"We have been looking for a solid pitching mechanics video that we can recommend for all ages. Dan Gazaway has now given us just that... straight forward, detailed, yet not overwhelming. His teaching fits with all the current research without being a science class - just good coaching." -
Richard Todd
Baseball America 2007 Minor League Manager of the Year
2007 Eastern League Manager of the Year
Former Erie SeaWolves (AA) manager (Detroit Tigers affiliate and West Michigan Whitecaps Manager
2X Midwest League Champions (Class A)
Matt Walbeck's 11-year career in the major leagues is on display on this DVD on the basics of catching. Coach Walbeck begins by discussing the proper stance for catchers. A Good stance eliminates reaching and creates optimal balance. Walbeck stresses the importance of setting up in the middle and challenging the hitter to make contact with the ball. Skills are taught for throwing back to the pitcher and throwing to second base. Emphasis is placed on proper footwork, which is the key to solid, accurate throws. Handling pitchouts are a skill analyzed for both right and left handed hitters. key elements are pointed out that will lead to skill development to deal with runners on base. Other teaching includes fielding bunts to the third base line, first base and straight on. Walbeck includes the rapid fire drill, which works positioning, getting the ball quickly out of the glove, footwork and throwing. Additional drills include technique drill, soft hands drill, blocking the ball and blocking home plate. Catching pop-ups is covered with the traditional and hockey mask technique. Backing up first base is another key skill covered by Walbeck. Fundamentals are important in catching as in any athletic pursuit, and consistency in catching will aid the pitcher and the umpire.
64 minutes. 2006.
Secrets to Pitcher - Catcher Relationship (DVD #2)
With Matt Walbeck
Texas Rangers (MLB) Third Base Coach
Baseball America 2007 Minor League Manager of the Year
2007 Eastern League Manager of the Year
Former Erie SeaWolves (AA) manager (Detroit Tigers affiliate and West Michigan Whitecaps Manager
2X Midwest League Champions (Class A)
A good catcher must know what his pitcher has on any given day. Coach Walbeck, an 11-year major league catcher, presents a unique look at developing the Pitcher-Catcher relationship. Good communication between the catcher and pitcher before and during the game will lead to greater success. An overall pitching plan is devised between the coach, pitcher and the catcher. Topics to discuss are reviewing signs and different counts you will encounter during the game. Throughout the game, an important duty of the catcher is to visit the mound and settle down the pitcher in difficult situations. Communicating signals is another important job of a good catcher. In addition, Walbeck discusses the value of a back-up catcher and keeping him ready to play at all times. Developing good catchers will help your team win more games and helps the development of good pitchers!
30 minutes. 2006.
Strength Training and Flexibility for Baseball (DVD #3)
With Matt Walbeck
Texas Rangers (MLB) Third Base Coach
Baseball America 2007 Minor League Manager of the Year
2007 Eastern League Manager of the Year
Former Erie SeaWolves (AA) manager (Detroit Tigers affiliate and West Michigan Whitecaps Manager
2X Midwest League Champions (Class A)
Coach Walbeck presents his ideas for developing the necessary strength to be a successful baseball player. 'Training with a purpose' is crucial for maximum strength. The physio ball is a valuable exercise tool for baseball. The ball is used for crunches, which strengthens the stomach, gluts and back muscles. The hamstring exercise works on balance and stabilization. Another exercise that strengthens the lower back and gluts is the "Superman" drill. The simple foam roller can be used to stretch the IT band in your leg. By rolling your thigh over the roller, your knees, back and arm will benefit. The spin stretch is executed by using the foam roller also. Balance is enhanced by working with the Erickson balance pad. Dumbbell exercises are shown to strengthen shoulders, arms and biceps. These exercises can help any player maximize his throwing ability. Leg weights, rubber tubing and medicine ball exercises can be incorporated into this workout routine. Other important stretches are the hip flexor, groin stretch, glut stretch, sleeper stretch and hamstring stretch. The skill of running, both distance and sprint work, is necessary for all baseball players. Baseball players can increase their level of talent by effectively utilizing this stretch program by major-league veteran Matt Walbeck.
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