Renowned Hitting Instructor Jake Epstein has been coaching amateur, collegiate, and professional hitters for the past 20 years. Epstein currently serves as a Hitting Consultant for the Milwaukee Brewers and owns his own facility in College Station, TX. Based off the hitting teachings passed down to his father Mike from the legendary Ted Williams, Jake combines old school principals with new-age data to help hitters reach their highest potentials. Join Host Jim Tarabocchia and Jake every Monday at 9am ET discuss a variety of topics on the hardest thing to do in all of sports-hitting a baseball.
In this week's episode of Cross-Functionality, Jimis joined by strength and conditioning specialist Stephen Portee. Jim and Stephen discuss how strength and conditioning helps an athlete reach their fullpotential through speed and power movements, the right workout programs, and through the integration of new technology. Plus, the guys break down some misconceptions about speed, how much of a factor genetics play in an athlete reaching their full potential.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE --- https://youtu.be/yWiQiM3WyBw
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Incorporating speed and power movements in strength training
6:00 - Training for speed
8:00 – Using new technology in strength and conditioning for athletes
10:00 – Misconceptions about speed – genetics
16:00 – How speed is different from sport to sport
19:00 – Unlocking the potential of an athlete throughstrength and conditioning
22:00 – Setting up an athlete for future success
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY – empowering femaleathletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop intoleaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
MULTI-MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES – Lookingto start a podcast? Email us at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com to learn about more multi-media podcast opportunities.
ADVERTISE WITH US - If your business targets 25-54 year old men and women, there's no better place toadvertise than right here with us on Cross-Functionality…To find out more, reach out via email at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
In this week's episode of Cross-Functionality, Jimis joined by special guest Dr. Nick Serio. Nick received his doctorate in sport and performance psychology, and has helped countless high school, college, and pro pitchers reach their ceiling for success. In episode 66, Jim and Nickdiscuss the differences between coaching baseball and softball players, training student-athletes to gain the mental edge, and technology advancements in baseball and softball in recent years.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE --- https://youtu.be/J3ARnx_ZpTA
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Intersecting coaching baseball and softball players
3:00 – Coaching approaches towards preserving health ofpitchers
7:00 – Current and future pitching trends
10:00 – Training an athlete mentally
14:00 – Going through a mental assessment with athletes
17:00 – The myth of cookie cutter programs
18:00 – Technology advancements in baseball and softball
22:00 – Nick’s advice for athletes in 2024
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Amazon Music | Iheart | TuneIn | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com – Softball StrengthAcademy
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama SoftballAlum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for moreinformation.
Multi-Media Opportunities – Looking to start a podcast? Email us at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com to learn about more multi-media podcast opportunities.
In this week's episode of Cross-Functionality, Jimis joined by special guest Brett Poniros - Doctor of Rehabilitation and Chiropractic. Jim and Brett dive into causes of injuries, dealing with pain through physical activity, treating nagging pain, and why selecting the rightphysical therapist could plays the most vital role in injury-recovery and prevention.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE --- https://youtu.be/153By8CKBpo
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Dealing with pain through physical activity
4:00 – Physical red flags athletes shouldn’t ignore
6:00 – Treating nagging pain
10:00 – Recovery methods for nagging injuries
12:00 – Creating a well-rounded warm-up and mobility program
18:00 – Obstacles face when returning to their respectivesport
22:00 – Selecting the right Physical Therapist andChiropractor
26:00 – The why behind strength training
37:00 – Countering Rehabilitation misinformation
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com – Softball StrengthAcademy
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama SoftballAlum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for moreinformation.
Multi-Media Opportunities – Looking to start a podcast? Email us at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com to learn about more multi-media podcast opportunities.
Jim and Jake are back with a brand-new episode of The Lab - Epstein Hitting Podcast! On episode 149, the guys discuss hitters producing quality at-bats, how coaches can interpret quality at-bats, and the proper way for coaches to put players in position to succeed. Plus, Jake discusses how hitters can stay sharp in the off-season, the joy of creating offensive practice plans, and how players can approach preparing for the 2024 season.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE --- https://youtu.be/YHeuN8L37Tc
SHOW NOTES:
1:00 – Hitters staying sharp in the off-season
2:00 – Jake’s coaching methods
7:00 – Hitting mechanics Jake looks for in hitters whenrecruiting
12:00 – Creating offensive practice plans
18:00 – How Jake has utilized technology at the Division One level
25:00 – Hitters producing with quality at-bats
29:00 – Different meanings of a quality at-bat
32:00 – Why runs are equal to or greater than hits
36:00 – Putting players in position to be successful
38:00 – Studying for quality at-bats
40:00 – Getting ready for the 2024 season
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player,Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mikebuilt a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the uniqueneeds of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
Multi-Media Opportunities – Looking to start a podcast? Email us at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com to learn about more multi-media podcast opportunities.
This week’s episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting Podcast, Jim and Jake break down ways hitters in baseball and softball can counteract a pitcher’s strategy through detailed study, repetition, and game-planning to further increase the chances of a hitter’s success.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE --- https://youtu.be/qzpQ3WF5pRk
SHOW NOTES:
1:00 – Jake’s big announcement
3:00 – Preference for batter’s boxes
9:00 – Counteracting a pitcher’s strategies
15:00 – Counteracting a pitcher’s off-speed pitches
19:00 – Studying the pitcher
23:00 - Counteracting a pitcher’s strategy when a hitter is down in the count
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 47 of Cross-Functionality, Jim and Cassie uncover the secrets to achieving higher levels of success as athletes. Whether you're a seasoned sports enthusiast or just starting your athletic journey, this podcast will empower you to unleash the champion within and reach your full potential. Through their valuable insights and personal experiences, Cassie and Jim explore a variety of ways for athletes to achieve higher levels of success
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE --- https://youtu.be/haIzBJSAa7g
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Pitfalls of comparison
8:00 – Maintaining self-confidence and motivation
10:00 – Importance of resilience and accountability
12:00 – Having self-discipline
19:00 – Cassie’s methods for eliminating distractions
25:00 – Athlete getting to the next level with inadequate tools
27:00 – Holding an accountable checklist
30:00 – How Cassie held herself accountable as an athlete
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Amazon Music | Iheart | TuneIn | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com – Softball Strength Academy
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
This week’s episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting Podcast, Jim and Jake outline ways to scout amateur hitters in the United States and across the globe. Plus, what are Jake’s thoughts Brewers first-rounder Brock Wilken; What does it mean to manager you misses as a hitter? The guys touch on all of this and more!
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE - https://youtu.be/TKSGcWkmg8Q
SHOW NOTES:
1:00 – Brock Wilken analysis
4:00 – Managing your misses
8:00 – Ken Griffey Jr. Swing
10:00 – Number one overall picks from previous years
13:00 – Thoughts on Sean Casey becoming the Yankees new hitting coach
25:00 – Scouting amateur hitters
31:00 – Scouting amateur international hitters
39:00 – Identifying a hitter’s misses
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week’s episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting Podcast, Jim and Jake discuss all things related to the 2023 MLB draft from an offensive player’s perspective!
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB –EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE - https://youtu.be/h9WgJe39zwo
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – MLB Draft being pushed back to July
5:00 – Debate about moving the draft back
10:00 – Paul Skenes or Dylan Crewes?
19:00 – Jake Epstein’s
20:00 – Elly De La Cruz’s success
23:00 – De La Cruz’s swing
26:00 – Jake’s evaluation process of amateur hitters
33:00 – Preparing for the draft from a player’s perspective
Renowned Hitting Instructor Jake Epstein has been coaching amateur, collegiate, and professional hitters for the past 20 years. Epstein currently serves as a Hitting Consultant for the Milwaukee Brewers and owns his own facility in College Station, TX. Based off the hitting teachings passed down to his father Mike from the legendary Ted Williams, Jake combines old school principals with new-age data to help hitters reach their highest potentials. Join Host Jim Tarabocchia and Jake every Monday at 9am ET discuss a variety of topics on the hardest thing to do in all of sports-hitting a baseball.
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week’s episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting Podcast, Jim and Jake break down the swing of one of the premier first baseman in Major League Baseball – Paul Goldschmidt.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE - https://youtu.be/-o90C6nny9s
SHOW NOTES:
1:00 – Goldschmidt past versus present mechanics
4:00 – Technology’s role in debunking hitting myths
10:00 – MLB Players on the new rules
16:00 – Paul Goldschmidt mechanical breakdown
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week’s episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting Podcast, Jim and Jake give an in-depth exploration of one of the most challenging pitches in baseball: the sinker. In this episode, the guy delve into the strategies and techniques that hitters employ to achieve success against sinkerball pitchers, who have been known to induce ground balls and frustrate even the most skilled hitters in both baseball and softball.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE - https://youtu.be/-o90C6nny9s
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – MLB Teams capping off-field spending?
10:00 – Evolution of professional scouting
15:00 – Listener Question – Lineup shaping of the future
23:00 – Hitters who have success hitting sinker-ball pitchers
30:00 – Hitting off a sinker-ball pitcher
35:00 – Approach against Sinker-ball pitcher
37:00 – Tips for having success in hitting sinkers
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week’s episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting Podcast, Jim and Jake break down Miami Marlins RHP Sandy Alcantara, and how hitters can formulate a plan and approach at the plate for success against this National League ace.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE - https://youtu.be/-o90C6nny9s
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Jim’s pitch clock theory
8:00 – Sandy Alcantara’s pitch repertoire
10:00 – Approach against Alcantara
16:00 – Hitting Alcantara’s sinker
20:00 – Alcantara’s two-strike tendencies
23:00 – How Alcantara tunnels his pitches
25:00 – Back to basics
29:00 – AB to AB Adjustments
32:00 – Best pitches for a hitters to hit
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week’s episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting Podcast, Jim and Jake revisit a topic from 2020 and delve into the world of hitting data and its profound impact on both hitters and coaches. The guys unravel the realm of hitting analysis through different numbers and technologies could transform the ways hitters approach their craft.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
SHOW NOTES:
3:00 – Coaches updating their hitting blueprints
7:00 – Creating a foundation
9:00 – Importance of being on-plane with the pitch
18:00 – Hitting data thought process
24:30 – What separates elite hitters
27:00 – Paralysis by analysis
30:00 – Using the right technology
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 40 of Cross-Functionality, Cassie and Jim enter into the dynamic world of sports leadership, focusing on the essential tactics required to lead a team to victory in a competitive environment. Jim and Cassie explore the critical aspects of sports leadership, including communication, motivation, and decision-making, highlighting their direct impact on team performance.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – Avoiding creating “practice players” as a coach
6:00 – Leadership and culture
8:00 – Key points related to culture and leadership
10:00 – Cassie’s process to becoming a leader in college
17:00 – How Cassie learned to become a leader
20:00 – Types of leadership tactics
23:00 – Traits of different kind of leaders
Subscribe and like the show - Apple | Google | Spotify | Amazon Music | Iheart | TuneIn | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com – Softball Strength Academy
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
This week’s episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting Podcast, Jim and Jake break down key components for successful hitting coaches. Having to learn new technology, new methods, and new ways of communicating are integral parts in successfully coaching hitters, and the guys provide a blueprint on how togrow the inevitable changes of coaching hitters in the 20th century.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Listener question
14:00 – Requirements of a successful hitting coach
19:00 – Learning new technology
27:00 – Coaching style
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week’s episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting Podcast, Jim and Jake break down the swing of New York Mets super-utility man Jeff McNeil. McNeil is a two-time All-Star and won a batting title in 2022 after hitting a league-best .326. The guys discuss McNeil’s swing plane, lower half efficiency, and his ability to control the strike zone.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
4:00 – Jeff McNeil overview
9:00 – Definition of offensive efficiency
17:00 – Advice from Jim and Jake
27:45 – McNeil mechanical breakdown
42:00 – McNeil’s lower half
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week’s episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting Podcast, Jim and Jake break down the pre-requisite requirements to becoming a successful hitting coach. In this episode, the guys break down transitioning, evolving, and understanding your players as a coach.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Jake’s Bruce Bochy stories
8:00 – Importance of coaches evolving with their craft
11:00 – Story about Tommy Lasorda
14:00 – Puck-type handle
23:00 – New college baseball recruiting rules
26:00 – Requirements of what it takes to be a successful hitting coach
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In this episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting Podcast, Jim and Jake define what it means for pitchers to move a hitter’s feet and why it’s an essential skill for pitchers. The guys delve into the psychological effects of moving a hitter's feet and how it can impact their confidence and ability to make solid contact. Plus, the guys touch on the strategies that hitters use to counter pitchers who move their feet, and how pitchers can adjust to these counter-tactics.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
4:00 – Importance of bat size and weight
12:00 – Discussion of new MLB rules
14:00 – Athletes and dedication
17:00 – Vanderbilt and the transfer portal
20:00 – Pitchers moving a hitter’s feet
26:00 – Hitters counteracting a pitcher’s strategy of moving their feet
33:00 – Creating a competitive environment for yourself
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In this episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting Podcast we'll be discussing the importance of where to stand in the batter's box. As every baseball player knows, the location of the batter's stance can have a significant impact on their success at the plate. Jim and Jake discuss the advantages and disadvantages of standing closer or farther away from the plate, as well as the benefits of standing closer or farther from the pitcher. Plus, are young players and parents putting too much stock into sending their kids to baseball and softball showcases?
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
3:00 – Strategy positioning in the batter’s box
6:00 – Importance of every at-bat
9:00 – Jim and Jake’s favorite hitters across baseball
14:00 – How to study major league hitters
20:00 – Listener question
26:00 – Are showcases worth it for a player’s exposure?
42:00 – Standing in the box for better timing
47:00 – Closer or further from the plate?
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Athletes often times face immense pressure to perform at their best, whether from coaches, teammates, fans, or the athlete themselves. However, managing these expectations can be a daunting task that requires a delicate balance of self-awareness, mental toughness, and communication skills. In this week’s episode of The Lab – Epstein Hitting podcast, Jim and Jake explore how to manage expectations as an athlete, and share practical tips and insights from experts in the field.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
4:00 – Bo Bichette’s body evolution
13:00 – Player’s body composition changes
17:00 – Players managing expectations
24:00 – Managing external expectations
27:00 – Getting into the flow state
29:00 – External factors out of player’s control
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
On this week’s episode of The Lab, Jim and Jake discuss and break down the swing of one of the game’s most iconic hitters of all-time --- Derek Jeter. What made Jeter's swing so special? Join us as we delve into the mechanics of his swing, breaking down each component to understand how Jeter was able to generate consistency on a year-to-year basis. Plus, the guys discuss the evolution of Shohei Ohtani going from an international player with high potential to the best two-way player of all-time.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Discussing the career of Derek Jeter
8:00 – Shohei Ohtani’s supreme talent
23:00 – Meaning of “outscoring an opponent”
27:00 - #cancelspringtraining
28:00 – Listener question
33:00 – Parts of Jeter’s game was overrated and underrated
35:00 – Jeter’s stance change early in his career
37:00 – Jeter’s swing attributes
41:00 – Swing breakdown
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
On this week’s episode of The Lab, Jim and Jake explore the overrated and underrated factors of hitting a baseball and softball. Plus, the guys debate leg scissoring in hitting, discuss the World Baseball Classic, and talk about the latest technology surrounding hitting.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Brewers young prospects
5:00 – Reaction to the excitement of the World Baseball Classic
9:00 – Jim’s World Baseball Classic theory
13:00 – Listener comments
25:00 – The definition of a combo swing plane
33:00 – Hitting technology – O/U
46:00 – Batting stance – O/U
47:00 – RBI – O/U
48:00 – Weighted runs created plus – O/U
50:00 – Additionally technology talk
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
On this week’s episode of The Lab, Jim and Jake discuss hitters understanding themselves, their strengths and weaknesses, and why having a plan is imperative to successful hitting.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
6:00 – Hitters learning their strengths and weaknesses
25:00 – Pitch clock discussion
35:00 – Listener question
40:00 – Hitting to your strengths
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
On this week’s episode of The Lab, Jim and Jake re-examine and explain how hitters can generate more success through a proper hand and bat path.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Bat and hand path examined
5:00 – Jeff McNeil’s off-season approach
8:00 – Pitch clock discussion
17:00 – How hitters grow into power
22:00 – Listener question
26:00 – Bat and hand path explained
33:00 – Gaining consistent hand and bat path
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
On this week’s episode of The Lab, Jim and Jake break down finding intangibles in hitters throughout baseball and softball.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
3:00 – Old baseball concepts recycled
6:00 – Astros 1st rounders since 2011
13:00 – Why hitters miss pitches
21:00 – Mental edge
25:00 – Calmness and complacency
28:00 – Quantifying quality at-bats
35:00 – Recognizing intangibles
41:00 – Mechanical intangibles
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 28 of Cross-Functionality, Jim and Cassie unveil and break down Cassie’s pyramid of hitting that helps take hitters to the next level in their athletic maturation.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
8:00 – Origins of Cassie’s pyramid
11:00 – Plane adaptation
22:00 – Hitter’s mechanical development
27:00 – Hitter’s movement patterns
30:00 – Drills for mechanical development
32:00 – Framework of the pyramid
34:00 – Progression through each level
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com – Softball Strength Academy
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
On this week’s episode of The Lab, Jim and Jake dissect the swing of Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez. Plus, the guys give insight on how hitters can approach an 0-1 count, hitters dealing and learning from failure, and Julio Rodriguez hitter comp.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Rodriguez’s statistical breakdown
5:00 – Rodriguez’s contract value
9:00 – Approach hitters could take in an 0-1 count
16:00 – Jeff McNeil/Mets
18:00 – Hitters coping and learning with failure
32:00 – Swing breakdown
46:00 – Load and timing
50:00 – Swing hitch
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
On this week’s episode of The Lab, Jim and Jake discuss setting proper goals at hitters and baseball and softball players in general. Plus, the guys debate grilling, talk about how right Jim was in his evaluation of Sal Frelick, and training with intention.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Setting proper goal
3:00 – International hitters
11:00 – Training with intention
15:00 – Simple is easy
18:00 – Tee – good or bad?
26:00 – Sal Frelick’s success
36:00 – How to set proper goals
40:00 – Short-term goals
47:00 – Performance-based goals
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
On this week’s episode of The Lab, Jim and Jake discuss important details of how to hit successfully with runners in scoring position.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Hitting with runners in scoring position overview
6:00 – Teaching progressions
18:00 – Listener question
31:00 -Gameplanning for runners in scoring position
35:00 – Broad approach for hitting with runners in scoring position
41:00 – Two-strikes and runners in scoring position
44:00 – Having a real plan
46:00 – Hitting with runners in scoring position
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Join Jim and Jake are back with the first episode of The Lab for 2023. The guys talk about bat speed and bat quickness. What’s the difference? Which is more of a necessity? How does one measure such? Why using the right bat is imperative to bat quickness and speed. Answers to all these questions and more on the first episode of 2023.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Bat speed and quickness
3:00 – Guys react to Rafael Devers signing
7:00 – Discussion of Carlos Correa
10:00 – You never know who’s watching
14:00 – Hitting training variability
19:00 – Bat Quickness
27:00 – Measuring bat quickness
36:00 – Importance of using the right bat
44:00 – The main message of bat speed and quickness
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 23 of Cross-Functionality, Jim and Cassie dissect Jim’s four pillars for a successful softball and baseball swing.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
4:00 – Timing and vision
12:00 – Swing plane and bat path
19:00 – Making adjustments
23:00 – Teaching how to make adjustments
25:00 – Hitter’s confidence
27:00 – Hitter’s putting things into perspective
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Amazon Music | Iheart | TuneIn | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com – Softball Strength Academy
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
In episode 22 of Cross-Functionality, Jim and Cassie discuss and break down each intangible that athletes need to develop to further their athletic careers.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Player intangibles
5:00 – Coaches setting intangibles into their culture
11:00 – Effort intangible
18:00 – Leadership intangible
23:00 – Player’s attitude
29:00 – Player’s intelligence
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Amazon Music | Iheart | TuneIn | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com – Softball Strength Academy
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
Join Jim and Jake discuss and dissect strategies on how to hit curveballs and sliders. Plus, the guys define player intangibles, and define the true meaning of effort in a player.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE!
SHOW NOTES:
3:00 – Player Intangibles
6:00 – Defining a player’s real effort
10:00 – How players can give proper effort to develop their game
14:00 – Listener Question
18:00 – Hitters learning rhythm
20:00 – No stride approach
27:00 – Hitting spin using data
32:00 – Sliders and curveballs
35:00 – Keys to hitting breaking balls
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 21 of Cross-Functionality, Jim and Cassie break down how parents can successfully coach their kids while maintaining a strong relationship with their child.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Debating the transfer portal
6:00 – Positive and negative effects of coaching your child
11:00 – Coaching conversations with your child
15:00 – Separating parent from coach
19:00 – Coaching your kids when older
26:00 – Parents coaching younger kids
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Amazon Music | Iheart | TuneIn | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com – Softball Strength Academy
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
Jim and Jake break down new Cubs Outfielder Cody Bellinger’s swing and address the corrections he needs to make for a successful 2023 season at the plate.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Hitters in smaller ballparks
6:00 – Two strike hitting second or third time through the order
9:00 – Curious case of Dansby Swanson
12:00 – Top Free Agent shortstops
16:00 – Playing in bigger ballparks
19:00 – Two elements Bellinger must fix in his swing
22:00 – Swing Breakdown
31:00 – Bellinger’s metrics
33:00 – Jake’s plan to turn Bellinger around
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 19 of Cross-Functionality, Jim and Cassie discuss how athletes can properly prepare for game competition – both physically and mentally.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Athletes unprepared for competition
5:00 – “4 C’s” of preparing for games
7:00 – Questions to ask an athlete
10:00 – Developing scouting reports to prepare
17:00 – Creating a preparation plan
19:00 – Blocking out adversity
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Amazon Music | Iheart | TuneIn | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com – Softball Strength Academy
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
Jim and Jake discuss and break down how hitters can be successful and productive with two strikes at the plate.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Two strike hitting
8:00 – The curious case of Michael Conforto
16:00 – Knowing yourself as a hitter
23:00 – Two pitches hitters get to do damage on each game
25:00 – Mechanical changes with two strikes
28:00 – Shrinking the zone with runners in scoring position
40:00 – Approach with two strikes for amateur hitters
42:00 – Approach with two strikes for professional hitters
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake debut the first volume of Facing an Ace - going through the process of putting together a plan for hitters facing Justin Verlander!
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Discussion of Thanksgiving food
5:00 – Professional vs. amateur baseball
10:00 – Latin vs. American-born players
16:00 – Bellinger’s 2023 outlook
18:00 – Varying hitter’s meetings
22:00 – Facing Justin Verlander
24:00 – Hitting Verlander’s fastball
29:00 – Verlander’s off-speed pitches
33:00 – Developing a plan against Verlander based off previous results
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 18 of Cross-Functionality, Jim and Cassie break down how coaching can create training calendars for their athletes throughout the entire year!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
5:00 – Training calendar in the fall months
7:00 – Timeframe of creating a calendar
10:00 – Training calendar revolving around hitting
16:00 – Preparing the athlete mentally
18:00 – Maintaining in-season
20:00 – Creating calendar for season results
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
Jim and Jake discuss off-season prep plans for hitters throughout the off-season, and break down certain stages off the off-season important for player development.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
3:00 – Cody Bellinger swing changes
12:00 – Creating showcase players
15:00 – Creating a yearly coaching calendar
21:00 – Five elements of off-season prep plans
23:00 -Off-season calendar
24:00 – Taking inventory
26:00 – Specify plans
30:00 – Incorporating drills
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 17 of Cross-Functionality, Jim is joined by University of Alabama Head Coach Patrick Murphy discussing a variety of topics ranging from his career journey, to the 2012 National Championship Team, and almost leaving Alabama for LSU!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Learning experiences
4:00 – Almost leaving Alabama
16:00 – Pillars of a successful program
20:00 – Winning the 2012 Softball National Championship
25:00 – What Pat looks for in prospective coaches
27:00 – How recruiting student-athletes has changed
36:00 – Picking and choosing the right systems for player development
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
Jim and Jake discuss splitting the plate and further understanding how a pitcher is throwing and trying to get you out as a hitter.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
SHOW NOTES:
1:00 – Getting into off-season prep
4:00 – MLB free agents
11:00 – Houston Astros front office changes
15:00 – Player Development theories
17:00 – Strengths and weaknesses of a hitter
21:00 – Splitting the plate based off previous results
24:00 – Learn from previous at-bats
27:00 – Sticking to the plan
32:00 – Not missing pitches
36:00 – Listener question
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the swing of Hall-of-Fame Catcher Mike Piazza. Plus, the guys discuss elements of the World Series, Mr. Socko, and much more!
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
SHOW NOTES:
1:00 – Length of MLB season
3:00 – Coaches filling out evaluations
5:00 – Players coaching themselves
8:00 – Alex Bregman’s ability to split the plate
12:00 – Nick Castellanos struggles
15:00 – Spreading out International pool money
21:00 – Mike Piazza swing attributes
25:00 – Piazza’s hand “hitch”
33:00 – Piazza’s swing breakdown
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 15 of Cross-Functionality, Jim and Cassie discuss the importance of planning your lessons as a coach and offer advice of how to help an athlete progress through proper teaching. Plus, a discussion breaks out about a hitting progression pyramid and its’ importance in the maturity of a hitter.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – Getting to know the hitter
8:00 – Biomechanics assessment
10:00 – Evaluating confidence
13:00 – Understanding the hitter
16:00 – Appropriate time to incorporate drills
28:00 – Hitter progression pyramid
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
Jim and Jake discuss the four principles needed to be a successful hitter AT ANY LEVEL. Plus, the guys give their World Series picks and break down key points to a World Series victory.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE!
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – World Series talk
3:00 – Yankees struggles
9:00 – World Series picks
14:00 – Jake’s West Chester PA event
19:00 – Timing and Vision
23:00 – Swing Plane/bat path
26:00 – Approach
30:00 – Confidence
36:00 – Confidence tied to approach
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 14 of Cross-Functionality, Jim and Cassie dive into how athletes can own their failures and transition those lessons learned into future successes.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – Professional approach to failure
11:00 – Owning failure in practice
15:00 – Learning curve to failure
17:00 – “Obstacle is the Way”
20:00 – Embracing failure
23:00 – Using failure as a learning experience
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Amazon Music | Iheart | TuneIn | YouTube
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
Jim and Jake discuss why starting late in a hitter’s load affects their future success, and how to get their timing down more efficiently. Plus, the guys discuss simplicity in player development, a quote from Mike Trout, and Mike Piazza’s pants.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Hitting is all about timing
5:00 – Astros success
7:00 – Mike Trout quote about squaring up the baseball
12:00 – Player development preferences
17:00 – Ep’s Mike Piazza story
18:00 – Stirrups
23:00 – Hitters loading on time
30:00 – Counter rotation
33:00 – Hitters hand load
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 13 of Cross-Functionality, Jim and Cassie discuss how hitters, baseball and softball players, and athletes in general can push way negative thoughts, create positive habits and reinforcements to ensure success on the field.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
4:00 – Body language and negative thoughts
9:00 – Striving for perfection
11:00 – Overcoming negative thought patterns
17:00 – Mental training in relation to time of year
22:00 – Failure recovery methods
29:00 – Advice for coaches in helping their athletes mentally
31:00 – Embracing new habits'
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Amazon Music | Iheart | TuneIn | YouTube
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
Jim is joined by guest Jerry Weinstein. The two discuss a variety of topics from successful catching, analytics, hitting, and players evolving in the future.
Jerry has been the Brewers catching coordinator, managed for the Expos, Cubs, and for the Rockies in the California League. He also was catching coordinator for the Dodgers and later Director of Player Development for the Dodgers. From 2012-2017, Jerry served as the Catching Coordinator for the Rockies.
Weinstein managed Team Israel at the 2017 World Baseball Classic qualifier, leading them to a perfect 3-0 record, qualifying Israel for their first World Baseball Classic appearance. He returned as the head coach in the main tournament, managing Team Israel at the 2017 World Baseball Classic in South Korea and Japan in March 2017, where the team was 4-2 overall in the tournament.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
4:00 – How Jerry watches a game
8:00 – Anatomy of a successful catcher
10:00 – Run value explained
13:00 – Automatic strike zone
15:00 – Learning how to work with pitchers
19:00 – Catching from one-knee
25:00 – Analytics in the future
31:00 – Analytics throughout various aspects of an organization
36:00 – Jerry’s absolutes in hitting
42:00 – Players evolving in the future
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 12 of Cross-Functionality, Jim and Cassie discuss the importance of hitters keeping a journal and tracking their success, failure, cues, and much more.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Playing multiple sports growing up
13:00 – Keeping a hitting journal
18:00 – Contents of a hitting journal
21:00 - Spacial and auditory learners
23:00 – Effectiveness of keeping a hitting journal
27:00 – Keeping detailed notes about at-bats
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Amazon Music | Iheart | TuneIn | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com – Softball Strength Academy
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
Jim and Jake break down the swing of Los Angeles Angels Outfielder Mike Trout!
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Parallels between Mike Trout and Bryce Harper
5:00 – Angels issues
7:00 – Trade Mike Trout
13:00 – Batting Averages dropping?
20:00 – Keeping a hitting journal
23:00 – Trout’s positive attributes
26:00 – Swing adjustability
29:00 – Trout’s load
33:00 – Swing breakdown
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake are back with a brand new episode discussing how a hitters can understand how a pitcher is attacking them at the plate to increase their chances of success in the box.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT AND SUBSCRIBE TO THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – What did the pitcher just try and do to me
5:00 – Aaron Judge success
12:00 – Pujols’ different leg kicks
14:00 – Practice vs. game swings
20:00 – Overcompensation equals low confidence
24:00 – Mechanical reminders at the plate
31:00 – Trying to slow down your bat
38:00 – Changing the eye level
40:00 – Reacting to the fastball
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 10 of Cross-Functionality, Jim and Cassie dive into some untold stories of Cassie’s college career!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE SOFTBALL STRENGTH ACADEMY YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Misconceptions in coaching
4:00 – Finding a coaching middle ground
12:00 – When athletes know it’s time to hang it up
19:00 – Various untold stories from Cassie’s four years
27:00 – Funny road trip stories
31:00 – Athletes handling outside pressures
42:00 – Delivering season tickets
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Amazon Music | Iheart | TuneIn | YouTube
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @CoachcassieRB
Softball Strength Academy – empowering female athletes to lead and grow in sport…Led by Alabama Softball Alum Cassie Reilly-Boccia, Softball Strength Academy teaches young athletes to develop into leaders and performers. Visit Softballstrengthacademy.com for more information.
Jim is joined by guest co-host by University of Missouri Pitching Coach Ricky Meinhold. Ricky and Jim discuss Ricky’s career journey from scouting with the Cardinals, to serving as Pitching Coordinator for the Mets, and current day Pitching Coach for Mizzou. Plus, the guys talk about blending old school scouting and analytics together in the modern game.
TO WATCH THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB – EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE
2:00 – Blending grassroots scouting and data
5:00 – Connecting the dots
10:00 – Utilizing different departments within baseball operations as a scout
20:00 – Scouting/player evaluation process during a live game
29:00 – Certain player attributes to look for when scouting
38:00 – Finding the “right player”
43:00 – Discussing MLB rule changes
49:00 – Ricky going from the Cardinals to the Mets
59:00 – Ricky’s current position at Mizzou
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
A discussion ensues about a common issue with young hitters – the lunge. Plus, Jim and Jake discuss a common misconception/saying in baseball, and what is happening with the Yankees.
2:00 – Young kids lunging at the ball
4:00 – No one way to “skin the cat”
18:00 – Mechanics preventing the lunge
21:00 – How linear mechanics relate to lunging
22:00 – Fixing the problem
27:00 – Nolan Arenado off-season change
29:00 – How the contact window relates to the lunge
31:00 – Preventing the lunge
34:00 – Listener question
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake how hitters can gain the mental edge at the plate. Plus, the guys talk about Albert Pujols recent success, the Cardinals balanced lineup, and make fun of hitting twitter.
TO WATCH THE FULL VIDEO EPISODE, VISIT THE LAB - EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST PAGE
3:00 – Young players gaining the mental edge
6:00 – The ridiculousness of hitting twitter
10:00 – Albert Pujols recent success
19:00 – Cardinals lineup identity
22:00 – Hitters gaining the mental edge
27:00 – Pitcher’s tipping pitches
33:00 – Getting into a routine
36:00 – Listener question
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Iheart | Stitcher | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake discuss a hitter facing the dilemma of making a lot of contact, but not hitting for much power. The guys answer the questions of how approach and mechanics relate and can help increase power in the swing.
2:00 – Contact without power
3:00 – Jim’s Wild Card pick
7:00 – Idea of Bryce Harper leading off
13:00 – Hitting for power
16:00 – Power and contact
20:00 – Hank Aaron and Barry Bonds
26:00 – Approach and power
32:00 – Mechanics and power
40:00 – Torque and power
45:00 – Listener question
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the swing of one of the best contact hitters of all-time – Tony Gwynn. Plus, a discussion about past players, where Tony Gwynn could’ve hit in a lineup, and a further discussion about mechanics.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Cycles of the game
6:00 – Jim’s Paul Byrd story
11:00 – Helping struggling hitters
16:00 – Jason Heyward’s swing plane
18:00 – Efficient offense discussed
23:00 – Tony Gwynn facts
26:00 – Jim and Jake debate Gwynn
33:00 – Where to bat Gwynn in a lineup
35:00 – Gwynn’s mechanics
44:00 – Swing breakdown
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake discuss how hitters can create a plan and approach at the plate to maximize success. Plus, the guys discuss Nick Castellanos hot streak and Aaron Hicks’ recent struggles at the plate.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Jim and Jake chatting
5:00 – Preview of next week’s mechanical breakdown of Tony Gwynn
7:00 – Athleticism of today’s players
15:00 – Jim’s Juan Soto trade deal
18:00 – Nick Castellanos recent success at the plate
23:00 – Aaron Hicks recent struggles
26:00 – Developing a plan at the plate
31:00 – Preparation against relievers
36:00 – When the planning begins
39:00 – Listener Question
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake discuss coaching amateur hitters CORRECTLY. Plus, Aaron Judge, Andrew Benintendi’s 2022 season and acquisition by the Yankees are discussed throughout the show.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Judge’s 2022 season
4:00 – Andrew Benintendi’s acquisition by the Yankees
9:00 – Additional Benintendi numbers are discussed
12:00 – Josh Bell’s drop in exit velocity and the correlation to his success in 2022
20:00 – Age to incorporate mechanics for hitters
25:00 – Proper progression for amateur hitters
29:00 – Utilizing technology for amateur hitters
33:00 – A classic Ep rant
40:00 – Advice for parents coaching amateur hitters
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake discuss a variety of topics pertaining to hitters getting on plane with the pitch properly. Plus, the guys discuss the MLB draft, Juan Soto’s second half projections, and Jim reveals his 2022 MLB playoff teams.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – The guys discuss the MLB Draft
4:00 – Discussion about Brewers first-round choice Eric Brown
6:00 – Jim’s playoff teams
14:00 – Juan Soto’s potential second-half resurgence.
18:00 – Lowest Batting Average across Major League Baseball since July 28 of last year
26:00 – Level to the Baseball
36:00 – Mechanics of getting on plane
39:00 – Vertical movement of the pitch, and how to match the plane
43:00 – Getting on plane properly
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose
Jim and Jake discuss how hitting continues to evolve moving forward with new metrics, methods, and approaches.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Juan Soto turning down the Nationals contract offers
4:00 – Jim proposed trade for Soto
7:00 – Matt Carpenter’s success
10:00 – Jake’s assessment of Carpenter fundamentally in 2022
11:00 – What the Yankees saw in Carpenter
14:00 – How hitting continues to evolve
20:00 – Future rules affecting hitters in the future
25:00 – Approaches evolving
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake discuss and breakdown the swing of one of the top shortstops and hitters in all of baseball – Xander Bogaerts.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – The guys babble about hockey
3:00 – Hitters sustaining success
4:00 – MLB Talk
8:00 – Xander Bogaerts underrated?
14:00 – Bogaerts swing profile
19:00 – Bogaerts swing analysis
28:00 – Bogaerts point of contact
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake discuss how hitters can the mental advantage at the plate and how vital it is to have a routine, plan, and approach.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Talent and culture
4:00 – Culture explored
10:00 – Phillies without Harper
16:00 – Harper’s last 162 games
19:00 – Mental analysis
22:00 – Pitching ahead of hitting
27:00 - Caring mentally about statistics
31:00 – Quotes on mental hitting from Mike Epstein
32:00 – Listener Question
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
With Jim and Jake unable to record this weekend, we take you back to when the guys discussed 2022 offensive hitting trends - both mentally and mechanically - and where hitting could be heading in the future…Plus Jim breaks out his lockout conspiracy theory, and Jake explains how to beat the shift.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Jim’s lockout theory
7:00 – How to beat the shift
16:00 – Ep’s new toy
19:00 – Hitter’s ST plan post-lockout
22:00 – Top 2022 hitting trends
25:00 – Coaches integrating their hitters
28:00 – Mechanics Jake doesn’t see anymore
30:00 – Crazy trends in the last few years
36:00 – Mental hitting trends
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake discuss all elements of keeping it simple at the plate in baseball and softball, as well as a blueprint for simplicity at the plate at each level of play.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – College players careers coming to an end
5:00 – Spread out approach
9:00 – Baseline for keeping it simple
12:00 – How Ted Williams would have kept it simple
14:00 – Generation to Generation
17:00 – Information is there
19:00 – Youth/High School
21:00 – College
23:00 – Pro
26:00 – Keeping it simple when struggling
28:00 – Listener question
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, Jim and Jake give an introspective of the impact legendary Major League Hall-of-Famer Ted Williams had on hitting the game of baseball.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Eric Chavez impact on the Mets
5:00 – Understanding the player as a coach
7:00 – College players preparing for the draft
10:00 – Mike Epstein’s relationship with Ted Williams
15:00 – What starts the swing
16:00 – Charley Lau and Mike/Jake Epstein’s teachings
23:00 – Ted Williams and Paul O’Neill
27:00 – Ted Williams famous quote about hitting and practice
32:00 – How Williams would’ve fared with today’s technology
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
With Jake on vacation, Jim is joined by former Cassie Reilly-Boccia – a member of the 2012 University of Alabama Softball National Championship team. Jim and Cassie discuss a variety of topics from coaching to softball and of course – hitting.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Mindset of a national champion
4:00 – On Alabama becoming the first-ever SEC team to win a national championship in softball
6:00 – College softball’s uptick in attendance
9:00 – Softball players using natural talent with metrics
13:00 – Cassie’s take on physical movements of hitters
17:00 – Defining the “hip hinge”
19:00 – Cassie’s methods of getting rid of negative thoughts
22:00 – Cassie’s passion behind writing her book
27:00 – Big announcement
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake celebrate reaching episode 100 with a swing analysis of one of the best hitters of all-time – Barry Bonds.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Barry Bonds overview
3:00 – Bonds’ incredible statistics
5:00 – Bonds’ take on today’s hitters
10:00 – Bonds’ hitting routine
13:00 – Bonds’ swing attributes
15:00 – Bonds “hitch”
18:00 – Bonds swing analysis
30:00 – Listener question
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
With episode 100 approaching fast, Jim and Jake take you back to one of the first mechanical breakdowns ever done on the show --- Philadelphia Phillies Outfielder Bryce Harper.
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the swing of one of the most dynamic hitters in all of baseball – New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
4:00 – Aaron Judge overview
5:30 – Judge – an all-around hitter
7:00 – Durability of Judge
9:00 – When Judge is going well/struggling
11:30 – Judge load/coil breakdown
14:00 – Judge’s hand path
17:00 – Judge’s tremendous plate coverage
19:00 – Swing breakdown/analysis
29:00 – Judge sacrificing exit velocity for B.A.
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the swing of Chicago White Sox veteran infielder Jose Abreu.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Cuban-born players older
4:00 – Durability of Cuban-born players
5:30 – Abreu as a leader
8:00 – Abreu’s advanced metrics
11:00 – Abreu sticking to his plan
13:00 – Abreu’s traditional statistics
17:00 – Building a lineup around Abreu
20:00 – Swing analysis
28:00 – “Pronating” the wrists
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the swing of Baltimore Orioles centerfielder and all-around good guy – Cedric Mullins.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – The guys thoughts on humidors in every ballpark
5:00 – Mullins' 2021 season
7:00 – Is Mullins a power hitter?
10:00 – Mullins' 2022 season projections
14:00 – Swing breakdown
24:00 – Mullins' smooth swing
26:00 – Mullins’ comp
28:00 – Why Mullins stopped switch-hitting
33:00 – Can the Orioles build around Cedric Mullins?
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the swing of one of the best young hitters in the game – Juan Soto.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – What the Nationals saw in amateur Juan Soto
6:00 – Soto’s lower body mechanics
10:00 – Interesting recent Soto statistic
15:00 – Soto’s hitting drills
19:00 – What Jake’s first hitting conversation would be with Soto
24:00 – Listener question
28:00 – Hitting breakdown
40:00 – Soto’s launch angle
48:00 – Lineup identity with Juan Soto as the centerpiece
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
With Jim and Jake unable to record this week, we take you back to the first full video episode from The Lab's YouTube page with episode 50 --- Creating Opportunities. In this episode, Jim and Jake discussed how players can create opportunities for themselves to push their careers forward.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – How young players, parents, and fans can watch a game from a strategic standpoint
7:00 – Former players as coaches
11:00 – Early season adjustments
13:00 – Efficient offensive innings
20:00 – Tapered bats
35:00 – Pro players who have created opportunities in their careers
45:00 – College players creating opportunities for themselves
50:00 – A Jake story from his college playing days
100:00 – Listener questions
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the swing of Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Trea Turner.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Tiger Woods wired differently
3:00 – 2022 MLB season preview
4:00 – Spencer Torkelson discussion
7:30 – Listener Interaction
13:00 – Ep’s impressions of Trea Turner’s swing
16:30 – Turner’s offensive evolution
19:00 – Turner’s next contract
21:00 – Turner’s swing breakdown
31:00 – Turner’s ground force
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake measure certain hitting elements that are overrated and underrated. The guys also discuss Cody Bellinger’s struggles, and how a 28-man roster in April at the Major League level plays a role in shaping rosters across the league.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – 28-man rosters at the MLB level
6:00 – Cody Bellinger’s Spring Training struggles
12:00 – Bellinger’s 2022 projections
16:00 – MLB’s top 100 players list
17:00 – Overrated/Underrated – Toe tap
21:00 – Overrated/Underrated – Side toss/front toss
24:00 – Overrated/Underrated – Chaos training
27:00 – Overrated/Underrated - Hitting against a firm front side
35:00 – Listener question
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the swing and give an introspect of the career of Boston Red Sox second baseman Trevor Story.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Trevor Story’s scouting report
4:00 – Story’s hitting attributes
6:00 – Further breakdown of Story’s career totals
9:00 – Story’s “walk-year”
13:00 – How Story fits in the Red Sox 2022 lineup
17:00 – Story in centerfield?
21:00 – Story swing breakdown
34:00 – Story’s stride/timing step/glide
37:00 – Listener question
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down and discuss how players at all levels can block out distractions to reach their highest offensive potential!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – Trevor Story’s new contract
4:00 – Breaking down the Rockies signing Kris Bryant
10:00 – Fernando Tatis Jr. discussion
11:00 – How the Twins can formulate their lineup around Carlos Correa
15:00 – Listener Question
21:00 – Simplifying hitting
28:00 – How players can block out distractions
32:00 – Navigating distractions as a college player
40:00 – Important elements of blocking out distractions
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
The guys break down 2022 hitting trends, both mentally and mechanically, and where hitting could be heading in the future…Plus Jim breaks out his lockout conspiracy theory, and Jake explains how to beat the shift.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Jim’s lockout theory
7:00 – How to beat the shift
16:00 – Ep’s new toy
19:00 – Hitter’s ST plan post-lockout
22:00 – Top 2022 hitting trends
25:00 – Coaches integrating their hitters
28:00 – Mechanics Jake doesn’t see anymore
30:00 – Crazy trends in the last few years
36:00 – Mental hitting trends
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
No Spring Training? No Problem! Jim and Jake break down the essentials of a proper spring training offensive approach at the plate to maximize in-season success.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – More lockout talk
3:00 – 14 team playoff?
8:00 – Jim’s pet peeve of amateur hitters
11:00 – Walk-out songs
16:00 – Joey Votto working with Matt Carpenter
18:00 – College baseball hitting statistic
24:00 – Listener question
32:00 – Full spring training approach
36:00 – Approach in live ST action
38:00 – Adjustment to make when struggling
40:00 – How to watch video of ST at-bats
42:00 – Spring training hitting “checkpoints”
44:00 – Deciding a player’s live-game ST schedule
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake had work/family obligations to attend to and were unable to record. The guys will be back with a brand-new episode next week. In the meantime, enjoy a rewind episode of when the guys broke down the swing of N.Y. Mets first baseman Pete Alonso!
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Guys discussing Jack Leiter and Kumar Rocker’s “comps”
5:00 – Thoughts on the opening weekend of baseball
15:00 – Peter Alonso’s career overview
27:00 – Alonso’s Swing Breakdown
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Email the Show: Jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake are back with a brand new episode, and breaking down the swing of former S.F. Giants catcher Buster Posey.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Jake’s winter fishing habit
4:00 – Draft and Follow returning
10:00 – More CBA talk
13:00 – Minor League pay
21:00 – Listener question
28:00 – Buster Posey Hall of Famer?
33:00 – Swing breakdown
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake rewind back to episode 65 and break down each of the top five hitting absolutes matching a professional swing as well as breaking down how to successfully hit the high pitch, and does Baseball finally need a salary cap?!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
SHOW NOTES:
1:00 – MLB Payrolls
9:00 – Absolutes of hitting
13:00 – Hitting a high pitch
21:00 – Henry Davis evaluation
27:00 – Staying on plane
32:00 – Creating Torque
34:00 – Staying inside the ball
35:00 – Properly sequencing
38:00 – Being on time
49:00 – Listener questions
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake go back in time and bring a rewind episode this week to the table. With the off-season in full swing, the guys discuss off-season hitter meetings and how these meetings are the gateway to successful offensive off-season.
Episode Notes:
5:00 – MLB Division naming rights
9:00 – 2021 Extra-Inning and doubleheader rules
13:00 – Reggie Jackson’s approach to hitting
16:00 – Gaining the psychological advantage as a hitter
20:00 – Listener question
35:00 – Feedback and communication between a hitter and instructor
36:00 – Professional off-season meetings
46:00 – Meetings with college hitters
55:00 – Getting hitters to work the right way on their own
100:00 – High school meetings
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Email the Show: Jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the swing of Texas Rangers shortstop Corey Seager.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
4:00 – Baseball Hall of Fame talk
9:00 – Hall of Fame changes?
11:00 – Examination of Barry Bonds numbers
13:00 – Montreal Expo Tom Brady
15:00 – Corey Seager WAR and stats
19:00 – Seager’s use of his legs
21:00 – Seager – Low pitch hitter?
23:00 – When Seager is struggling
27:00 – Swing breakdown
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the swing of free agent outfielder Nick Castellanos.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes and Timestamps:
2:00 – Jim hates Weezer
4:00 – Nick Castellanos’ 2021
8:00 – Castellanos underrated?
13:00 – Players showing each other up
16:00 – Castellanos advanced metrics
20:00 – What type of hitter is Castellanos?
25:00 – Swing Breakdown
34:00 – Large wingspan leads to power?
38:00 – Castellanos doing the "scissors"
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the swing of Los Angeles Dodgers Outfielder Chris Taylor.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – MLB Spring Training delayed?
5:00 – Chris Taylor overview
8:00 – Taylor’s advanced numbers
18:00 – Old Tommy Lasorda story
20:00 – Story about Jake’s dad
25:00 – Listener Question
28:00 – Swing breakdown
40:00 – What the Dodgers see in players
49:00 – Listener Question
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake discuss and break down the swing of free agent outfielder Kyle Schwarber.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Keep your kids off TikTok
4:00 – Kyle Schwarber’s career numbers/outlook
9:00 – Deciphering “overall exit velocity” and “max exit velocity”
14:00 – Schwarber’s quantitative information
18:00 – Schwarber’s batting average versus the fastball in 2021
24:00 – Listener Question
30:00 – What kind of hitter is Kyle Schwarber
34:00 – Schwarber’s swing breakdown
50:00 – Schwarber’s next contract
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the swing of free agent shortstop Carlos Correa, as well as a further examination of his numbers and what makes him arguably the most prized free agent on the market.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
4:00 – Carlos Correa career overview
5:00 – Jim’s free agent tier proposal
8:00 – Correa’s 2021 stats
13:00 – Correa to the Yankees?
15:00 – Further examination of Correa’s numbers
19:00 – How Correa’s size plays into his swing
26:00 – Correa’s swing breakdown
35:00 – Correa’s flawless swing
42:00 – What goes wrong with Correa when he gets into a slump
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake are back with another volume from their Mechanical Breakdown Series. This week, the guys discuss the swing and career of free agent third baseman Kris Bryant.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
4:00 – Kris Bryant’s current value
5:00 – Bryant’s market
9:00 – WAR stat overrated?
12:00 – True definition of “Attack Angle”
14:00 – Deeper look at Kris Bryant’s advanced metrics
23:00 – Difference from Bryant’s 2016 swing
25:00 – Bryant’s swing breakdown
36:00 – Is Bryant’s swing robotic?
41:00 – Would Jake sign Bryant?
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose
Jim and Jake break down the swing of former free agent, now Texas Rangers’ second baseman Marcus Semien in volume 19 of The Lab’s Mechanical Breakdown Series.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Wrong side of 30
5:00 – Kris Bryant to Colorado?
7:00 – More lockout talk
11:00 – Meaning behind the term “born to hit”
20:00 – Listener Question
26:00 – Marcus Semien’s advanced metrics
32:00 – Deeper look into Semien’s numbers
42:00 – Semien’s swing breakdown
52:00 – Would Jake sign Semien?
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake pick up right where they left off from last week in breaking down the swings of various 2021-22 free agent hitters. This week, the guys break down the swing of free agent first baseman Freddie Freeman.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Baseball’s labor dispute
8:00 – 2021 profits
12:00 – Two balls being used?
14:00 – New salary floor
17:00 – Hall of Fame candidates
24:00 – Listener Question
33:00 – Freeman MVP?
34:00 – Freeman spray chart in 2021
36:00 – Freeman swing breakdown
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
Swing breakdown of MLB free agent and middle infield utility man Javier Baez.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, VISIT THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Pros and cons of the “Bat Tip”
3:00 – Gary Sheffield’s bat tip and load
5:00 – Duties of a Major League hitting coach in the off-season
9:00 – Javier Baez strikeouts
12:00 – Baez approach
14:00 – Baez return to Mets?
17:00 – Baez swing breakdown
29:00 – If Jake was working with Baez
34:00 – Would Jake try and sign Baez?
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Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down the intricate details of the 2021-22 MLB Offensive Free Agent class.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Working out in the Epstein basement
3:00 – MVP Awards talk
9:00 – Hiring the right Major League hitting coach
20:00 – World Series thoughts
22:00 – Listener question
34:00 – Top 10 free agents overview
43:00 – Most mechanically sound hitter
46:00 – What Jake would look for in a free agent hitter
52:00 – Looking for the right hitter for your team
54:00 – Listener Question
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
With Jake still under the weather, Jim is joined by Mizzou Outfielder and loyal student of Jake's Casidy Chaumont as a guest co-host! As current and former student of Jake Epstein, Jim and Casidy shoot the breeze on a variety of hitting and softball topics across the board!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Tips for aspiring Softball players
5:00 – Feeling comfortable at that selected school
6:00 – Navigating through travel softball
14:00 – First meeting Jake
19:00 – How video has helped Casidy
21:00 – Biggest adjustments Jake made in Casidy’s swing
26:00 – Blending other coaches’ teachings
28:00 - Epsteinisms
40:00 – What prospective Softball players can expect in college
48:00 – Casidy’s offensive approach
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Email the Show: Jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In this rewind episode of The Lab, the guys circle back to the Player Development Series and discuss different contact points for successful hitters. Plus, Jim and Jake talk about a variety of baseball related topics from what skillset a General Manager in today’s game needs to have to be successful to the role of Advanced Scouting throughout Major League Baseball.
Episode Notes:
5:00 – Dissecting a famous Willie Mays quote
12:00 – What attributes Jake thinks a General Manager needs to be successful in today’s game
15:00 – Discussing the role of Advanced Scouting
30:00 – Which locations are tough to barrel up consistently
33:00 – Letting the ball get deep?
37:00 – Contact points east to west (inside + outside)
40:00 – Getting hitters to understand contact points in swings
45:00 – How a good bat path relates to contact points
51:00 – Contact points for different off-speed pitches
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Email the Show: Jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, the guys turn the tables and breakdown the swing of everyone’s favorite podcast host – Jim Tarabocchia!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Eddie Rosario’s barrel control
5:00 – Mechanics for hitting consistency
8:00 – Different bat brands
15:00 – Listener Question
21:00 – Major League players body movements
24:00 – Listener Interaction
28:00 – Ted Williams’ Hip loading
29:00 – Jim Tarabocchia Swing Breakdown
34:00 – What Ep would fix
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, Jim and Jake present overrated/underrated part two!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Being a great teammate
4:00 – The great job Alex Anthopoulos has done with the Braves
7:00 – Post-season offensive stars
14:00 – Confusion around weight shift
17:00 – Listener Interactions
34:00 – Overrated/Underrated: Front foot landing open
36:00 – Overrated/Underrated: Bat tipping
38:00 – Overrated/Underrated: Guessing
40:00 – Overrated/Underrated: Hand path/Bat path
42:00 – Overrated/Underrated: Pitcher’s spin rate
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, Jim and Jake discuss how players can avoid the trap of becoming showcase players, and how to be an all-around “in-game” ballplayer.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – “Launch to Contact”
5:00 – Arm Bar in hitters
9:00 – Important quote on finding the right people
12:00 – Lack of “ballplayers” in the younger generation
18:00 – Chaos training
22:00 – Chasing rankings
30:00 – Definition of a “showcase hitter”
35:00 – Avoid becoming a showcase player
37:00 – Listener Question
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week on The Lab, Jim and Jake chat and debunk myths surrounding college baseball and softball recruiting.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Jake’s father Mike featured in a Deadspin article
5:00 – Bryce Harper’s ideas of building a team
11:00 – Additional Bryce Harper quotes
14:00 – Efficient Two strike hitting approach
25:00 – Recruiting myth 1: Showcase camps
34:00 – Recruiting myth 2: Committing early
39:00 – Recruiting myth 3: Players reaching out
44:00 – Recruiting myth 4: Showcase stats
50:00 – Listener Question
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake return from their week hiatus for a brand new episode of The Lab. This week, the guys discuss the key factors in picking the right college and University to continue one’s Baseball and Softball career.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – National League MVP discussion
7:00 – Jim’s World Series picks
10:00 – Making the coaching transition from college to pro
19:00 – Factors in making the decision to pick a certain college
24:00 – Difference in baseball and softball recruiting
27:00 – Important questions to ask
34:00 – Main factors in picking the right college
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
With Jim and Jake on a quick week sabbatical, we present a special rewind episode of one of the first "Mechanical Breakdown Series" done of Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW AND PREVIOUS EPISODES, VISIT THE LAB - EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
5:00 – Ty Cobb and Joe Morgan notes
8:00 – Jake on Jose Altuve’s struggles
16:00 – Vlad Jr. background
20:00 – What Jake likes most about Vlad’s swing
23:00 – Guerrero Jr.’s simple approach
26:00 – Swing breakdown
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In Episode 72, Jim and Jake shift to college baseball and softball and talk about the tools in players that college coaches look for when recruiting players into their programs. Plus, is Vlad Jr. a handsy hitter? Will baseball front offices shift their thinking? All of these topics/questions discussed in this week’s show!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Vlad Jr.’s barrel manipulation
6:00 – Vlad Jr. is a handsy hitter?
9:00 – Shift in thinking in baseball front offices?
18:00 – Dirty people
21:00 – Downhill front toss
26:00 – Tools college coaches look for in potential players
32:00 – Recruiting a player who shines in game action
35:00 – Scouting vs. recruiting
37:00 – Picking the right players for your program
45:00 – Listener Question
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In Episode 71, Jim and Jake break down the swing of Milwaukee Brewers first round draft pick Sal Frelick, plus a discuss ensues about mental checklists hitters should put themselves through, and why Marcus Semien is a dark horse to win the A.L. MVP in Jim’s eyes.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Jake’s first impressions of Sal Frelick
6:00 – Mental checklist for hitters
12:00 – Marcus Semien’s career year
16:00 – Frelick’s early pro numbers
21:00 – Jim’s player comp
23:00 – Frelick’s possible weakness
25:00 – Swing breakdown
36:00 – Sal Frelick – True of False?
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In Episode 70 of The Lab, Jim and Jake break down the swing of one of the best in college softball and an Epstein student – Bailey Hemphill!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – Wet northeasterners
9:00 – Salvador Perez career year
14:00 – Ep’s hitting man crush
18:00 – Thumbs down on the Mets
24:00 – Listener question
28:00 – Bailey Hemphill career overview
33:00 – Hemphill hitting profile
36:00 – Adjustments Bailey made over the years
40:00 – Swing Breakdown
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake circle back to the mechanical breakdown series and break down the swing of Shohei Ohtani in volume 13!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Ohtani’s 2021 season
5:00 – Jim’s first world problems
6:00 – Ohtani past vs. present
10:00 – Scout’s former take on Ohtani
14:00 – Japanese vs. American swings
19:00 – Ohtani’s swing breakdown
30:00 – Japanese swing methods
32:00 – Ohtani’s career outlook
39:00 – Listener Question
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In Episode 68 of The Lab, Jim and Jake talk careers coming to an end for offensive players and how to deal with such a decision with a mixture of stories, and laughs.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – New ways of batting practice
7:00 – Kumar Rocker fall-out
13:00 – Nonsensical drills
22:00: Atlantic League moving the mound back
25:00 – Players left wondering
30:00 – Jim’s career ending
35:00 – Women’s sports advantages
37:00 – Cleansing yourself from a career ending
42:00 – Listener Question
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In Episode 67, Jim and Jake talk about how players can deal with consistent failure at the plate, and get things turned around offensively. Plus, Jim thinks Bryce Harper is the 2021 N.L. MVP, and the importance of players taking a break for a real off-season.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
SHOW NOTES:
2:00 – Bryce Harper MVP
9:00 – Hitters with upright stances
15:00 – Players experiencing a true off-season
20:00 – Thoughts on the “Field of Dreams” game
26:00 – Dealing with offensive failure as a team
32:00 – How a Manager/Coach can help a player through failure
34:00 – Failing in pro-ball
39:00 – Failure in college
49:00 – Listener Question
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, Jim is joined by former NFL Wide-Receiver Dominic Robinson. Dominic played both Football and Baseball at Florida State University, and now is the owner of 3D Sports Performance. Jim and Dominic discuss a variety of topics from Dominic’s experience playing for both Bobby Bowden and Mike Martin, his time in the NFL, current state of travel ball, keys to hitting and more.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
SHOW NOTES:
1:00 – Dominic’s background
5:00 – Playing for Bobby Bowden and Mike Martin
17:00 – Biggest difference between Bowden and Martin
20:00 – Dominic’s time in the NFL
25:00 – Lessons learned from playing in the NFL
33:00 – Thoughts on today’s state of hitting/message to parents
39:00 – Playing experience in college to NFL
46:00 – Habits of the best
54:00 – Decipher through travel ball
103:00 – Dominic’s keys to hitting
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @3DRobinson
3D Sports Performance runs year around and seasonal programs to give athletes the same opportunity to be trained, taught and coached in the same manner as collegiate and professional athletes do all over the country. With modified plans to fit the needs of each age group and the skill level requirements of the athletes. 3D Sports gives athletes the opportunity to equip themselves with the tools needed to be a successful high school athlete and compete at the highest possible level. Whether the athlete wants to improve their overall athleticism or work on skills specific to their sport’s unique requirements, 3D Sports helps athletes reach beyond what they believe was their potential by challenging them beyond their current capabilities.
In Episode 65, Jim and Jake break down each of the top five hitting absolutes matching a professional swing as well as breaking down how to successfully hit the high pitch, and does Baseball finally need a salary cap?!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
SHOW NOTES:
1:00 – MLB Payrolls
9:00 – Absolutes of hitting
13:00 – Hitting a high pitch
21:00 – Henry Davis evaluation
27:00 – Staying on plane
32:00 – Creating Torque
34:00 – Staying inside the ball
35:00 – Properly sequencing
38:00 – Being on time
49:00 – Listener questions
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Email the Show: Jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, Jim and Jake break down the swing of one of the brightest young hitters in all of baseball – Reds Infielder Jonathan India! Plus, the duo discuss the happenings around Yermin Mercedes, and Juan Soto’s second half offensive resurgence.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
SHOW NOTES:
1:00 – Jonathan India’s Swing
2:00 – Listener Comment
4:00 – Yermin Mercedes
16:00 – Ep’s Favorite Wrestler
18:00 – Juan Soto’s Second-Half Resurgence
22:00 – Most Important Offensive Stats
29:00 – How to Hit a Low Pitch
37:00 – Jonathan India Swing Breakdown
51:00 – Harder to Hit: High or Low Ball?
100:00 – Listener Comment
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake are back for another episode of the greatest baseball podcast on God’s green earth. This week, the guys talk how to properly develop rhythm at the plate. Plus, discussions break out about the MLB Draft, Sal Frelick, the Mets front office moves, and much more!
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake return on both the audio and visual side with Episode 62! This week, the two fine gentlemen discuss a proper on-deck approach for hitters on both the mental and physical side. Plus, the guys dive into Shohei Ohtani’s choice to NOT take batting practice.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down developing a successful hitting philosophy as a coach to best maximize a hitter’s talent.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
With the MLB Draft around the corner, Jim and Jake discuss everything related to preparing to get drafted from an offensive standpoint. Plus, the guys dissect the Mike Rizzo and Joe Girardi feud, and pitchers taking their pants off.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In Episode 59 of The Lab, Jim and Jake break down the swing of Ronald Acuna Jr.; plus the fine gentlemen break down the foreign substances issues in baseball, and touch on a couple of scouting points.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
As we get set to break down the swing of Ronald Acuna Jr. next week, the guys present a special best of episode from previous mechanical breakdowns of Bryce Harper, and Christian Yelich!
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In Episode 58 of The Lab, Jim and Jake discuss how to go about scouting hitters the proper way. Why scouts are still so important in the evaluation process, and how the scouting community could use certain metrics to their advantage. Plus, the guys dive into a nonsensical poll without any context of two players with different numbers and their value to their team.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In Episode 57 of The Lab, the guys discuss going from the college baseball season to summer ball. Plus, Jim and Jake dive into Jake’s philosophies for an organization, Aaron Judge’s recent adjustment, and the new MLB combine proposal.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In Episode 56 of The Lab, Jim and Jake break down a hitter seeking to switch-hit. Plus, the guys discuss the latest between Yermin Mercedes and Tony LaRussa, how Jim would run an organization, and the athleticism of today’s players.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:30: Jim vs. spam caller
5:00 – Yermin Mercedes vs. Tony LaRussa
13:00 – Willy Adames trade and a Jim shout out
16:00 – How Jim would run an organization
29:00 – Jim loves Creed 2
31:00 – Lack of skill from players in today’s game?
34:00 – Reasons to learn to switch hit
40:00 – When to start switch-hitting
45:00 – Is it worth switch-hitting?
48:00 – How one becomes a successful switch-hitter
50:00 – How playing hockey could help with learning to switch-hit
54:00 – Dividing your time between both sides
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In Episode 55 of The Lab, Jim and Jake discuss how a player can succeed in their first 100 plate appearances in the beginning of the season. Plus, the gentlemen talk a little college baseball, Corbin Burns, and wrestling.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
4:00 – Kumar Rocker’s stock
7:00 – Get good at throwing and catching
9:00 – Mizzou vs. Miss. St.
22:00 – Mike Trout’s launch angle in 2021
28:00 – Corbin Burns’ latest run on the hill
34:00 – Talk of Post-season expansion
37:00 – Jake’s absolutes of a player’s first 100 plate appearances
42:00 – Winter preparation
51:00 – Listener question
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Time for another edition of The Lab’s Mechanical Breakdown Series! This week, the guys discuss and break down the swing of one of the brightest young Shortstops in the game- Bo Bichette.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – What’s bugging Jim?
2:00 – Deadball Era part two?
7:00 – Jim’s scouting analysis of Bo Bichette
10:00 – Reaction to Chili Davis’ firing
13:00 – Ep’s analytical approach
22:00 – Guys thoughts on Albert Pujols being DFA’d
27:30 – Moneyball vs. Trouble with the Curve
29:00 – Ep, the championship winning softball coach
34:00 – Bichette’s swing breakdown
46:00 – Jim’s scouting report tidbits on Bo from four years ago
52:00 – Bo’s career outlook
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake return for another edition of the best baseball/hitting podcast on the planet. This week, the guys touch on a variety of topics including, but not limited too, overcoming slow starts, Aaron Judge’s swing adjustments, tee vs. front toss, and if the guys believe in soulmates.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – MLB’s League BA + Slow Starts
8:00 – Aaron Judge’s Swing Adjustments
20:00 – Hitters missing good pitches to hit
24:00 – Story from Jake’s playing career
31:00 – Why HR numbers go up for players once they reach the majors
36:00 – Does Jake believe in soulmates
40:00 – Tee vs soft/front toss
45:00 – Don’t say we when referring to teams
47:00 – Kris Bryant’s fast start
50:00 – Colder weather affecting hitters
53:00 – Listener question
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake are back for another episode, and this week the guys do their first ever Overrated/Underrated show through a variety of topics. Plus, the guys can’t get enough of Fernando Tatis Jr., and delve into Kris Bryant’s fast start.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – The talent of Fernando Tatis Jr.
11:00 – Moving the mound back
19:00 – Slow starts and complacency
29:00 – Jim thinks Troy Aikman rocks
33:00 – Kris Bryant’s fast start
39:00 – Why the Cubs are struggling offensively
40:00 – Listener Question
48:00 – Overrated/Underrated: Movies
53:00 – Overrated/Underrated: 70s, 80s, 90s decades
57:00 – Overrated/Underrated: 90s TV shows
59:00 – Overrated/Underrated: Baseball related topics
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Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
The guys go into everything pertaining to coachable players. Plus, Jim and Jake discuss Bo Bichette’s bat-to-ball skills, the strikeouts number rising in Major League Baseball, and Yermin Mercedes load.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – Bo Bichette’s Bat-to-ball skills
8:00 – Possibility of the mound moving back
15:00 – Strikeout numbers exploding
21:00 – Yermin Mercedes load
25:00 – Jim sucks at playing the saxophone
28:00 – Contexts of coachability
34:00 – Famous Nick Saban quotes relating to coachability
38:00 – Coachable players work ethic
41:00 – Recognizing coachability traits
44:00 – Finding the right coach
49:00 – Listener question
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
It’s the first episode with a full visual element on YouTube, and in Episode 50, Jim and Jake discuss how players can create opportunities for themselves to push their careers forward.
TO WATCH THE FULL VERSION OF THE SHOW, LOG ON TO THE LAB-EPSTEIN HITTING PODCAST YOUTUBE PAGE.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – How young players, parents, and fans can watch a game from a strategic standpoint
7:00 – Former players as coaches
11:00 – Early season adjustments
13:00 – Efficient offensive innings
20:00 – Tapered bats
35:00 – Pro players who have created opportunities in their careers
45:00 – College players creating opportunities for themselves
50:00 – A Jake story from his college playing days
100:00 – Listener questions
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
One episode away from number 50, and Jim and Jake break down the swing of New York Mets First Baseman Peter Alonso.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Guys discussing Jack Leiter and Kumar Rocker’s “comps”
5:00 – Thoughts on the opening weekend of baseball
15:00 – Peter Alonso’s career overview
27:00 – Alonso’s Swing Breakdown
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Email the Show: Jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
With the 2021 major league season upon us, Jim and Jake discuss how players from high school to the majors can prepare and succeed in having a bounce back offensive year.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Guys take on Jake Leiter
7:00 – How commentators should approach talking about exit velocity in broadcasts
17:00 – Listener question
21:00 – How professional players can succeed in having a bounce back year
28:00 – The winter preparation in bouncing back
41:00 – How college players can have a bounce back year
54:00 – How players can prepare for a comeback year in general
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
The guys shift over to the softball side and discuss the makings and traits of how to become a great division softball player.
Episode Notes:
4:00 – Looking at the career of Nick Markakis
13:00 – A listener’s follow up question
29:00 – Discussing traits of what makes a great softball hitter
41:00 – The common drive all great softball hitters possess
45:00 – Commonality of the greatest Division One softball hitters of all-time
52:00 – How younger players can measure in helping their daughters play Division One softball
57:00 – Listener question
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 46, Jim and Jake discuss the affect HitTrax has had among the player development community in baseball. Plus, Juan Soto – next Ted Williams?, and how hitters can find a stance that works for them.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – How a hitter finds a stance that works for them
10:00 – Bryce Harper on analytics, and exit velocity
15:00 – Is Juan Soto trending to be the next Ted Williams?
23:00 – Discussion of recent rule chances at the professional level
38:00 – Listener question
47:00 – How HitTrax has changed the way Jake teaches his methods
55:00 – Jake’s initial thoughts on HitTrax
58:00 – The best way for hitters to learn from HitTrax
106:00 – Are big league organizations using HitTrax correctly?
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page – The Lab Epstein Hitting Podcast: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake dissect the myths about hitting that are currently on the market. Plus, the guys discuss Manny Ramirez’s leg kick, Whataburger vs. Steak and Shake, and touch on some college softball.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Manny Ramirez leg kick
10:00 – College softball talk
14:00 – Will any player ever break Joe Dimaggio’s hit streak of 62 games?
24:00 – Throwing the barrel at the ball
33:00 – Step where the pitch is
34:00 – Get the foot down early
39:00 – Leg kick discussion
50:00 – Swinging down
52:00 – Keeping your weight back after you stride’
59:00 – Listener question
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page – The Lab Epstein Hitting Podcast: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
The guys circle back to their Mechanical Breakdown Series, and discuss the swing of one of the greats – Manny Ramirez…To follow along with the video breakdown, log on to the Epstein Hitting Facebook and YouTube page.
Episode Notes:
9:00 – Jim takes the Ivy League to task
13:00 – How to select the right hitting coach
30:00 – Manny Ramirez swing breakdown
109:00 – Big show announcement
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page – The Lab Epstein Hitting Podcast: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
With college baseball starting back up, Jim and Jake discuss what makes a successful college baseball hitter in 2021.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – David Ortiz take on today’s game and how it’s played
21:00 – An interesting aspect of Manny Ramirez’s game
28:00 – What makes a great college baseball hitter in 2021
36:00 – The differences Jake sees in hitters from different conferences
41:00 – Approaches to take as a coach with freshman
50:00 – How players can work on their own during winter break
54:00 – How lineups are constructed in college baseball
102:00 – Key characteristics of a great college hitter
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In episode 42 of The Lab, Jim and Jake chat about Spring Training for hitters; how ST has changed over the years, different approaches for different hitters in ST scenarios, and Jake shares a story of an experience when he was in ST with the Angels organization.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – Jim’s opinion on Tom Brady’s success in his 40s
9:00 – Value of hitters warming up with a tire
11:00 – Are gap-to-gap hitters more fundamentally sound than power hitters?
21:00 – How Spring Training has changed and evolved over the years
24:00 – Why hitters still struggle into the regular season
26:00 – Approach for players trying to make the 25-man roster
29:00 – Comparing ST past and present
36:00 – Struggles hitters face trying to get game ready
42:00 – Approach for hitters in minor league camp
45:00 – Jake conveys a story from his professional ST experience
56:00 – Listener questions
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake continue with part two of their types of hitters series and discuss the makings of successful power hitters. Plus, the guys discuss Trevor Bauer’s new contract, and reflect on the career of Dustin Pedroia.
Episode Notes:
1:30 – Bauer’s new contract
14:00 – Looking back on Dustin Pedroia’s career
24:00 – Are power hitters born or developed over time?
32:00 – What is Raw Power?
40:00 – What attributes gives a player power?
48:00 – Approach for power hitters
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake are back for Episode 40 of The Lab. On this episode, the guys dive into the ins and outs of the makings of successful gap-to-gap hitters.
Episode Notes:
1:30 – Assessing the Nolan Arenado trade
7:00 – Hall of Fame discussion
27:00 – Establishing a gap-to-gap hitter
36:00 – Hitters having more power based off genetics
44:00 – Gap-to-gap hitters and their bat-to-ball skills
53:00 – Barrel control in gap-to-gap hitters
59:00 – How the shift affects gap-to-gap hitters
105:00 – Listener question
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake dissect the swing of one of the most underrated top gap-to-gap hitters in the league-DJ LeMahieu!
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Hank Aaron
10:00 – How the front shoulder in the load relates to swing plane
16:00 – Derek Jeter’s hit grade in high school
24:00 – How Jake projects hitter’s futures
32:00 – LaMahieu’s new contract and career overview
41:00 – LeMahieu’s swing breakdown
106:00 – Projecting the rest of LeMahieu’s career
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake are back for a brand new episode of The Lab, and breakdown off-season hitter meetings at every level that lead to in-season success!
Episode Notes:
5:00 – MLB Division naming rights
9:00 – 2021 Extra-Inning and doubleheader rules
13:00 – Reggie Jackson’s approach to hitting
16:00 – Gaining the psychological advantage as a hitter
20:00 – Listener question
35:00 – Feedback and communication between a hitter and instructor
36:00 – Professional off-season meetings
46:00 – Meetings with college hitters
55:00 – Getting hitters to work the right way on their own
100:00 – High school meetings
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Email the Show: Jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break into a discussion about wood and aluminum bats and how they’ve evolved to versions being used in the current landscape of the game. The guys also reflect on the impact that Tommy Lasorda had on the game, and much more!
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Brief discussion of the legacy of Tommy Lasorda
13:00 – Advantages one gains when earning success later in life
23:00 – Listener questions
35:00 – How the physical changes in aluminum bats have changed the way of training hitters
40:00 – Modern Day Aluminum Bats
47:00 – How new-age aluminum bats have helped scouting evolve
50:00 – What hitters struggle with when making the switch to aluminum to wood
52:00 – Jake’s father-Mike Epstein’s-thoughts when aluminum bats were invented
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake discuss K-Vest and the impact it has on today’s generation of hitters as they train to reach peak performance.
Episode Notes:
7:00 – Major leaguer’s “feel vs. real”
16:00 – Proper New Year’s resolutions for players
20:00 – How a player can understand their swing/movement more succinctly with K-Vest data
27:00 – Using K-Vest when struggling
32:00 – Would Ted Williams have used K-Vest?
38:00 – How Jake develops training plans for hitters with K-Vest data taken into account
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Pandora | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Email the Show: Jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In the final episode of the year, Jim and Jake break down the swing of Oakland Athletics outfielder Khris Davis…to watch along with the swing breakdown, visit the Epstein Hitting Academy Facebook page.
Episode Notes:
5:00 – Best free agent MLB Hitter on the market
10:00 – Edgar Martinez quote
26:00 – Khris Davis overview
30:00 – Davis’ mechanical breakdown
46:00 – Davis’ torque angle
57:00 – Listener question
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake share some fun stories of their experiences working/playing in professional baseball…the guys also discuss how players can study pitchers and their tough repertoires, as well as a deeper dive into the absolutes to be a successful hitter.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Holiday talk
11:00 – A plan for studying pitchers with tough stuff
17:00 – Key differences between recognizing a sinker to a cutter
28:00 – Listener question
41:00 – Various stories from the guys on their time in pro-ball
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim picks the brain of Jake on how a player/hitter can begin to understand their movements in their swing to better increase the percentage of their success. Plus the guys talk about the swing of Korean born players, a new trend developing in Major league Baseball, and the new MLB designated summer leagues.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Discussion about a Korean born player’s swing structure
8:00 – A smaller trend of rookies making their major league debuts at an older age
12:00 – MLB’s new designated summer leagues
27:00 – The age Jake teaches the hitting moves in his system
38:00 – Does it take smaller drills in increments to understand movement
43:00 – How technology helps give a hitter better understanding of how they move
51:00 – Listener question
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: Jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Winter training is essential in a player’s preparation for the upcoming season. In this week’s episode, Jim and Jake discuss a variety of ways to be successful and “win the off-season” with your winter training.
Episode Notes:
6:00 – Quick discussion of Roberto Clemente’s swing
14:00 – Where players should be in their winter training
21:00 – How to figure out what to work out at specific times in the winter
31:00 – Common swing changes a player makes during the winter
40:00 – How coaches balance the elements a player needs to work on
46:00 – Navigating the mental side
52:00 – Listener question
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Email the Show: Jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, Jim and Jake break down the swing of one of the best contact hitters of all time-Pete Rose. The guys also discuss how to improve amateur and advanced scouting, and whether or not Pete Rose belongs in the hall of fame…to watch along with the swing breakdown, visit the Epstein Hitting Academy Facebook page.
Episode Notes:
1:30 --- How amateur and Advanced Scouting can improve
23:00 --- Jake’s Pete Rose story
28:00 --- Swing breakdown, video one
35:00 --- Rose’s bat path
39:00 --- Overhead video breakdown
47:00 --- centerfield camera video breakdown
55:00 --- Will we ever see Rose’s hit record broken
57:00 --- Does Pete Rose belong in the hall of fame?
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, the guys circle back to the Player Development Series and discuss different contact points for successful hitters. Plus, Jim and Jake talk about a variety of baseball related topics from what skillset a General Manager in today’s game needs to have to be successful to the role of Advanced Scouting throughout Major League Baseball.
Episode Notes:
5:00 – Dissecting a famous Willie Mays quote
12:00 – What attributes Jake thinks a General Manager needs to be successful in today’s game
15:00 – Discussing the role of Advanced Scouting
30:00 – Which locations are tough to barrel up consistently
33:00 – Letting the ball get deep?
37:00 – Contact points east to west (inside + outside)
40:00 – Getting hitters to understand contact points in swings
45:00 – How a good bat path relates to contact points
51:00 – Contact points for different off-speed pitches
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake discuss different approaches in different counts that could lead a hitter to a higher success rate.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Recapping last week’s episode
9:00 – Excerpt from “Swing Kings” and a mechanism for timing
17:00 – Batting Average in specific counts
28:00 – Approach when down in the count 0-2
32:00 – Is art of situational hitting gone?
42:00 – Setting an approach for different counts
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
The guys go back in time on the anniversary of the Cubs first World Series Championship since 1907…game seven of the 2016 World Series took place on November 2, and the Jim and Jake discuss key points and at-bats from the four hour thriller.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Jake’s thoughts on the 2020 World Series
8:00 – Breaking down a Ted Williams quote
11:00 – How the order of the lineup is shaped based off different types of hitters
26:00 – Discussing the 2016 Postseason and the Cubs core
32:00 – Discussing Dexter Fowler’s career
36:00 – Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo’s 2016 World Series play
41:00 – Kyle Schwarber’s career outlook
47:00 – Game seven breakdown
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Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Email the Show: Jimbopodcast21@gmail.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, Jim and Jake are back with more hitting goodness as the guys discuss a variety of topics around hitting and baseball
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Breakdown of another Tony Gwynn quote
10:00 – How hitters get comfortable with consecutive pitching changes
15:00 – Why the Rays are consistently competitive
20:00 – Why Rays hitters execute consistently
23:00 – A quick look back at Sandy Alomar Sr.’s career
28:00 – Jim and Jake’s draft strategies
38:00 – Hitters sinking into their legs
42:00 – Listener question
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake discuss the rising number of strikeouts throughout baseball over the past couple of years and how this growing problem can be eradicated.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Playoff talk
4:00 – Discussing the late great Joe Morgan
7:00 – Quick note about Jake’s father Mike Epstein
15:00 – The connection between the rising number of strikeouts and the introduction to launch angle
31:00 – Lack of teaching hitters a real approach
36:00 – Is pitching that much better
43:00 – Will strikeouts ever shrink
49:00 – How will hitters begin to counter the rising number of strikeouts
55:00 – Listener question
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, Jim and Jake discuss internal and external cues when coaching hitters in Episode 25 of The Lab!
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Giancarlo Stanton’s home run metrics
15:00 – Disconnect in scouting and player development
39:00 – The kind of internal cues a player can use in live game action
43:00 – Importance of a hitting conversation
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, Jim is joined by Toronto Blue Jays Minor League Hitting Coach Matt Young and discussed a variety of different hitting topics.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – Matt’s favorite hitter in baseball
5:00 – Matt’s opinion on Vladimir Guerrero Jr. success
8:00 – Matt’s dislike for robo strikezones
19:00 – Attack and Launch Angle
25:00 – Alejandro Kirk’s swing and developing hitters
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, the guy’s discuss one of the most underrated aspects of hitting…swing adjustability and how learning it can be the difference in a player’s success at the next level.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – Mike Trout and the Angels lack of regular season success
11:00 – Cecil Fielder note
13:00 – Definition of swing adjustability
22:00 – What a “great adjustment” actually means
40:00 – Manny Ramirez swing adjustability
45:00 – Softball swing adjustability
49:00 – Listener question
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
The guys study and break down one of the youngest prolific hitters In all of baseball – Vladimir Guerrero Jr. To follow along and access the video, please click the link below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZUdz5TbGg4
Episode Notes:
5:00 – Ty Cobb and Joe Morgan notes
8:00 – Jake on Jose Altuve’s struggles
16:00 – Vlad Jr. background
20:00 – What Jake likes most about Vlad’s swing
23:00 – Guerrero Jr.’s simple approach
26:00 – Swing breakdown
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
The possibility of Robo-Strikezones has been the point of a debate in the past couple of years. In this episode of The Lab, Jim and Jake discuss multiple facets of this topic. What are the guys opinions?; Will it make the game cleaner at the big-league level?; Will people even notice after a while? Answers to these questions and more!
Episode Notes:
12:00 – Guys opinions on robo strikezones
18:00 – How the robo-zone could make the game cleaner
25:00 – Would it be taking the human element out of the game?
33:00 – How does a robo-zone change the strategy for a hitter?
39:00 – Will fans get accustomed to the robo-zone?
47:00 – What would define the robo zone in inches?
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake discuss different batting practice approaches in different scenarios, and how to develop a proper batting practice routine.
Episode Notes:
7:00 – Batting Practice for different types of players
13:00 – Molding a routine
21:00 – Taking batting practice at 75-80% controlled swings
31:00 – How to take batting practice during a slump
41:00 – Going through BP in the midst of a mechanical change
48:00 – Taking batting practice during spring training
51:00 – Mid-season batting practice approach
54:00 – How to formulate an off-season batting practice plan
59:00 – How to develop a sustainable batting practice routine
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Rotational and Linear hitting have been at the center of hitting debates for years. In this episode, Jim and Jake discuss both hitting philosophies and give a better understanding attributed to both mechanical variations of the swing.
Episode Notes:
1:45 – Is Todd Helton a hall of famer?
6:00 – Jackie Robinson’s impact on the game of baseball
11:00 – Further explanation of linear hitting
22:00 – Key factors to a successful rotational hitting swing
28:00 – How technology has changed –if at all-the rotational hitting swing
32:00 – Former big league hitters that were linear hitters
46:00 – Why rotational over linear?
50:00 – Listener question
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
How should hitters prepare for their game on the offensive side prior to the game; how preparing for a game has changed; the best ways to prepare at the high school, college, and pro-level. Plus, was Fernando Tatis Jr. wrong in hitting a Grand Slam?...Yes Really…Jim and Jake discuss these topics and more in another volume of the Player Development Series.
Episode Notes:
1:00 – Fernando Tatis Jr. discussion
11:00 – How preparing has changed over the years
17:00 – Is virtual reality a game changer
21:00 – The best way to prepare as a high school player
24:00 – College preparedness
34:00 – Pregame approaches for professional players
42:00 – How to prepare a plan based off previous results
48:00 – Hitter’s meetings at the pro level
50:00 – Different batting practice ideas
53:00 – Listener question
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
The guys return with a brand new episode! This week, Jim and Jake discuss hitting terms throughout the offensive side of baseball; how terms have changed; leverage, weight shift, inward turn, stance all discussed in this episode.
Episode Notes:
4:45 – Thoughts on Charlie Blackmon’s hot start
10:00 – Jake’s thoughts on the league’s low batting average
17:00 – Hitting twitter
30:15 – How hitting terms and definitions have changed over the years
36:00 – Leverage
44:00 – Weight Shift
48:30 – Inward Turn as part of the load
50:00 – Stance
54:00 – Listener questions
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake breakdown the swing of Detroit Tigers number one pick Spencer Torkelson in the third volume of the Mechanical Breakdown Series. Plus the guys discuss how to properly watch the game from a learning perspective.
Episode Notes:
1:30 – How a player should watch a major league game as a learning experience
8:00 – The foundation for evaluating professional hitters
14:00 – Listener questions
23:00 – How to break into the game as an employee
32:00 – Spencer Torkelson swing breakdown
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Iheart radio | Stitcher | TuneIn | Soundcloud
Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Player development at the professional level has gone through a massive overhaul in recent years. From the data revolution, to an emphasis on nutrition; the game has had no evolution shortage in recent years. Jim and Jake discuss proper development of hitters, and how to use data to formulate individualized hitting plans, how Jake would indoctrinate hitters into his farm system. Plus, the guys discuss how Jake would place his coaches if he were a hitting coordinator of an organization.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Discussing Hank Aaron
12:00 – The elements that go into developing a hitter
16:00 – Player development academies
20:00 – How the role of hitting coordinator has changed
23:00 – What to look for in a hitter’s trackman data
32:00 – Absolutes a hitter must have to play at the professional level
34:00 – Pre-draft interviews
35:00 – How Jake would indoctrinate a player
44:00 – Placing coaches in a farm system
49:00 – Getting players to interpret data correctly
55:00 – How teams minor league systems can teach players in-game quick adjustments
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In this week’s episode, Jim and Jake dive into baseball’s analytical heavy website Baseballsavant.com.
Episode Notes:
3:00 – Will Joe Dimaggio’s record hitting streak ever be broken
6:00 – Baseballsavant.com information
10:00 – The website’s insight
16:00 – Exit velocity predicting future power
18:00 – Visual pitch report
25:00 – BBE statistical meaning
35:00 – More exit velocity discussion
45:00 – MLB strike-zone
48:00 – Barrels/BBE/PA%
53:00 – Launch angle surprises and deceptions
59:00 – Listener questions
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Iheart radio | Stitcher | TuneIn | Soundcloud
Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Attack and Launch angle metrics have become the hot button topics, and the flagship statistics for new age data. In this episode, Jim and Jake peel back the layers of both metrics to give players a better understanding of how both can be used in the proper context, how college and high school programs can adapt, and how they both can lead a hitter to future success if at all.
Episode Notes:
2:00 – Shohei Ohtani’s career outlook
8:00 – Attack angle definition
10:00 – How attack angle applies to a golf swing
13:00 – The minimum attack angle for a player to be successful
16:00 – The time Jake determines attack angle
20:00 – Understanding a player’s “story” as it pertains to their swing
25:00 – How high school and college programs have adapted the metrics
34:00 – Launch angle definition
39:00 – Is launch angle valued more?
44:00 – Overtraining in certain weeks
54:00 – Can launch angle be deceiving?
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
How competition breeds success; proper mental approach to take the day of the game; what to do in the on-deck circle? Jim and Jake discuss these points and everything as it relates to the mental approach with high level hitters.
Episode Notes:
11:00-How to get players to understand the importance of a routine
16:00-How competition breeds success
20:00-Proper mental approach the day of the game
35:00-In-Game mental approach
47:00-At-bat to at-bat adjustments
53:00-Lessons a hitter could take from the results from the previous game
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | Iheart radio | Stitcher | TuneIn | Soundcloud
Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
The Mechanical Breakdown Series returns with volume two. This week, Jim and Jake break down the swing of Philadelphia Phillies Outfielder Bryce Harper! The guys give a brief overview of Harper’s career, what Bryce does well, and break down his swing frame-by-frame with two separate video clips…To follow along with the analysis, visit the Epstein Hitting Facebook page.
Episode Notes:
2:00-Reaction to Baseball’s return
10:00-Crazy statistics Ken Griffey Jr. compiled during his playing career
16:00-Bryce Harper’s career overview
16:30-Jake’s thoughts of Bryce Harper’s early years
24:00-What sticks out with Harper’s swing when is going well
30:00-Harper’s swing breakdown
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
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Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake dive into part two of the Hitting History Book series. This week the guys go back in time and discuss the last 30 years of hitting; how things changed over the years; some key players and moments. Plus, what was a funny quirk Larry Walker had in his career?
Episode Notes:
2:00-Larry Walker’s quirk as a player and his interaction with Mike Epstein
5:00-How hockey helps develop a young player’s baseball skills
11:00-1990-2000
27:00-2000-2010
39:00-2010-2019
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake go back in time and discuss the first 90 years (1900-1990) of hitting and offensive output in baseball; the MLB First-Year Player Draft is discussed; which former big leaguer did Jim say “shut up and pitch to me” when he was 11 years old?
Episode Notes:
1:30-MLB Draft discussion
13:00-Era of 1900-1920
20:00-Era of 1920-1945
30:00-Era of 1945-1969
47:00-Era of 1970-1990
59:00-Listener’s emails and questions
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake unveil the first edition of the Data Instillation series and discuss how data has had an impact on hitting in recent seasons.
Episode Notes:
9:00-Impact of data with swings
17:00-College Baseball Trends
32:00-Dave Winfield scouting comparison
39:00-Paralysis by analysis
50:00-Analytics, metrics, and scouting blending together as one
54:00-Jake’s thought process on data
57:00-How coaches can benefit from data and metrics
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
On this edition of The Lab-Epstein Hitting Podcast, Jim and Jake discuss everything related to proper bat and hand path in high level successful hitters.
Episode Notes:
3:00- Jake’s definition of a loft in a swing
9:00-Similarities in a bat and hand path in a baseball swing to a golf swing
14:00-Vertical bat angle and a barrel dump correlating to both hand and bat path
17:00-A hitter’s “bar arm”
28:00-How Blast motion technology plays a role in measuring bat and hand path
31:00-Proper coaching cues
43:00-Turning the barrel
49:00-Bat and hand path for different pitches
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
Jim and Jake break down everything related to a high level softball swing!
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Have a question for Jake or Jim? Email the show at jimbopodcast21@gmail.com.
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara | @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
The guys study and break down the swing of one of the game’s best-Milwaukee outfielder Christian Yelich in the first ever mechanical breakdown series episode. To follow along and access the video, please click the link below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZUdz5TbGg4
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, Jim and Jake discuss the similarities and differences between bat quickness and bat speed. How similar are they? Does a heavier bat equal more bat speed? When does data come into play for measuring both factors? Is one more important than the other? All of these questions get answered throughout this week’s edition!
Subscribe and like the show- Apple | Google | Spotify | TuneIn | Soundcloud | YouTube
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
This week, Jim and Jake discuss the Torque in a swing, and the importance of achieving such a move in a high level baseball and softball swing. The guys also chat about Manny Ramirez's possible return to baseball, as well as Mark McGwire’s swing plane!
Episode Notes:
1:20-Manny Ramirez return to baseball
21:00-Torque talk
25:00-Hand Torque
29:00-McGwire Swing Plane
36:00-Torque in a softball swing
37:00-Age to start teaching torque
42:00-Coaching cues when teaching torque
50:00-Exercises to help develop torque
52:00-Different degrees of torque
55:00-The role the front foot plays in maximizing torque
100:00-Pre-Swing Coil
108:00-Why isn’t torque being talked about more
116:00-Golf and baseball swing torque similarities and differences
Subscribe to the show’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com
Twitter/Instagram: @Jimtara, @epsteinhitting
Why the Epstein Hitting System?: The Epstein Hitting system was created by 10-year Major League player, Mike Epstein. In addition to leading the 1972 World Series champion A’s in home runs, Mike played for arguably the greatest hitter of all-time, Ted Williams…Using what he learned from his career and from Ted Williams, Mike built a system to identify and fix swing faults. Mike received the only letter of recommendation for hitting instruction Ted Williams ever gave out…After working closely with Mike to learn the craft of teaching hitting, Epstein Hitting is now led by Jake Epstein…Jake has perfected the use of video analysis to create a plan to maximize a player’s swing. In addition to slow-motion video analysis, Jake has built a library of drills that he uses to address the unique needs of individual players. For more information, log on to www.epsteinhitting.com.
www.thelabbcs.com... Training with a purpose.
In this week's episode, Jim and Jake discuss the similarities and differences in high-level hitting philosophies, styles, and absolutes. The guys also go through a step-by-step mechanical breakdown of what top Major League hitters possess in their swings, and chat about the comparison of a big leaguer's high school and major league swings!
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Epstein Hitting Website: epsteinhitting.com
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@Epsteinhitting
In the first episode of "The Lab," Professional Hitting Instructor Jake Epstein joins Host Jim Tarabocchia to discuss a variety of hitting topics, including a never heard before story of an in-game conversation between Jake's dad Mike, and his hitting mentor Ted Williams.
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Epstein Hitting Website: epsteinhitting.com
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@Epsteinhitting