The PBSCCS Podcast: Recent Episodes
Professional Baseball Strength and Conditioning Coaches Society
The Professional Baseball Strength and Conditioning Coaches Society Podcast provides recognition for those who have experienced the unique demands of professional baseball performance enhancement. Individuals share their stories and insights, providing valuable lessons for all who are tuning in!
This brief episode marks the six year anniversary of the PBSCCS Podcast.
If you are enjoying the podcast, please leave ratings and reviews on iTunes - this will help the outreach of the podcast grow.
If you want more information from the PBSCCS, you can follow along on social media:
Twitter: @PBSCCS
Instagram: PBSCCS
or go to the website: http://baseballstrength.org/
Thank you to all the listeners and guests for the support over the first six years of this podcast!
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on Tommy John surgery and rehab. This is Part Two of a two-part interview.
Speakers:
-Ben Chadwick (Boston Red Sox)
-John Perry (formerly Texas Rangers)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Throwing Progressions post-surgery
-Time-based vs. Goal-based progression
-Pitcher vs. Position Player Tommy John rehab
-Affiliate vs. Complex rehab
-Keys to success in rehab
Quotes:
-"The more they can rally around each other, the more it keeps things fun" - Ben Chadwick (4:07)
-"Each guy is unique. You need to appreciate the variables that make everyone different" - Ben Chadwick (10:36)
-"You might as well just take your time with it and do it right" - John Perry (14:09)
-"I think that's a large chunk of it, is that people are actually able to take a step back from playing and they can then focus on their body" - John Perry (29:04)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@bchadwic - Ben Chadwick
@jtperry16 - John Perry
Twitter:
@jtperry16 - John Perry
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on Tommy John surgery and rehab. This is Part One of a two-part interview.
Speakers:
-Ben Chadwick (Boston Red Sox)
-John Perry (Texas Rangers)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Pre-surgery prep
-Post-surgery planning
-Relationship building
-Upper-body and Lower-body progressions
Quotes:
-"I mean that's what rehab is. Day in, day out it's a grind. And you're just working your butts off trying to get back" - John Perry (5:39)
-"Before you even see the player I think getting on the same page as your PT is one of the most important things you can do, and also looking at the protocol" - Ben Chadwick (10:21)
-"Everything gets taken off on Week 24. They're full-go, and that's when we start treating them as if they're a healthy pitcher again" -John Perry (18:41)
-"Something you need to take into account unique to a Tommy John surgery is that unilateral phase is going to be so long" - Ben Chadwick (19:03)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@bchadwic - Ben Chadwick
@jtperry16 - John Perry
Twitter:
@jtperry16 - John Perry
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is with Hazael Wessin of the Houston Astros organization. Wes is currently a Strength and Conditioning Coach in the Big Leagues with Houston. He is a World Series Champion, has worked at various levels throughout the Minor League system, has worked with Team DR in the World Baseball Classic, and is the first Dominican-born Strength and Conditioning Coach to work in the Big Leagues. This is Part Two of a two-part interview.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Finding success and being confident
-Advice for others
-Continuing education resources
Quotes:
-"The higher you go the more confidence you gotta have" (0:46)
-"Just don't be afraid to work for free if you're trying to get into this business. Because it's gonna be worth it" (14:45)
-"Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker. I read it two years ago, and it really basically changed my life about how to think about sleep and how powerful sleep can be" (22:52)
If you would like to learn more from Wes, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@wessin16
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is with Hazael Wessin of the Houston Astros organization. Wes is currently a Strength and Conditioning Coach in the Big Leagues with Houston. He is a World Series Champion, has worked at various levels throughout the Minor League system, has worked with Team DR in the World Baseball Classic, and is the first Dominican-born Strength and Conditioning Coach to work in the Big Leagues. This is Part One of a two-part interview.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His journey to becoming the 1st Dominican-born Strength and Conditioning Coach in the Big Leagues
-Being adaptable and appreciative
-The importance of a quality prep routine
Quotes:
-"I look back now and I'm like 'Man, that was fun, but that was what really made me a good strength coach'" (17:07)
-"For me, I just look at everything like I'm blessed" (17:23)
-"You have to have a special mindset to make sure you stay in this game a long time, and you have to be adaptable" (20:45)
If you would like to learn more from Wes, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@wessin16
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on wearable technology. This is Part Two of a two-part interview.
Speakers:
-Larry Adegoke (New York Yankees)
-Joey Greany (Tampa Bay Rays)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Tricks of the trade
-Making adjustments based on both objective and subjective data
-In-depth look at actual Whoop data
Quotes:
-"For the majority of people you shouldn't be drinking coffee within an hour of waking up" - Larry Adegoke (5:36)
-"There's a lot of benefit to the sauna" - Joey Greany (9:57)
-"But at some point it's like 'listen most likely you're gonna be tired, most likely you're gonna be sore, but you still gotta play the game'" - Joey Greany (14:10)
-"The subjective aspect of it is almost just as important as the objective information" - Larry Adegoke (24:47)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@larry.strength - Larry Adegoke
@joeygreany - Joey Greany
Twitter:
@JoeyGreany - Joey Greany
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on being named a AA Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year.
Speakers:
-Henry Aleck (Los Angeles Angels organization)
-John Gentile (Minnesota Twins organization)
-Casey Callison (Toronto Blue Jays organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-What did you learn in previous positions that helped you this year?
-Advice for others on looking to be successful at a Minor League affiliate
-Was there anything that you could have done better or different?
-What will you be working on this off-season and/or next season?
Quotes:
-"We get to wear shorts and a t-shirt. There should be no reason not to smile every day you walk in the clubhouse" - Henry Aleck (12:28)
-"Give yourself some time or you get burnt out quickly. It's a long season and if you're burnt out in May, you got a grind ahead of you" - John Gentile (12:59)
-"I think that's something that I know I can always do better of, of just developing better questions to be able to ask" - Casey Callison (19:49)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@henry_aleck22 - Henry Aleck
@jgentile118 - John Gentile
@casey_callison - Casey Callison
Twitter:
@Henry_Aleck - Henry Aleck
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on being named a AAA Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year.
Speakers:
-Larry Adegoke (New York Yankees organization)
-AJ Russell (San Diego Padres organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-What did you learn in previous positions that helped you this year?
-Advice for others on looking to be successful at a Minor League affiliate
-Was there anything that you could have done better or different?
-What will you be working on this off-season and/or next season?
Quotes:
-"I think just building some real relationships, true relationships, with your coaching staff and your players - it goes a long, long way" - Larry Adegoke (10:53)
-"If you can't take care of yourself how are you supposed to take care of others?" - AJ Russell (12:58)
-"That's pretty much a major key for me - be willing to ask the skill coaches or other people in our department for their guidance at times" - Larry Adegoke (20:39)
-"Just trying to add more value to not just myself, but how can I add value to the organization?" - AJ Russell (30:40)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@larry.strength - Larry Adegoke
Ben Chadwick has served as a Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Boston Red Sox organization the past 8 years. He just completed his 2nd season in AAA with the Worcester Red Sox after splitting the previous 6 years between AA Portland, High-A Salem, and Rookie GCL Red Sox. In 2015, he served as the strength and conditioning coach for Leones del Caracas of the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League. Prior to his work in the Red Sox organization, he interned under former Red Sox strength and conditioning consultant Mike Boyle as well as with the University of South Carolina Gamecocks football team during the 2014 season. He graduated from the University of Massachusetts in 2013 with a degree in Kinesiology.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Making sacrifices
-Continuing education
-Resume mistakes and advice for others
Quotes:
-"There's more competent people trying to get jobs in the field than there are jobs" (1:22)
-"It's very rare that you get that perfect job right where you grew up; it's just not that common" (8:10)
-"Something that so many young coaches screw up is their resume" (9:02)
If you would like to learn more from Ben, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@bchadwic
Ben Chadwick has served as a Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Boston Red Sox organization the past 8 years. He just completed his 2nd season in AAA with the Worcester Red Sox after splitting the previous 6 years between AA Portland, High-A Salem, and Rookie GCL Red Sox. In 2015, he served as the strength and conditioning coach for Leones del Caracas of the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League. Prior to his work in the Red Sox organization, he interned under former Red Sox strength and conditioning consultant Mike Boyle as well as with the University of South Carolina Gamecocks football team during the 2014 season. He graduated from the University of Massachusetts in 2013 with a degree in Kinesiology.Topics covered in this episode:
-Best Professional Baseball story
-Personality Typing & Connecting with players
-Finding success & the extra layers of being a Strength and Conditioning Coach in professional baseball
Quotes:
-"I think the more you can learn people on a deeper level the better off you are" (7:05)
-"I think the more guys you can learn how to connect with the better you're gonna be as a coach" (14:07)
-"There's a lot of different personalities that end up being great strength coaches" (23:15)
If you would like to learn more from Ben, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@bchadwic
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on having an Assistant S&C Coach at Minor League affiliates.
Speakers:
-Ben Chadwick (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Jordan Fiske (Boston Red Sox organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Working dynamics on a daily basis
-Advantages gained from having this new position
-The development of a "mentorship" and continuing education
-How is this relationship advantageous for you in the future?
Quotes:
-"Every day is game day; you can't really red-line it" - Jordan Fiske (18:57)
-"I think at the end of the day the players are getting a much better product, and I think that's the most important thing in all of this" - Ben Chadwick (23:50)
-"Guys are really bought-in to what we're putting out now" - Ben Chadwick (26:51)
-"Getting this experience kind of broadens my horizons" - Jordan Fiske (36:10)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@bchadwic - Ben Chadwick
@jordanfiske94 - Jordan Fiske
Tommy LaBriola is entering his 3rd season with the Toronto Blue Jays, and his 2nd season with the High-A Vancouver Canadians.
Prior to joining the Blue Jays in the Fall of 2019, he was a college baseball player at Salisbury University which is also where he completed a strength and conditioning internship as well as a Graduate Assistantship.
Tommy has also completed internships with the Parisi Speed School, the University of Pittsburgh, and Georegtown University.
Tommy was born and raised in Calvert County Maryland.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Being a college baseball player and his journey to his current role
-His best professional baseball story
-Coaching in college vs. pro ball
Quotes:
-"Going from college to pro I think there's a huge difference in who you've got to be" (5:02)
-"Everybody looks at the strength coach as a leader" (15:44)
-"I didn't want to just be super narrow in my thinking or just work with baseball along the way because you never know where you're gonna end up" (21:25)
If you would like to learn more from Tommy, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@tommy_labriola
Twitter:
@tommylabs
This interview is Part Two of a two-part interview with Terrence Kennell (formerly of the Houston Astros organization).
Topics covered in this episode:
-His books - Big Hitters Manual (Vol. 1 and 2)
-Finding success & quality advice
-Continuing education resources
Quotes:
-"Open-mindedness is a big factor, I think, because there's always things we can always learn" (8:01)
-"I feel like as strength and conditioning coaches we're very easily self-deprecating unnecessarily" (9:06)
-"That's my advice regardless of where you are in the profession: follow less strength coaches" (17:51)
If you would like to learn more from Terrence, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@tkennellphysprep
Twitter:
@TKPhysPrep
This interview is Part One of a two-part interview with Terrence Kennell (formerly of the Houston Astros organization).
Topics covered in this episode:
-His journey and new experiences
-College basketball vs. Professional Baseball
-Conditioning for all athletes
Quotes:
-"The heart is still a muscle, and the best way to build an aerobic base is to do volume" (15:20)
-"Also, with baseball playing back-to-back-to-back days on the field, you're recovery between days is so important" (16:06)
-"You can't skip the things you don't like to do just because you don't like them" (22:21)
If you would like to learn more from Terrence, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@tkennellphysprep
Twitter:
@TKPhysPrep
This brief episode marks the five year anniversary of The PBSCCS Podcast.
If you are enjoying the podcast, please leave ratings and reviews on iTunes - this will help the outreach of the podcast grow.
If you want more information from the PBSCCS, you can follow along on social media:
Twitter: @PBSCCS
Instagram: @PBSCCS
or go to the website: http://baseballstrength.org/
Thank you to all the listeners and guests for the support over the first five years of this podcast!
Brennan Mickelson is entering his 5th season, and 3rd full season with the Settle Mariners. He has
been a strength coach in the AZL, short season, and at full season affiliates. He has a Bachelor of
Science degree in Sports Science with a minor in Strength and Conditioning from Washington
State University, and a Master of Science degree in Health and Human Performance from the
University of Montana. During his studies at both WSU and the U of M he was a howitzer
cannoneer in the Marine Force Reserves, a personal trainer, teaching assistant, and strength
and conditioning intern. He resides in Missoula Montana with his wife Chloe and his dog
Hamilton.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Being named a Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year
-Conditioning
-His best professional baseball story
Quotes:
-"Intern is not the most glamorous job, but it can really pay dividends, especially in pro ball because you get all that experience" (3:51)
-"Plans are worthless, but planning is everything" (10:29)
-"I think programming for baseball is the hardest" (20:27)
If you would like to learn more from Brennan, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@coachmickelson
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on working in the private sector after life in professional baseball.
Speakers:
-Ben Loftis (Formerly San Diego Padres organization)
-Travis Roberson (Formerly Cleveland Guardians organization)
-Logan Byman (Formerly Pittsburgh Pirates organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Discussion on current positions after life in pro ball
-How does the daily schedule differ now compared to pro ball?
-How does life as a whole differ now compared to pro ball?
-How does the training differ compared to pro ball?
-Long-term aspirations
Quotes:
-"I don't ever want to sacrifice our excellence. I don't ever want to sacrifice us being brilliant at the basics" - Ben Loftis (18:02)
-"It's more about the impact that I can make and whether that scenario fits at that time" - Logan Byman (38:40)
-"With the high school it would just be build as good of a culture in the weightroom as I could" - Travis Roberson (38:54)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@loftistrong - Ben Loftis
@robersont7 - Travis Roberson
@loganbyman - Logan Byman
Twitter:
@robersont77 - Travis Roberson
@LoganByman - Logan Byman
David Robertson is entering his third season as a Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Arizona Diamondbacks. He has a BS in Integrative Studies from Clayton State University and MS in Health from the University of Alabama. Prior to his time with the DBacks, David served in the US Army and taught high school weight training while coaching football and baseball. He is married to Gail and they have a daughter, Mackenzie (21).
Topics covered in this episode:
-Being both an umpire and a strength and conditioning coach in professional baseball
-His unique journey
-His best professional baseball story
Quotes:
-"I think the higher up we move the easier it becomes because guys kind of get it whereas at the lower levels you gotta coach" (21:04)
-"I think all of our experiences are unique and I don't think we get to any point in life without being prepared for that next part" (23:43)
-"Every day is a job interview" (40:44)
If you would like to learn more from David, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@coach_drob11
Twitter:
@Coach_Robo11
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is part two of a two-part group discussion on upper-body training.
Speakers:
-Jordan Sidwell (Atlanta Braves organization
-Joe Hudson (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Logan Byman (EXOS, formerly Pittsburgh Pirates organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Push/Pull Ratio
-Shoulder care
-Forearm and bicep/tricep training
-Any exercises to avoid
Quotes:
-"It's hard to shake something you've been so engrained in" - Joe Hudson (3:53)
-"I don't see a downside to doing them, we just don't place quite as much of an emphasis as maybe we used to" - Jordan Sidwell (16:52)
-"One of the biggest pieces is the collaboration part" - Logan Byman (18:10)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@j_sidwell17 - Jordan Sidwell
@hudson_jr12 - Joe Hudson
@loganbyman - Logan Byman
Twitter:
@CoachJSidwell - Jordan Sidwell
@Coach_JoeHudson - Joe Hudson
@LoganByman - Logan Byman
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is part one of a two-part group discussion on upper-body training.
Speakers:
-Jordan Sidwell (Atlanta Braves organization
-Joe Hudson (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Logan Byman (EXOS, formerly Pittsburgh Pirates organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Bench pressing for overhead athletes
-Training overhead for overhead athletes
Quotes:
-"At the end of the day I think if you're having a fight about one specific movement you probably missed the boat in the first place" - Logan Byman (3:53)
-"At the end of the day do they have the movement capacity to be able to do that?" - Joe Hudson (20:16)
-"There's a very big psychological and expectation component to how we experience discomfort and pain and all that, it's not only a structural thing" - Jordan Sidwell (23:03)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@j_sidwell17 - Jordan Sidwell
@hudson_jr12 - Joe Hudson
@loganbyman - Logan Byman
Twitter:
@CoachJSidwell - Jordan Sidwell
@Coach_JoeHudson - Joe Hudson
@LoganByman - Logan Byman
Jon grew up in New England, and currently lives in Florida. He graduated from URI in 2014. He went on to work as an intern at URI until he accepted a seasonal strength and conditioning coach position with the Boston Red Sox as a MiLB Strength and Conditioning Coach in 2016. He returned to URI following that season to work as an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach. While there he also obtained his Master's degree in Kinesiology. Once finished, he accepted a job with the Texas Rangers organization in the winter of 2019. During his time in professional baseball, he has worked in Low-A, High-A, and AA. While in college, he had the opportunity to work or assist with baseball, basketball, soccer, football, volleyball, track and field, tennis, golf, softball, and swimming and diving.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Daily programming
-Finding success and advice for others
-Continuing education resources
-Lightning Round
Quotes:
-"At the end of the day we're all people" (10:22)
-"Body language is more than anything you can say" (15:03)
-"You gotta dive in and attack your weaknesses every once in a while" (17:57)
If you would like to learn more from Jon, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@jnazarko
Jon grew up in New England, and currently lives in Florida. He graduated from URI in 2014. He went on to work as an intern at URI until he accepted a seasonal strength and conditioning coach position with the Boston Red Sox as a MiLB Strength and Conditioning Coach in 2016. He returned to URI following that season to work as an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach. While there he also obtained his Master's degree in Kinesiology. Once finished, he accepted a job with the Texas Rangers organization in the winter of 2019. During his time in professional baseball, he has worked in Low-A, High-A, and AA. While in college, he had the opportunity to work or assist with baseball, basketball, soccer, football, volleyball, track and field, tennis, golf, softball, and swimming and diving.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Working in college vs professional setting
-In-season "maintenance"
-Finding ways to maximize being a young strength and conditioning coach
Quotes:
-"We all know there's no such perfect program. Otherwise we wouldn't have jobs" (2:48)
-"Baseball is routine; it's all about routine" (9:43)
-"The term I come back to the most is 'Quick to listen and slow to speak'" (23:13)
If you would like to learn more from Jon, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@jnazarko
MiLB Strength and Conditioning Coach – Michael Sadler is beginning his fifth year with the Seattle Mariners. Michael’s first season was in 2018 with the Clinton Lumberkings (Low A affiliate) in Clinton, IA. In 2019, he was in Modesto, CA with the Modesto Nuts (High A affiliate). Last season in 2021, Michael was a part of the Arkansas Travelers (Double A affiliate) staff in Little Rock, AR. This upcoming season he will be joining the staff in Tacoma, WA at their Triple A affiliate. He recently received his Master’s degree is Sports Performance and Exercise Science. Currently resides in Mitchell, SD with his newlywed wife and a child on the way. Michael is very excited for this upcoming season and blessed to be doing a job he loves.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Being named AA Central MiLB Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Year
-Nutrition
-His best professional baseball story
Quotes:
-"Don't be afraid to ask questions or go talk to someone" (7:56)
-"Time management, I think, is super important" (9:08)
-"Don't underestimate the power of communication and that relationship building" (17:25)
If you would like to learn more from Michael, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@michael_sadler_2
Twitter:
@ms3180
Derek Somerville is in his 8th season as a strength and conditioning coach in professional baseball including 2 seasons with the San Francisco Giants and currently in his 6th season with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Derek is originally from Minot, North Dakota and attended the University of Mary studying Exercise Science and competing in collegiate baseball. Following undergrad Derek attended Liberty University completing a Masters of Science in Exercise Science and most recently completed his massage therapy license through the Cortiva Institute.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Absolute strength & baseball performance
-Advice for others & finding success
-Continuing education
Quotes:
-"Baseball has been going around for 100 years before strength and conditioning coaches were a thing, right, and it made it just fine" (1:59)
-"For me absolute strength doesn't always correlate to baseball performance" (2:22)
-"Whether you're just getting started in professional baseball or just getting started in any area of strength and conditioning I think just enjoy where you're at" (12:45)
If you would like to learn more from Derek, you can check out his presentation from the 2021 PBSCCS Winter Meetings Strength & Conditioning Symposium below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgNvd3IDKV4&list=PLDlWM5pOkg9MRhHkzSned1hI3MtFDs0Ye&index=2
or by following him on social media:
Twitter:
@ddsomerville1
Derek Somerville is in his 8th season as a strength and conditioning coach in professional baseball including 2 seasons with the San Francisco Giants and currently in his 6th season with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Derek is originally from Minot, North Dakota and attended the University of Mary studying Exercise Science and competing in collegiate baseball. Following undergrad Derek attended Liberty University completing a Masters of Science in Exercise Science and most recently completed his massage therapy license through the Cortiva Institute.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Sport Coach / Strength Coach Collaboration
-Screening and Communication
-"Sport-specific" Drills
Quotes:
-"I'm just trying to create as much conversation as possible with whatever coach it may be" (6:01)
-"For me, especially at the minor league level, we're strength coaches first" (8:34)
-"The players have to trust you and so do the coaches, otherwise you're not going to make as big of an impact as you hope" (13:31)
If you would like to learn more from Derek, you can check out his presentation from the 2021 PBSCCS Winter Meetings Strength & Conditioning Symposium below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgNvd3IDKV4&list=PLDlWM5pOkg9MRhHkzSned1hI3MtFDs0Ye&index=2
or by following him on social media:
Twitter:
@ddsomerville1
Ricky de Luna serves his 5th year as a strength and conditioning coach for the Boston Red Sox organization. Prior to his experience with the Red Sox, Ricky assisted with strength and conditioning programs with the United States Marine Corps, the US Olympic Training Committee, Altis, and within the NCAA D1 setting. Ricky's experience comes from a track and field background, which has helped him in professional baseball.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Drills for acceleration and max velocity
-Speed training with big groups
-Weightroom training and how to pair it with speed sessions
-How to find success and advice for others
-Continuing education
Quotes:
-"If they have an image in their mind on what they need to be producing when they are running it's a lot easier for them to produce that" (5:00)
-"When we talk about athleticism it's all about having movement variation in your toolbox" (6:28)
-"Knowledge is information that you can make applicable. And if you just have information that you aren't doing anything with it, it's not knowledge anymore" (23:54)
If you would like to learn more from Ricky, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@rdelunaaa
Ricky de Luna serves his 5th year as a strength and conditioning coach for the Boston Red Sox organization. Prior to his experience with the Red Sox, Ricky assisted with strength and conditioning programs with the United States Marine Corps, the US Olympic Training Committee, Altis, and within the NCAA D1 setting. Ricky's experience comes from a track and field background, which has helped him in professional baseball.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Aerial vs. Terrestrial athletes
-The foot and ankle complex
-Acceleration vs. Max velocity
-Aerobic conditioning
Quotes:
-"In my opinion, I feel full ranges of loaded squats aren't the most necessary if you're just talking about developing athleticism" (10:34)
-"Introduce what we're looking for, let them explore the best strategies, and then let them stabilize" (15:42)
-"If it looks athletic and he's sprinting at really good speeds there may be a point where we just don't touch it; Just let it be" (44:25)
If you would like to learn more from Ricky, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@rdelunaaa
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on the Atlanta Braves winning the 2021 MLB World Series
Speakers:
-Brad Scott (Major League Head Strength & Conditioning Coach)
-Jordan Sidwell (MiLB Strength & Conditioning Coordinator)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-What helped lead to achieving the ultimate success this season?
-Do you have a universal strength and conditioning philosophy throughout the system?
-Do you have a system of checks and balances to keep players accountable?
-What do you do to keep your strength and conditioning staff engaged?
-Is there anything you are working on improving or changing for 2022?
-2021 playoff run discussion
Quotes:
-"Good staffs are made up of good people, and good people trust each other" - Brad Scott (7:48)
-"We're more following principles than specific methods" - Jordan Sidwell (11:36)
-"It's a long-term development model for our athletes just as much as it is for our coaches, and we want our coaches to make it to the Big Leagues just as much as we want our athletes to make it to the Big Leagues" - Brad Scott (15:04)
-"Really cool to see them again in the most important times of the year knowing all the work that went in behind the scenes for them to be ready for that spot" - Jordan Sidwell (38:30)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@j_sidwell - Jordan Sidwell
Twitter:
@CoachJSidwell - Jordan Sidwell
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on being named a Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year.
Speakers:
-Ben Chadwick (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Kory Wan (New York Mets organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-What did you learn in previous positions that helped you this year?
-Advice for others on looking to be successful at a Minor League affiliate
-Was there anything that you could have done better or different?
-What will you be working on this off-season and/or next season?
Quotes:
-"I think one of the most important things is learning what it takes to coach at your level" - Ben Chadwick (1:56)
-"There's no more silos anymore in this game" - Kory Wan (12:49)
-"There's always enough time during the day to figure it out" - Kory Wan (22:37)
-"The quicker you can get up to a standard that the position was already at the better off you're going to be" - Ben Chadwick (28:13)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@bchadwic - Ben Chadwick
@kory_wan9 - Kory Wan
Twitter:
@kory_wan9 - Kory Wan
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on being named a Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year.
Speakers:
-Joe Hudson (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Logan Jones (Arizona Diamondbacks organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-What did you learn in previous positions that helped you this year?
-Advice for others on looking to be successful at a Minor League affiliate
-Was there anything that you could have done better or different?
-What will you be working on this off-season and/or next season?
Quotes:
-"Internships really set the stage for me" - Logan Jones (2:22)
-"At the end of the day we're all just trying to provide for the players" - Joe Hudson (13:58)
-"I think from a personal standpoint it's critical that you set aside personal time" - Logan Jones (17:39)
-"I just think the relationships side of things are crucial, especially when it comes to career development" - Joe Hudson (24:45)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@hudson_jr12 - Joe Hudson
@logan_jones95 - Logan Jones
Twitter:
@Coach_JoeHudson - Joe Hudson
@Logan_Jones95 - Logan Jones
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on being a first year strength and conditioning coach in the Major Leagues. This is Part Two of a two-part interview.
Speakers:
-Al Sandoval (Texas Rangers organization)
-Adam Vish (Pittsburgh Pirates organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Things that may have been unexpected and/or different in the Big Leagues
-Is there anything that you wish you would have known ahead of time?
-Closing thoughts
Quotes:
-"I didn't realize how magnified everything was" - Al Sandoval (2:23)
-"We're just like players; once we are at this level there's one way out. If you can't do your job you're out" - Al Sandoval (11:35)
-"Don't think you're gonna springboard there overnight" - Adam Vish (12:37)
-"As a young coach take it in and get those learning opportunities and really enjoy where you're at" - Adam Vish (18:18)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@alsando22 - Al Sandoval
@ajvish13 - Adam Vish
Twitter:
@AlSandoval22 - Al Sandoval
@AdamJVish - Adam Vish
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on being a first year strength and conditioning coach in the Major Leagues. This is Part One of a two-part interview.
Speakers:
-Al Sandoval (Texas Rangers organization)
-Adam Vish (Pittsburgh Pirates organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Journey to your current role and how your previous positions prepared you for it
-Advice for others
-Discussion on everyone's first year in the Big Leagues
Quotes:
-"I think in anything that we do, whether it be strength and conditioning or life, everything is built upon experiences" - Al Sandoval (3:25)
-"It's a service industry; we're very people-oriented" - Adam Vish (8:33)
-"Everything at the Major League level is magnified" - Al Sandoval (10:54)
-"You look at it and it's not real life" - Adam Vish (42:42)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@alsando22 - Al Sandoval
@ajvish13 - Adam Vish
Twitter:
@AlSandoval22 - Al Sandoval
@AdamJVish - Adam Vish
Kevin Varitek, RSCC – Down East Wood Ducks Strength & Conditioning Coach
Varitek will be entering his 4th year in professional baseball as the Low-A affiliate strength and conditioning coach for the Texas Rangers. Kevin first joined the Texas organization as a strength and conditioning coach for the DSL Rangers in Fall of 2019. Prior to this, he served as an assistant strength and conditioning coach for the Boston Red Sox’s Rookie-level Gulf Coast League affiliate. The Chicagoland native earned his bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Florida Gulf Coast University. He also holds a Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach (RSCC) license from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).
Topics covered in this episode:
-Life in the DR
-Movement quality and health
-Making connections with players and coaches
Quotes:
-"Movement quality over weight is definitely number one" (24:02)
-"I didn't become a strength and conditioning coach to become famous; I wanted to be able to help players" (36:10)
-"If you're working in a sport I think you need to build connections with the sport coaches as well" (39:37)
If you would like to learn more from Kevin, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@varitek_kevin8
Twitter:
@VaritekKevin8
Brandon Golden had that opportunity to intern with High Point University, Mississippi State, and Wake Forest prior to a GA position at St. John’s. Brandon says, "My time in New York was a foundational one as I was able to do many things that set the table for my career. At St. John’s I was able to train several teams and travel with Baseball. During the Summer of 2015, I worked with the Collegiate National team with USA Baseball. After my time in Queens, I worked at Charleston Southern University as an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach. East Carolina was the next stop for us. We were able to be a part of East Carolina Baseball for four years along with many other teams. Currently, I am working with the Dodgers as a MiLB Performance coach.
During my coaching career I have been fortunate to be a part of the following championship teams:
-2015 Regular Season and Big East Tournament Champs. Regional Finalists (St. John’s University)
-2016 Conference Champs (Charleston Southern Football)
-2018 American Conference Tournament Champs and Greenville Regional Hosts (East Carolina)
-2019 American Conference Regular Season Champs and Greenville Regional Champs (East Carolina)"
Topics covered in this episode:
-Finding ways to be successful
-Work/life balance
-Continuing Education Resources
Quotes:
-"Understand what makes you you, and what makes you special" (1:36)
-"We're not reinventing the wheel at this point in time" (16:10)
-"You can learn from anybody's experience and just apply it to your situation" (24:02)
If you would like to learn more from Brandon, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@coachbgolden
Twitter:
@coachBGolden
Brandon Golden had that opportunity to intern with High Point University, Mississippi State, and Wake Forest prior to a GA position at St. John’s. Brandon says, "My time in New York was a foundational one as I was able to do many things that set the table for my career. At St. John’s I was able to train several teams and travel with Baseball. During the Summer of 2015, I worked with the Collegiate National team with USA Baseball. After my time in Queens, I worked at Charleston Southern University as an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach. East Carolina was the next stop for us. We were able to be a part of East Carolina Baseball for four years along with many other teams. Currently, I am working with the Dodgers as a MiLB Performance coach.
During my coaching career I have been fortunate to be a part of the following championship teams:
-2015 Regular Season and Big East Tournament Champs. Regional Finalists (St. John’s University)
-2016 Conference Champs (Charleston Southern Football)
-2018 American Conference Tournament Champs and Greenville Regional Hosts (East Carolina)
-2019 American Conference Regular Season Champs and Greenville Regional Champs (East Carolina)"Topics covered in this episode:
-Working college vs. professional baseball
-Velocity-Based Training
-Importance of being a Graduate Assistant
Quotes:
-"There are so many different things that go into being a professional baseball player that just aren't quite there in the college setting" (5:24)
-"One of the many biggest reasons that I love the VBT aspect of things is that it takes all the subjectivity out of training" (8:10)
-"To me VBT is that advantage" (28:11)
If you would like to learn more from Brandon, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@coachbgolden
Twitter:
@coachBGolden
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on being a first year strength and conditioning coach in professional baseball.
Speakers:
-Tommy LaBriola (Toronto Blue Jays organization)
-Mike Hernandez (Boston Red Sox organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Journeys into professional baseball
-Overall discussion on first year in professional baseball
-Situations specific to the professional baseball strength and conditioning coach
Quotes:
-"Communication is going to be your best friend" - Tommy LaBriola (23:01)
-"You need to have feel overall, above everything else" - Mike Hernandez (25:11)
-"You can't take anything personal is one of the best things you can tell yourself everyday" - Tommy LaBriola (1:00:35)
-"Every day is going to be a new adventure" - Mike Hernandez (1:02:07)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@tommy_labriola - Tommy LaBriola
@i_amcoachmike - Mike Hernandez
Twitter:
@tommylabs - Tommy LaBriola
Started with Navy-Tactical STRIKE at Little Creek-Virginia Beach, VAin September 2020. Prior to STRIKE, Morris worked with the Miami Marlins Organization from March 2019-September 2020. He additionally was a volunteer asst/consultant with the organization during the 2018 season.
Prior to joining the Marlins, Kyle was with the Florida Panthers during the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons as the assistant strength & conditioning coach. With the Panthers, he headed up all sports performance testing.
Before the Panthers, Morris was at IMG Academy from May 2015-September 2017. He worked primarily with both professional/academy track & field, football, and baseball. Additionally he worked with the NFL Combine prep.
Prior to IMG, Morris was an intern at LSU working with football and baseball. He has had additional internship or assistant roles at Wofford College, St. Louis Cardinals, Florida Panthers (2013-14), Florida International Univ, IMG Academy (2012), Salisbury University, Norfolk Admirals (AHL), Hampton University, and Old Dominion University.
Kyle received his master’s in Sports Medicine from Nova Southeastern University in 2014 where he was a GA. He received his bachelor’s in psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University in 2011.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Networking
-Adaptability
-Testing
Quotes:
-"Networking is everything; don't wait for a conference or a clinic to do it" (7:01)
-"Don't be afraid to be a fly on the wall" (7:14)
-"You get a lot more of an intimate setting with the local and regional clinics" (19:49)
If you would like to learn more from Kyle, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@kyle_morris757
Started with Navy-Tactical STRIKE at Little Creek-Virginia Beach, VAin September 2020. Prior to STRIKE, Morris worked with the Miami Marlins Organization from March 2019-September 2020. He additionally was a volunteer asst/consultant with the organization during the 2018 season.
Prior to joining the Marlins, Kyle was with the Florida Panthers during the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons as the assistant strength & conditioning coach. With the Panthers, he headed up all sports performance testing.
Before the Panthers, Morris was at IMG Academy from May 2015-September 2017. He worked primarily with both professional/academy track & field, football, and baseball. Additionally he worked with the NFL Combine prep.
Prior to IMG, Morris was an intern at LSU working with football and baseball. He has had additional internship or assistant roles at Wofford College, St. Louis Cardinals, Florida Panthers (2013-14), Florida International Univ, IMG Academy (2012), Salisbury University, Norfolk Admirals (AHL), Hampton University, and Old Dominion University.
Kyle received his master’s in Sports Medicine from Nova Southeastern University in 2014 where he was a GA. He received his bachelor’s in psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University in 2011.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Olympic Lifting
-Velocity-Based Training
-Having a career outside of professional baseball (including life in professional hockey and life in the tactical setting)
If you would like to learn more from Kyle, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@kyle_morris757
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is part two of a two-part group discussion on mobility training.
Speakers:
-Rob Reichert (formerly Miami Marlins organization)
-Joe Hudson (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Scott Nealon (Cleveland Guardians organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Working with sport coaches to determine mobility/stability needs of a player
-Closing thoughts/wrap-up of the two-part episode
Quotes:
-"It's all about relationships" - Rob Reichert (12:23)
-"The goal is that we get the athlete better" - Joe Hudson (12:52)
-"It's work. It's not just checking the box" - Scott Nealon (22:14)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@rob_reichert_cscs - Rob Reichert
@hudson_jr12 - Joe Hudson
@snealon4205 - Scott Nealon
Twitter:
@RobReichertJr - Rob Reichert
@Coach_JoeHudson - Joe Hudson
@snea42 - Scott Nealon
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is part one of a two-part group discussion on mobility training.
Speakers:
-Rob Reichert (formerly Miami Marlins organization)
-Joe Hudson (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Scott Nealon (Cleveland Guardians organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-How do you determine how much mobility a player needs/what areas he or she may need to work on?
-Are there any mobility techniques that you find overall to be more valuable than others?
-Are there any mobility techniques that you tend to shy away from/dislike?
-Do you think there are times where doing too much mobility work can be dangerous? Or does every player tend to be in need of more mobility work?
Quotes:
-"I think every exercise has a purpose, it's just defining what that purpose is is gonna be huge for the athlete" - Scott Nealon (25:29)
-"I don't really know if there's bad exercises; there just might be exercises that will fit better for a situation" - Joe Hudson (36:24)
-"We are teachers. We're trying to teach them what to do and how to act and how to best take the information that we have and apply it to their craft" - Rob Reichert (48:27)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@rob_reichert_cscs - Rob Reichert
@hudson_jr12 - Joe Hudson
@snealon4205 - Scott Nealon
Twitter:
@RobReichertJr - Rob Reichert
@Coach_JoeHudson - Joe Hudson
@snea42 - Scott Nealon
This brief episode marks the four year anniversary of The PBSCCS Podcast.
If you are enjoying the podcast, please leave ratings and reviews on iTunes - this will help the outreach of the podcast grow.
If you want more information from the PBSCCS, you can follow along on social media:
Twitter: @PBSCCS
Instagram: @PBSCCS
or go to the website: http://baseballstrength.org/
Thank you to all the listeners and guests for the support over the first four years of this podcast!
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on arm care.
Speakers:
-Connor Derrickson (formerly Minnesota Twins organization)
-Logan Jones (Arizona Diamondbacks organization)
-Taylor Haslinger (Toronto Blue Jays organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Do you have a separate arm care protocol or do you consider your overall training program to be enough?
-Are there any "must have" exercises that you think should be staples in arm care programs? Are there any exercises you want to avoid at all costs?
-Resources to find more on arm care for baseball players
Quotes:
-"I think you can get a lot of good arm care through quality training and quality movement" - Connor Derrickson (4:16)
-"I think that arm care is total body care and total body care is arm care" - Logan Jones (5:15)
-"Structure dictates function" - Taylor Haslinger (28:14)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@connorderrickson - Connor Derrickson
@logan_jones95 - Logan Jones
@t_has - Taylor Haslinger
Twitter:
@Logan_Jones95 - Logan Jones
@t_haslinger - Taylor Haslinger
Alex Tavarez is the Latin American Performance Coach Coordinator for the New York Mets organization. Based out of Port St. Lucie, FL he oversees the S&C Department in the Dominican Republic while assisting at the PSL complex. He is currently going into his 8th year with the organization and 3rd in his current role. He was the S&C for the GCL Mets, Class A Columbia Fireflies, High A St. Lucie Mets and the 2016 Arizona Fall League Scottsdale Scorpions. Prior to joining the Mets he served as an S&C Coach at St. Leo University in Tampa, FL. He completed his degree in Exercise Science and Health Promotion at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, FL in 2013. He is from Ft. Lauderdale, FL and currently resides in Fort Pierce, FL with his wife Monica.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Being at an affiliate versus being a coordinator
-Continuing education resources
-Networking
Quotes:
-"As a strength coach you really have to have an understanding of who your athletes are and how to approach them differently" (1:48)
-"Stay humble in everything that you do" (16:29)
-"If everybody within the organization is working towards becoming better and improving, the organization itself is going to improve" (20:44)
If you would like to learn more from Alex, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@rico1226
Alex Tavarez is the Latin American Performance Coach Coordinator for the New York Mets organization. Based out of Port St. Lucie, FL he oversees the S&C Department in the Dominican Republic while assisting at the PSL complex. He is currently going into his 8th year with the organization and 3rd in his current role. He was the S&C for the GCL Mets, Class A Columbia Fireflies, High A St. Lucie Mets and the 2016 Arizona Fall League Scottsdale Scorpions. Prior to joining the Mets he served as an S&C Coach at St. Leo University in Tampa, FL. He completed his degree in Exercise Science and Health Promotion at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, FL in 2013. He is from Ft. Lauderdale, FL and currently resides in Fort Pierce, FL with his wife Monica.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Being the Latin American Coordinator (and working with young Latin players)
-Working the Arizona Fall League
-Auditing your program and including players in the process
Quotes:
-"We're in the weightroom or we're on a ball field. I mean it doesn't get much better than that" (22:54)
-"I just buy-in to my simplicity of things and get the work done" (23:48)
-"You stay consistent for a long time and you're gonna have success" (24:55)
If you would like to learn more from Alex, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@rico1226
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on assessment protocols.
Speakers:
-Trevor Swartz (Colorado Rockies organization)
-Joe Hudson (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Goldy Simmons (Chicago White Sox organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Do you believe in "baseball-specific" assessments, or do you think creating a "general profile" is sufficient enough?
-Training athletes in the professional setting vs. the private setting
Quotes:
-"I think there's a lot to be learned from doing general things that can basically give you the information you need about the baseball-specific demands" - Goldy Simmons (1:43)
-"The goal is for you to go play at 7:00pm" - Trevor Swartz (19:13)
-"Things are dictated very often by the season and also by the goals and the outcomes" - Joe Hudson (21:42)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@trevor_swartz9 - Trevor Swartz
@hudson_jr12 - Joe Hudson
@gsimmons88 - Goldy Simmons
Twitter:
@tswartz9 - Trevor Swartz
@Coach_JoeHudson - Joe Hudson
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on assessment protocols.
Speakers:
-Trevor Swartz (Colorado Rockies organization)
-Joe Hudson (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Goldy Simmons (Chicago White Sox organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-What would your ideal assessment process look like?
-If you could only pick one assessment/area of assessment to find out the most about an athlete, what would it be?
-What assessment protocol do you lean on the least for information?
Quotes:
-"The goal at the end of the day is to prep these guys to go play 140 or 162 games" - Trevor Swartz (7:27)
-"You're much more likely to get buy-in from that athlete if he knows what these numbers mean" - Joe Hudson (11:20)
-"It's our job to optimize movement" - Goldy Simmons (15:50)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@trevor_swartz9 - Trevor Swartz
@hudson_jr12 - Joe Hudson
@gsimmons88 - Goldy Simmons
Twitter:
@tswartz9 - Trevor Swartz
@Coach_JoeHudson - Joe Hudson
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on rehab and return-to-play.
Speakers:
-Ben Chadwick (Boston Red Sox organization)
-John Perry (Texas Rangers organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-What are the steps to determining a plan of action/path to success for a player post-injury?
-How do you handle setbacks that occur in a rehab progression?
-How do you deal with the mental side of long-term rehab?
-How much say does the athlete have throughout the process?
-Rehab at the affiliate vs. at the complex
Quotes:
-"Involving the athlete, I think, is very important in the process" - Ben Chadwick (11:31)
-"The mental side of rehab is something people don't talk about a lot" - John Perry (23:10)
-"Guys don't want to be babied" - Ben Chadwick (45:27)
-"It's important to take things and take them in stride as a challenge" - John Perry (52:14)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@bchadwic - Ben Chadwick
@jtperry16 - John Perry
Twitter:
@jtperry16 - John Perry
John Perry serves as the Rehab Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Texas Rangers. He spent two years working as a Minor League S&C coach in the New York Mets organization. Prior to joining the Mets, Perry was as a strength and conditioning coach at Georgia Tech in 2017 – working with the baseball and football teams – and was a graduate assistant strength coach at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock from July 2015-May 2017. He also spent a portion of 2015 as a strength and conditioning intern at the University of Georgia. The Georgia native earned his bachelor’s degree from Kennesaw State University and a master’s degree in Sports Management from Arkansas-Little Rock. John and his wife, Kristen, reside in Surprise, Arizona, with their daughters, Reagan and Caroline.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Microdosing and in-season training
-Cultivating culture and motivating players
-Tommy John rehab
Quotes:
-"This is a people-first business that we are in" (10:46)
-"Collaboration is also what helps create buy-in" (24:04)
-"Top-end velo was not meant for the arm, so we're gonna deal with elbow injuries for as long as baseball is around" (33:54)
If you would like to learn more from John, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@jtperry16
Twitter:
@jtperry16
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on the OnBaseU certification and conference.
Speakers:
-Joe Hudson (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Taylor Haslinger (Toronto Blue Jays organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-How was the overall experience at OnBaseU? What was the perception about the content presented and how it relates to what we do?
-What big takeaways came from the seminar/conference?
-Are there any things that caused uncertainty?
-Where does this fit in within professional baseball setting? Should others attend/follow OnBaseU content?
Quotes:
-"You don't necessarily have to stand behind them with everything that they were saying" - Joe Hudson (3:43)
-"Communication is key and is the most important thing to get the most out of your athletes regardless of your setting" - Joe Hudson (4:30)
-"It's very simple and translatable" - Taylor Haslinger (7:06)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@hudson_jr12 - Joe Hudson
@t_has - Taylor Haslinger
Twitter:
@Coach_JoeHudson - Joe Hudson
@t_haslinger - Taylor Haslinger
Adam Vish is entering his 10th year in professional baseball, and his first season at the Major League level as a Strength & Conditioning Coach with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He has previously spent the last eight seasons in the San Francisco Giants organization, working most recently in Player Development as the Minor League Strength & Conditioning Coordinator for the last two years after serving as the Assistant Minor League Strength & Conditioning Coordinator in 2018.
Prior to joining the Giants in 2013, Vish spent time in the Kansas City Royals minor league system as a strength and conditioning coach in 2011 and 2012. He’s a two time PBSCCS Strength & Conditioning Coach of the year recipient, capturing the AA Eastern League in 2015 while working with the Richmond Flying Squirrels; as well as in 2012 while with the Wilmington Blue Rocks of the Carolina League.
The 33-year-old Vish is a 2010 graduate from the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned his B.S. in Exercise Science (2009) and his M.S. in Exercise and Human Physiology (2010). Vish also holds his RSCC and CSCS certifications from the NSCA.
A native of Sewickley, PA, Vish currently resides in Cranberry, PA, with his wife, Nola, son Grayson and daughter Aryana.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His upcoming PBSCCS and CPSDA webinar presentation
-Working in the Appalachian League
-Leadership
Quotes:
-"I think that we can have an impact not just on how they play, but how they are mentally" (21:47)
-"A lot of things come back to the weight room and the training room" (32:06)
-"Whether it's something that you haven't thought about in a while or a new idea I think that you can always be learning" (45:57)
If you would like to learn more from Adam you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@ajvish13
Twitter:
@AdamJVish
If you would like to sign-up for the webinar, follow the link below:
http://baseballstrength.org/pbsccs-events/
This episode of the podcast is to bring about awareness of our upcoming webinar, "The Importance of Nutrition, Strength, and Mental Health in Sports". The webinar will be co-hosted with the CPSDA, and you can sign up following the link below:
http://baseballstrength.org/pbsccs-events/
The speakers in this episode are as follows:
*Allison Maurer is a veteran sports dietitian with more than 16 years of experience fueling athletes from high school, collegiate, to professional athletes. She is the Director of Sports Nutrition and Fueling with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Previously, Maurer spent nearly nine years as the Sports Dietitian at the University of Tennessee (2007-2016) where she oversaw the performance nutrition for all sports. Before the University of Tennessee, Maurer was the Sports Dietitian and an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at the University of Colorado, Boulder (2004-2007). Maurer served on the board of directors for The Collegiate and Professional Sports Dietitians Association (CPSDA) for 6 years. She is a board certified specialist in sports dietetics (CSSD), and a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS).
*Wendy Sterling, MS, RD, CSSD, CEDRD-S is a Certified Eating Disorders Registered Dietitian Supervisor through the International Eating Association of Eating Disorder Professionals, and a Board-Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics. She is the Team Nutritionist of the Oakland Athletics, and was the former nutritionist for the NY Jets, and Golden State Warriors. She is the owner of Sterling Nutrition, a nutrition private practice in the Bay Area, and utilizes a non-diet, Health at Every Size® approach. She is the co-author of “How to Nourish Your Child Through an Eating Disorder.” She and her co-author Casey Crosbie, RD, CEDRDS created the innovative approach to refeeding called the “Plate-by-Plate Approach®,” a no-numbers, visual approach, which has been featured in the Journal of Nutrition and Dietetics. She is also the co-author of “No Weigh! A Teens Guide to Body Image, Food, and Emotional Wisdom.” She and her co-authors have an upcoming book, due late 2021, for parents who want to help their teens with body satisfaction and their relationship to food. Wendy received her B.S. in dietetics/nutritional sciences from Cornell University. She earned her Master’s Degree in Nutrition Education at Teacher’s College at Columbia University where she also completed her dietetic internship. For more on her practice, check out her website at: www.sterlingnutrition.com.
*Ally Gallop, MS, RD, CSSD, ISAK Level 1 is the Major League Dietitian for the Houston Astros Baseball Club in Houston, Texas, previously working as the Assistant Director of Sports Nutrition for the University of Utah. For the Astros, Ally runs the nutrition programming for the 40-man roster, including medical nutrition therapy and performance nutrition programming. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Food, Nutrition, Health from the University of British Columbia, Masters of Nutrition from Tufts University, and a diploma in sports nutrition from the International Olympic Committee. She is board-certified as a specialist in sports dietetics and writes a performance nutrition blog at GallopToVictory.com.
For more information from our speakers, follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@pprfuel - Allison Maurer
@wendy_sterling - Wendy Sterling
@allygallop - Ally Gallop
Twitter:
@pprfuel - Allison Maurer
@WendyMSRD - Wendy Sterling
@allygallop - Ally Gallop
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on continuing education.
Speakers:
-Andy King (San Francisco Giants organization)
-Adam Smith (LA Angels organization)
-Justin Bucko (Cincinnati Reds organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Your process/approach to developing yourself as a coach
-What has changed since you started and how?
-Go-to sources for continuing to develop and grow as a coach
-Advice for others on developing a process for growth and/or continuing education
Quotes:
-"More times than not a lot of coaches are putting a lot of quality information out there that we can dive into" - Andy King (17:57)
-"Always be curious" - Adam Smith (27:47)
-"You can't adjust something if you don't have anything to look back on" - Justin Bucko (31:46)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@coachak15 - Andy King
@adampsmith_ - Adam Smith
@justin_bucko - Justin Bucko
Twitter:
@CoachAK15 - Andy King
@SCcoachsmith - Adam Smith
@JustinMBucko - Justin Bucko
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on the role of mental skills in professional baseball.
Speakers:
-Dong Lien (Philadelphia Phillies organization)
-Joey Greany (Tampa Bay Rays organization)
-Derek Mendoza (Seattle Mariners organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-How valuable is the mental side of the game?
-What aspects of mental training do you believe in most?
-How do you tie-in mental skills training with the other aspects of an overall approach to performance?
-Where to go to learn more about mental skills training
Quotes:
-"We're teachers. We're coaches. We have a chance to impact athletes' lives each and every day" - Joey Greany (3:32)
-"It's not what happens to you; it's about how you handle it" - Derek Mendoza (17:43)
-"Our job is never-ending. You never really punch out. You never leave" - Dong Lien (21:50)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@joeygreany - Joey Greany
@findyourprime - Derek Mendoza
@donglien - Dong Lien
Twitter:
@JoeyGreany - Joey Greany
@DongLien - Dong Lien
Jeff Dolan is entering his first year in the Boston Red Sox organization. Prior to joining the Red Sox he spent one season with the Phoenix Suns as assistant strength and conditioning coach after spending nearly two years as assistant strength and conditioning coach at the University of Illinois where he oversaw the physical preparation of the baseball and women’s soccer teams. With the Suns, Dolan’s primary role included assisting with all day-to-day weight room operations along with assisting in the delivery of the Suns’ strength and conditioning training sessions.
He previously worked as a minor league strength and conditioning coach in the New York Yankees organization, earning the 2017 South Atlantic League Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year award while with the Charleston RiverDogs after winning the 2016 Appalachian League Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year award with the Pulaski Yankees.
A native of Rochester, NY, Dolan holds a Master’s in Exercise Science from the University of South Florida and Bachelor’s degrees in Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology from SUNY Brockport. He is a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS).
Topics covered in this episode:
-Jeff returning to work in professional baseball
-His new isometric training course
-The process of building your own system
Quotes:
-"What I have found is that isometric training - I think it's one of the most efficient methods of training you can use" (18:56)
-"Everything is in Supertraining" (25:27)
-"It's not how much force you can produce, it's how much force you can produce in a limited amount of time that's going to determine how you perform" (32:07)
If you would like to learn more from Jeff, you can check out his course below:
https://linktr.ee/Jdolan787 (Use code "PBSCCS" for discount)
or by following him on social media:
Instagram:
@hammerofdolan
Twitter:
@HammerOfDolan
Additionally thank you to all our All-Star sponsors of The PBSCCS Podcast:
-Momentous
-Woodway
-Oura Ring
-Garden of Life
-Proven4
-Direct Fitness Solutions
-Klean Athlete
Jeff Dolan is entering his first year in the Boston Red Sox organization. Prior to joining the Red Sox he spent one season with the Phoenix Suns as assistant strength and conditioning coach after spending nearly two years as assistant strength and conditioning coach at the University of Illinois where he oversaw the physical preparation of the baseball and women’s soccer teams. With the Suns, Dolan’s primary role included assisting with all day-to-day weight room operations along with assisting in the delivery of the Suns’ strength and conditioning training sessions.
He previously worked as a minor league strength and conditioning coach in the New York Yankees organization, earning the 2017 South Atlantic League Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year award while with the Charleston RiverDogs after winning the 2016 Appalachian League Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year award with the Pulaski Yankees.
A native of Rochester, NY, Dolan holds a Master’s in Exercise Science from the University of South Florida and Bachelor’s degrees in Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology from SUNY Brockport. He is a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS).
Topics covered in this episode:
-Comparing and contrasting the NBA with professional baseball
-His best professional baseball story
-Being adaptable and how it can help in your career
Quotes:
-"You always have to consider what am i trying to get out of this training stimulus in terms of an adaptation" (36:54)
-"Adaptability is the number one ability that a strength coach needs to have" (41:57)
-"The weightroom will only take you so far" (46:18)
If you would like to learn more from Jeff, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@hammerofdolan
Twitter:
@HammerOfDolan
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on in-season nutrition and supplementation (A and Rookie).
Speakers:
-Joe Hudson (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Jordan Brown (Tampa Bay Rays organization)
-Goldy Simmons (Chicago White Sox organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Roles in the overall nutrition/supplementation picture during the season
-Big rocks to try to cover with nutrition and/or supplementation for players
-Challenges faced with nutrition/supplementation
-Advice for others/tricks of the trade
Quotes:
-"Start with the simple things" - Joe Hudson (12:38)
-"Your athletes' expectations are going to be derived from what you put forward as a person and as a strength coach" - Goldy Simmons (58:56)
-"We need to be able to just come with an open mind and open ears and listen to an athlete that comes to you for help" - Jordan Brown (59:33)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@hudson_jr12 - Joe Hudson
@gsimmons88 - Goldy Simmons
Twitter:
@Coach_JoeHudson - Joe Hudson
@jordan_b28 - Jordan Brown
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on the 2020 Alternate Site and the COVID restrictions involved.
Speakers:
-Travis Roberson (Cleveland Indians organization)
-Andy King (San Francisco Giants organization)
-Mike Lidge (Philadelphia Phillies organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Discussion on life at the alternate site
-Biggest challenges faced during the season
-Lessons learned that will help moving forward
-Finding ways to stay sane/busy
Quotes:
-"As strength coaches we want to be able to be consistent on a day-to-day basis" - Mike Lidge (10:44)
-"Hopefully it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that we never go through a season like this again" - Andy King (29:44)
-"Things are going to happen and you gotta be able to have two, three, four back-up plans" - Travis Roberson (31:47)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@robersont7 - Travis Roberson
@coachak15 - Andy King
@m_lidge89 - Mike Lidge
Twitter:
@robersont77 - Travis Roberson
@CoachAK15 - Andy King
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on the 2020 Major League season and the COVID restrictions involved.
Speakers:
-Kiyoshi Momose (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Scott Weberg (Toronto Blue Jays organization)
-Dong Lien (Philadelphia Phillies organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-COVID restrictions and the changes required during the season
-Biggest challenges faced this season
-Lessons learned that will help in the future
-Given the choice would you rather have a 60-game COVID restricted season or a full 162-game season with no restrictions?
Quotes:
-"Everyone knew this was going to be a challenge" - Scott Weberg (22:37)
-"We can be more efficient" - Kiyoshi Momose (25:54)
-"One thing the virus has done is kind of forced everybody to have an open mind because you didn't know what was going to happen" - Dong Lien (27:05)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@donglien - Dong Lien
Twitter:
@DongLien - Dong Lien
Logan Frandsen is in his fourth season with the Texas Rangers Organization. He currently is in his second year as the minor league strength and conditioning coordinator after previously serving as the rehab strength and conditioning coach in 2019. He joined the organization in 2018 and served as the strength and conditioning coach at High-A Down East.
Prior to joining the Rangers, Frandsen was the head strength and conditioning coach for baseball at his alma mater, Sonoma State (CA) University. He also completed a pair of internships with PAC-12 athletic programs, working with the baseball and football programs at Cal Berkeley in spring 2017 and assisting multiple sports at Stanford University in the summer of 2017.
Logan played college baseball at Oregon State University and Sonoma State. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Sonoma State and is currently in the process of finishing a Masters of Science in Kinesiology from A.T. Still University.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Helping players in the rehab setting
-Accumulation of learning
-Being a generalist
Quotes:
-"A big reason why we all get into this thing is to help people" (5:01)
-"We're here to serve the athlete" (9:56)
-"I think we're in a time where these guys are starving for education" (10:48)
If you would like to learn more from Logan, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@frandsenstrength
Twitter:
@LFrandsen_33
Dong Lien is from Winnipeg, Manitoba. He enters his 16th season in professional baseball with the Philadelphia Phillies. He is the Major League Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Sports Science from the University of Manitoba and earned his Master’s degree in Exercise Science from California University of Pennsylvania during the 2010 season. During his time at the U of M, he worked as student athletic therapist with Men’s Basketball and the Winnipeg Goldeyes Baseball (Northern League.)
Professionally Dong began his professional career in 2005 as MiLB Strength & Conditioning Coach for the Clearwater Threshers (High-A). He was promoted to MiLB Coordinator in 2007, and MLB Strength & Conditioning Coach in 2008. He took a step-back to MiLB level Lehigh Valley (2014-2017) before returning as the Major League Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach in 2018.
Topics covered in this episode:
-The "5:00 am Club"
-Collaboration
-Travel
Quotes:
-"You do recognize those commonalities of these successful athletes that truly take it to another level" (13:00)
-"Respect the coaches that were here before us" (22:55)
-"There's no one template that fits all our professional athletes" (35:30)
If you would like to learn more from Dong, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@donglien
Twitter:
@DongLien
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on in-season nutrition and supplementation (AAA and AA).
Speakers:
-Derek Mendoza (Seattle Mariners organization)
-Paul Howey (Atlanta Braves organization)
-RJ Guyer (Washington Nationals organization)
Questions/topics covered in this episode:
-Roles in the overall nutrition/supplementation picture during the season
-Big rocks to try to cover with nutrition and/or supplementation for players
-Challenges faced with nutrition/supplementation
-Advice for others/tricks of the trade
Quotes:
-"It's learning the things that your players will and won't eat" - Paul Howey (32:22)
-"Don't mow your grass when your house is on fire" - Derek Mendoza (40:28)
-"Make the players a part of the process" - RJ Guyer (42:41)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@findyourprime - Derek Mendoza
@howeycscs_lmt - Paul Howey
Nathan Friedman, CSCS, is a Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Arizona Diamondbacks. He is in his second season in professional baseball with the Dbacks. He has a BS in Kinesiology and MS in Sport and Exercise Psychology from Temple University. While enrolled at Temple, he worked six seasons with the Temple football team in various capacities including undergraduate student assistant, assistant video coordinator and strength and conditioning assistant.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Being a two-time MiLB Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year
-Networking and relationship building
Quotes:
-"They can tell when someone is really being themselves and putting themselves out there and when they're just trying to put a show on" (8:29)
-"I think all of us as a profession are pretty selfless individuals" (12:45)
-"I believe being an effective communicator is the most important tool a strength coach can have" (17:31)
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is part two of a group discussion on speed training.
Speakers:
-Logan Byman (Pittsburgh Pirates organization)
-Adam Noel (Texas Rangers organization)
-Jordan Brown (Tampa Bay Rays organization)
Questions/topics covered in the episode:
-Continuing education resources
-Acceleration vs. top end speed
-Additional closing thoughts
Quotes:
-"Your goal is to have guys playing at the highest ability everyday" - Logan Byman (17:02)
-"You gotta want to increase your value, and this right here, this is it" - Adam Noel (28:39)
-"Obviously don't start with the most advanced thing possible; just keep it simple" - Jordan Brown (29:20)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@loganbyman - Logan Byman
@coachnoel89 - Adam Noel
Twitter:
@adam_noel89 - Adam Noel
@jordan_b28 - Jordan Brown
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is part one of a group discussion on speed training.
Speakers:
-Logan Byman (Pittsburgh Pirates organization)
-Adam Noel (Texas Rangers organization)
-Jordan Brown (Tampa Bay Rays organization)
Questions/topics covered in the episode:
-General discussion on speed training philosophy
-Volume guidelines, drills, and progressions used
-In-season vs. off-season adjustments
-Return-to-Play protocols
Quotes:
-"In-season, you know, it's all about management for those position players" - Jordan Brown (14:11)
-"Don't be a drill collector" - Adam Noel (14:59)
-"This is as close to an on-field sport coach you're ever gonna be as a strength coach" - Logan Byman (55:34)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@loganbyman - Logan Byman
@coachnoel89 - Adam Noel
Twitter:
@adam_noel89 - Adam Noel
@jordan_b28 - Jordan Brown
Kyle Lindsey is in his third year with the Atlanta Braves organization, having served as the strength and conditioning coach for the Danville Braves in 2018 and the Gulf Coast League Braves in 2019. Before joining the Braves, Lindsey was an intern for Texas Christian University (2017-2018) and the University of Alabama at Birmingham (2016-2017) and worked primarily with the schools’ baseball, beach and indoor volleyball programs. He is an alumnus of Auburn University with his bachelor’s degree in psychology (2012) and master’s degree in exercise science (2015) with a specialization in biomechanics and minor in sport management. As a graduate student he assisted faculty and doctoral candidates with their research in sport biomechanics and motor performance. Lindsey is a native of Texas and resides in the Dallas area during the off-season.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Being named GCL Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year (2019)
-Paleontology
Quotes:
-"I want my players to see that I'm willing to do what I ask them to do on a daily basis" (11:15)
-"I've always made an effort to get to know my players on a personal level" (13:29)
-"The sooner that you can get experience the better" (20:13)
If you would like to learn more from Kyle, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@kylerobertl
Twitter:
@KyleLindsey
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on in-season recovery techniques.
Speakers:
-Logan Jones (Arizona Diamondbacks organization)
-Danny Escobar (LA Angels organization)
-Travis Roberson (Cleveland Indians organization)
Questions/topics covered in the episode:
-Overall thoughts on the importance of recovery modalities in-season
-Challenges faced trying to improve recovery in professional baseball
-Discussion on ideal vs. reality for players
-Modalities that have proven to be successful
-Resources for continuing education on various recovery techniques
Quotes:
-"I think as performance coaches our first job is to just do no harm" - Logan Jones (2:42)
-"In Minor League Baseball you gotta be creative, especially on the road" - Travis Roberson (23:37)
-"One of the biggest resources that are available for recovery modalities is looking at powerlifters and Olympic weightlifters" - Danny Escobar (34:02)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@logan_jones95 - Logan Jones
@robersont7 - Travis Roberson
@edanielescobar - Danny Escobar
Twitter:
@Logan_Jones95 - Logan Jones
@robersont77 - Travis Roberson
@edanielescobar - Danny Escobar
This brief episode marks the three year anniversary of The PBSCCS Podcast. The episode covers what has been added and what will be added in the year to come, as well as some updates on the PBSCCS.
Group episodes were the big addition to the podcast in year three. The feedback has been very positive thus far, and we will continue to have more group episodes in the future.
We will also be working to add sponsors to our podcast this year (with potential discount codes for listeners).
In terms of the PBSCCS, we have added an Instagram page with content posted weekly. We will be upgrading our website this year and will be hosting a Virtual Clinic in conjunction with the NSCA.
For more information on the clinic, please follow the link below:
https://www.nsca.com/events/clinics/baseball-clinic/
If you are enjoying the podcast, please leave ratings and reviews on iTunes - this will help the outreach of the podcast grow.
If you want more information from the PBSCCS, you can follow along on social media:
Twitter: @PBSCCS
Instagram: @PBSCCS
or go to the website: http://baseballstrength.org/
Thank you to all the listeners and guests for the support over the first three years of this podcast!
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on using Functional Range Conditioning (FRC) in professional baseball.
Speakers:
-Al Sandoval (Texas Rangers organization)
-Derek Mendoza (Seattle Mariners organization)
-Trevor Swartz (Colorado Rockies organization)
Questions/topics covered in the episode:
-Overall thoughts on Functional Range Conditioning
-Biggest misconceptions about FRC
-How to implement FRC in the professional baseball setting
-Advice for others on implementing FRC and where to find more information
-Must use drills
Quotes:
-"It's a tool in the toolbox, but it's a tool that I use a lot more often than my other tools" - Derek Mendoza (3:28)
-"Teaching people how to move their body like it was meant to be moved is huge" - Al Sandoval (34:55)
-"Do them when you can, where you can" - Trevor Swartz (36:10)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@alsando22 - Al Sandoval
@findyourprime - Derek Mendoza
@trevor_swartz9 - Trevor Swartz
Twitter:
@AlSandoval22 - Al Sandoval
@tswartz9 - Trevor Swartz
Eric Ortego just completed his 3rd season in the Cleveland Indians organization and is currently assigned to the Lynchburg Hillcats. Prior to joining the Indians organization, Eric was the Assistant Director of Strength and Conditioning at McNeese State University, where he was the head strength and conditioning coach for baseball, softball, and volleyball, and the assistant strength and conditioning coach for football. He was in this position from January 2014 to January 2017. He has also been a Graduate Assistant at the University of Louisiana at Monroe (August 2013 to January 2014) and has completed internships at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (January 2012 to May 2012) and the University of Louisiana at Monroe (January 2013 to August 2013).
Eric earned a B.S. in Kinesiology – Exercise Science from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in May 2012 and a M.S. in Applied Exercise Physiology from the University of Louisiana at Monroe in December 2013. He was also a college baseball player at LSU-Eunice, where he was part of the 2008 NJCAA National Championship team.
Eric is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Discipline, organization, and teamwork
-Finding success in strength and conditioning
Quotes:
-"Everything in professional baseball is starting to get more individualized" (8:58)
-"I'm still trying to learn how to be successful myself" (11:57)
-"Always make the main goal the main goal" (14:26)
If you would like to learn more from Eric, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@eric_ortego
Twitter:
@Eric_Ortego
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on building effective working relationships between strength and conditioning coaches and other members of the medical staff.
Speakers:
-David Meyer
-Johnny Larson
Questions/topics covered in the episode:
-General discussion on the working relationship these two had while together in the St. Louis Cardinals organization
-How to define roles, build trust, and use effective communication within this relationship
-How to effectively navigate different situations with players (injuries, different personalities, etc.) through this relationship
-Advice for others on how to better develop/maintain these working relationships
Quotes:
-"Before I was ever even a PT I was interested in the strength and conditioning side" - David Meyer (19:33)
-"We were constantly learning from one another" - Johnny Larson (23:10)
-"I think there needs to be overall less finger-pointing at each other and there needs to be more uplifting of each other" - David Meyer (31:58)
-"Look at yourself as a performance team. You're there to work for a common goal" - Johnny Larson (55:05)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@davemmeyer - David Meyer
@johnny_larson89 - Johnny Larson
Twitter:
@JPLarson89 - Johnny Larson
or by checking out David's podcast:
The Injured to Elite Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-injured-to-elite-podcast/id1495593399
Chris Giacchino is a certified strength and conditioning coach, certified athletic trainer and holds his USAW certification.
Chris is in his third season with the Cleveland Indians and in his second season as the Minor League S&C Coordinator. Chris spent his first year with the organization as a strength coach in the Arizona Rookie League (AZL).
Prior to joining the Cleveland Indians organization, Chris spent 4 seasons at Purdue University as an Assistant Director of Football Strength & Conditioning. There he led sport science initiatives and worked directly with skill position players. He also managed the S&C programming for players returning to play, players in long-term rehabilitation, and players with acute training modifications. In addition to Football, Chris led S&C for Cheerleading, Cross County and Throwers for Track & Field.
Chris has previous coaching experiences at the University of Connecticut, Texas Christian University, and Quinnipiac University.
Chris earned his Master’s of Science in Exercise Science and was a Graduate Assistant strength coach at the University of Connecticut. He earned his Bachelors of Science in both Exercise Science and Athletic Training from Sacred Heart University.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Latin players in professional baseball
-Social media
Quotes:
-"To me sport specificity doesn't even exist in the weightroom" (6:03)
-"Every system has worked for somebody at some point in their career" (9:33)
-"They are way more interested in your loyalty than anything else" (11:50)
If you would like to learn more from Chris, you can check out his articles on the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/push-ups-in-high-school-baseball-by-chris-giacchino-atc-cscs/
http://baseballstrength.org/goblet-squat-in-high-school-baseball-by-chris-giacchino-atc-cscs-cleveland-indians/
or by following him on social media:
Instagram:
@coach_gchino
Twitter:
@CoachGchino
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on working Winter Ball.
Speakers:
-Ben Chadwick (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Derek Mendoza (Seattle Mariners organization)
-Tanner Miracle (New York Mets organization)
Questions/topics covered in the episode:
-General discussion on working Winter Ball (including teams, roles, responsibilities, etc.)
-How do you view your experience while working Winter Ball?
-How did your time during Winter Ball make you a better coach when returning to the States?
-How did you get involved with your Winter Ball team and what advice do you have for other coaches who may want to get involved?
-What is your best Winter Ball story?
Quotes:
-"It's unlike any other type of baseball you've seen" - Derek Mendoza (13:59)
-"Most teams are going to have some sort of coach that has a connection in one of the leagues" - Ben Chadwick (41:34)
-"My advice to any strength coach that has the opportunity to do this is do your research and really take a hard look at it" - Tanner Miracle (43:55)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@findyourprime - Derek Mendoza
@tanman_miracle - Tanner Miracle
@bchadwic - Ben Chadwick
Twitter:
@CoachMiracleTM - Tanner Miracle
Andrea Nunez is currently a strength and conditioning coach in the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim organization. She is the first Latina Strength and Conditioning Coach in professional baseball. She spent the 2019 season in the AZL, winning the award of Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year in that league. She is originally from Ciudad Juarez, CH, and a graduate of Santa Teresa High School. She was an NCAA Volleyball athlete at New Mexico Highlands University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in HPS. She is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the NSCA and a Level 1 Certified Coach through USA Weightlifting.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Being the first Latina Strength and Conditioning Coach in Professional Baseball
-Being Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year in the AZL
-Humility and work ethic
Quotes:
-"I am fully aware that I am not where I want to be yet. I have a lot of work to do and I remain humble through all situations" (11:16)
-"How do you make your own energy?" (13:28)
-"We have to have top notch work ethic" (18:48)
If you would like to learn more from Andrea, you can follow her on social media:
Instagram:
@excuseszero_
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on using force plates and jump testing.
Speakers:
-Trevor Swartz (Colorado Rockies organization)
-Brian Buck (Sparta Science)
Questions/topics covered in the episode:
-General force plate discussion (frequency of testing, metrics used, testing used, etc.)
-How are you taking that data and using it to drive changes?
-Challenges you face/backlash from athletes (dealing with "well what does that mean?")
-Continuing education about force plates - where to find more info
Quotes:
-"It's selfish as a practitioner to think that we're just gonna test and eventually figure it out and then come back with a better plan" - Brian Buck (15:54)
-"The training is meant to offset what is going on in the game" - Trevor Swartz (19:28)
-"A force plate is just hardware. Let's not forget that. It's the interpretation that matters" - Brian Buck (53:42)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@trevor_swartz9 - Trevor Swartz
@brianbuck6 - Brian Buck
Twitter:
@tswartz9 - Trevor Swartz
@brianbuck6 - Brian Buck
Larry Adegoke is entering his 3rd season as a Strength and Conditioning Coach for the New York Yankees Organization. Larry spent the previous 2 seasons at Appalachian League Rookie Affiliate, Pulaski Yankees. Prior to becoming a Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Yankees, Larry worked as an intern for the Yankee’s Performance Science Department. Originally from Gwinnett, Georgia, Larry attended Kennesaw State University where he interned as a Strength and Conditioning Coach for their football program. Following the completion of his undergraduate degree, he moved to Tampa, Florida to pursue his master’s degree in Exercise and Nutrition Science at The University of Tampa. Larry currently resides in Tampa, Florida.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Training at Diesel Fitness
-Star Wars Night in Danville
-Limitations and psychological blocks
Quotes:
-"There is a better view on the scenic route" (12:29)
-"I think, as strength coaches, our job is to help guys maximize their potential" (15:49)
-"I believe that everybody you work with impacts you positively or negatively" (25:27)
If you would like to learn more from Larry, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@larry.strength
This episode of The PBSCCS Podcast is a group discussion on programming and strength training.
Speakers:
-Ben Chadwick (Boston Red Sox organization)
-Travis Roberson (Cleveland Indians organization)
-Ben Loftis (San Diego Padres organization)
Questions/topics covered in the episode:
-What does your current (or most recent) programming for yourself look like?
-Do you differentiate your programming from the programming you do for your athletes? If so, how?
-General discussion on programming modalities for athletes (percentage-based vs. velocity-based vs. perceived exertion-based)
Quotes:
-"We are problem solvers by nature" - Ben Lofts (14:50)
-"We think we're the most important part of their day, but really we're just the support system for what they do on the field" - Travis Roberson (21:18)
-"You're only limited by how creative your mind can be" - Ben Chadwick (45:47)
If you would like to learn more from the guests on this episode, you can follow them on social media:
Instagram:
@loftistrong - Ben Loftis
@robersont7 - Travis Roberson
@bchadwic - Ben Chadwick
Twitter:
@loftistrong - Ben Loftis
@robersont77 - Travis Roberson
Scott Weberg just completed his 13th year in professional baseball. While the 2019 season was his first as the Head Major League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator for the Toronto Blue Jays, he has served the Blue Jays in several positions including Assistant Major League Strength and Conditioning Coach (2017-2018), Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator (2016); Assistant Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator (2014-2015); and Advanced-A affiliate Strength and Conditioning coach 2012-2013. Scott entered professional baseball in 2007 as a member of the Chicago Cubs minor league strength and conditioning staff. While with the Cubs, he served as the AAA Strength and Conditioning Coach (2007 and 2008) and Assistant Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator (2009 and 2010). Scott's vast experience in baseball also includes Strength and Conditioning Coach for Team Canada in the 2017 World Baseball Classic and Strength and Conditioning Coordinator, Netherlands Region, with MLB International from 2012-2013. Prior to becoming involved in professional baseball, he helped facilitate The Athlete School, a startup youth training academy, in Waukee, IA in 2011. While in college, he was a strength and conditioning intern at Drake University in Des Moines, IA (2006-2007) and an assistant strength and conditioning coach at Morehead State University in Morehead, KY (2007-2008). A native of Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada, Scott graduated from Rutland Senior Secondary in 2003 where he earned letters in baseball, basketball, and volleyball. After high school, he enrolled at Porterville, College in Porterville, CA in 2003 and played baseball. He then transferred to Grand View University in Des Moines, IA where he earned three letters in baseball, was team captain, awarded the 2007 Champion of Character Award, named to the 2007 Academic All-Region VII team and 2006 and 2007 Academic All-Midwest Class Conference team. After receiving a BA in Health Promotion – Fitness Management from Grand View in 2007, he earned a MA Degree in Health, Physical Education and Sport Sciences from Morehead State University in Morehead, KY in 2008. Scott resides in Dunedin, FL during the off-season. His hobbies include traveling, fishing, and kayaking. He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach (RSCC) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). His service to the profession includes presentations at the Blue Jays Baseball Academy National Coaches Clinic in 2018, PBSCCS Winter Meetings in 2016, European Coaches Clinic in 2012 and Nova College CIOS in Haarlem, NL in 2013. Scott is currently the Treasurer of the PBSCCS.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Microdosing
-The art of cooking
Quotes:
-"We all have different paths" (6:19)
-"We're a family in a family" (8:47)
-"Anybody that's really good in this field wants to talk to other professionals" (11:33)
If you would like to learn more from Scott, you can read about him on the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/scott-weberg-ma-cscs-rscc/
Adam Smith is in his fifth year within the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim organization and is in his second year as their AAA strength and conditioning coach. Prior to his time with the Angels, he completed an NSCA Assistantship at Eastern Michigan University and completed internships at the NSCA, Syracuse University, and Binghamton University. Adam graduated from SUNY Cortland with a bachelors in kinesiology and holds his CSCS and RSCC through the NSCA, as well as his USAW1 through USA Weightlifting.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Building a quality environment
-Adaptability
Quotes:
-"I think environment is probably hands-down the single most important aspect of any strength and conditioning program" (5:09)
-"Figure out who is where you want to be and go learn from them" (11:11)
-"One of my little tricks is just get around people who are smarter than me as frequently as possible" (13:07)
If you would like to learn more from Adam, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@adampsmith_
Joe Palazzolo is going into his third season with the San Francisco Giants organization. He spent the last two seasons with Short Season Salem-Keizer. Before coming to the Giants, he was an intern with the Arizona Diamondbacks organization in 2017 and a Short Season Strength Coach in Batavia, NY with the Miami Marlins in 2016. Prior to working in professional baseball he worked as a Strength and Conditioning Coach at Aurora University in Illinois and started as a High School Strength Coach with Champaign Central in Illinois. He has a Masters degree in Kinesiology from A.T. Still University. A native of Champaign, Illinois, Joe and his wife Amanda currently reside in Gilbert, AZ.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Being named Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year twice
-Functional Range Conditioning (FRC)
Quotes:
-"If you can't get that buy-in, then you're not going to have the same energy and effort put into that program" (9:36)
-"We're blessed enough to wear a logo on our chest everyday" (13:18)
-"Books are about the cheapest education that you can get" (14:33)
Joe Hudson is in his third year as a Strength & Conditioning Coach within the Boston Red Sox organization. He has spent 5 seasons in professional baseball and another 4 years managing private sector sports performance facilities in Massachusetts. This past offseason, Joe opened his own performance facility, Hudson Strength, in Berlin, CT focusing on youth/high school athletic development and performance enhancement while working to develop a detailed assessment/testing protocol geared towards improving individual athletic performance profiles. He received his B.S. in Exercise Physiology from Plymouth State University (’12) and his M.S. in Exercise Science from Springfield College (’15). Joe and his wife Meghan currently live in Springfield, MA with their twin boys Callan & Griffin.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Fog Machine Incident
-Running a business
-Bench press in baseball
Quotes:
-"The biggest thing for me is the communication" (33:35)
-"I think the smarter the athlete is and the more autonomous we can get them with their training the better off they're gonna be" (35:29)
-"Adaptability is the best ability" (36:13)
If you would like to learn more from Joe, you can follow his website:
https://hudsonstrength.com
or on social media:
Instagram:
@hudson_jr12
@hudsonstrengthllc
Twitter:
@Coach_JoeHudson
Jordan Brown is from Caldwell, NJ. He graduated with a BA in Psychology at the University of Hartford where he also competed in track and field as a sprinter (100-200). He went to Springfield College from 2012-2015 studying Exercise Science and Sports Studies with a concentration in Strength & Conditioning (has not graduated yet). He has completed several internships from 2011-2015: Bluestreak Sports Training (2011), Springfield College, UGA (Olympic), Boston University (All 2013), Vanderbilt Football (Summer 2014), TCU (Spring 2015), and the Cincinnati Bengals/Ignition APG (Preseason 2015). During his time at Springfield he was a GA Track & Field Coach working with men’s sprinters (2012-2014) and was a strength and conditioning GA working with Men’s XC, Men’s and Women’s Diving (Fall of 2014) as well as Football and Women’s Gymnastics (Fall of 2015).
Professionally Jordan has previously spent two seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals organization as a MiLB Strength & Conditioning Coach for the Johnson City Cardinals (Advance Rookie 2016) and the State College Spikes (Short Season A 2017). He was an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at Campbell University working with Baseball, Football, Sprinters & Jumpers and Women’s Lacrosse (September 2017-May 2018), and is currently a MiLB Strength and Conditioning Coach with the Tampa Bay Rays organization, where he was with the Princeton Rays this past summer (Advanced Rookie, Feb 2019-Present).
Topics covered in this episode:
-Selling cars and his crazy journey to his current role
-Earning the title of "Ball Magnet"
-The Carnivore Diet
Quotes:
-"I knew I wanted to be involved in sports" (2:23)
-"I like following people who have different views from me" (13:48)
-"People all communicate in different ways and have their different nuances in how they communicate" (16:21)
If you would like to learn more from Jordan, you can follow him on social media:
Twitter:
@jordan_b28
Andrea Hayden was a Major League Strength and Conditioning Fellow with the Minnesota Twins in 2019 and will be joining full-time in 2020. She received her undergraduate degree in Exercise Science from Missouri Baptist University and earned a Master’s degree in Human Performance from Lindenwood University in 2018. During that time, Andrea also worked as an athletic performance coach at the university and worked as an S&C coach for USA Hockey development camps. She has completed internships with the University of Louisville, EXOS and spent time in China working with the women’s professional league.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Her journey to becoming the first female Major League Strength & Conditioning Coach
-Arm Care in professional baseball
-Celebrating winning the AL Central division title in 2019
Quotes:
-"All training is arm care to some degree" (8:14)
-"Defining success is always different for every individual" (11:01)
-"Everyone in that clubhouse - my goal is to somehow serve them in some capacity" (16:43)
If you would like to learn more from Andrea, you can follow her on social media:
Twitter:
@AHaydenStrength
James McCallie just completed his 7th season as a Strength and Conditioning Coach with the Tampa Bay Rays organization. James has spent the past 3 seasons at Class Low A Bowling Green of the Midwest League. Over the past 7 seasons he has also been assigned to High A Port Charlotte and GCL. James graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a B.S. in Exercise Science. He holds his CSCS and RSCC through the National Strength and Conditioning Association as well as his USAW Level 1 through USA Weightlifting. James resides in Gallatin, Tennessee with his wife Ashley and son Hudson.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Olympic Lifting
-Relationship Building
Quotes:
-"I try to learn from everybody I meet" (3:50)
-"I think the biggest thing that makes you successful is getting players to buy-in" (5:51)
-"Our profession is very broad" (10:46)
If you would like to learn more from James, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@james_mccallie
Twitter:
@JamesMccallie
Paul Fournier has been working in professional baseball since 1995-1996, in which he started as a minor league athletic trainer for the Montreal Expos organization. From there, he served as the Rehabilitation and Strength and Conditioning Coordinator for the Expos from 1997-2001. He joined the Miami Marlins in 2002 as the Rehabilitation and Strength and Conditioning Coordinator. He was promoted to Major League Strength and Conditioning Director in 2003 and served in that capacity through 2011. He joined the Philadelphia Phillies organization as Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator in 2012 and was promoted to his current role as Major League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator in 2014.
Paul received his BS in Athletic Training and Exercise Science in 1993 from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts. His certifications include ATC, CSCS, RSCC*D, and USAW.
He is originally from Nova Scotia, Canada, and currently resides in Palm Harbor, Florida with his wife, Elsie, and their three daughters: Hannah, Jayna, and Gracia.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Crossfit & Professional Baseball
-Receiving a new Harley Davidson
-Doing "Grunt Work"
Quotes:
-"The human body is more durable than we give it credit for" (5:05)
-"Our goals are performance metrics and not fitness programs" (7:38)
-"For me, the most important thing that a strength and conditioning coach can have is the ability to build relationships" (20:05)
If you would like to learn more from Paul, you can read his articles on the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/crossfit-isnt-going-anywhere-soon-belong-professional-baseball/
http://baseballstrength.org/paul-fournier-philadelphia-phillies/
http://baseballstrength.org/fournier-and-castellano-all-star-game-strength-and-conditioning-coaches/
http://baseballstrength.org/off-season-recommendations-for-high-school-baseball-players-from-a-mlb-strength-and-conditioning-coach/
or by following him on social media:
Instagram:
@p4nier
@phillies_strength
Ben Loftis is in his second season as a Strength and Conditioning Coach in the Padres organization. He has spent both seasons in the AZL. Prior to joining the Padres, he was a graduate assistant strength and conditioning coach at the University of Sioux Falls (June 2016-January 2018). He oversaw training of baseball, track and field, golf, and assisted with football. While coaching, he obtained his Master's of Business Administration. Prior to Sioux Falls, he served as an assistant at the University of Arkansas (2015-2016) in Olympic Sports, primarily working with baseball. Prior to Arkansas, Loftis interned with football strength and conditioning at Iowa State University (Spring 2015). He recieved his Bachelor's in Exercise Science with a concentration in Strength and Conditioning from Northwestern College in Orange City, IA. While attending NWC, he was a member of the football team and also served as a student assistant strength coach. Loftis has his CSCS through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, a Level 1 Coaching Certification from the United States Weightlifting Association (USAW1), and is Reflexive Performance Reset (RPR) Level 1 certified.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Mental toughness & resiliency
-Faith & Belief
Quotes:
-"Are you dominating absolutely everything under your control?" (10:30)
-"The process never ends" (13:10)
-"Are we putting people first?" (24:02)
If you would like to learn more from Ben, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@loftistrong
Twitter:
@loftistrong
Travis Smith is currently entering his ninth season with the Los Angeles Dodgers organization. His current role is Major League Strength and Conditioning Coach. He began his career in professional baseball in 2011 as the AAA Strength Coach for the Miami Marlins organization and was the 2015 MiLB Pacific Coast League Strength Coach of the Year.
He has a Master’s degree in Applied Exercise Science from Concordia University of Chicago and a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Taylor University. He is also a Certified Massage Therapist.
He was born and raised in Chicago, IL, and currently resides in Arcadia, CA with his wife, Michelle, their daughter, Savannah, and their son, Travis Jr.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Brawls in the minor leagues
-Massage Therapy
-The Los Angeles Dodgers Strength & Conditioning / Sports Science Symposium
Quotes:
-"When I say constantly learning I mean constantly learning and applying the information as we go" (10:41)
-"Coaching is a skill" (17:06)
-"Wherever you are on the hierarchy you can lead" (19:36)
If you would like to learn more from Travis, you can check out the link to the Dodgers Symposium below:
https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/fans/sports-symposium
Brittany Wiebe just completed her second season with the Houston Astros organization as a strength and conditioning coach in the Dominican Republic.
Prior to joining Houston, Wiebe worked as a graduate assistant for the football and Olympic sports programs at the University of Missouri from 2016-18. During the summer of 2016, she served an Olympic sport strength and conditioning internship with Clemson University.
Wiebe has also served strength and conditioning internships at Sanford Power Center, and at North Dakota State University.
Wiebe graduated from the University of Missouri with a Master of Education degree in May of 2018. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from North Dakota State University in 2016. While at NDSU, Wiebe was a guard on the women’s Division I basketball team.
Wiebe is an NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), a certified USA Weightlifting- level one sports performance coach, and is certified by the American Red Cross in CPR/AED/First Aid.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Her best professional baseball story
-Life in the Dominican Republic
-Locomotion and crawling
Quotes:
-"Something new happens every day. There's definitely a lot of adversity out here" (5:18)
-"Love what you do. Be passionate to go to work everyday" (13:48)
-"I always like to think people first" (14:06)
If you would like to learn more from Brittany, you can follow her on social media:
Instagram:
@coach.bwiebes
Alan Burr just completed his seventh season as a Strength and Conditioning Coach with the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. He has spent the last three years in AAA Indianapolis. He spent 2016 and 2014 in AA Altoona, 2015 in high-A Bradenton, and 2013 in low-A West Virginia. He spent six years in the collegiate ranks prior to entering professional baseball. He was the Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at Florida International University in 2011-2012 and worked in the same capacity at Central Connecticut State University from 2008-2011. He was a Strength and Conditioning Coach intern during the summer of 2008 at Georgia Institute of Technology and was also a Graduate Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at Appalachian State University from 2006-2008. He began his strength and conditioning coaching career at Mike Boyle Strength and Conditioning in the summer of 2006.
He is both CSCS and RSCC through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and is also a member of the Professional Baseball Strength and Conditioning Coach Society. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from East Carolina University in 2005 and a Master’s degree in Exercise Science from Appalachian State University in 2008.
He currently resides in Clay, NY with his wife Erin and their two sons, Carter and Weston.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Technology in sport
-Spending a day at Westside
Quotes:
-"I'd say right now the hot topic is technology" (4:33)
-"Always strive to learn more" (6:30)
-"Be where your feet are" (9:52)
If you would like to learn more from Alan, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@sccoach_burr
Twitter:
@SCCoachBurr
Jordan Sidwell just finished his first season as the AA strength and conditioning coach in the Atlanta Braves organization after spending the 2018 season with High-A Florida. Previously, Sidwell worked in the collegiate setting as a strength coach at the University of Maine (2017), South Dakota State University (2015-2017) and Northwestern University (2014-2015). Sidwell is a 2014 graduate of North Park University, where he played baseball and earned a degree in Exercise Science. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Exercise Sciences from South Dakota State University. Outside of baseball, Sidwell is a competitive powerlifter in the 83kg weight class.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Adventures in Spanish speaking
-Pain Science
Quotes:
-"I think it's one of the cool things about this profession is that you end up living some places that you never thought you'd be because the job takes you there" (1:37)
-"How you frame everything is really important" (8:57)
-"You also, I think, need to make your own decisions versus just listening to what everyone is putting out there on social media and blog posts" (14:32)
If you would like to learn more from Jordan, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@coachjsidwell
Twitter:
@CoachJSidwell
Taylor Haslinger is a native of southwest Florida and is a recent graduate from Webber International University with an MBA in sports management, along with a B.S. in Exercise Science from Florida Gulf Coast University. He has had previous stops in strength and conditioning with his alma maters Webber International University, Florida Gulf Coast University, the University of Kentucky, and Boston Red Sox organization. He is currently the GCL strength and conditioning coach and is a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS) through the NSCA.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Branding and his Master's program
-NSCA Weightlifting Special Interest Group
Quotes:
-"Sometimes less is more" (5:18)
-"Do they really understand why?" (7:32)
-"We are who our mentors are" (17:16)
If you would like to learn more from Taylor, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@t_has
Twitter
@t_haslinger
or on the NHSSCA website:
https://nhssca.us/
Joseph Miranda is currently a strength and conditioning coach in the Cincinnati Reds organization where he just completed his second season at class Double-A Chattanooga (2019) and Pensacola (2018). Prior to joining the Reds, Miranda spent two seasons in the Colorado Rockies organization (2014-2015) and one season with the Boston Red Sox (2016). Joseph graduated from Maryville College in 2011 and earned his Masters Degree in Exercise Science from George Washington University in 2013. He holds his CSCS and RSCC certifications through the National Strength & Conditioning Association and is Functional Movements Screen level 1 certified.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Supplements in professional baseball
-The "Daily Dose" Program
Quotes:
-"There's no need to rely on supplements" (5:03)
-"There should be a reason why you're taking your supplements" (7:58)
-"Guys can lift every day during the season" (10:48)
If you would like to learn more from Joseph, you can read his article on the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/a-minimalist-approach-to-supplements-by-joseph-miranda-ms-cscs-rscc/
or by following him on social media:
Twitter:
@JosephDMiranda
Derek Mendoza is in his sixth season as a Sports Performance Specialist in the Mariners organization, and fourth with Tacoma. He served as the performance coach with AA Jackson in 2015 and the Dominican Summer League Mariners in 2014. Prior to joining the Mariners, he was a Supervisor of Sports Performance for Texas Health Resources (2012-13) and Director of Strength Programs at Performance Course (2007-12). He obtained a Bachelors (2007) and a Masters Degree (2009) in Kinesiology while playing football at the University of North Texas. He is RSCC (Registered Strength and Conditioning Specialist) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, FRCms Functional Range Conditioning Mobility Specialist, and PN-2 Precision Nutrition Level 2 Certified Sports and Exercise Nutrition.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-30 Days of Hip Health / 15 Days of Shoulder Health
-Sleep and supplements
Quotes:
-"I want to provide value for people however I can" (6:12)
-"If you can get guys to move better, overall they're going to feel better" (7:38)
-"Sleep is the most important supplement" (13:27)
If you would like to learn more from Derek, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@findyourprime
This brief episode marks the two year anniversary of The PBSCCS Podcast. The episode covers both the current and future states of the podcast.
Current state topics:
-Statistics of the podcast
-Availability of the podcast
Future state topics:
-Potential sponsorships
-Branching out to other areas of development
-Additional interviews with strength coaches in professional baseball
If you are enjoying the podcast, please leave ratings and reviews on iTunes - this will help the outreach of the podcast grow.
If you want more information from the PBSCCS, you can follow along on social media:
Twitter:
@PBSCCS
or go to the website:
http://baseballstrength.org/
Thank you to all the listeners and guests for the support over the first two years of this podcast!
Jarret Abell enters his first season as the Royals’ Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coordinator, after serving as the Strength & Conditioning coach with Northwest Arkansas (2017-2018), Wilmington (2016), Lexington (2015) and Idaho Falls (2014).
He received his Masters degree in Exercise Science from Wichita State University in 2013, where he worked with four women’s Olympic sport teams, baseball, and basketball. Shortly after that, he worked with the TCU football, baseball, and basketball teams off-season strength & conditioning before joining EXOS in Gulf Breeze, FL and then, EXOS in Phoenix, AZ as a performance specialist. Jarret played collegiate football at Butler Community College & Bethel College and now resides in Phoenix, with his wife, Ashley and daughters, Avery and Zoe.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Being Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year
-Training pitchers
-Using continuing education as an investment
Quotes:
-"Do basic things savagely well" (6:04)
-"I like to think of things in movement patterns opposed to exercises" (9:16)
-"Pitchers are truly athletes...we have to train them like the elite athletes they are" (10:28)
If you would like to learn more from Jarret, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@abelljt
Twitter:
@abelljt1
Mark Spadavecchia is entering his second season as San Jose's strength & conditioning coach and in the San Francisco Giants organization. Previously, Spadavecchia spent five seasons as a strength & conditioning coach in the Houston Astros organization. His tenure with the Astros included stints with Corpus Christi, Lancaster, Buies Creek, and Tri-City.
Spadavecchia earned a B.S. in Exercise Science from Marquette University and a Masters in Sports Sciences from Florida State University. He is a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS).
Topics covered in this episode:
-Being Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year
-Reflexive Performance Reset (RPR)
-Continuing Education
Quotes:
-"I've been very fortunate to have a lot of great bosses and coworkers" (2:44)
-"Help guys learn without over-teaching them at times" (4:35)
-"Practice Spanish" (8:29)
Paul Howey is the Atlanta Braves AAA strength and conditioning coach and is currently in his second season with the Braves organization. He spent the 2018 season with Atlanta’s AA team, the Mississippi Braves, and was voted the 2018 Southern League Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year. Prior to joining the Braves, he was the Low A strength and conditioning coach in the Seattle Mariners organization from 2015-2017. Paul is a 2005 graduate of Abilene Christian University where he played baseball and earned a degree in Exercise Science. He holds a Master’s Degree in Performance Enhancement and Injury Prevention from the University of California Pennsylvania and is a graduate of Cortiva Institute in Scottsdale, Arizona.
He’s a Certified and Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and a licensed massage therapist. He desires to provide a holistic strength and conditioning approach to the athletes he works with through integrating player specific strength and conditioning programming while including individually specific manual therapy and soft tissue modalities. Working primarily with in-season professional baseball players, he believes that the relationship and communication built with each athlete is key to being successful and that everything done in the weight room should complement what the player’s demands and needs are on the field.
Paul’s wife Liz is currently studying Osteopathic medicine at AT Still University where she is a third-year student. During the offseason he enjoys fishing and duck hunting, spending time with family and traveling.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Best professional baseball story
-Being Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year
-Massage Therapy School
Quotes:
-"We're all in this together" (6:00)
-"These guys are just like anybody else" (11:48)
-"My programming needs to complement what guys do on the field" (15:10)
Nate Shaw is in his 17th season in Professional Baseball and is in his 14th season as the Major League Strength Coordinator with the Arizona Diamondbacks. He studied Athletic Training at the University of Florida. Prior to graduating, Nate was fortunate to land a dual internship as a Trainer/Strength Coach and interned with the Toronto Blue Jays during Spring Training 2001. After graduating from UF in May 2001, he took a job as a Personal Trainer in Gainesville for 2 years before getting in the door with the Rays in 2003 as a NY/Penn League Trainer with the Hudson Valley Renegades affiliate. He was promoted to Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator for 2004 and held that position until he filled his current role in 2006 with the Diamondbacks. His specialities include work ethic, loyalty, manual therapy, communication, exercise prescription, program design, and of course being a dad. He currently lives in Chandler, AZ.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His personal story growing up
-His best professional baseball story
-PRI & Breathing
Quotes:
-"Communication is really important" (1:38)
-"My biggest gift is that I care about people" (11:20)
-"Have no ego and just be willing to serve people" (23:54)
If you would like to learn more from Nate, you can check out his articles on the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/helping-hamstring-injuries-heal-weight-room/
http://baseballstrength.org/muscle-balancesymmetry-player-screening-injury-prevention/
http://baseballstrength.org/nate-shaw-arizona-diamondbacks/
http://baseballstrength.org/designing-training-programs-for-baseball-by-nate-shaw-atc-rscc/
Eric McMahon is the Major League Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Texas Rangers. He is currently in his 11th season with the Rangers' Organization, and 14th season in professional baseball. Eric grew up in Burlington, Vermont and obtained his bachelor's degree in biology from St. Lawrence University, where he played varsity football. He also earned a master's degree from the Springfield College Strength and Conditioning program.
Before being promoted to the Major League level, Eric served as the Rangers' Assistant Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator in 2017. He was voted Double-A Texas League Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year in 2012, 2014, and 2015 by the PBSCCS. Eric previously served as a Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coach with the Milwaukee Brewers, and as an instructor for the MLB International Academies Athlete Development Program throughout Italy.
Eric and his wife, Meredith, currently reside in the Dallas Area with their three children, Colin, Amelia, and Claire.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Velocity-Based Training (VBT)
-Autoregulation of training
-His best professional baseball story
Quotes:
-"I honestly feel like VBT is gonna be part of the future of what we do" (6:00)
-"Not everybody is like you" (26:48)
-"In this business you have to be a quick learner" (28:07)
If you would like to learn more from Eric, you can check out his content on the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/comparing-the-standing-and-kneeling-warrior-stretches/
http://baseballstrength.org/sand-training-speed-lower-body-development/
http://baseballstrength.org/eric-mcmahon-m-ed-cscs-rsccd-texas-rangers/
http://baseballstrength.org/3120-2/
http://baseballstrength.org/nordic-curl-2-by-eric-mcmahon/
http://baseballstrength.org/resisted-lat-bounds-by-eric-mcmahon/
by reading through his presentation on Velocity-Based Training:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/dstgdppzpdxqviy/McMahon%20VBT%20Baseball.pdf?dl=0
or by following him on social media:
Instagram:
@ericmcmahoncscs
@rangerstrength
Twitter:
@EricMcMahonCSCS
@RangerStrength
Jose Vazquez is entering his 13th season as the Texas Rangers major league strength and conditioning coach. He previously spent four seasons with the New York Mets, serving first as the Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coordinator (2002-2004) and later as the Director of Rehabilitation (2005).
Prior to joining the Mets, Jose was the Sports Physical Therapist for The Therapy Center in Knoxville, Tenn. and Methodist Medical Center in Oak Ridge, Tenn. from 1998-2001. He was also a co-founder of TNT Sports Specific Training in Knoxville in 1998.
After earning second team All-American honors at the University of Tennessee in 1992, Jose was selected by St. Louis in the 42nd round of the 1992 June draft. He played professionally for three seasons (1992-94) as an outfielder in the Cardinals organization and for the Northern League’s Duluth club. He was selected all-Dade County in baseball and football at Southwest Miami High School in 1988, and was all-state at Central Florida CC in 1989-90.
Jose graduated from Tennessee with a BS degree in education in 1994 and received his Masters of Physical Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. in 1998.
He co-authored “Total Fitness for Baseball” with Jay Hoffman (Coaches Choice, 2008) and was a co-author of “Effect of Age on Anthropometric and Performance Measures in Professional Baseball Players” (Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 2013).
Jose is a Certified and Registered (CSCS-R) Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and was the treasurer for the PBSCCS for eight years (2007-2014). He was recognized by his peers (Professional Baseball Strength and Conditioning Society) with the Nolan Ryan Award as MLB Strength Coach of the Year in 2014.
He attended the MLB Scouting Bureau scouting development program in October 2014.
Jose and his wife of 24 years, Anne, reside in Mansfield with children Josannah (19), Helena (15) and Kian (7). Jose’s recreational interests include yoga, snowboarding, surfing and lifting weights, and he has also earned a black belt in Brazilian jiu jitsu.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Player evaluation and testing
-Heavy in-season lifting
-His best professional baseball story
Quotes:
-"Strength and conditioning is strength and conditioning - I don't care if it's Major League or Minor League" (13:47)
-"You gotta know what you believe in" (17:20)
-"This is a people business and you gotta learn how to deal with people" (19:08)
If you would like to learn more from Jose, you can check out his articles on the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/jose-vazquez-texas-rangers/
http://baseballstrength.org/oblique-injuries-in-mlb-by-gene-coleman-and-jose-vazquez/
http://baseballstrength.org/hip-thrust-and-squat-for-acceleration-and-max-running-speed-by-jose-vazquez/
http://baseballstrength.org/altitude-training-masks-do-they-work-by-gene-coleman-ed-d-rscce-and-jose-vazquez-pt-rssc/
http://baseballstrength.org/lateral-hurdle-step-over-drill-for-change-of-direction-by-gene-coleman-jose-vazquez-and-napoleon-pichardo/
or by following him on social media:
Instagram:
@rangerstrength
Twitter:
@RangerStrength
Brandon McDaniel enters his 12th season in Professional Baseball. He currently is a Director of Athletic Development and Performance Science for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
He has been in the field of Strength and conditioning for 13 years and has previously worked for the Pittsburgh Pirates at the minor league level and EXOS (formerly Athletes Performance) in their Military strength and conditioning department with the department of defense.
He holds a Bachelors degree in Exercise Science from Wayne State College (NE) where he was a member of the baseball team. He holds a Masters degree from AT Still University in Human Movement. He holds many certifications including his Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach certification through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Others include: FMS, SFMA, USAW, DNS, PRI and Strong First Kettlebell.
He has a strong belief in the importance of sound training and optimal recovery for high level performance not only in the world of professional athletics, but also general human performance.
Brandon has been married to his wife Andrea, who also works in the NBA as a registered dietitian. They have two young sons Caleb (4) and Turner (3). They currently reside in Burbank, CA.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His best professional baseball story
-Working with off-season strength coaches
-Adjusting work for different players
Quotes:
-"I don't really have a choice but to look at this holistically" (3:56)
-"I never turn away an opportunity to learn" (11:40)
-"Not one set of skills is going to be able to help all of our players" (13:48)
If you would like to learn more from Brandon, you can read his articles on the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/brandon-mcdaniel-ms-rssc-los-angeles-dodgers/
http://baseballstrength.org/los-angeles-dodgers-nutrition-program/
or by follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@bmacsc23
Justin Bucko is in his third season in the Cincinnati Reds organization, his first at Class A Dayton. Last year, he served as strength and conditioning coach at Rookie Billings. Following an internship in the Olympic sports department at the University of Maryland, he worked for the AZL Reds in 2017. Justin played 4 years of football at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, where he completed his Bachelor of Science degree in physical education-health promotion, then became the head strength and conditioning coach of Milwaukee Lutheran High School before taking an internship with the University of Wisconsin. Following that internship with the Badgers, he began a 2-year stint volunteering at Georgetown University while he obtained his Master of Science degree in exercise science-sports performance training from Concordia of Chicago. Justin resides in Madison, WI with his wife, Marie.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His article on the PBSCCS website (Making the Most of Your Off-Season)
-His best professional baseball story
-Psychological Safety
Quotes:
-"Taking stock of your annual plan is how you're going to grow as a professional" (9:35)
-"Have a plan for your off-season" (14:39)
-"You can't let your pride of what you think is best get in the way of what is actually best for the athlete" (27:24)
If you would like to learn more from Justin, you can read his article on the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/making-the-most-of-your-off-season/
Dwayne Peterson is entering his six season as a minor league strength coach with the Houston Astros and his second year in AAA. He is a former division one football player, competitive powerlifter and bodybuilder. Dwayne spends his offseasons with his wife Candie at their home in Erlanger, KY.
Topics covered in this episode:
-His unique journey
-Hard in-season training
-His vision for an off-season program in professional baseball
Quotes:
-"I push players hard in-season" (15:23)
-"I think it's more the intangible things that make the difference" (18:35)
-"You need to enjoy the journey" (23:53)
If you would like to learn more from Dwayne, you can read his articles on the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/1436-2/
http://baseballstrength.org/integration-prt-baseball-strength-conditioning/
http://baseballstrength.org/rdl-progressions-by-dwayne-peterson-rscc/
http://baseballstrength.org/progressions-from-glute-bridge-to-hip-lift-to-hip-thrust-by-dwayne-peterson/
Logan Byman is currently in his fourth season in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. He joined the Pirates after serving a 5 month internship at EXOS in 2014, and a 2 year graduate assistantship at the University of Florida from 2014-2016 covering football, soccer, gymnastics, and lacrosse while pursuing his Master’s Degree in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology: Human Performance.
He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Sport Management from North Carolina State University in 2013 while participating as a member of the North Carolina State wrestling team.
He became a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association in 2014. He earned his Strength and Conditioning Coach Certification from the Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coach’s association in 2015.
He was born in Raleigh, NC and currently resides in Bradenton, FL.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Being Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year
-Developing as a coach
-Speed and unilateral training
Quotes:
-"At the end of the day the athletes we work with don't want to be the best lifter - they want to be the best baseball player" (7:15)
-"How does what you're doing help them on the field?" (7:23)
-"Be absolutely amazing at the basics" (18:54)
If you would like to learn more from Logan, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@loganbyman
Trevor Swartz is currently the Minor League Physical Performance Coordinator for the Colorado Rockies (currently in his 6th season with Colorado and 3rd as the Coordinator). Trevor graduated from Central Washington University in 2014 with a BS in exercise science. His certifications include the CSCS, RSCC, USAW and FRCmS.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Trevor's unconventional path to where he is now
-Lifting heavy and running less
-Self-evaluation
Quotes:
-"Put your head down and work" (3:15)
-"Be under constant evaluation" (12:48)
-"We had to remove the ego at the door" (20:31)
If you would like to learn more from Trevor, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@trevor_swartz9
Twitter:
@tswartz9
Jason Meredith is in his second season with the Milwaukee Brewers after joining the organization in November 2016.
Prior to working with the Brewers, he spent seven seasons in the Philadelphia Phillies organization, most recently as minor-league strength and conditioning coordinator (2014-16). He was the strength and conditioning coach at Triple-A Lehigh Valley (2011-13) and served an internship at Double-A Reading in 2009.
In 2010, Meredith worked as the strength and conditioning coach at Double-A Trenton in the Yankees organization.
Meredith earned his bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University in exercise and sports science - athletic training in 2005 and received his master’s degree in applied physiology and kinesiology from the University of Florida in 2007. While in college, he spent the 2004 summer as an athletic training intern with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Jason and his wife, Christina, reside in Chandler, Arizona with their two children, daughter, Isabella, and son, Alexander.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Best professional baseball story
-Off-season strength coaches
-Continuing education resources
Quotes:
-"Sometimes strong enough is strong enough, and anything extra is just extra" (4:14)
-"A mediocre program done consistently is better than a perfect program done inconsistently" (6:17)
-"Coach where you can coach" (8:15)
If you would like to learn more from Jason, you can read about him on the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/jason-meredith-cscs-rscc-milwaukee-brewers/
or by following him on social media:
Instagram:
@jtmeredith83
Twitter:
@jtmeredith83
Patrick Trainor is currently the Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator for the Tampa Bay Rays baseball organization. Prior to joining the Rays in his current role, he has spent time with the San Diego Padres and Cleveland Indians, as well as a previous stint with the Rays as an assistant strength and conditioning coach at the Minor League affiliate level. Outside of professional baseball, he has held positions at the collegiate level with Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA (2007-2009) as well as Queens College in New York (2012), overseeing the physical preparation of varsity sports.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Best professional baseball story
-In-season training and micro-dosing
-Pitcher conditioning
Quotes:
-"Just when you think you know enough, you realize that you don't know anything" (29:19)
-"You can't get stuck in the weightroom and have the blinders on of what only goes on in your world" (32:49)
-"Understand the stress that you are prescribing before blindly prescribing stresses over the course of the season" (39:58)
If you would like to learn more from Pat, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@p_trainor
Twitter:
@PTrainorNJ
Shaun Alexander is currently entering his 6th season (2014-2019) as a Minor League Performance Coach with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Prior to the Dodgers, he spent 2 seasons with the Miami Marlins (2012-2013).
Shaun graduated from Arizona State University in 2007 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology, and from San Jose State University in 2010 with a Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology.
He was named the Strength Coach of the Year in 2017 (California League) and 2018 (Texas League). He holds a number of certifications, including: Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach, Precision Nutrition Level 1, StrongFirst Kettlebell Level 1, Functional Movement Systems Level 1, and Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Level 1.
He currently resides in Arizona with his wife of 6 years (Cari Alexander) and their 3 children (Jillian – 4, Benjamin – 3, and Emmeline – 2 months).
Topics covered in this episode:
-Being Strength Coach of the Year multiple times
-Breathing
-Staff Continuing Education
Quotes:
-"You have to be able to adjust on the fly" (6:34)
-"Always be learning" (10:36)
-"Talk to as many coaches as you can" (15:23)
A Guilford College graduate, Logan Jones, is heading into his second season with the Arizona Diamondbacks as a strength & conditioning coach. While at Guilford, Logan earned his degree in Exercise and Sport Sciences & Health Sciences and was also a member of the Quakers’ baseball team. Following graduation, he completed strength and conditioning internships at the University of Kentucky and Wake Forest University working with a variety of sports including volleyball, soccer, track & field, field hockey, and baseball. With the Diamondbacks, he is assigned to the Rookie-Level Arizona League Diamondbacks located in Scottsdale, AZ. Logan is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the NSCA, a Sports Performance Coach through USA Weightlifting, holds a Functional Movement Screen Certification (FMSC) through Functional Movement Systems, and is currently working towards his Corrective Exercise Specialization (CES) through NASM.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Recap of his first year in professional baseball
-Training and the minimum effective dose
-Personal improvement
Quotes:
-"Gain the trust of all your players" (4:16)
-"Are you the best version of yourself?" (14:16)
-"Meet others in the field who you can learn from" (23:20)
If you would like to learn more from Logan, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@logan_jones95
Twitter:
@Logan_Jones95
Ryan Crotin is the Director of Performance Integration for the Los Angeles Angels covering quality control aspects within the organization. Previous to this position, Ryan was the Player Performance Coordinator overseeing minor league strength and conditioning aspects, contributing to sport science and player procurement.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Characteristics of successful strength and conditioning coaches
-Advice for others in the field
-Reading research
Quotes:
-"I think we have to have a general openness to learn" (4:28)
-"Learn from as many people as possible" (8:14)
-"If you want to be successful, you have to have gratitude" (8:41)
If you would like to learn more from Ryan, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@ryancrotin
Dallas Lopez just completed his fourth season with the Chicago Cubs organization and second-straight with the Eugene Emeralds. He spent 2015-16 with the rookie league Mesa Cubs after graduating from Northern State University in Aberdeen, South Dakota with a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Working the Arizona Fall League
-Difficult training sessions
-Newest trends and topics
Quotes:
-"We're in a constantly developing field of practice" (15:14)
-"The day of just writing programs and getting guys to workout is no more" (18:48)
-"If it's been proven to have some sort of benefits, then you gotta give it a chance" (20:15)
Mike Schofield is currently the Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator for the Atlanta Braves. He is a registered strength and conditioning coach (RSCC), licensed manual therapist (LMT), and Postural Restoration trained (PRT). Prior to working with the Braves, Mike spent 8 seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks organization. He attended Colorado State University where he completed his degree in Exercise Science.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Adjusting to both a new role and a new organization
-PRI in professional baseball
-Ideas and advice on how to be successful
Quotes:
-"I view myself as another piece to help push the program forward" (2:19)
-"Recovery is king in this game" (12:08)
-"Good training is good training - it's all encompassing" (21:13)
If you would like to learn more from Mike, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@mschofield3
Todd Kubacki just completed his 11th season in the Cleveland Indians organization. He spent 5 years as a minor league strength and conditioning coach, with stops in Low-A (1 year), AA (1 year), and AAA (3 years). He was also the Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator for 4 years and a Performance Coordinator for 1 year. He now currently works as an Analyst, with a focus on performance domain metrics.
He completed his undergraduate work at Youngstown State University in 2007, and received his Master’s degree in Performance Psychology in 2014. He currently lives in Phoenix with his wife, Phuong.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Todd's journey through professional baseball
-The future of strength and conditioning in professional baseball
-Todd's "craziest" beliefs
Quotes:
-"I think the biggest lesson is meeting the player where they are at" (6:28)
-"The basics are the basics for a reason - it's because they work" (10:40)
-"Great coaches are generally pretty great people" (16:27)
If you would like to learn more from Todd, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@tkub1114
Twitter:
@tkubacki11
Esteban Doria just completed his 2nd season in the Houston Astros organization, working primarily with rehab and DR Academy operations.
Prior to joining the Astros, Esteban was at the University of Maryland, working as the strength and conditioning coach for baseball, wrestling, and golf. During his two seasons there, there were 9 players drafted and 4 NCAA qualifying wrestlers. He was also the internship coordinator.
Esteban also has experience with the St. Louis Cardinals organization (2015 GCL Cardinals), LSU (GA 2014-2015), Gayle Hatch Weightlifting (2013-2014), and FSU football as an undergraduate intern. He holds a number of certifications, including: CSCS, USAW-1, FMS-2, and TPI-1.
Through his various experiences, he has worked with champions in professional sports, collegiate sports, and Olympic weightlifting.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Rehabilitation Process
-Power Development
-Aerobic Conditioning/Max Aerobic Speed
Quotes:
-"It's not what you do, it's how you do it" (4:12)
-"It's my goal to always help you get to where you want to be even when you don't want to be there" (22:44)
-"Control what you can control" (24:39)
If you would like to learn more from Esteban, you can check out his video below from the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/clean-grip-pulls/
or by following him on social media:
Twitter:
@Coach_eDoria
Brian Buck is a former St. Louis Cardinals draft pick now going on his 8th year in Physical Performance. Brian currently serves as a Performance Analyst at Sparta Science, but had previous stops as a Strength Coach in the MLB and the Boras Sports Training Institute. Brian is a native of Portland, OR and now resides in San Francisco, CA.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Sparta Science
-Brian's best professional baseball story
-Thoughts on lifting and conditioning in-season
Quotes:
-"Transparency can be so big for buy-in with athletes" (11:53)
-"It's just having a plan and executing based off what you think is right" (25:54)
-"At the end of the day have the best interest of the player in mind" (34:06)
If you would like to learn more from Brian, you can check out some of his blog posts on the Sparta Science website:
https://spartascience.com/resources
or by following him on social media:
Instagram:
@brianbuck6
Twitter:
@brianbuck6
Ian Kadish is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio and a 2011 graduate of Marshall University. He played three seasons in the Toronto Blue Jays minor league organization.
In 2014, he did an internship with The Ohio State University football strength and conditioning program under Mickey Marotti. Ian was a strength coach at Performance Compound overseeing all baseball strength and conditioning in 2015 before being hired by the Miami Marlins prior to the 2016 season. Ian spent 2016 and 2017 in the Miami Marlins organization before being hired by the Minnesota Twins in December 2017 and serving in his current role as Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator.
He is certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and has his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification as well as being a Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach (RSCC). He is also certified with Functional Movement Systems and has his Functional Movement Screen (FMS) certification as well as his Precision Nutrition Level 1, Certificate of Exercise Nutrition (PN1).
Ian is the proud husband to Emily Kadish and proud father of Knox Kadish (2).
Topics covered in this episode:
-Ian's journey to becoming a coordinator
-Programming systems and beliefs
-Continuing education and networking advice
Quotes:
-"Our number one job is to keep guys healthy and on the field" (8:44)
-"I think communication is the biggest thing" (16:37)
-"The game is changing at a rapid pace, and I think we need to evolve with it" (25:20)
If you would like to learn more from Ian, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@ikadishstrength
Twitter:
@ikadishstrengh
Jacob Bunce is the Founder and Head Strength & Conditioning Coach of ROC Strength located in Rochester, NY. He spent the last three years in Professional Baseball as a Minor League Strength & Conditioning Coach. The previous two years Jacob spent with the Philadelphia Phillies as the Strength Coach for the Short Season Williamsport Crosscutters and Low-A Lakewood Blueclaws. His first year was spent with the Cincinnati Reds in the Pioneer League with the Billings Mustangs.
Currently, he runs his business ROC Strength, which is a sports performance facility built of high school aged athletes. With a movement awareness based philosophy that is challenged by external load, they have found positive results with mental and physical health. In addition to running his business, Jacob is also an Adjunct Faculty at Monroe Community College in the Physical Education/Kinesiology department. He completed his Bachelor’s Degree at SUNY Brockport and his Master’s Degree in Applied Exercise Science at Concordia University Chicago. Jacob was the Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year in the South Atlantic League this past year.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Opening your own training facility
-Training the youth athlete
-What it takes to be the Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year
Quotes:
-"I think everything works" (18:56)
-"You don't learn unless you fail" (19:38)
-"Try to communicate as best as you can" (20:30)
If you would like to learn more from Jacob, you can read his article on the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/the-kettlebell-swing/
Check out the website of his business:
http://www.rocstrength.com/
or by following him on social media:
Instagram:
@jakebunce21
@rocstrength
Kory is currently in his second season as the strength and conditioning coach of the Binghamton Rumble Ponies, AA affiliate of the New York Mets. He has spent five years with the Mets making stops in Kingsport, TN (Rookie Ball), Savannah, GA (Low-A), & Port St. Lucie, FL (High-A), before joining the Rumble Ponies last season.
Prior to joining the Mets, Kory interned at Saint Leo University, where he worked primarily with the Men’s Baseball team and Women’s softball team, under Stuart Hart.
Kory is recognized as an Registered Strength & Conditioning Coach(RSCC) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association(NSCA), and holds a B.A. in Psychology from Saint Leo University in 2013.
Topics covered in this episode:
-College playing days
-Heavy lifting in-season
-Advice for others and ways to find success in the field
Quotes:
-"Feel is huge" (11:41)
-"Mold the program around the guy" (12:03)
-"If you have any sort of self-doubt, that's no good" (17:02)
If you would like to learn more from Kory, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@kory_wan9
Twitter:
@kory_wan9
A native of Elmira, NY, Jeff enters his 5th season as a Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Detroit Tigers. He is currently working with the Triple A, Toledo Mud Hens. Mathers previously worked for the Double A Erie Seawolves (2017), the High A Lakeland Tigers (2015/2016) and the Low A West Michigan Whitecaps (2014). Jeff graduated from Ithaca College in December 2013 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science.
Topics covered in this episode:
-Animal Flows
-Adjusting to life in AAA
-Advice for others and ways to find success in the field
Quotes:
-"A good strength coach at the higher levels finds something that works for each specific guy" (10:05)
-"You can never have a big enough network" (11:48)
-"Start really basic and progress from there" (20:50)
If you would like to learn more from Jeff, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@jmathers2
Johnny Larson began his strength and conditioning career as an Exercise Science Major at Hofstra University where he also served as the Student Manager for their Division 1 Collegiate Softball Program. It is during this time where he began interning at the Professional Athletic Performance Center in Garden City, New York. Upon completion of his Dual Bachelor’s Degree program at Hofstra, Johnny enrolled in the Graduate Program for Sport Sciences at Hofstra while simultaneously interning at the United States Military Academy at West Point under the guidance and direction of Coach Scott Swanson, Kyle Ferrell and Tanna Burge and worked primarily with their Division 1 Wrestling Team. After several months at Army West Point, Johnny took his professional endeavors down to Tuscaloosa where he was able to serve as a Volunteer Assistant Strength Coach at the University of Alabama. During his tenure in T-Town, he assisted with the implementation of their Softball Program which went to the College World Series Final, working alongside Michelle Diltz and Head Coach Patrick Murphy, as well as writing the programs for the Alabama Cheerleading team, which in that year, won the UCA National Championship. After working the floor for several months, Coach Terry Jones, Master CSCCA Strength Coach and former Alabama Crimson Tide Athlete and Green Bay Packer, brought Johnny on to work with Alabama Football’s tight end and linebackers during the first season of the College Football Playoff System. It is during this time where he also had the opportunity to work under Scott Cochran, arguably one of the most influential strength and conditioning coaches in the entire Sports/Health and Wellness Industry. After spending a little over a year in Alabama, Johnny was offered a full-time assistant strength and conditioning coach position with the St. Louis Cardinals where he worked with Major League Baseball Players during spring training and served as the Advanced A Ball Strength Coach at their Spring Training Home in Jupiter, Florida. Upon completion of the season, Manhattan College brought him in to serve as the first full time strength and conditioning coach in their school’s athletic department where he coached all 19 teams, built a weight room, developed the fiscal year budget and brought in assistant coaches and interns. Most recently, before coming to Soho Strength Lab in New York City, Johnny served as the strength and conditioning coordinator for Olympic Sports at Florida Atlantic University where he worked primarily with their Nationally Recognized Baseball program, as well as Volleyball, Softball, Women’s Soccer and Track and Field. Johnny is currently finishing his Master’s Degree in Sports Sciences from Hofstra University and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in both Political Science and Exercise Physiology. He is CSCS Certified through the NSCA and also possesses the USAW Level 1 Sports Performance Certification. He is a native of the Bronx, New York.
If you would like to learn more from Johnny, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@johnny_larson89
Twitter:
@JPLarson89
Chris is currently in his third season as the strength and conditioning coach of the Boston Red Sox AA affiliate Portland Sea Dogs. Prior to joining the Red Sox organization, he spent one season with the Pittsburgh Pirates organization with their Appalachian League affiliate in Bristol, Virginia. Chris completed his undergraduate work at SUNY Fredonia and his graduate work at Salisbury University. His previous experiences include interning at Texas Christian University (Summer, 2014) and working the Arizona Fall League with the Surprise Saguaros (Fall, 2016).
If you would like to learn more from Chris, you can follow him on social media:
Twitter:
@cmess_43
Instagram:
@chrismess_43
A native of Chicago, IL, Mike Lidge joined the Philadelphia Phillies organization in November of 2016 after four years as a member of the San Francisco Giants player development staff. While with San Francisco, Lidge worked as a strength coach in Richmond (AA), San Jose (High A), and Scottsdale (Rookie AZL). Prior to working in pro ball, Lidge spent one year (2010) as assistant varsity baseball coach at Barrington High School in Barrington, IL where he oversaw strength and conditioning for the baseball program. In the summer of 2011, Lidge completed an internship with Athlete’s Performance (now EXOS) in Phoenix, AZ. Lidge earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and his Master’s Degree in Exercise Science from Northeastern Illinois University.
If you would like to learn more from Mike, you can read his article from the PBSCCS website:
http://baseballstrength.org/getting-the-most-out-of-sleep/
or by following him on social media:
Instagram:
@m_lidge89
Gregory enters his 4th season as a minor league strength and conditioning coach, 1st with the Miami Marlins organization. Previously, he spent two seasons with the Boston Red Sox organization, and one season with the Philadelphia Phillies Organization. He is currently working with the advanced High-A affiliate Jupiter Hammerheads. Previous seasons include: High A Salem Red Sox – Red Sox Organization (2016 & 2017) and Short Season Williamsport Crosscutters – Phillies organization. Along with his work in Professional baseball, Gregory has completed internships with the University of North Texas, Miami University (OH), Houston Astros, and Zero to Sixty Sports Performance. He graduated from Miami University with a B.S. in Exercise Science in 2014.
If you would like to learn more from Greg, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@coachgtb
Alex enters his second season as a Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coach with the Cincinnati Reds. He spent 2017 with the Billings Mustangs of the Pioneer League, a Reds Rookie Level affiliate, and will be with the Class A-Advanced Daytona Tortugas in the Florida State League for 2018. Prior to joining the Reds, he spent time as the Strength and Conditioning Coordinator at Prospect Training Academy in Wisconsin and interned at Cressey Sports Performance in Hudson, MA. Alex received his undergraduate degree in Exercise and Wellness from Arizona State University and his Master of Business Administration, emphasis in Leadership, from Grand Canyon University. Alex resides in Peoria, AZ in the off season with his wife Ashley.
If you would like to learn more from Alex, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@alex_puskarich
Twitter:
@Alex_Puskarich
Juan Rodriguez is currently the AZL Strength and Conditioning Coach and Latin American Liaison for the Milwaukee Brewers organization. Prior to joining the Brewers, Juan spent two years in the GCL with the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. He was the 2016 Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year in the GCL.
Having been born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Juan was a personal trainer in Puerto Rico for years, working with a number of professional baseball players. He has also been a strength coach on two separate occasions during the Caribbean Series (2011 with team Dominican Republic and 2015 with team Puerto Rico).
After playing basketball, volleyball, and baseball growing up, Juan was drafted on two separate occasions and also played college baseball at Texas Tech University. He received his BA in Speech and Language Therapy in 2010, and is currently working on an MBA.
He currently resides in Surprise, AZ with his high school sweetheart Madeline Gonzalez and their two children, Daniela Isabel and Adeline.
If you would like to learn more from Juan, you can follow him on social media:
Instagram:
@el_coach_juan