| The Basics of
Catching
Matt Walbeck's 11-year
career in the major leagues is on display on this DVD
on the basics of catching. Coach Walbeck begins by
discussing the proper stance for catchers. Good stance
eliminates reaching and being off balance. Walbeck
stresses the importance of setting up in the middle
and challenging the hitter to make contact. Skills are
taught for throwing back to the pitcher and throwing
to second base. Emphasis is placed on the proper
footwork, which is the key to these throws. Handling
pitchouts are a skill analyzed for both right handed
and left handed hitters. To deal with runners on the
base, key elements are pointed out that will lead to
skill development. Other teaching includes fielding
bunts to the third base line, first base and straight
on. Walbeck includes the rapid fire drill, which works
footwork, positioning, getting the ball quickly out of
the glove and throwing. Additional drills are
technique drill, soft hands drill, blocking the ball
and blocking home plate. Catching pop-ups is covered
with the traditional and hockey mask technique.
Backing up first base is another key skill covered by
Walbeck. Fundamentals are important in catching as in
any athletic pursuit, and consistency in catching will
aid the pitcher and the umpire.
64 minutes. 2006.
Secrets to Pitcher -
Catcher Relationship
A good catcher must
know what his pitcher has on any given day. Coach
Walbeck, an 11-year major league catcher, presents a
unique look at developing the Pitcher-Catcher
relationship. Good communication between the catcher
and pitcher before and during the game will lead to
greater success. An overall pitching plan is devised
between the coach, pitcher and the catcher. Topics to
discuss are reviewing signs and different counts you
will encounter during the game. During the game, a
major duty of the catcher is to visit the mound and
settle down the pitcher in tough situations.
Communicating signals is another important job of a
good catcher. In addition, Walbeck talks about the
value of the back-up catcher and how to keep him ready
to play at all times. Developing good catchers will
help your team win more games and will help the
development of good pitchers too!
30 minutes. 2006.
Strength Training and
Flexibility for Baseball
Coach Walbeck presents
his ideas for developing the necessary strength to be
a successful baseball player. 'Training with a
purpose' is crucial for maximum strength. The physio
ball is a valuable exercise tool for baseball. The
ball is used for crunches, which strengthens the
stomach, gluts and back muscles. The hamstring
exercise works on balance and stabilization. Another
exercise that strengthens the lower back and gluts is
the "Superman" drill. The simple foam roller can be
used to stretch the IT band in your leg. By rolling
your thigh over the roller, your knees, back and arm
will benefit. The spin stretch is executed by using
the foam roller also. Balance is enhanced by working
with the Erickson balance pad. Dumbbell exercises are
shown to strengthen shoulders, arms and biceps. These
exercises can help any player with his throwing
ability. Leg weights, rubber tubing and medicine ball
exercises can be incorporated into this workout
routine. Other important stretches are the hip flexor,
glut stretch, groin stretch, sleeper stretch and
hamstring stretch. The skill of running, both distance
and sprint work, is necessary for all baseball
players. Baseball players can increase their talent
level by properly working with this stretch program by
major-league veteran Matt Walbeck.
32 minutes. 2006 |
