On this episode of Patrick Jones Baseball, Josh Gessner, a right-handed pitcher in the Texas Rangers organization, shares his journey from Australia and Japan to professional baseball, discussing overcoming challenges like the yips and increasing pitching velocity through training methods. Gessner advises aspiring players to know themselves and consider their development needs, emphasizing the value of education alongside athletic pursuits. They highlight personal struggles and coping mechanisms, stressing the mental aspect of overcoming fear and judgment, and discuss simplifying the pitching process and building supportive relationships with coaches. Additionally, Gessner talks about his venture into social media writing and podcasting, aiming to share his learning experiences to help others, with a focus on mental resilience, growth, and knowledge-sharing to support individuals facing similar challenges. Timestamps: [2:32] Josh Gessner’s Journey from Roots to Success [7:35] 80 to 90 MPH through DriveLine [10:07] Gessner’s Recruitment Journey in College Baseball [17:41] Advice for Young Players Choosing Between College and Professional Baseball [20:08] College Scholarships and Degrees in Pro Baseball [23:34] Reflections on Early Professional Baseball [26:13] Overcoming the Yips [31:21] Managing Persistent Challenges [33:45] Keys to Pitching Success [36:32] Insights from Training Facilities [37:46] The Value of Coaching Relationships in Training Facilities [39:41] A Dive into Writing and Social Media Follow Josh Gessner on Twitter: @GessnerJosh

"I went from throwing 78 mph - 91 mph in 18 months" | Josh Gessner

In this podcast episode, Sean Stevens shares his remarkable journey from starting college baseball at 28 to becoming a successful coach at Middle Georgia State University, emphasizing perseverance and dedication despite challenges. He discusses the recruiting process, stressing the importance of building relationships with players and identifying talent both online and through personal interactions. Stevens also highlights the significance of summer collegiate baseball in player development, advocating for players to seize opportunities to showcase their skills and improve draft prospects. Additionally, the conversation delves into the process of selecting players for a summer baseball team, emphasizing collaboration between the head coach and general manager, and discusses player contracts, performance-based lineup decisions, and the supportive environment provided for players attending Middle Georgia State University. Timestamps: [2:06] Sean Stevens Baseball Journey From Discovery to Determination [5:48] Finding Purpose in Coaching [7:31] The Recruiting Journey at Middle Georgia State [10:25] Online Recruitment in College Baseball [13:15] The Importance of Baseball IQ in Player Success [16:22] Understanding the World of Summer Collegiate Baseball [20:31] Selecting Players for Summer Baseball Teams [22:21] Contrasting the Cape Cod League and Other Summer Baseball Experiences [25:18] Player’s&nbsp;Contracts in Summer Leagues [28:08] The Relationship Between Coaches and GMs in Summer Baseball [33:08] Player Performance and Immediate Impact in Summer Baseball Leagues [34:23] Navigating Lineup Dynamics [39:06] Understanding College Expenses at Middle Georgia State Follow Sean Stevens on Twitter: @CoachStevensMGS

Middle Georgia State University | Sean Stevens

In this podcast, Tyler Packanik from Jacksonville State University discusses the complexities of college baseball recruiting. They explore topics such as regional recruitment strategies, the balance between high school and junior college recruits, and adapting to changes like the transfer portal. Tyler emphasizes the significance of athleticism and baseball IQ in player evaluation, particularly for infielders, and shares insights on assessing speed and base running ability. They also address challenges in evaluating players based on showcase metrics versus in-game performance and stress the importance of video analysis in scouting. Timestamps: [03:21] Developing a Diverse Recruiting Strategy in College Baseball [10:21] Infield Evaluation in Baseball Recruiting [12:01] Assessing Infield Movement in Recruitment [15:13] The Role of Home to First Time in Baseball Recruiting [17:14] Understanding Showcase Pop Times [19:03] The Overlooked Art of Base Running in High School Player Scouting [20:58] Navigating the Pitfalls of Recruiting Advice [26:59] Understanding Why Coaches Go Silent in Recruiting [28:36] The Significance of Coaches Following Players on Twitter [31:22] Inside Jacksonville State's Game Day Routine [34:55] Evaluating Season Performance and Learning from Setbacks [38:05] Managing Defensive Alignment and Base Coaching Strategies [39:11] Why Choose Jacksonville State Baseball Follow Tyler Packanik on Twitter: @Tpack5

Jacksonville State Recruiting Coordinator | Tyler Packanik

This week we're focusing on the mental side of the game. This is what I've seen separate players over the years. Of course, you have to have the physical skills, but you'd be surprised at how many players have better physical skills but can never seem to put it all together. The reason? The mental game. In today's episode, I'm sharing 7 ways to help players with the mental side of the game. Timestamps: [ 0:44 ] A Player’s Version of Success [ 3:40 ] Plan for Failure&nbsp; [ 7:23 ] The Process Checklist&nbsp; [ 9:19 ] Be less negative, Not more Positive [ 11:18 ] The Art of Not Caring&nbsp; [ 13:54 ] Social Life&nbsp;&nbsp;[ 16:17 ] Breathing&nbsp;

7 ways to help players with the Mental Game | Patrick Jones

In this podcast, Mike Brown, the recruiting coordinator at the University of Utah, discusses the details of recruiting players for college baseball programs. Brown shares insights on scholarship allocation, recruiting strategies, and evaluating player potential, emphasizing character traits. They discuss prioritizing key positions like starters, shortstops, catchers, and center fielders for scholarships and recruiting Juco players and transfers. Evaluating high school players involves assessing adaptability and attitude, with a focus on arm action for infielders and hitting mechanics for hitters. The podcast highlights the importance of generating backspin line drives and discusses player development, team culture, and the challenges of competing at higher levels. Timestamps: [2:45]&nbsp;Decoding College Baseball Scholarships [4:35] Scholarships, Juco Players, and Walk-Ons [7:11] Evaluating High School Players for Division One Baseball [9:19] Navigating the Shift in College Baseball Recruiting while Balancing Potential vs. Readiness [11:24] Evaluating High School Baseball Prospects [12:40] Insights and Lessons Learned from Experience [16:12] Evaluating Character and Engagement in Baseball Recruits [20:25] Essential Traits in Evaluating Infielders [24:02] What Todd Williams Looks for in Hitters When It Comes to Hitting Standpoint [26:19] The Theory Behind Low-Line Drives [27:41] What Utah Baseball Teaches Its Players [29:34] Utah's Two-Strike Philosophy [35:27] Understanding Pitching Velocity in College Baseball [37:35] Mike Brown’s College Baseball Recruitment Journey [44:53] Experience within the SEC while Playing College Baseball Follow Mike Brown on Twitter: @mikesbrown5

University of Utah Recruiting Coordinator | Mike Brown

In this podcast, Micah Franklin, the manager of the Oakland Ballers in the Pioneer League, discusses the team's entry into independent baseball, focusing on winning and the challenges of player recruitment. The team's unique approach to signing players, with an initial emphasis on position players, is highlighted, and the coaching staff, including notable names like Don Wakamatsu and J.T. Snow, is introduced. Micah shares insights into the team's spring training schedule and the importance of a specific directional bat path for hitting success. The conversation shifts to Micah's scouting experience, emphasizing the growing role of analytics in player selection. He discusses scouting notable players like Cody Bellinger and details Bellinger's transformation in hitting approach. Game planning, opponent analysis, and the importance of trust between players and coaches are key themes. The rarity of hitting coaches reaching out is mentioned, underscoring the significance of effective communication in player development. Timestamps: [03:35] The Manager’s Independent Baseball Journey [05:39] The Unconventional Approach to Roster Recruitment in Independent Baseball [08:35] A Hitter's Evolution from Net Practice to the Big Leagues [12:16]&nbsp;Rediscovering Success by Going Opposite Field [13:50] 7 to 22: Crafting the Perfect Swing Path [16:23] A Journey through the Majors and Back to the Cage From Scouting to Swinging [19:13] Decoding the Art of Hitting through Scouting Insights [21:00] Spotting Future Stars in Scouting [23:13] Cody's Journey in Baseball [28:33] Mind Games in Baseball [30:28] The Secrets Behind Simple Drills [32:17] Simple Strategies for Young Hitters [34:41] Getting Better in Practice and Why Perfect Isn't the Goal [38:41] Efficiency in Swings [44:10] Mastering the Effective Batting Drills [47:13] Game Planning Follow Micah Franklin on Twitter: @micahf56

Cody Bellinger's Hitting Coach | Micah Franklin

In this podcast, Dr. Laby discusses sports vision, its accidental entry during his UCLA fellowship, and the sports vision pyramid. He emphasizes starting from the base and individualized care in training. Dr. Laby addresses improving vision from 20/20 to 20/15 or better. He emphasizes the importance of personalized evaluations, and recommending contacts or glasses for focus improvement. He also highlights the complexity of achieving optimal vision, involving considerations of the eye's focus, retina, and brain function. He suggests a careful refraction process to find the right lens and advocates for athletes to seek specialized attention for enhanced performance. Dr. Laby also mentions the significance of the on-deck circle for hitters, emphasizing the need for predictive skills and knowledge about pitch types. The conversation covers various aspects of vision training, including specific drills, the "Quiet Eye" concept, and emerging technologies like VR systems. He also discusses the potential advancements in vision research and technology, mentioning the role of systems like Reflection Go and synaptic glasses in enhancing visual skills for athletes. Timestamps: [2:19] Getting into Sports Vision with Dr. Daniel Laby [4:06] Building the Sports Vision Pyramid [7:30] Tailoring Sports Vision Training to Individual Needs [9:12] Strategies for Self-Improvement in Sports Vision [11:29] Anecdotes, Insights, and the Truth about 20/20 Vision [15:15] Mastering Predictions for Batting Success [18:25] The Real Score on LASIK Surgery for Baseball Players [23:41] Strategies for Perfecting Your Eyesight [25:37] 20/20 to 20/15 Vision for Players [27:43] The Art and Science of Hitting - From On-Deck Insights to Predictive Vision at the Plate [30:34] The Quiet Eye Guide in Baseball [32:38] Navigating Advances in Vision Tech - From LASIK Hopes to the Next Decade's Insights [35:26] A Guide to Vision Training from Reflection Go App to Synaptic Glasses Dr. Daniel Laby's Website: <a href="https://sportsvision.nyc/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sportsvision.nyc</a>

Sports Performance & Vision Specialist | Dr. Daniel Laby

In this podcast, Albert Gonzalez, a veteran with over a decade of experience in independent baseball, sheds light on Indy Ball Jobs. Topics discussed include player recruitment, placing talent in various leagues, challenges undrafted players face, and intricacies of player salaries. Gonzalez, the bench coach for the High Point Rockers in the Atlantic League, emphasizes the unique aspects of independent baseball as a legitimate route to the majors. He discusses the cutthroat nature of the game, success stories of undrafted players reaching the big leagues, and his role in player recruitment for the Rockers. The conversation touches on financial aspects like salary caps and housing arrangements, and Gonzalez shares his journey from college cuts to playing professionally in Puerto Rico and Europe. The podcast provides valuable advice for players, emphasizing perseverance, networking, and the global opportunities Indy Ball Jobs offers, including winter ball leagues. Timestamps for ALBERT GONZALEZ: [2:13] Understanding Independent Baseball [3:15] From Undrafted to the Big Leagues [6:18] The Cutthroat World of Independent Baseball [09:04] Navigating Opportunities Across Independent Baseball Leagues [11:37] Bert’s Journey from College Cut to Coaching Success [14:05] The Art of Building Winning Teams in Independent Baseball [18:59] The Pay Scale in Independent Baseball Leagues [21:29] Ages in Independent Baseball Leagues [25:44] A Guide to Effective Emails for Independent Baseball Opportunities [27:42] Pitching Dreams and Managerial Aspirations [32:11] Exploring Winter Ball Leagues [38:15] The Varied Backgrounds and Motivations of Independent Baseball Managers [40:10] Opening Doors to Opportunities in Independent Baseball and Beyond Follow Albert Gonzalez on Instagram: indyballjobs

Independent Baseball | Albert Gonzalez

In this podcast episode, Patrick Welcomes Ryan Johanson, a recurring guest, to discuss his experiences as a coach in both the private sector and professional baseball. They delve into the challenges of scaling coaching efforts and building effective hitting development systems. Ryan emphasizes the importance of simplifying complex information and understanding how to communicate with players at different levels. The conversation touches on utilizing technology like force plates and 4D motion, as well as the shift in approach when working with youth players versus professionals. Ryan also shares insights into creating a positive coaching environment and adapting coaching styles based on individual player needs. They also discuss considerations for working with parents and the significance of qualifying conversations to ensure effective communication. The conversation concludes with Ryan's thoughts on coaching philosophy, encouraging coaches to prioritize how they coach over what they coach, and advocating for more player-driven learning experiences. Timestamps: [2:31] Navigating the Hitting Coach's Journey in Player Development [5:06] Decoding Hitting Metrics for a Balanced Path to Player Development [7:35] Mastering the Art of Hitting Development with Just an iPhone [9:01] Breaking Down Metrics for Better Hitting [12:06] The Shift from Pro Baseball to Private Sector [17:45] Crafting a Culture of Growth and Wisdom in Baseball Development [19:03]&nbsp;The Parent-Coach Partnership in Player Development [26:25] Player Goals as a Continuous Journey in Baseball [32:01] The Mental Game of Hitting [34:55] Helping Players Thrive by Letting Them Lead [38:13] Streamlining Player Development for High School Success Follow Ryan Johanson on Twitter: @RPJ1317

How To Build Systems For Coaches | Ryan Johansen

Coaches one stop shop for all things player development and college recruiting. 

Patrick Jones is a former hitting coach in the Baltimore Orioles organization. Now he works with hitters in the private sector and helps high school baseball players get recruited to play in college. This baseball podcast is designed around player development and college recruiting. Each week, he brings on a new guest to discuss everything from hitting and pitching mechanics to the mental game, practice design, drills, and college recruiting.