Baseball Player Magazine

IN THIS ISSUE:

TEAM CENTER CREATIVE NEEDS FOR BASEBALL ORGANIZATIONS PAGE 16

HAMPTOM COLLEGIATE BASEBALL PAGE 18

SPORTS MEDICINE: THE YOUTH ELBOW INJURY PAGE 20

HALL OF FAME NEWS: 90 FOOT THIEVES PAGE 33

FALL BASEBALL PAGE 37

A NEW ERA: SAL AGOSTINELLI’S LONG ISLAND BASEBALL ACADEMY MOVES TO A BIGGER SPACE PAGE 42

2010 INAUGURAL SEASON 8U TEAM FULLY SPONSORED (Includes: 10 week winter clinic @ All-Pro uniforms, spring & summer seasons and tournaments) Where else can your child play for free year round?

10-14U TEAMS PARTIALLY SPONSORED All Falcons teams will be highly competitive.

Falcons team tryouts in November 2009 @ ALL- PRO Registration for tryouts is now open visit us online to register @www.Lifalcons.com Interested in coaching 10 or 12U in 2010?

Please email us at: Lifalcons @yahoo.com or call (631) 801-2792

DIFFERENT INSTRUCTORS WITH COMPLETELY DIFFERENT PHILOSOPHIES? 1 PLAYER TRAINING AND EVERYONE ELSE STANDING AROUND DOING NOTHING? NOT SEEING ANY REAL IMPROVEMENTS? USELESS–INEFFECTIVE–BORING DRILLS? STOP MAKING THE SAME MISTAKE YEAR AFTER YEAR…

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BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE S. SETAUKET, NY 11720

PUBLISHER

CONTENTS 6

ERIC CITRON

CREATIVE DIRECTION ISLAND COAST PRODUCTIONS

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT ASHLEY CITRON

OUTSIDE/INSIDE SALES JOSHUA CITRON ZACHARY CITRON

PRINTING HAIG GRAPHICS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516.380.6775

10 14 16 18 20 23

Baseball Player Magazine is designed as a resource guide for the baseball community. Its intent is to present all types of businesses that cater to families. When you purchase or utilize a product or service that you saw within the pages of BPM let them know you found it in Baseball Player Magazine. Thank You! In order to provide the Baseball Player Magazine free to consumers that advertisements and this publication are paid for by the advertisers.

Unless specially noted, no services, ideas, columns or concepts in Baseball Player Magazine are endorsed by the publisher. Baseball Player Magazine reserves the unrestricted right to refuse, edit or otherwise alter any advertisement submitted for publication. All information in the magazine is copyrighted, including the text, the logo and the layout. All the content of the magazine or the website www.baseballplayermagazine.com may not be copied or distributed without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher of the publication does not warrant or make any representations concerning the accuracy or reliability of the information contained herein.

For information about having Baseball Player Magazine distributed in your location or to advertise or submit a story contact 516-380-6775.

24 30 33 37 38 42 44 46

HITTING

Analyzing the Swing, Joe Francisco

TRAINING

Dr. William J. Germano

DEFENSE

2nd Base Double Play Pivot, Jimmy Goelz

TEAM CENTER WORKS

Creative Marketing Strategies

HAMPTON COLLEGIATE BASEBALL SPORTS MEDICINE

Charles Ruotolo, MD

TAKING GREAT BASEBALL PHOTOS

Sigma Lenses

PERFECT GAME SHOWCASE REVIEW

May, 2009 in Ft. Myers, FL

HALL OF FAME

Modern Medicine and Former Greats

HALL OF FAME

Ninety-foot Thieves

FALL BASEBALL

Getting Strong

FALL BASEBALL

Making It A Better Experience

A NEW ERA

LIBA Moves To A bigger Facility

FALL PITCHING A HEALTHY EDGE

Nutritional Guidelines

HITTING

ANALYZING THE SWING

HITTING Joe Francisco is known as one of the top hitting instructors around. Since 2004 he has used innovative and cutting edge training methods to develop 4 Drafted players, 15 signed professional contracts and 6 HS Players of the Year.

As a player he was 1994 New York City HS Player of the Year and rewrote the Wagner College record book. In 1999 he was drafted by the Atlanta Braves. Joe is the owner of Performance Factory, a training facility with the reputation of developing premier talent. Visit Joe on the web at: www.PerformanceFactoryBaseball.com

YOU DO NOT SWING DOWN ON THE BALL

6

Joe Francisco

SWING DOWN – How to end your hitting career before it really begins!

outfield has become an infrequent event.

When we look at the origin of the improper swing path we have to start as early as tee ball. The problem starts when the tee is placed on home plate. Young hitters are then taught to get their back elbow high, swing down and squash the bug. This totally corrupts what they would do instinctively and is the start of the collapse of the young hitter.

For the select few advancing to high school and beyond–unfortunately the end is near unless changes are made. The reason you have gotten this far is because genetics, athletic ability, work ethic or skill. This is sad because you will never tap into your true ability as a hitter with this swing path. Eventually when the level of play rises and all the players are at the same ability level, the proper swing path sets apart the players that continue and the ones who do not.

As Little League goes on it only gets worse. Coaches are now instructing players to take strikes–bunt instead of hit–squat down to shrink the strike zone and to choke up and put the ball in play. Add to the mix the ever present swing down on the ball and it’s a real recipe for disaster. But with small fields and weak competition the players with more athleticism and better hand eye coordination are still having success.

The players that advance to travel baseball quickly find out the lower level player is no longer on the field.

Pitchers can now throw with more velocity and start to learn off-speed pitches. The inadequate swing that had gotten them to this point is starting to work less and less. When they do hit the ball they find that most players can actually field it and throw them out. Add in bases moving to 75 then 90 feet and the ball once hit in the gap is now a routine out. Swinging down is not allowing them to elevate the ball and driving one into the

So you may be asking yourself what is the correct bat path. Let’s start with what is not the correct path.

The completely wrong, absolutely incorrect, no shot in hell way to hit a ball is to swing down. I repeat YOU DO NOT SWING DOWN ON THE BALL. Not one MLB hitter swings down on the ball–zero, zilch, nada, niente–NOBODY! If someone is teaching you to swing down you should run in the opposite direction.

The Major League Swing Path The proper path of the baseball bat is a slight curving angle allowing the bat to flatten off the back hip–then slightly climbing the upward 6-9° plane as it gets through the strike zone. The goal of the swing is to match the plane of the ball as long as possible–giving the hitter the greatest opportunity for contact.

BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

To keep things simple: The hitter wants to hit with a slight upper cut to match the downward angle of the ball coming from the pitcher. If the ball is moving on a downward angle and the bat is moving on a downward angle you could bet the ball is going to get beat into the ground.

Your shoulders should tilt at contact along with every MLB hitter. The front shoulder will angle above the back shoulder enough to allow the bat to get into the proper position to drive the ball. Try hitting a ball below your waist with this interesting theory and see how it goes.

Stop the problem before it starts

For any hitting questions or comments:

If you have tee ball age kids or below here is what to do. Start with putting the tee out in front of home plate. Allow the contact point of the ball to be out in front of the hitter’s front hip.

Now put the young hitter in an athletic position, knees slightly bent, chest slightly over and feet wider than shoulder width apart. Put the bat on the back shoulder with the elbows relaxed. Let the hitter lift his hands and bat to a 45° angle.

The elbows will elevate but stay relaxed and below the hands. Now let him aggressively attack the ball–everything else will start to take care of itself.

Email: isagfran@aol.com Subject: BPM Hitting Comment Contact: Joe Francisco Performance Factory Baseball 931A Conklin Street Farmingdale, NY 11735 (631)777-7740 www.PerformanceFactoryBaseball.com

For the players above that you will need to recondition your body to work the correct way.

Drills and proper instruction is a good start. Just be careful that the person you are trusting to develop your game isn’t teaching you to swing down on the ball.

Ridiculous Hitting Comments: “The barrel should always stay above your hands” For the most part we want to keep the bat as flat as possible but any pitch below chest high the bat will have to get below the hands. The body stays in the same position on every pitch– the bat angle will change depending on location of the pitch.

“Swing down–hit the top/bottom of the ball and the ball will go up” The goal of hitting is to hit the ball dead center.

Swinging down on the ball will accomplish one thing–hit a ground ball. If you hit the top of the ball it’s definitely going to go down–if you hit the bottom you can get it to lift but decrease the bat in the strike zone dramatically.

“Hit the ball on the ground” Why? Ground balls are better than fly balls right? I agree. But I think I rather hit line drives and elevate the ball up the gap or over the fence rather than hit a grounder.

“Keep your shoulders level at contact”

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7

NO OPEW N

TRAINING

PERFORMANCE TRAINING

TRAINING

By Dr. William J. Germano Performance Director & Managing Partner CATZ of Commack / CATZ of Levittown

Throughout my years of treating and training professional and amateur athletes, I have had the opportunity to see first hand, the benefits of a proper conditioning program with regard to injury prevention and performance enhancement.

Unfortunately, in my opinion, one sport in particular is far behind most of the others when it comes to time devoted to speed, power and agility development. Baseball players spend a disproportionate amount of time on their skills training when compared to their conditioning.

There are a few theories as to why this is so, and absolutely none of them are meant to be a knock on the overall work ethic of baseball players as opposed to athletes in other sports.

As a former NCAA baseball player, I fully realize the exceptional skill level and hand-eye coordination required to excel on the baseball diamond. However, like everything else in this world, there truly is a time and a place for everything. The science of performance training dictates that athletes should devote different times of the year to different goals with regard to overall conditioning and skill development. To over generalize, the 3-4 months preceding the start of an athlete’s competitive season is when the emphasis should be placed on conditioning. For baseball players, the winter months of December through March are when the athletes should physically prepare for the demands of their upcoming season. In the early spring, the focus should shift towards skill development: swing mechanics, fielding drills, base running, and pitching and catching skills. This is not to say that no skills training should be done during the winter, just as conditioning would not be abandoned when the season starts. Rather, it’s more a matter of making the best use of your training time to maximize the overall benefit. For baseball players, roughly three-quarters of their available training time in the

winter should be devoted to performance training or speed, power, flexibility and agility development, whereas, the other 25% of their time should be devoted to hitting, throwing and fielding mechanics. In early spring, the ratio would reverse. The result of this is a better athlete, a baseball player that is fitter, quicker, and more powerful, and one who is much less likely to suffer an injury.

At our two CATZ training facilities, the Baseball Performance Training program is not only sport-specific, but also positionspecific as well. This is easily accomplished by getting away from the outdated and ineffective methodologies of training isolated muscles, especially in fixed motions. By training the specific movement patterns of an athlete’s sport/position, we integrate full body, weight bearing, multiplanar exercises to improve bat speed and hitting power, first step explosive quickness and lateral movement, reaction time and center of gravity control. Since baseball is played on two feet, using full body movements and coordination, baseball players should never train on machines.

Training on machines places the athlete in an artificial environment rendering them illprepared for the explosive, dynamic, and reactive demands of their sport - and therefore much more susceptible to a non-contact injury.

The good news with regard to baseball players participating in preseason conditioning programs is that with so few players taking advantage of this valuable resource, the ones that do really set themselves apart from their competition and enjoy unexpected accomplishments on the field. Ed Boll, the Varsity baseball coach at Commack High School, credits the winter performance training his team did at CATZ in Commack with the success his program has had over the past two years.

“We spent less time in the cages those past two winters, and more time becoming stronger, faster and better conditioned, and we’ve all noticed a huge difference.

This training will be an integral part of our program for as long as I am the Head Coach here.”

For more information on the CATZ sport-specific Performance Training for baseball players, visit www.catzli.com, or contact CATZ in Commack, (631) 486-8933, or in Levittown, (516) 513-0573.

10 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

DEFENSE

2B DOUBLE PLAY PIVOT

DEFENSE

Jimmy Goelz is regarded as one of the best infielders to come out of the Tri State Area. Jimmy reached the AAA level with both the Cleveland Indians and Boston Red Sox, and is currently an Associate Scout with the Colorado Rockies. He CoOwns Prospect Sports in Farmingdale, and developed "Major League Actions", a clinic devoted to infield play.

THE SECOND BASEMAN HAS TO RECEIVE, TRANSFER, AND THROW THE BALL, ALL WHILE HAVING A RUNNER BEARING DOWN ON THEM.

Many things define a great second baseman, but none more so than their ability to turn the double play.

The second baseman has to receive, transfer, and throw the ball, all while having a runner bearing down on them. It requires balance, quickness, and a degree of toughness to deal with the threat the runner looking to take him out. What the second basemen does before the first throw even gets to them, will have a huge impact in determining if their actions can complete the double play. All too often, young middle men have been taught to time the throw coming their way, and be on the move as they receive the throw.

This makes for loss of body control, and potentially erratic throw to the first baseman. Most importantly, it jeopardizes the chance to get the crucial first out, since the pivot man is unable to catch anything but perfect throws with their unstable target.

What the second baseman must do, is get to the base, and provide a steady, stationary target for their teammate to throw to. As shown in picture 1, the second baseman has his left foot on the back corner of the base, and his right foot off the base slightly behind the left. The fielder's feet are wide enough to provide a good strong base, with the weight completely centered between his feet. The weight is also on the balls of his feet. The target is strong, balanced, and in a great position to react to a poor throw. Turning two

requires everyone to be fairly fast with their movements, and with fast movements come mistakes, and sloppy throws. Players often rush their transfers and throws, and inevitably turn a could be double play, into no outs at all. That's why its vital to get to the base, stop all momentum, and provide a big target.

Knees should be slightly bent, shoulders completely square to wherever the throw is coming from, and hands in thumb to thumb position.

To keep it simple, there are basically three pivots the second basemen should rely on. The first and most used, should be the pivot requiring the least amount of movement. This double play turn is the one where the player just transfers his weight right at the bag. The weight starts more on the left foot, transfers back to the right foot, and then back again with force to the left, to complete the throw.(picture 2) It is at this time, that all weight ends up on that left foot, putting the player in an ideal position to jump out of the way of the oncoming runner. The same left, right, left, transfer (L-R-L) of weight is used in all three pivots.

The amount of movement and L-R-L transfer needed, will depend on each players arm strength. Young players will require an obvious transfer of their weight to throw, whereas with a guy like Robinson Cano, the transfer is barely noticeable due to his arm strength. As with every

14 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

pivot, the throw your receiving will dictate which pivot you use, and the first pivot requires a decent throw.

The second pivot is where the second baseman comes across the bag to receive a throw. It should be used in the following three situations: 1. when a throw is made towards the first base side of second base, 2. when there is going to be a close play, or 3. if the throw just isn't going to make it far enough to wait back.

Either way, it is designed for the player to go get the ball, and clear out of the way of the oncoming base runner. This time, the right foot steps across the base towards the throw. (picture 3) A good way to line the body up correctly to the throw is to take the right knee to the thrown baseball. It will put the fielder in 1

3

a real strong position to complete the double play, and allow the left foot to drive towards first base. It's common to find a lot of second baseman like to make this their primary pivot because of the safety, but it's not nearly as fast as the first one. As is with all three pivots, L-RL footwork/transfer of weight is again to be followed, with the starting position remaining the same.

The third and most difficult pivot, is for the throw headed towards the left field side of second base. The pivot man again takes his right knee to the thrown ball, but this time ends up falling away from first base. (picture 4) The ensuing throw will require momentum back towards first base. The second basemen should be comfortable doing so, knowing the base is be2 tween them and the runner for protection.

4

Finally, a strong accurate throw is required to record the second out. It's often a helpless feeling knowing the runner is getting close as the pivot man awaits the double play feed. The second baseman can't look to see where that runner is at, but his instincts and past experiences act as his gauge.

When making the throw, it's important for the shoulders and feet to be square to first base. Stepping forward or to the side to receive a throw is no easy task, and emphasizes the need for body control. Body control is accomplished by getting to the base in a timely manner, and providing a good strong target. A ton of practice and proper positioning before the play, will help a great deal. Like great shortstops need to make the play in the hole, and great center fielders need to run down the ball in the gaps, a great second baseman needs to be able to turn a double play.

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BPM COVER STORY... THE CREATIVE STRATEGIES OF TEAM CENTER...

TEAM CENTER WORKS If you are starting a travel baseball team or organization or have an existing one there are so many aspects of management to consider. For many of these individuals this is an undertaking that was borne out of their love of the game not as a business opportunity.

Countless hours are spent recruiting, training, practicing and playing that there is little time left to develop a marketing and branding strategy. For the inexperienced manager this is an impossible task.

In order to simplify the tasks of developing team logos, websites and an overall marketing strategy Team Center has developed a comprehensive one-stop-shop for all of your creative needs called Team Center Works.

This package provides brand new teams or teams looking to revise their marketing approach with a complete package that includes a Team Center designed logo, Team Center website, and a Web Page designed within the TC Baseball Directory. The Team Web Page provides each team the ability to publish news stories, promote events, promote their mailing list, and much more. TC will also assist you in building creative newsletters that links with a Mailing List "builder" directly from your TC web page or website. As part of the Team Center Works package you will receive Team Communicate for FREE which uses email and phone to text messaging conversion to keep your team up to date on news, events, and alerts.

Kenneth Henderson, General Manager of the Long Island Whalers, says "Team Center is the only company I use for all of my marketing needs. Their design team delivers unparalleled quality. I needed a logo and website that would catch the attention of players who wanted to be part of a quality organization. TC delivered. I really believe Team Center will help further the growth of amateur baseball on Long Island."

TC is currently in the development stage of building “Player Center “ a social network that will enable players to communicate with each other, upload page elements containing stats, videos, photos and much more. Company Vice-President, Jennifer Jaeger, hopes that this feature will allow players to communicate with college coaches. "This program when completed will provide password protected access to link college coaches to local amateur players.

Since 2005 Team Center “TC” powered by NGIN, has been providing graphic design, creative consulting, and online marketing solutions to many of Long Island's largest amateur baseball organizations such as the Long Island Whalers, Hamptons Collegiate Baseball & Baseball Player Magazine.

If you are interested in becoming a Team Center organization call 516.874.5596 or e-mail info@teamcenterusa.com to request a Team Questionnaire.

16 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

DIRECTED BY SAMANTHA YODOWITZ Samantha Yodowitz, a two-time All-America Second Team selection and current assistant coach at C.W. Post, joins the Prospect Sports coaching staff after a record-breaking career with the CW Post Pioneers.

In her four seasons at C.W. Post, Yodowitz posted a 90-27 record with a 1.68 ERA, striking out 586 batters in 792 innings. She was equally impressive at the plate, batting .329 with 95 RBI, connected for 20 home runs and 58 extra-base hits. In 2008, the lefty started every game in the Pioneers' post-season, posting a 3-0 record in the East Coast Conference Championship, and a 4-0 record in the NCAA Northeast Regional Championship.

The Suffern, N.Y. native garnered several other accolades for her performance in 2008, as she was named to the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC) Division II All-Star Team, the NCFA All-Northeast Region First Team, as well as the All-ECC First Team.

The team improved each year since Yodowitz came on as a freshman in 2005. The former player helped lead C.W. Post to a combined 176-57 record, two conference championships, consecutive NCAA Division II Championship Northeast Regional titles in 2007 and 2008, and two appearances in the College World Series.

C

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PROVIDING A VENUE FOR MAJOR-LEAGUE HOPEFULS TO SHINE

HAMPTONS COLLEGIATE BASEBALL A Hamptons Collegiate Baseball front office member approached Westhampton Aviators manager Dave Walker shortly after his squad had hoisted the Atlantic Collegiate Baseball League championship trophy. It had come time to round up awards nominees. Walker wanted no part of it. To call this hitter or pitcher more important than the next would be unjust.

In the inaugural season for the team, one of five under the Hamptons Collegiate Baseball umbrella, seven Westhampton regulars hit over .300 but none higher than .336.

The starters, the relievers, the righties, the lefties, even the occasional position player, they all pitched in. It aptly summed up how the organization came together – its players, coaches, front offices and fans combined to make 2009 quite a memorable summer on the East End.

“We were successful in that the expansion took place in a recessionary economy, proving that the idea is on the right track,” Hamptons Collegiate Baseball President Rusty Leaver said. “It filled a real need in the communities. Secondly, the grassroots, hands-on support we received in the form of host family housing, meals and part-time jobs for players, and overall support at the games reinforced the same thing.”

The Aviators’ 7-5 win over the Jersey Pilots in the ACBL title game punctuated a standout season on the East End. Between an All-Star Game shutout of the Wolff Division, a successful MLB Scout Day and the delivery of top-flight summer ball to the Hamptons, the organization has developed into a must-see stop in Major League scouts’ summer circuit.

If its progress in the last two years is any indication, it won’t be long before it rivals the best of what’s around.

“One of the huge benefits of this year was the baseball cred-

18 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

relievers; together, they limited the Wolff Division to four hits and no runs. Stealing the show was Brandon Boykin (Rutgers/Teaneck, N.J.), whose three-run blast in the fourth inning all but put the Wolff away. Boykin’s blast helped earn him Most Valuable Player honors for the game.

ibility that we established,” Leaver said.

“Every time we raise our game, it’s acknowledged by the world of Major League Baseball and collegiate baseball. What’s critical to our success is that we’re able to convey our commitment to becoming one of the elite collegiate programs in the nation.”

From start to finish, thousands of fans plopped themselves down in bleachers, beach blankets and lawn chairs in Sag Harbor, Southampton, Westhampton, Riverhead and the North Fork for the second season of Hamptons Collegiate Baseball, its first as a five-team venture.

The standout players reaped postseason accolades. Right-hander Nick Tropeano (Stony Brook/West Islip, N.Y.) was named Most Valuable Pitcher, accumulating an astounding 77 strikeouts in 50 innings while compiling seven wins and a 1.61 earned run average.

His success earned him the No. 1 spot on the ACBL’s prospect list according to Baseball America. Rounding out the top five were Nick Ahmed (Connecticut/East Longmeadow, Mass.), Gardner Leaver (Rhode Island/Montauk, N.Y.), Pete Greskoff (Brown/Paoli, Pa.) and Justin Bradley (UNC-Wilmington/Carolina Beach, N.C.) all HCB products. Alex Pracher (Stanford/Marlton, N.J.) was sixth on that list after a dominant season on the mound for Westhampton. Greskoff shared Most Valuable Player honors with Jersey’s Ken Gregory after hitting .397 and belting 10 home runs and driving in 37.

At the All-Star Game, Tropeano went two shutout innings before giving way to seven

Less than two weeks later, HCB had another first – its first Major League scout day. More than 100 players were tested in the 60-yard dash, making various throws from the outfield and infield, at the plate and on the mound. Scouts from several clubs, including both 2008 World Series representatives – the Devil Rays and Phillies – as well as the New York Mets attended and left with several players to follow in the fall and spring seasons.

“The first annual scout day that the HCB organization ran was very thorough and I know that the scouts who were there left with a lot more knowledge of the players that we brought out to the Island from all over the country," said Dan Gallagher, director of baseball operations.

It’s just one year however. There will be many more. HCB’s key components took a few days to reflect on a job well done before hitting the recruiting trail for 2010.

There’s always room to improve. There’s always next year, to which the East End most certainly looks forward.

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SPORTS MEDICINE

ELBOW INJURIES IN THE YOUNG BASEBALL PLAYER

ORTHOPAEDIC

By Charles Ruotolo, MD Elbow injuries in the baseball player are common and range from simple sprains to sport ending injuries. Common to many of these problems are their presentation as overuse injuries, injuries that gradually get worse over time. The key to successful treatment of these problems is early recognition.

In the younger baseball player multiple injuries can occur many being age specific.

This list includes stress fractures through growing bone, ligament sprains, partial ligament tears, complete ligament tears, and osteochondritis dessicans, a bone and cartilage disorder that can lead to loose bodies, arthritis and the inability to throw.

Stress fractures and stress reaction are common problems in the younger baseball player with the most common bone affected being the medial epicondyle of the distal humerus. This usually presents as pain on the inside of the elbow that progressively gets worse with throwing. In rare instances complete fracture with displacement of the epicondyle can occur necessitating surgery. These fractures range in children 9 to 14 years old. The key to treatment again is early recognition and rest. Specific shoulder problems may increase risk for this problem causing altered throwing mechanics and increase stress applied to the elbow during throwing.

Ligament injuries can also occur due to the same biomechanical stress. These can range from ligament strains to complete tears of medial collateral ligament of the elbow. Ligament tears occur in older athletes who are skeletally mature, age 15 and above. Even in the skeletally mature teenage level player complete tears are rare. For patients with partial tears of the medial collateral ligament conservative management should always be the first line of treatment. Rest, as well as evaluation by a sports trained physician, are the keys to successful return to the pre-injury level of play. Again biomechanical issues including posterior capsular tightness of the shoulder, scapular dyskinesis (abnormal shoulder blade mechanics), and core weakness can all lead to altered pitching mechanics and increased stress across the medial collateral ligament. In a study on professional baseball pitchers posterior capsular shoulder stretching significantly

decreased elbow injuries. This highlights the need to assess the entire athlete who presents with elbow pain.

Lastly, osteochondritis dissecans commonly occurs in athletes aged 11 to 21 with most presenting between age 12 and 14. It is a localized condition of the capitellum, the lateral or outside portion of the distal humerus. This is thought to be an overuse injury caused by repetitive compressive and shearing forces on the lateral portion of the elbow joint from throwing. This results in separation of a segment of articular cartilage from the underlying bone. Pain is the most common presenting complaint. It is insidious in nature and is exacerbated by throwing and relieved by rest. Loss of elbow motion is common. Patients can complain also of locking, catching, and grinding especially as the fragment of cartilage becomes loose. Initial treatment is conservative, except when there are loose bodies in the joint that need to be surgically removed. Conservative treatment has shown favorable results when the lesion is detected early. Advanced lesions can be associated with limited elbow function and degenerative arthritis.

Baseball players commonly develop elbow pain due to the high forces and torque generated at the elbow during throwing.

Most of these conditions can be treated conservatively when early treatment is instituted. Appropriate evaluation including associated problems affecting biomechanics need to be assessed for successful treatment.

Total Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, LLP The Office of Charles Ruotolo, MD, FAAOS and Gary Gonya, MD 5500 Merrick Rd Massapequa, NY 11758 www.orthodoc.aaos.org/ruotolo For Appointments call 516-795-3033 Specializing in Sport Specific Evaluation and Treatment of Orthopaedic Sports Injuries including Sport Specific Rehabilitation Programs for the Shoulder and Elbow Charles Ruotolo, MD, FAAOS Specializing in Sports Medicine, Arthroscopic Shoulder, Knee, Ankle and Elbow Surgery Gary Gonya, MD Specializing in Spinal Disorders and Treatment

20 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

Total Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, LLP Specializing in Sport Specific Evaluation & Treatment of Orthopaedic Sports Injuries including Sport Specific Rehabilitation Programs for the Shoulder and Elbow.

Charles Ruotolo, MD, FAAOS Specializing in Sports Medicine, Arthroscopic Shoulder, Knee, Ankle and Elbow Surgery Gary Gonya, MD Specializing in Spinal Disorders and Treatment For appointments call 516-795-3033

http://orthodoc.aaos.org/totalorthopaedics 5500 Merrick Rd, Massapequa, NY 11758

O U R W O R L D

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TAKING GREAT BASEBALL PHOTOS

By Eric Citron

you can get away with a good optical zoom lens, but superior digital sports shots are taken with a proper telephoto.

If you have a passion for sports photography, the right equipment, and you don’t mind spending a copious amount of time marketing your skills, then you might have a future in digital youth spots photography.

The following tips are designed to help you turn your passion into profit: Shutter Speed High shutter speed is critical when it comes to taking action shots. The absolute slowest speed you will employ is one 500th of a second, which will enable you to capture the average line tackle or pole vault. For lightning fast motion, you will want speeds of one 1000th of a second or higher.

For example, a typical fast baseball pitch at the high school level averages about 90 miles per hour. In order to capture the ball in mid-air, you will need a shutter speed of one 4000th. Knowing the importance of high shutter speed will allow you to better determine the type of digital camera you’ll need in order to capture vivid action photos.

Cutting-Edge Equipment If you are planning to turn your passion into a moneymaking venture, it’s important to invest in professional-grade equipment. These days almost all professional youth sports photographers shoot with cutting-edge digital cameras. This is a bonus for parents, who don’t own digital photo equipment, in that it provides them with high quality images of their young athletes in action.

By shooting with high-tech digital equipment, you will be able to display your images on a website. This allows parents easy access to photos of their son scoring the gamewinning touchdown or their daughter hitting her first homerun. What’s more, with digital photo technology, moms, dads and other family members can view and purchase prints online, often within hours of the sporting event.

This translates into more sales for you.

Practice Makes Perfect Documenting little leaguers, pint-sized swimmers and super soccer players in action can be a daunting task even for advanced shooters. The slightest mistake can ruin a shot.

On the flipside, sporting events yield many dramatic moments so you often get multiple chances to capture high-impact shots. The key to snapping exceptional photos is to be patient and practice whenever possible. Being at the right place at the right time with the right equipment will help you get the money shots you are looking for.

Lighting High-speed shutter translates in a higher ISO. This means lighting is critical. Generally, stadiums will be well lit. However, high-intensity stadium lights often washout color and yield unwanted glare and high-contrast shadows. To avoid running into lighting issues, it’s a good idea to have a light tool on your digital camera such as a histogram. The histogram’s sensor will give you a good read on light levels, thereby allowing you to adjust the ISO on the spot.

Lenses Having a telephoto lens is a must when shooting youth sporting events. It will prove invaluable, especially when you are covering games where you are not allowed on the field and you don’t have a front-row seat. You might think FOR ADVERTISING CALL: 516.380.6775 . ON LINE: WWW.BASEBALLPLAYERMAGAZINE.COM 23

TWO FAMILIES ATTEND & REVIEW THE SUNSHINE EAST SHOWCASE MAY 31, 2009

PERFECT GAME USA

By JEFF HANEY

and we wanted them to experience what it was like. Plus - because they have an interest in attending colleges in FL - why not plan an extended stay and travel around to see schools? We did just that. We made a 5 day trip that included the Showcase and a stop at 7 colleges of which we got to meet 5 coaches.

My friend (and my son’s former youth coach) recently asked us to go along to Perfect Game in Ft. Myers Florida this Spring to showcase our son’s skills. Coach Steve Kalousdian and his son Chris (17), along with Brandon (17) and I thought it would be a good opportunity since college is right around the corner.

Both our kids have shown that they want to play in college - they have shown much success in playing for the last 7 years - and they have an interest in playing where the weather is a little warmer than up here in NY. So, we spent the money - about $1650+ for each family for the 3 days and off we went.

We have been to other Perfect Game Showcases before - so we kind of knew what to expect - but the kids never did one in Florida

No matter what showcase you go to or where it is - you never know what’s going to happen. Will it be organized? Will the weather hold up? Will the kids perform well?

Will someone see my kid? I can tell you from past experience that Perfect Game is top notch. Minor league facilities, well run, very organized. There are always scouts there - it just depends on how many and what schools they are from. What about the talent of the other kids? Because the kids at this showcase are from all over - the level of play was pretty even. Will my kid get enough playing time to showcase his skills? Yes - Perfect Game does a good job not to overload the teams so each kid gets their innings. The Showcase is broken into 2 days - day 1 is individual skills and games, and day 2 is typically 1 game then you go home.

Before the Showcase begins, players gather in their colorful attire to hear the day’s Instructions

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I could speak about showcases and the details for days - so to shorten the results, here are TEN QUESTIONS about Perfect Game directed to the kids themselves:

perience. We all seemed to gel very quickly.

Chris Kalousdian: It was good to see different and new perspectives from the kids - I think it was a good experience for me.

WHAT WERE YOUR EXPECTATIONS GOING TO PERFECT GAME IN FLORIDA? Brandon Haney: I expected to see a lot more kids at a higher level of play. I didn’t.

Chris Kalousdian: I expected to see Coaches and scouts and a lot of great talent. The talent was average.

HOW DO YOU COMPARE YOUR SKILL LEVEL COMING FROM NY TO THE TALENT YOU SAW? Brandon Haney: I really thought my skill level was right on par with the talent that I saw. I felt that I could compete.

Chris Kalousdian: I thought that my level of play was right on with the rest. There were very few ‘stand-outs’ at the event. Some kids should not have been there.

DO YOU THINK THE EVENT WAS WELL RUN? Brandon Haney: Yes, very organized.

Chris Kalousdian: Yes, well run.

HOW WERE THE FACILITIES? Brandon Haney: Top notch - professional.

Chris Kalousdian: Awesome - Minor league!

DO YOU THINK THAT PG GAVE YOU ENOUGH TIME TO SHOWCASE YOUR SKILLS? Brandon Haney: They gave me 3 full innings on the mound which was good. I don’t think that they gave me enough time at my in-field position or at bat - I would have like more.

Chris Kalousdian: I thought they did both at infield and pitching. I was able to show scouts what I have. For relief pitchers - not so much.

DO YOU FEEL THAT IT WAS A SUCCESSFUL SHOWCASE FOR YOU - WOULD YOU DO IT AGAIN? Brandon Haney: I had a good time and felt it was successful. The whole trip - including visiting schools was great. I would do it again.

Chris Kalousdian: I felt it was successful. I’d do it again. It was fun.

BESIDES THE SHOWCASE - WHAT ELSE DID YOU DO IN FLORIDA? Brandon Haney: You have to check out the beaches - which were great and of course we planned out a 2 day college tour visiting schools and baseball facilities.

Chris Kalousdian: Same here. We saw 3 types of schools which gave us a great idea of what college could be like.

DID YOU SEE A GOOD REPRESENTATION OF SCOUTS / COLLEGES? Brandon Haney: I expected more. I only saw a few. Some from Florida, some from up north.

Chris Kalousdian: There could have been more. I would have like to have seen more scouts going around checking out the kids.

DID YOU SPEAK TO ANY? Brandon Haney: I don’t think they were allowed to approach us - but I did approach and speak to 1 or 2. It’s nice to speak to them.

Chris Kalousdian: Same with me - I did speak to a few. You can really learn from them.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO BE PUT ON A TEAM OF PLAYERS WHOM YOU’VE NEVER MET? Brandon Haney: I thought it was a good ex-

Brandon Haney and Chris Kalousdian from Kings Park HS in NY and from the LI Titans

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PERFECT GAME CONTINUED...

Clockwise from Top: Brandon Haney showcasing his hitting.

Pesky sign which designates one of the training facilities.

Steve K. looking over a baseball video for Chris K. Below - players stretch and get ready to be timed in the 60.

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HALL OF FAME NEWS In sickness and in health Modern medicine may have made some greats even better

major league service time. The rule change came as a part of the resolution to the labor struggles that year.

By Trevor Hayes National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

In baseball terms the change is still recent.

Hall of Fame careers take a minimum of 10 years to build and players must wait five years after retiring to be elected, so only a handful of Hall of Famers could have played rehabilitation games. Even fewer Hall of Famers – like Paul Molitor who suffered a broken knuckle that sent him to the Beloit Brewers for a rehab game in 1990 – have needed to take advantage of the rule change.

McCoy Stadium bulged. The home of the Triple-A Pawtucket Red Sox could barely contain the standing-room-only crowd, and their noise swelled outside of the stadium, with chants of “Papi, Pa-pi.”

David Ortiz gave the crowd what it wanted when he hit three homers in three games for the PawSox. 2008 saw Red Sox Nation descend upon Pawtucket to see their slugger recover from his wrist injury. Despite only 10,031 seats in McCoy stadium, a crowd of 11,460 saw Ortiz hit his first bomb in a PawSox uniform.

The minors are often known for their promotions, but the attendance boost a major league star provides can be better than any giveaway. But while minor league rehabilitation assignments are common today, very few Hall of Famers ever played one.

In 1980, a change to the rules allowed teams to send major league players on injury rehabilitation assignments and still accrue

For many of the players enshrined in Cooperstown, things were just handled differently.

Thomas Boswell summed up the difference in his 1989 book The Heart of the Order.

“Once upon a time, you spit on a cut and rubbed a bruise,” Boswell wrote. “Now, if you don’t feel perfect, a battery of trainers, doctors and masseurs try to decide whether you need diathermy, deep heat, whirlpool, ice, massage, ultrasound, acupuncture, cortisone, hypnotism or an L.A. shrink.”

In 1992, almost $100 million was paid to players on the disabled list. With more sophisticated equipment to detect injuries and

30 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

the monetary investment in players, teams today are much more cautious. Molitor’s string of injuries – pulled hamstrings, pulled ribcage muscles, torn ankle ligaments, elbow injuries and the broken knuckle – ultimately forced him to become a designated hitter to limit the wear on his body.

Tales like future Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn leading the National League in hitting with a .353 average in 1996 despite a torn Achilles’ tendon are becoming rarer. Gwynn and his 2007 Induction mate, Cal Ripken Jr., were throwbacks to the early days of baseball.

Ripken set a new record by playing in 2,632 consecutive games, which lasted from 1982 until 1998. Over that time, 3,695 major leaguers were placed on the DL. Ripken’s first trip to the disabled list was in 1999, his 19th season in the majors. He’d two years later.

The man Ripken passed for the title of Iron Man, Lou Gehrig, once had his hands xrayed late in his career. Seventeen healed bone fractures were uncovered with the pictures. Gehrig apparently had no clue they existed. He also suffered a few severe bean balls to the head in an era before batting helmets were used and fought through chronic back spasms to play every day.

The only thing that could force Gehrig from playing was the illness that eventually took his life, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, ALS causes muscles throughout the body to degenerate. In 1939, after suffering from the disease for over a year, Gehrig’s skill had deteriorated to the point that he pulled himself from his team’s lineup. His streak

ended at 2,130 games and he never played again.

Columnist Jim Murray once wrote “He was a symbol of indestructibility – a Gibraltar in cleats.”

In the days before teams started using doctors and trainers, players took the field with all sorts of injuries, whether they wanted to or were ready to. An exhausted Dizzy Dean asked to sit out of the 1937 All-Star Game, but played anyway. The Hall of Famer gave up a homer to Gehrig and then a line drive to Earl Averill. Averill’s liner added injury to the insult of the home run. The ball struck Dean’s foot, sidelining him with a broken toe.

The star pitcher wasn’t given enough time to recover though. The Cardinals rushed him back into service. The toe forced Dean to alter his delivery which resulted in shoulder damage and cut his career short. Dean played four more seasons but never pitched more than 20 games in a season again.

Hall of Famer Mickey Mantle is another star

FOR ADVERTISING CALL: 516.380.6775 . ON LINE: WWW.BASEBALLPLAYERMAGAZINE.COM 31

who was limited by injuries. Mantle is considered one of the all-time greats, but injuries plagued him throughout his career.

At 19, during Game 2 of the 1951 World Series, Mantle charged hard after a fly ball trying to help cover ground for an aged Joe DiMaggio. When he saw DiMaggio in position, Mantle pulled up and caught his spikes on a sprinkler head in the Yankee Stadium outfield. He tore several ligaments in his knee and neglected to rehabilitate it properly. The incident became the source of a series of leg problems.

Rex Barney, a former player, broadcaster and public address announcer once said of Mantle, “Before every game he had to wrap his left leg from the ankle up with an Ace bandage as tight as a mummy. After every game, he would unwrap it, tears of pain on his face. Never said a word.”

Hall of Famer Nellie Fox said: “On two legs, Mickey Mantle would have been the greatest ballplayer who ever lived.” And 1989 Hall Inductee Carl Yastrzemski said, “If that guy were healthy, he’d have hit 80 home runs.”

Like Mantle, Dodger legend Sandy Koufax was cut down in his prime by injuries. Arm problems forced the L.A. fireballer to retire early. Winning his third Cy Young in 1966 after going 27-9 with a 1.73 ERA, Koufax retired at 31, saying “When I’m 40 years old, I’d still like to be able to comb my hair.”

Koufax’s arm problems were well documented. Reynaud’s Phenomenon, a circulatory problem which caused him to lose feeling in his fingers, cost him half of the 1962 season. He dominated over the next few years, throwing four no-hitters including a perfect game between 1962 and his retirement, but elbow problems caught up to him.

After already starting two games, Koufax threw Game 7 of the 1965 World Series on just two days rest. The strain on his arm was getting to be unbearable and his catcher Johnny Roseboro asked what they should do

without the use of the hurler’s devastating curve. Koufax replied “Just blow them away.”

He threw a three-hitter and struck out 10, ending the Series with a 0.38 ERA in 24 innings.

Within a decade after Koufax’s retirement, medical science made a great leap forward.

Dr. Frank Jobe and Dodgers pitcher Tommy John made history in 1974. To save John’s career after elbow problems, Jobe pioneered what has become known as Tommy John surgery, where an elbow ligament is replaced with a tendon from elsewhere in the body.

While no Hall of Famer has had the operation, plenty of active pitchers have a four-inch scar from the Tommy John procedure, including A.J. Burnett, Matt Holliday, Mariano Rivera, Kenny Rogers and John Smoltz.

Some of those players may soon be in Cooperstown, a tribute to a doctor’s skill and a player’s determination to keep playing.

Members of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum receive free admission to the Museum, as well as access to exclusive programs, such as the Voices of the Game Series. Additionally, members receive a subscription to the Hall of Fame's bi-monthly magazine, Memories and Dreams, the 2009 Hall of Fame yearbook and a 10% discount and free shipping on retail purchases. For information on becoming a member, please visit baseballhall.org or call 607-547-0397.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is open seven days a week year round, with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Museum is open from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. seven days a week. The Museum observes off-season hours of 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. from the day after Labor Day until Memorial Day Weekend. Ticket prices are $16.50 for adults (13 and over), $11 for seniors (65 and over) and for those holding current memberships in the VFW, Disabled American Veterans, American Legion and AMVets organizations, and $6 for juniors (ages 7-12). Members are always admitted free of charge and there is no charge for children 6 years of age or younger. For more information, visit our Web site at baseballhall.org or call 888-HALL-OF-FAME (888-425-5633) or 607-547-7200.

32 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

Honus Wagner

HALL OF FAME NEWS Ninety-foot Thieves Hall of Famers Dominate Stolen Base Records

By Samantha Carr National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum COOPERSTOWN, N.Y. – Great base stealers have more than just speed. They have something intangible, something that convinces them they will steal that base.

They also have something else in common.

Most of them are in the Hall of Fame.

“My greatest asset was my ‘arrogance’ on the bases, which enabled me to light the fuse to a ball club,” said Hall of Famer Lou Brock, who became the oldest player to steal 100 bases when he totaled 118 in 1974. “Baserunning ‘arrogance’ is just like pitching ‘arrogance.’ The runner gets to first base and stands out there nine or 10 feet

off the bag. Do I challenge the pitcher and catcher or do I back away? If you’re ‘arrogant,’ you are presenting a presence that tells the opposition, ‘I am ready for the test.’.”

Brock held the career stolen base record when he retired in 1979. The record has since been topped by the newest electee to the Baseball Hall of Fame, Rickey Henderson. Henderson stole 1,406 bases during his 25-year career.

Henderson was elected by the Baseball Writers Association of America in January with 94.8 percent of the vote. He will be inducted on July 26 and receive his plaque in Cooperstown.

Henderson, who is considered by many the greatest leadoff hitter of all time, gained the nickname “Man of Steal” because of his dancing fingers and quick feet. He led his league in stolen bases 12 times.

The Legendary Ty Cobb FOR ADVERTISING CALL: 516.380.6775 . ON LINE: WWW.BASEBALLPLAYERMAGAZINE.COM 33

When he retired, Hall Of Famer Lou Brock led almost every category related to stolen bases

Henderson and Brock dominate the record book when it comes to swiping bases. The top two modern single season records are: Henderson with 130 steals in 1982, and Brock with 118 steals in 1974. They each led Major League Baseball in steals for six seasons. They have the top two career seasons with 50-plus stolen bases, Henderson with 13 and Brock with 12, which were all consecutive.

In fact, Hall of Famers are all over the record books for stolen bases. The top four career base stealers are in the Hall of Fame: After Henderson and Brock are Billy Hamilton with 912 and Ty Cobb with 892.

Henderson holds the record for most times leading a league with 12 AL titles, but Hall of Famer Max Carey is not far behind, leading the NL 10 times. Hall of Famer Luis Aparicio has the most consecutive seasons leading his league with nine.

Two records exist for the most stolen bases in a game. Prior to 1901, that record stood at 7 by Hamilton and George Gore. The modern record is six and is held by Hall of Famer Eddie Collins, Otis Nixon, and Eric Young.

Brock and Collins are tied for most career steals in the World Series with 14. Cobb stole home more than any other player, pilfering the plate 54 times.

The stolen base was not a recorded statistic until 1886, and it was much different then.

A stolen base was awarded to any runner who advanced an extra base on his own accord. This included a runner who went from first to third on a single.

The shoes of Hall Of Famer Lou Brock 34 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

With this definition of the statistic, the stolen base was viewed less as an achievement by the runner and more as a failure by the defense. The 1880s and 90s showed wildly high totals, including Harry Stovey recording 156 stolen bases in 1888.

The base stealing gloves of Ricky Henderson

The modern definition of the steal came in 1896, although caught stealing was not measured until 1920. Prior to that, stolen base percentage was calculated by the percentage of steals per game for a team.

This, it was decided, was not an accurate measure, and was later changed to the number of steals divided by attempts. The player with the highest stolen base percentage with at least 300 stolen bases is Tim Raines with 84.7.

In the early 1900s, one player’s antics forced a rule change to the stolen base.

Henderson, the most successful base thief of all time, turned the stolen base into one of his greatest weapons on the baseball field.

The Detroit Tigers had men on first and third in the ninth inning against Cleveland. Davy Jones, a player with good speed, was on third, and Germany Shaefer was on first.

The team tried a delayed double steal to sneak the runner home, but the Cleveland catcher did not throw down to second.

"You got to creep, creep. You got to play games with them,” Henderson said of the opposing pitchers. “You got to make them know you're back there. Once they know you're back there, they’re going to panic and a lot of time they’re going to give that hitter a great pitch to hit."

On the next pitch Shaefer stole first base to go back and try it again. After an argument, the umpire allowed it and Shaefer tried to steal second on the next pitch. The Cleveland catcher threw the ball into center field and the run scored to win the game. Shortly afterward, the rule was changed so that once a player reaches second base, he cannot return to first, outlawing the steal of first base.

Base stealing champ, Hall Of Famer, Ricky Henderson FOR ADVERTISING CALL: 516.380.6775 . ON LINE: WWW.BASEBALLPLAYERMAGAZINE.COM 35

Members of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum receive free admission to the Museum, as well as access to exclusive programs, such as the Voices of the Game Series. Additionally, members receive a subscription to the Hall of Fame's bimonthly magazine, Memories and Dreams, the 2009 Hall of Fame yearbook and a 10% discount and free shipping on retail purchases. For information on becoming a member, please visit baseballhall.org or call 607-547-0397

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is open seven days a week year round, with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Museum is open from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. seven days a week. The Museum observes off-season hours of 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. from the day after Labor Day until Memorial Day Weekend. Ticket prices are $16.50 for adults (13 and over), $11 for seniors (65 and over) and for those holding current memberships in the VFW, Disabled American Veterans, American Legion and AMVets organizations, and $6 for juniors (ages 7-12). Members are always admitted free of charge and there is no charge for children 6 years of age or younger. For more information, visit our Web site at baseballhall.org or call 888-HALL-OF-FAME (888-425-5633) or 607547-7200.

Left: Mickey Mantle - If he only had two good legs....

Below: Tim Raines - 5th all-time for steals

36 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

FALL IS A GREAT TIME TO EXPERIMENT, SHOWCASE YOUR SKILLS AND BUILD STRENGTH

FALL BASEBALL Fall Baseball Is A Great Time To Learn!

Ball is over for the summer! Take a break. Encourage your sons to go to the beach, golf or anything but baseball. Let them recharge. But now is the time for you to plan for Fall Ball.

Fall ball is a wonderful season. Some refer to this season as a developmental season, but not for the right reasons. This is not a time to just goof off, but a time to work on specific things. If they will be moving up to a different age group with a larger field and older players, it is a great time to get acclimated. This is a great opportunity to play for another admired coach or play a different position. If he’s considered trying to switch hit, now is the time to try.

Fall is a great time to experiment. If he is a pitcher the Fall is a great time to work on a new pitch like the splitter or circle change. He should not be particularly concerned with his stats, but focus on expanding his game. If his coach is consumed with winning the Fall League to the exclusion of this kind of experimentation, you are on the wrong team.

For a high school junior or senior, Fall ball is

an extremely important time to showcase his skills for pro and college scouts. This is the time that college recruiters have to actually get out and see the potential prospects without their coaching duties interfering.

For players 15 or so and up, the fall is when you get strong. From here on, only the strong survive. They must workout in a strength training program designed to increase baseball strength, not a program designed by some football coach designed to build hulking, knuckle dragging linebackers.

There are dietary supplements that are safe and will help build strength and lean muscle mass. Creatine is the most popular and effective. I would not recommend using creatine until a young man is 16, maybe 15 depending on how mature his body is. It will help them get strong. It will help them get bigger.

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FALL IS A GREAT TIME TO EXPERIMENT, SHOWCASE YOUR SKILLS AND BUILD STRENGTH

FALL BASEBALL A Great Time To Really Coach!

By Coach John Peter Here's a few random thoughts on making Fall Ball a better experience! *You may want to read the note at the end of this article I believe that your ability to communicate will always make your life and your team a better experience. Nothing new so far, right?

You must be abundantly clear regarding your thoughts on winning, which I would always encourage. Even the younger players know that winning is simply more fun. But it is the playing well and with marked improvement between the first game to the end of the season that are the real barometers of a fall seasons success!

IF THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE TO ANY PARENT...

They just don't get it! Good advice may be to re-address and attempt to salvage the situation with no resolution, (see number 2 below). Some would be best-advised to consider a "better situation" elsewhere.

2nd - You Are The Man You, coach, are the guy who is giving your time and doing your best to help an entire team of other people's kids to do their best. And trust me on this one, if the kids aren't having fun, you had better change your ways fast, or you are missing the reason you should be doing this in the first place!

So, in general... keep it fun!

Fall baseball is the time when teaching and learning, hopefully in a fun environment, may fight the demons of your competitive side. We like to say that it is fall ball so we are not going to win at all costs, BUT it is hard not trotting out your stud pitchers at every opportunity... especially if you have history with some of your competition! The risk of looking like a weenie or your team getting crushed can be overwhelming!

Well coach, here's a few thoughts to keep you on the straight and narrow and possibly allow you to retain some of your dignity (and your won-loss record).

And to a player, what could be more fun than to finally have a coach who gave them a chance to earn the position they have dreamed about. Learn to pick your spots, be honest with the younger kids who you know may be in harm's way, and be aware of when you can and can't do this. If your heart is in the right place, you will know!

We talk about how kids simply don't play games anymore... by themselves, without adults. Well, one of the great things about the pick up games we used to play was that kids eventually got to play most or all the positions. Today, without fall ball, when and how are they going to learn these positions? We Play Baseball - We don't work baseball!

1st - You Need To Have The Reality-Check Preseason Meeting! You have dads in the stands (and players, dependant on age) who are just as competitive as you. Your goals for this fall season must be outlined in an initial meeting with parents and players (this is two separate meetings for some teams).

38 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

a real duty such as helping position your defenses or maybe giving you a few quick tips on upcoming batters he may know - get creative. Show him you trust and need him! - Build a memory along with a team.

You can even hold out starting another of your better players too. Refrain from also placing your frontline players in the positions they always seem to play in the first inning. Your less-skilled players will really play hard for you and may pay huge dividends come spring!

3rd - Players, Positions & Having Fun! If it isn't fun, why would any kid want to play this game at all? They are kids! No matter what the age and skill level, especially as they get older, they will have a lot of choices and options. Let's keep 'em in the game!

Face it. Most of the world doesn't think baseball with autumn in the air. It's football, back to school, new friends etc. So, any kid who is on a baseball field in September is telling you "I REALLY LIKE (or love) THIS GAME!" Don't you chase them away!

No matter what their present skill level, those skills may change... and fast!

The fact is... you may not make all-stars out of allstars. They will do much of that by themselves. But you sure can turn the lousy player into an average player, and you can turn the average player into a very good player. This even happens in pro ball, just check out Marcus Giles, a former 53rd round draft pick, who is now an all-star second baseman for the Atlanta Braves.

I cannot tell you how many kids I have had in the Fall who grow and get stronger by Spring. What a shame it would be if I was the one who discouraged a kid just as he grows physically able to do what he couldn't just a few short months ago!

Finally, remember that almost every World Series winner has one guy who unexpectedly made a difference. Team guys who were not all-stars or superstars! Remember the names Bucky Dent, Craig Counsell, Gene Tenace, Aaron Boone, Mark Lemke, David Eckstein, and Jim Leyritz?

So, take the high road, even if and when others do not. It is their loss... and their players are who ultimately pay the price with a lack of improvement or leaving the game prematurely. It's not "daddyball," it's just smart fall ball!

So, again, play 'em where they think they can play, along with where you already know they can play.

If they stink, don't worry, they will know it before you do.

Take some risks, show some courage, park your ego, then kick some butt on the scoreboard! You may end up getting more out of this experience than your players!

Always remember: players only get better. Help them to make it happen!

*Note: This article is aimed and read by many coaches and players of many age and skill levels.

If your fall schedule is a win-at-all-cost league, some of this article is not for you. With that said, enter these leagues knowing that your players may be missing some very important instructional time for the long term, possibly even contributing to their premature departure from this greatest of games.

After all, when do you allow a player to try a new position or switch hit or break out a new pitch... if not in the fall? Exceptions - If you are coaching a group of prospects looking to the coming year's pro draft and/or college ball, your goals are obviously different. Much of the above still applies, however you certainly will play these players at their positions of greatest potential.

Tough Tip - Consider not starting your own son in game 1 and maybe other games too. Many amateur coaches have their own son-- their "favorite player" on the team. If you simply keep your son on the bench for the first innings of your first game, it will display to all that you are indeed sticking to your guns about playing time, new position opportunities, etc.

Hint - Consider making your son your bench coach.

It will show him that sitting is not punishment. (You can simply make this a pact between him and you alone.)

Sit him right next to you in the dugout and give him

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Call to book NOW! Teams that book a minimum of 8 week package receive complimentary use of facility from June 1st to Sept 1st (based on availability).

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SAL AGOSTINELLI’S LONG ISLAND BASEBALL ACADEMY MOVES TO BIGGER SPACE

A NEW ERA Baseball Player Magazine recently sat down with Jim Clark to talk about the new home of the Sal Agostinelli Baseball Academy at Center Island Sports in Ronkonkoma... Here’s 10 questions with Jim...

Jim Clark: Nothing changes with that - the same quality top notch instructors will be available at CIS: Tom Caputo, Mike Parisi, Tom Downey, Kevin Salmon Frank Daversa and Chris Sipp. Our goal is to maintain the quality lessons and instruction that in the past made the LIBA a household name.

BPM: Is there a Pro shop?

Jim Clark: Yes - Lou Maietta who owns High Level Baseball will run and maintain the shop - offering top notch equipment and uniforms to all organizations.

BPM: Why did you and Sal decide to move the Sal Agostinelli Academy to Ronkonkoma?

Jim Clark: The oppportunity came up for us to move to a bigger facility, more centrally located on the island and keep up with the ever increasing demand for a better training facility. Once we saw the 21,000 sq foot space - which is the largest facility on Long Island - we knew that the benefits for baseball would be tremendous. The newer facility is easyier for Teams to get in and out and it’s near the LIE / LIRR so we can offer organizations from both the North and South tremendous access.

BPM: Is CIS just for baseball?

Jim Clark: Obviously we want as much baseball at the facility as possible, but with the size of the facility we will give All Sports access year-round.

Soccer, Lacross, Softball, and Birthday Parties, etc.

BPM: What organizations will be utilizing the new space?

Jim Clark: Organizations like the L I Ducks, LI Titans, Ronkonkoma Cardinals, Smithtown Bulls and Three Village Baseball will be joining us this year.

BPM: Where does Blue Chip BPM: What is Sal’s involvement CENTER ISLAND SPORTS Prospects fit in? with the facility and Center Jim Clark: Blue Chip will now Island Sports?

Jim Clark: Although Sal travels extensively for the be able to host showcases year round - and because Phillies, he is one of 4 partners and is involved with of the facility - we will be able to invite quality all decisions regarding the facility and our future colleges and universities to look at our kids. plans. Sal loves the new facility and is very excited BPM: How can you sum up the CIS facility? about the future opportunitiies for baseball on LI. Jim Clark: We can now offer a ‘True Team’ work out BPM: What kind of comparison is there to the old and practice, year round! facility?

Jim Clark: There isn’t any. The space is unobstructed BPM: What’s upcoming for the Fall at CIS? - offering 2 full infields with double the amount of hit- Jim Clark: Besides the interior upgrade of the facility, ting and pitching cages. Teams will be allowed year- we have on Oct.11th a Blue Chip Prospects Pitching round access to training. It’s great to offer outfielders and Catching Showcase and on Dec 5th and 6th, a North East College Coaches Baseball workout the chance to make 200’ throws! featuring many top college coaches/instructors. Info can be found at www.centerislandsports.com BPM: What about your Staff?

42 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

TIPS FOR PITCHING SUCCESSFULLY IN THE FALL

FALL PITCHING Fall is a very tricky time of the year to pitch successfully, mainly because most teams are playing part time in the fall. In other words, they only play on weekends or maybe once during the week.

The other problem is that teams do not practice every day as they would in the spring or the summer, so pitchers tend to be a little bit out of shape because they are pitching once a week and not doing a whole lot in between to stay fresh. So here are a few tips that you can use to pitch successfully in the fall.

1. The obvious, stay in shape. Keep your arm strong. This can be easily done by getting outside every day. Just throwing for ten minutes will go a long way to making your weekend outings a lot better. You can also go through a typical 5-day workout rotation. In some ways, pitching in the fall can actually be a really good time to get into a consistent rotation.

For instance, you may do: Day 1 - light toss Day 2 - long toss Day 3 - throw down to a catcher in a bullpen Day 4 - another light toss Day 5 - take off On Day 6 you would pitch again.

Or you could add in another short bullpen session on flat ground. But if anything, this is a real good opportunity to get into a rotation.

What is important is to stay in shape and take care of your arm.

2. The second thing is take care of your arm before and after games. Because it is a little colder in the fall (at least here in New Jersey), make sure that you are properly warmed up before the game. I try to tell the pitchers to think like a boxer. You never see a boxer come into the ring without a sweat going.

With fall ball, make sure of this because the weather's a little bit cooler. Make sure that you take that extra time to do some extra stretching, loosening up, warming up,

running, even some sprint work wouldn't be bad.

After the game, make sure that you are icing and doing your aerobic flush just like you would if you would pitch any other day. If you are going to get on a good cycle, this is the start of the cycle. So if you go back to tip number one, if you are going to be on a 5day cycle, the minute you stop pitching is when that cycle begins. So you ice, you can do 20 minutes on a bike, a brisk 20-minute walk, some light jump rope, a light jog, anything that gets the blood flowing after that. It is important to take care of your arm physically, because that is the start of the cycle.

3. The other thing you can do for successfully pitching in the fall is monitoring pitch counts.

I think what happens is that teams are not as staffed in the fall as they are in the summer and in the spring. So make sure that you are not being overused. Pitch counts are a tricky subject, because you can think of it a few ways.

Here is how I like to think of pitch counts.

Some people measure pitch counts in innings, some people measure pitch counts in total pitches thrown. I do not like to do either of those. I like to measure total pitch counts at how you arrived at the total.

For instance, if you threw one 40-pitch inning in the first inning, you may not have even 75 pitches in you. You may only be able to have one more inning in you, or not even that. You could be in muscle failure.

So let us say that you threw five 15-pitch innings and you are at 75. And in between innings your team was fairly productive offensively - they got guys on base and they did not go down 1, 2, 3 - and you had an adequate rest in between innings. Well now you can go beyond your 75-pitch count, as long as you are getting to that total in manageable workloads and not getting to them all at once.

44 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

www.diamondnationjuice.com

NUTRITIONAL GUIDELINES FOR PITCHERS BY STEVEN ELLIS, FORMER CHICAGO CUB

A HEALTHY EDGE A baseball player’s diet is a very important part of his training program. Poor nutritional habits can prevent a pitcher from reaching his full potential on the mound.

There are three parts to a complete baseball pitcher's training program: workouts, nutrition, and rest. Each of these components has equal importance. A pitcher cannot train at maximum intensity if he is not properly fueled or properly rested.

For the most complete and up-to-date program for conditioning the pitcher available today, check out The TUFFCUFF Strength and Conditioning Manual for Baseball Pitchers. It contains training calendars, nutrition charts and food recommendations to help you eat well, so that you play to the best of your ability.

Proper nutrition is essential for competing at the highest level and performing at the highest level. Sure you've heard stories of great baseball players like Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle who paid little attention to their health and wellness while playing. The fact is, had they maintained a proper diet and trained correctly they would have been even better.

In today's competitive atmosphere an athlete needs to maintain a healthy edge which means eating right. Baseball is a combination of balance, agility, and concentration with bursts of physical activity. For power, speed, and good reaction time, what and when one eats can improve or worsen performance. If we add in the length of games, weather conditions, and long season, the player who is best nourished will be the one who finishes strong, and healthy!

The nutrition goals for baseball are designed to optimize performance. Food choices, adequate fluid intake, frequency of meals, and timing of meals to activity can provide the edge in practice, games, and recovery. Many athletes are interested in losing body fat, or adding mass, but every player can benefit from a boost in energy, being optimally hydrated, and having the fuel for mental concentration and physical activity.

Every baseball player should make it a point to do the following daily: Consume plenty of fluids Determine fluid loss during practices and games by weighing before exercise begins and again after exercise has finished. This gives a good estimate of how much fluid is lost during physical activity, and lets you know how much fluid you need to replace! Monitor urine output. See your pee. The goal is light in color and a large volume, especially in the first void of the day. Drink enough fluid.

The guidelines are as follows: Weight ( pounds) x 0.67 = number of ounces of fluid required daily Recommended fluid intake Drink 2 cups of fluid 2 hours before a game or practice.

Drink 6-8 ounces of fluid every 15-20 minutes during games or practices.

Drink 24 ounces of fluid for every pound lost during practices or games.

Best fluids for pitchers?

BEFORE: Water or sports drink.

DURING: Water, sports drink.

AFTER: Sports drink, water.

Worst fluids for pitchers?

Juices may cause stomach upset during exercise.

Carbonated beverages can cause bloating, and can cause fullness before fluid needs are met.

Caffeine-containing beverages may have a slight diuretic, or fluid-losing effect.

Alcohol can affect reaction time and is also a diuretic, causing valuable fluid loss. In addition, alcohol after exercise, before the body is optimally refueled will delay the body’s recovery from activity and may decrease performance!

Fueling strategies Eat something within 1 hour of waking up to jumpstart your body. Good choices are: Bagel with peanut butter, bowl of cereal, eggs and toast, waffles with syrup and fruit, a vegetable omelet.

Try to eat a meal or snack every 3-4 hours to give your body an energy boost. Make it a point to eat something within 15 minutes after the end of a practice or game.

Good choices are: Sports drink, granola and cereal bars, trail mix of cereal, pretzels, nuts, dried fruit, pretzels and orange juice, banana, bagel.

Meal-time food choices The body uses carbohydrate as the primary fuel source for baseball, so each meal and snack should include carbohydrate-containing foods such as: rice, pasta, bread, bagels, cereal, crackers, tortillas, fruits, veggies, sports drinks, corn, potatoes.

Protein and fat-containing foods are not used as much by the body during practices or games, so they don’t have to be used in large quantities. In addition, pre-game or practice meals should be lower in fat, since high fat foods stay in the stomach longer and may cause an upset stomach.

Some high-protein foods are: beef, pork, lamb, veal, fish, shellfish, milk, cheese, eggs, poultry, yogurt, nut butters, nuts, dried beans, soy, tofu.

Before games, try to limit the use of the following foods, which are higher in fat and may not sit well in the stomach.

Late-night food choices Since many baseball games end late, and the stomach is crying out for food, here are some ideas that won’t keep you up all night, but still help you to refuel: grilled chicken sandwich, roast beef sandwich, turkey sub, ham sub, cereal, pancakes and waffles, eggs and toast, fruit smoothies, cheese pizza.

Nutrition should be part of your play book. Eat at regular intervals to keep your body energized all day long. Being well hydrated boosts performance and decreases the risk of injury. Make sure that every eating episode has a mix of foods with an emphasis on grains, fruits and vegetables.

Try to wait until exercise is done to eat higher fat food.

And remember, eating well translates to a quick mind and a strong, fast, lean and healthy body.

Eat well to play well. Work on it.

46 BASEBALL PLAYER MAGAZINE . DEVOTED TO AMATEUR BASEBALL PLAYERS AND THEIR TEAMS

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