Elite Baseball Development Podcast

In this episode, Eric discusses spondylolysis, the clinical term for a stress fracture of the spine. These issues are commonly seen with adolescent athletes involved in extension and rotation sports, and he highlights causes, diagnoses, treatments, and prevention strategies for both spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis.Support Our Sponsor: AG1

In this episode, Eric speaks to the differences between training and competition maxes in strength sports like powerlifting, but applies these principles to developing pitchers.Support Our Sponsor: 1stPhorm

Eric is joined by Joey Wolfe, who shared a wealth of knowledge surrounding the development of catchers. From game-calling, to receiving, to blocking, to throwing, to pitcher and umpire relationship, this episode has a lot to offer for players, coaches, and parents.Support Our Sponsor: AG1

Ryan Conroy, a pitching coach at Cressy Sports Performance Florida, shares his expertise on velocity-based throwing programs. He emphasizes the shift from traditional distance metrics to tracking velocity, which aids in injury recovery and performance enhancement. Conroy discusses innovative strategies for managing throwing workloads, particularly for athletes recovering from injuries like Tommy John surgery, and stresses the importance of customized programs tailored to individual capabilities. He also highlights the critical need for gradual progression in training to avoid setbacks.

Sean Guenther, a Detroit Tigers relief pitcher, shares his inspiring journey of reinvention following Tommy John surgery. He discusses the importance of mental resilience and personal growth, emphasizing lessons from transformative books. Guenther also delves into the nuances of horizontal approach angle in pitching and its effect on performance. His transition from a multi-sport athlete to a specialized pitcher highlights the value of varied sports experiences, while offering insights into effective long-term athletic development strategies.

Discover the seven critical stressors that pitchers face, especially at the start of the season. Learn how these factors can impact performance and the importance of managing them to prevent injuries. Additionally, explore the vital connection between nutrition and stress management, with a focus on how a convenient daily supplement can enhance well-being for busy athletes. Stay informed to keep your game strong and healthy!

In this episode, Eric chats with Alan Jaeger and Randy Sullivan about their proposed adjustments to classic long-term throwing programs after elbow and shoulder surgeries.Support Our Sponsor: AG1

Spencer Stockton, a pitching coach at Cressey Sports Performance Florida and former pitcher in the Cincinnati Reds organization, shares insights on managing pitcher workloads. He emphasizes the importance of workload management to prevent injuries and improve performance. Spencer discusses 'big rock' principles and the necessity of auto-regulation. He draws parallels to marathon training, highlighting the balance of recovery and practice. Effective communication among coaches and trainers is crucial for developing successful training regimens.

We welcome Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Tyler Phillips to the latest podcast for an awesome conversation on his path to the big leagues. Tyler speaks to his initial struggles in professional baseball as a high school draft pick, and adjustments he had to make as both a teammate and pitcher. He discusses the importance of mentorship from veteran players, and leaning on mental skills coaches to help with the sports psychology aspect of his preparation. Tyler shares lessons learned from Tommy John surgery rehab, and reflects on both training and pitching adjustments that have favorably shaped his path to the big leagues.Support Our Sponsor: AG1

In this episode, Eric - using the example of a CSP MLB pitcher client - highlights the need for peaks and valleys of various athletic qualities over the course of an athlete's long-term development. It's okay to take a step back to take two steps forward!Support Our Sponsor: 1st Phorm