Redefine The Circle: Recent Episodes
Ashley Sunshine
My name is Ashley Sunshine, Co-owner and Head of Pitching Development at S2 Breakthrough, a data-driven softball player development facility. This podcast is an opportunity for me to share my passion for pitching. Pitching has always been a part of my soul, but during the majority of my coaching career I relied primarily on traditional training approaches, “teaching what I was once taught.” The team and resources at S2 Breakthrough have given me an opportunity to take my passion for pitching and transform it into a passion for growth. During its first six years, S2 operated as a typical training facility. About three years ago we began committing our efforts toward collecting research and data, with the primary goal of finding truth and growing the game into what it deserves. During the process of researching assessment data, pitching biomechanics, ball flight data etc., I have transformed the way I understand, view and coach pitching. This podcast is an opportunity for me to share the things I have learned in the hopes that our entire pitching community can come together, challenge the norm, and start to redefine the circle.Thanks so much for joining this journey with me. I hope you enjoy!
In this episode, Ryker Chason and Ashley Sunshine discuss the different “buckets” of pitchers that college coaches should look for when building their staff. Traditionally, we’ve created a single mold when it comes to identifying successful pitching approaches. In this episode Ryker and Ashley identify the variety of molds that exist and should be utilized to build an effective college pitching staff.
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
In this episode Ryker Chason and Ashley Sunshine discuss the difference between pitcher development, which is typically emphasized during the off-season, and in-season pitcher management concepts. They specifically discuss how both pieces are critical in the college game but also identify the hurdles that college coaches usually face throughout the year. Ryker reflects on his own evolution in player development during his three years at Ole Miss, and identifies the information he has recently gained at OGX that would have greatly impacted his past experiences and approaches with his former pitching staff. Lastly, Ryker and Ashley wrap up the episode by describing the platform OGX has built to help reach and support a variety of college programs during the 2024-2025 season.
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
In this episode Ashley Sunshine and Dr. Laura McDonald talk in detail about their partnership with the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Biomechanics Lab. They discuss the type of data they’re collecting, and how the data analysis they’ve been doing over the last 5 years is allowing them to target research questions that directly translate to coaches and athletes.
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
In this episode Ashley Sunshine and Dr. Laura McDonald discuss OGX’s journey in pitching biomechanics, including how and why they began collecting data, what they’ve learned along the way, and how they’ve utilized the information to impact their athletes in training. They talk about the importance of understanding the motion in order to influence it, and how critical it is to know the impact on health and performance when assessing whether or not pattern changes are beneficial to a pitcher.
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
In this episode Ashley Sunshine and OGX pitching coach, Josh Hays, talk about some of the challenges that exist within the 10U-12U pitching culture. They identify the need for better training approaches, more education and clear communication regarding how to set goals at young ages without compromising growth potential in the future. At the end of the episode Ashley and Josh talk specifically about a program OGX is launching to guide athletes, parents and their coaches through a developmentally appropriate training platform and education system.#youthpitching #pitchingculture #athletedevelopment #youthsports #ogxprogram #parenteducation #athleteguidance
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
In this episode Ashley Sunshine and Ryker Chason sit down together to discuss the current recruiting system from both the athlete and college coach perspectives. They detail how and why the process is often disconnected from data and player development concepts, and talk about how closing this gap would make the system more efficient and transparent.
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
In this final episode of the series we sit down with Dr. Chelsea Martin, a physical therapist and board certified sports specialist. Dr. Martin discusses her research in pitching injuries and weighs in on topics such as injury prevention and recovery. She also discusses ways to help close the knowledge gap between coaches and health professionals when it comes to workload and pitching injury management.
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
In episode 4 we talk about the many issues with current “Return to Pitching” protocols. They are outdated and are typically centered around overhand throwing. Within this episode, we dive into an example ramp up program we designed for our pitchers, and talk about all of the details, including volume, intensity, arm variability, etc., that are accounted for and closely monitored by our team.
redefinethecircle #podcast #returntoplay
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
In this episode we dive into two athlete case studies and walk through the specific information we used to find the root of their pain. We also talk in detail about the changes we made to their training programs and the overall approaches we took to workload management to help minimize and ultimately break their pain cycles.
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
In this episode we talk about the approaches we use to help our athletes navigate the existing pain culture in pitching. We’ll discuss how we establish an environment where athletes feel safe reporting how they feel, and how we use submaximal pitching as a critical strategy to break pain cycles without pitching “shut-downs”.
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
In this episode we kick off a five episode series where we talk about the pain culture that exists in softball pitching. We expose some of the issues that have helped to create this culture including lack of workload management and a misunderstanding of the pitching motion’s complexity. Throughout this series we will discuss the systems and training protocols we have created for our athletes to help keep them stay healthy while chasing performance goals.
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
In this episode we talk about how the concept of “hitting spots” is not always in alignment with creating break. We discuss how data has impacted our ability to understand what makes pitchers successful at the highest levels, and how this information is forcing us to move beyond simply throwing to locations. Focusing on creating break and variability is the real goal for pitchers, and in this episode we break down how to best design training to reach those goals and ultimately, how to measure them.
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
Redefine The Circle is back! In this episode we discuss why it is critical to incorporate plyos into a pitcher’s training program. Ashley talks about the ways we use plyos at S2 Breakthrough, including their role in warmups, improving pitching patterns and training the arm to create variability during deceleration.
Want to watch this episode? Visit Redefine The Circle's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbXa436ekuXWwweRfjSWyww
Learn more about OGX: https://ogxsoftball.com/
In this episode we look at an elite level pitcher and talk about how her pitching patterns allow her to achieve the ball flight data she does. Often times, elite pitchers have something unique about their movement profile that allows their inefficient pitching patterns to generate something special when it comes to break.
This episode was sponsored by Strength & Conditioning Redefined. RTC listeners can save 10% off by using code RTC10: https://s2breakthrough.com/courses/strength-and-conditioning-redefined/
rtc #queston #softball #pitching #patterns #biomechanics #ballflightdata
In this episode we look at a specific case study and connect the details of the pitcher’s less than optimal patterns to her elite level ball flight data. We discuss why it’s critical to understand this relationship, in order to keep ourselves from unraveling what makes a pitcher special just for the sake of chasing efficiency.
Understanding why and how a pitcher achieves what she does is the heart of the S2 assessment process. It’s a story that’s unique to each pitcher, and allows us to design training in a way that promotes growth while preserving what already makes her great.
This episode was sponsor by Strength & Conditioning Redefined. RTC listeners can save 10% off by using code RTC10: https://s2breakthrough.com/courses/strength-and-conditioning-redefined/
queston #softball #pitching #patterns #growth
In this episode we discuss the concept of "front side resistance". We use 4D Motion graphs to break down front side resistance as something much more than a buzz phrase or cue. We look at what's actually happening with the body and where in the motion it's originating from, so we have a much better idea of what pitchers should focus on when they need better brakes at the end of the motion.
📺 Watch this episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AxO7QsP2Ws
This episode was sponsored by 4D Motion Sports.
rtc #series5 #4dmotionsports #biomechanics #queston
In this episode we look at several examples of pitchers with “wide” glove arm positions and dive into their 4D Motion data to show the root trunk breakdown that’s responsible for sending the glove arm where it does. Like other episodes in Series 5, we talk about the importance of understanding roots versus symptoms and why it’s important to avoid drills that attempt to “fix” lever positions in the motion.
📺 Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/nZ6V1sjv6Es
This episode was sponsored by 4D Motion Sports.
rtc #series5 #4dmotionsports #biomechanics #queston
In this episode we focus on the drag foot. We talk about the trunk movement it represents, what positioning and timing is optimal and why, and ultimately, how to train the body in ways that impact the drag foot without directly focusing on “drag foot drills”. Like the other episodes in Series 5, we look at 4D Motion Sports data as well as high speed video to get a much deeper understanding of what the drag foot is all about.
📺 Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/F68fGCQ2SZM
This episode was sponsored by 4D Motion Sports.
rtc #series5 #4dmotionsports #biomechanics #queston
In this episode we dive into 4D Motion Sports to look at the relationship between the trunk and the stride leg. We talk about why pitchers excessively use the stride leg in their motion, and what causes the stride foot to land in the direction and angle it does.
Stride leg positioning is simply a result of pelvic positioning. 4D analyses help us establish this relationship and quantify the root issue - under rotation, over rotation, insufficient load, etc. In episode 2 we look at a variety of examples of how the stride leg is used as a strategy for movement, or is a consequence of movement by the trunk. We look at a combination of high speed video and 4D graphs to show that what our coaching eyes see on video is often far from the root of the biomechanics story.
This episode was sponsored by 4D Motion Sports.
rtc #series5 #4dmotionsports #trunkvslevers #symptomsvsroots #biomechanics #queston
In this episode we introduce how we use 4D Motion Sports to identify trunk breakdowns within the pitching motion and explain how lever positioning is affected as a result of those breakdowns.
We've talked about symptoms vs. roots quite a bit throughout this podcast, but in Series 5, Episode 1, we specifically discuss three examples of patterns that cause the arm path to become compromised. We use both high speed video as well as 4D graphs to show that lever positioning is never actually the root issue, but instead, the compensation for a trunk breakdown earlier in the kinetic chain.
This episode was sponsored by 4D Motion Sports.
rtc #series5 #4dmotionsports #trunkvslevers #symptomsvsroots #biomechanics #queston
In this episode we discuss how we design training roadmaps for young pitchers, and the problems pitchers face later in their journeys when mature training concepts are placed on them too early.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZR1r2D5om1o
Thanks for listening to Series 4! Be on the lookout for Series 5 to begin soon.
This episode was sponsored by Rapsodo.
rtc #series4 #trainingroadmaps #rapsodo #queston
In this episode we we bring back the pitcher from case study #1. We take a detailed look at how we re-built her pitch profile after finishing a long season where her break profile gradually clustered together because of excessive fatigue.
We talk about how her training roadmap laid out an appropriate approach to build, challenge and maintain break, and how we made sure to build programming around the heart of her strengths. This episode shows how detailed roadmaps are key to bridging the gap between what's achieved in training and what translates to competition.
Please make sure to follow/subscribe on your favorite audio platform to stay updated with Redefine The Circle!
📺 Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SUBM9a47P4k
This episode is sponsored by Rapsodo.
rtc #series4 #trainingroadmaps #rapsodo #queston
In this episode we dive into another pitcher case study to show how we adjusted her training plan when the data was showing negative trends. We discuss the importance of keeping training roadmaps flexible to allow each pitcher's experience and response to dictate what comes next in her plan. When it comes to building successful roadmaps, the data has to lead the way.
Watch this episode: https://youtu.be/lKeRRC1AYhk
Please make sure to follow/subscribe on your favorite audio platform to stay updated with Redefine The Circle!
This episode is sponsored by Rapsodo.
rtc #series4 #trainingroadmaps #rapsodo #queston
In this episode we continue to talk about designing appropriate training roadmaps. Episode 2 looks at a 14 year old pitcher, what we learned during the assessment process, and how we built a training roadmap that focused on attacking root challenges in order to drive change. We'll cover details on how we programmed to improve trunk stability and deceleration, and the overall approach we took to increase velocity. We also talk about changes we saw in spin/break data, and what program adjustments were needed to equally maximize this pitcher's short and long term success.
Watch Episode Two on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3FDVYrUjK9w
Please make sure to follow/subscribe on your favorite audio platform to stay updated with Redefine The Circle!
This episode is sponsored by Rapsodo.
rtc #series4 #trainingroadmaps #rapsodo #queston
Series 4 of Redefine the Circle is all about building training roadmaps. In this episode we'll look at an S2 pitcher's specific journey, including her assessments results, the goals we set for her, and the detailed plan we put together in order to meet them. We'll walk through her specific program design and how we objectively measure progress along the way.
Player development is so much more than random drills and single training sessions. It's about using data to assess a pitcher's story, thoughtfully designing plans that connect to that story, and measuring results to determine what steps to take next. Here's an inside look at how we do it at S2!
Watch This Episode: https://youtu.be/B6-ZI6VeXd4
This episode is sponsored by Rapsodo.
rtc #series4 #trainingroadmaps #rapsodo
In this episode we welcome Driveline Baseball’s Kyle Lindley to Redefine the Circle. Kyle and I break down the cultural differences between baseball and softball pitching, and specifically discuss concepts like velo, workload, periodization, etc. We talk about how data has helped to increase knowledge about these concepts, and how it has provided an opportunity to drive baseball pitcher development forward.
In previous episodes of this podcast I’ve discussed the many reasons why I believe the culture around softball pitching is stuck in the past. In this episode we reflect on how we can grow pitching by understanding its progression in baseball. In many ways, the data and research being done in baseball pitching is an opportunity for us to look into our future. It’s an opportunity to see what more we can do and how much we still have to grow.
This episode is sponsored by Rapsodo.
YouTube: https://youtu.be/3m3CDHgKFvs
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6vFxqxkJYo6xde9rxYajRa
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/redefine-the-circle/id1606222053
rtc #series3 #velocity #rapsodo #driveline
In this episode we talk about how we prioritize velocity by building thoughtful training systems throughout the year. I lay out the detailed approach we take at S2 Breakthrough to design off-, pre- and in-season pitching programs. We’ll cover topics like workload, volume and intensity management, and periodization. When it comes to building velocity, more is NOT more. Thoughtful program design and workload management are key.
This episode is sponsored by Rapsodo
YouTube: https://youtu.be/VAzMFZ7gidg
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6vFxqxkJYo6xde9rxYajRa
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/redefine-the-circle/id1606222053
rtc #series3 #velocity #rapsodo
In this episode we talk about the criteria that S2 pitchers must meet to begin velocity based training in their pitching sessions. In episode 3 we discussed the training progression that our S2 pitchers follow in order to increase performance metrics, including velocity. If and when a pitcher reaches the top level of that progression, we assess whether or not it is appropriate to implement a more targeted velocity based pitching program. In this episode we will walk you through that qualifying criteria and lay out how we create pitching programs that are centered around velo gains.
----------Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/73CnSokDHHA
Learn more about S2 Breakthrough:https://s2breakthrough.com
queston #redefinethecircle #velocity #datatrends
In this episode we bring back guest host, Karli Sewell, to talk all about recovery. What is recovery? Why is it necessary to sustain velocity, and how can we make sure our athletes are getting enough of it? Recovery is a wildly misunderstood concept in softball pitching. Oftentimes, we think that more is more when it comes to training. It’s important to understand that demanding what we do from our pitchers means we MUST start supporting the recovery needs that go with it.
----------Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/c2GEdZaHbJI
Learn more about S2 Breakthrough: https://s2breakthrough.com
queston #redefinethecircle #velocity #datatrends #recovery
In this episode we talk about why it’s important not to simply chase a number when it comes to velo. Target velocities at the college level often lead young pitchers to chase numbers too big, too quickly, which can throw training progressions out of order, and ultimately lower their velo ceiling. In our current culture there is a clear divide between average and elite velocity. Elevating more pitchers out of the “average” pool means we have to start understanding how to follow velo trends, how to measure velo predictors, and ultimately, how to prioritize training that makes velo growth sustainable.
----------Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1g6DCe1WJbw
Learn more about S2 Breakthrough: https://s2breakthrough.com
queston #redefinethecircle #velocity #datatrends
Building a better culture around velocity means building a more informed culture, based on data, not assumptions. In this episode use data trends to dive deeper into velocity truths. We look at typical velocity fluctuations and how it is influenced by variables such as travel. We also discuss how to track velocity appropriately to be sure pitchers are progressing during appropriate times of the year.
----------Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EvShoWQkQWo
Learn more about S2 Breakthrough: https://s2breakthrough.com
queston #redefinethecircle #velocity #datatrends
In this episode, Ashley talks about the unhealthy culture that's been created around velocity, why it’s holding our pitchers back, and the many reasons why our understanding of it must evolve. Prioritizing pitching velocity requires a willingness to challenge the traditional views and approaches we’ve relied on for years. It’s time to have discussions about the many variables that influence velo, how to design training environments to increase it, and what it means to set manageable and realistic expectations for our athletes. ----------Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nhMAKCXMUC0
Learn more about S2 Breakthrough: https://s2breakthrough.com
queston #redefinethecircle #velocity
In our final episode of Series 2, Karli and I dive into the details that are considered when building S&C programs at S2 Breakthrough. We discuss the importance of designing programs that match the appropriate demands of the sport, train the correct energy systems, and how she creates movements to specifically target individual needs. It’s time to start redefining how our pitchers train, and this episode gives both strength and pitching coaches a great place to start!
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5y4cafTrSfQ
Learn more about S2 Breakthrough: https://s2breakthrough.com
queston #redefinethecircle #s&c
Although the goal of training is to make pitchers as resilient as possible, sometimes the demands of the game and/or the pitching motion cause a pitcher to experience pain.
In this episode we discuss the role of S&C in getting pitchers back into training and back onto the field. We talk about the cohesive management strategies we utilize at S2 Breakthrough, and how we use the strength floor to determine the training adjustments that are needed to keep athletes pitching pain-free.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ETqUNkslx78
Learn more about S2 Breakthrough: https://s2breakthrough.com
queston #redefinethecircle #s&c
In this episode we talk all about mobility. We discuss the information it gives us about a pitcher's trunk control, ability to rotate, and the compensations she relies on in her pitching motion. Karli and I break down how we monitor and train mobility at S2, and give examples of strategies we use to help prevent mobility regression while in-season.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xa53MkkTRi8
Learn more about S2 Breakthrough: https://s2breakthrough.com
queston #redefinethecirlce #s&c
In this episode we discuss how the S2 assessment allows the pitching and strength coach to speak the same language about training, programming, and each athlete's individual needs. While the initial assessment helps both coaches build a cohesive program for each pitcher, it's the ongoing re-assessment process that holds the program accountable and allows the strength and pitching coach to work together to create each pitcher's most optimal training environment.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ChJTKZ0Tb1k
Learn more about S2 Breakthrough: https://s2breakthrough.com
queston #redefinethecirlce #s&c
In Series 2 of Redefine the Circle we’re talking all about strength and conditioning for pitchers. I sit down with S2's head of S&C, Karli Sewell, and talk about the systems we’ve created to build a cohesive training environment for our athletes.
In Episode 1 we highlight some of the details that make strength and conditioning at S2 Breakthrough unique. We talk about how training programs are designed to consider the rotational demands of our game, and more specifically, the demands of the pitching motion.
At S2 Breakthrough we believe strength and conditioning is most powerful when fully integrated with a pitcher's assessment process and skill training. We believe that strength and conditioning IS skill training and Series 2 is here to explain why.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/HltfNG5pq0k
Learn more about S2 Breakthrough: https://s2breakthrough.com
queston #redefinethecirlce #s&c
During a live recording at this year's NFCA Convention, we sit down with Nate Walker to discuss the power of ball flight data throughout a pitcher's journey. We talk about what sets high school pitchers apart from one another, what coaches should be looking for during the recruiting process, and how to maximize pitching staffs on the college stage.
Watch this episode: https://youtu.be/-BkUiyJr5tw
redefinethecircle #podcast #softball #pitchingdevelopment
In this episode, we will discuss how to analyze a pitcher's ball flight data to transition from from building training plans, to building in-game approaches. We will discuss how to understand a pitcher's strengths, her degree of variability, and ultimately how to maximize her pitch arsenal in competition.
Watch this episode: https://youtu.be/h28SDEdyBhc
In this episode we will discuss why each pitcher's ball flight data is an individualized and unique story. We will look at example "stories" and talk about the importance of understanding the biomechanics behind ball flight in order to maximize a pitcher's arsenal.
Watch this episode on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/ieBngF4onb4
redefinethecircle #softballpitching #data
In this episode we'll discuss the ways in which we teach pitch development at S2 Breakthrough. We'll talk about how to manipulate variables in a pitcher's training environment to make sure spin/break are translating beyond drills.
To watch this episode visit: https://youtu.be/JO-QLhle5oc
redefinethecircle #softballpitching #data
In this episode we discuss the critical role of trunk-arm timing in the pitching motion. We look at differences between poor and appropriate timing, how one is achieved over the other, and the affect each one has on spin/break.
To watch this episode visit: https://youtu.be/RBBIcDeVtsM
redefinethecircle #softballpitching #data
In this episode we will look at how top, bullet and back spin are actually created at ball release. We'll discuss the issues with using linear approaches (such as wrist snaps) to teach various spin directions, and why these methods may be preventing pitchers from maximizing break.
To watch this episode visit: https://youtu.be/SU4KcAL3mPY
redefinethecircle #softballpitching #data
In this first episode of Redefine The Circle, we discuss why the traditional approach to labeling pitches often ignores and contradicts the individuality of pitchers. We'll look at how a pitcher's neutral arm slot and spin profile are the most powerful tools for dictating which pitch types she should prioritize, and how to determine if she has the capacity to develop more.
To watch this episode visit: https://youtu.be/Y9ynCLe9fYQ