing 72mph as a Pitcher Read More »
The MBB guys discuss the current landscape in the USA, the MLB player union's proposal to kick start the season, and some thoughts on the business side of the baseball program for universities. What do you think??
Mike Ashmore joins Dan and Bobby to discuss some current events surrounding the Mets, Independent Baseball, and minor league pay. Mike covers his journalistic journey through the sports world, and some Cap'n Crunch chat as well, enjoy. Follow Mike on Twitter @mashmore98 and YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/mashmore98
Dan and Bobby talk about velocity – hitting it, and supplying it from the mound. The velocity vs command: which is better argument is, well…stupid. So we dive in and talk about what really matters.
Dan and Bob discuss proposals for college baseball to shift the season, as well as high school baseball proposals in Illinois to make it a fall sport. A number of NCAA programs were permanently disbanded and the two talked through what the future might hold.
Rick Camp, radio producer and podcast host, joined us to talk The Last Dance and his new podcast, Basketball Camp. We also discuss Chicago sports and food, including his popular Im Fat Podcast. Entertaining food and sports talk, enjoy!
It's not clear what we talked about, but it was a fun conversation.
Lucas Cook, hitting coach and college strength coach (and Dan's former business partner) joined us to talk about college strength training, coronavirus limitations, and whether or not the tournament format for summer baseball is broken. Should we use this quarantine to let baseball summer tournament companies go out of business, and not return to the … EP22 – Should We Let Baseball Tournaments Companies Go Bankrupt? With Guest Lucas Cook Read More »
Jeremy Nowak joins us to discuss his transition from professional baseball to professional long drive competitor. He describes the transformation of his golf swing, data and tech analysis for improvement, and his YouTube channel with golf, baseball swing tips/impersonations, and training advice. Check it out!
Richard Schenck joined us on the podcast to discuss all things hitting. Rich describes his process and evolution as an instructor, working with professional hitters and the always entertaining #hittingtwitter discussions. Enjoy!
Bill Murphy, a former LHP for the A's and Blue Jays, joined us to talk about Taiwanese baseball, Japanese baseball, adapting to other cultures, California's response to COVID-19 and all the implications of when to re-open society.
Matt Swope, assistant coach and recruiting coordinator from the University of Maryland, sat down to talk hitting drills, tech, D1 baseball and much more. Follow Coach Swope on Instagram at www.instagram.com/marylandmadehitting for some great tips, drills and videos.
Asif Shah, former pro outfielder who retired with a .312 batting average over seven pro seasons, joined us to talk about his Pakistani heritage, dealing with ups and downs in baseball, making adjustments and finding the barrel of the bat.
Chris Carminucci of the Arizona Diamondbacks joined us to share his experience as a 12-year scout and now front office member of the Arizona Diamondbacks. As a former independent league manager and longtime Indy league scout, he's seen it all and scouted all over the glove. Tons of great stories, laughs and insight from Chris … EP16 – Chris Carminucci of the DBacks Talks Independent Baseball Myths and Scouting the Overlooked Player Read More »
Current Tampa Bay Rays scout Zach Clark gives insights on scouting amateur players, the new wave of coaches in baseball, and when to trust yourself. He also discusses his MLB debut and then transitioning to being a knuckleballer.
MLB veteran Jeff Frye joined us to discuss his time in professional baseball. He also gave insights on confidence in his hitting approach, hitting mechanics taught to younger players, and his recent Twitter viral videos. Enjoy!