3 Hitting Tips Only A 15 Year MLB Veteran Would Know | Michael Cuddyer

Patrick Jones Baseball

#Sports #Baseball Players #Patrick Jones #College Baseball #Baseball #Travel Baseball #MLB #College Recruiting

6:24

Grumpy helps a reader choose the best hydrangea for their hometown. Plus, Grumpy’s gripe of the week. You can find us online at southernliving.com/askgrumpy Ask Grumpy Credits: Steve Bender aka The Grumpy Gardener - Host Nellah McGough - Co-Host Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer/Producer Isaac Nunn - Recording Tech Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

about a year ago 55:24

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Michael Cuddyer, a retired Major League Baseball player with 15 years of experience, two-time All-Star, Silver Slugger Award winner, NL batting champion, and inductee in the Minnesota Twins Hall of Fame, is the guest in this week's episode. The episode focuses on Cuddyer's approach to hitting, making adjustments, and his perspective on statistics for game planning against pitchers.

The episode wraps up with Cuddyer’s thoughts on the current state of baseball coaching and development, offering advice for coaches and players.

Timestamps:

[2:13] Data, Anecdotes, and Individualization in Baseball Development

[6:37] Reflecting as a first time Manager

[10:31] Learning to compete

[13:07] Data-Driven Game Planning

[15:02] Balancing Personal Strengths and Tactical Awareness in Hitting

[18:03] Approach Based on Pitcher Tendencies and Game Situation

[25:11] Sitting Speeds for Timing Consistency

[29:19] Dealing with fear

[35:03] Helping high school kids with the mental side of the game

[37:35] Lessons learned from Survivor

[47:14] Hitting Insights from Influential Minds

[50:41] Adapting Beliefs in Hitting Philosophy

Follow Michael Cuddyer on Twitter: @mcuddy23

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

374 episodes

3 Hitting Tips Only A 15 Year MLB Veteran Would Know | Michael Cuddyer

Patrick Jones Baseball

19 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

The episode wraps up with Cuddyer’s thoughts on the current state of baseball coaching and development, offering advice for coaches and players.

Timestamps:

[2:13] Data, Anecdotes, and Individualization in Baseball Development

[6:37] Reflecting as a first time Manager

[10:31] Learning to compete

[13:07] Data-Driven Game Planning

[15:02] Balancing Personal Strengths and Tactical Awareness in Hitting

[18:03] Approach Based on Pitcher Tendencies and Game Situation

[25:11] Sitting Speeds for Timing Consistency

[29:19] Dealing with fear

[35:03] Helping high school kids with the mental side of the game

[37:35] Lessons learned from Survivor

[47:14] Hitting Insights from Influential Minds

[50:41] Adapting Beliefs in Hitting Philosophy

Follow Michael Cuddyer on Twitter: @mcuddy23

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

374 episodes

#Sports #Baseball Players #Patrick Jones #College Baseball #Baseball #Travel Baseball #MLB #College Recruiting

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Patrick Jones Baseball

1
How to get recruited to play college baseball in (2025) 55:14

16 days ago55:14

55:14

In this episode, Patrick shares the unfiltered truth behind what it really takes to get recruited to play college baseball in 2025. After talking to dozens of coaches, watching games across the country, and helping players from coast to coast, he breaks down the exact roadmap players and parents need to follow — including what most people get completely wrong. Whether you're just starting the process or deep into your recruiting journey, this is an episode you can't afford to miss. What You’ll Learn: The only reasons to enter the transfer portal (and why most players shouldn’t) Updates on roster size rules and how it impacts recruiting The most important question every player must ask before starting the process Key recruiting timelines for Power 4, mid-major D1, D2, D3, NAIA, and JUCO Which showcases actually matter (PBR vs. Perfect Game) How college coaches actually evaluate players (hint: it’s not just stats) Why the best prospect isn’t always the best player Position-by-position breakdown of recruiting priorities What you should be doing from freshman to senior year Social media strategy that gets attention — without hurting your visibility Why cold emails to coaches almost never work (and what to do instead) Resources: Book a $60 Recruiting Consultation: https://patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting Connect With Patrick: Twitter: @pjonesbaseball Website: https://patrickjonesbaseball.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

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How to Build a Complete Pitcher: Mechanics, Mentality, and Mindset | Jared Gaynor 48:22

7 weeks ago48:22

48:22

In this episode, I’m joined by Jared Gaynor - founder of Pitching Coach U and former pitching coach in the Minnesota Twins organization. We dive into what actually matters in pitching development: fastball command, pitch design, identity, and the mental side of competing under pressure. We talk about why bullpen success doesn’t always translate to games, how a pitcher’s mindset can make or break them, and why the recruiting landscape is more competitive (and confusing) than ever. If you’re a player or parent trying to make sense of college recruiting, I offer 30-minute consultations to help you build a clear plan. You can book one at patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting Follow Jared on Twitter Jared's pitch design course Follow Patrick on Twitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

1
Victor Rojas: From ESPN Broadcaster to College Recruiting Coordinator 52:49

10 weeks ago52:49

52:49

On this week's episode of Patrick Jones Baseball , we welcome Victor Rojas , Assistant Head Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Ottawa University - Arizona (OUAZ) . Victor has one of the most unique journeys in baseball—he played minor league ball, worked as a GM, became a broadcaster for ESPN and MLB Network, and now, he’s coaching college baseball. In this episode, Victor shares: His path from broadcasting to coaching and why he chose the NAIA level. What recruits and parents need to know about NAIA baseball and how it compares to other levels. His coaching philosophy and how he develops players mentally and physically. If you're a player or parent looking to understand the college baseball recruiting process—especially at the NAIA level—this episode is a must-listen. 🔗 Follow Victor Rojas & OUAZ Baseball: OUAZ Baseball Website Victor Rojas on Twitter 🔗 Need help in the recruiting process? Book a free 15-minute call 👉 PatrickJonesBaseball.com/recruiting Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

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1 Top College Program in the Midwest | Aurora University | Adam Stevens 35:05

13 weeks ago35:05

35:05

In this episode, I sit down with Coach Adam Stevens , the Head Baseball Coach at Aurora University , one of the top Division 3 baseball programs in the Midwest. With a master’s degree in sports psychology , Coach Stevens has a unique approach to recruiting, developing players, and helping them handle both success and failure. We dive deep into: ✅ What college coaches really look for in recruits ✅ Why the mental game is just as important as physical skills ✅ The biggest mistakes players make in the recruiting process ✅ How D3 baseball compares to other levels—and why it might be the best fit for many players ✅ The transfer portal and how D3 programs are utilizing it Coach Stevens has been leading Aurora’s program for over a decade, helping his team achieve one of the highest winning percentages in Division 3 baseball from 2018 to 2023 . His insights into recruiting, player development, and the mental game are invaluable for any aspiring college athlete. Need help in the college recruiting process? Would you like to work with me to help you find the right college baseball program? Click this link for a free 15 minute recruiting consultation: My service includes: * Full evaluation and personalized recruiting plan. * Direct connections and recommendations to college coaches. * Access to honest feedback from coaches. * Player development support throughout the recruiting process. * Ongoing communication and guidance for both recruitment and player improvement. Free 15 minute college recruiting consultation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

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How to Develop Hitting IQ & Game Plan Like a D1 Hitting Coach (Ari Adut, Jacksonville State) 53:32

14 weeks ago53:32

53:32

In this episode, we welcome back Jacksonville State University Hitting Coach Ari Adut to dive deep into hitting IQ, game planning, and player development. Ari shares insights from his experience in professional baseball, his transition into the college game, and how he builds individualized player plans that blend analytics with practical application. We discuss: The importance of swing decisions, pitch recognition, and approach development. How to simplify game plans for college hitters without overloading them. The balance between analytics and feel in developing elite hitters. Free PJB Recruiting Consultation : For families trying to navigate the high school baseball recruiting process. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

1
Timing, Recruiting, and Hitting Insights: Cam Johnson’s Road to Success at Valparaiso 36:17

18 weeks ago36:17

36:17

In this episode, I sit down with Cam Johnson, the Hitting Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Valparaiso University. Cam shares his insights on developing hitters, understanding the biomechanics of a swing, and tailoring coaching methods to individual players. We also dive into the recruiting process, strategies for building a successful roster, and advice for players navigating the modern college baseball landscape. Whether you’re a coach, player, or parent, this conversation has actionable tips to elevate your game. Timestamps 2:01-6:30 – Journey into coaching and early influences. 6:31-10:45 – Using biomechanics to enhance hitting development. 10:46-15:00 – Timing: The key to a great swing. 15:01-22:00 – Drills that work: Eliminating inefficiencies. 22:01-28:00 – Recruiting strategies and balancing the roster. 28:01-35:00 – Advice for players navigating the recruiting process. 35:01-40:00 – Why Valparaiso is a great place for athletes. Connect with Cam Johnson : Email : cam.johnson@valpo.edu Valparaiso University Baseball : Visit the Website Contact with Patrick Jones : Website : patrickjonesbaseball.com Twitter : @pjonesbaseball Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

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From Mid-Major to Super Regional: How Evansville Baseball Competes with the Best | Matt Wollenzin 43:32

19 weeks ago43:32

43:32

In this episode of the Patrick Jones Baseball Podcast, we’re joined by Matt Wollenzin, the Hitting Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at the University of Evansville. Matt takes us behind the scenes of one of college baseball’s most exciting mid-major programs, sharing how Evansville has built a championship-caliber team that competes with the nation’s best. From their incredible Super Regional run to their unique approach to player development and recruiting, Matt dives into the secrets of their success. Learn about the culture of collaboration, how they develop hitters with individualized training, and the program’s commitment to long-term growth. Plus, get insights into how Evansville’s team believes in each other, adapts to adversity, and continues to rise above expectations year after year. If you're interested in what it takes to build a winning program from the ground up and how a mid-major can compete with the top-tier teams in college baseball, this episode is a must-listen! Follow Evansville Baseball on Twitter: @UEBaseball Check out Patrick's new course: Swing Decisions: How To Master The Strike Zone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

1
Texas State's New Hitting Coach Reveals MLB Experience | Danny-David Linahan 42:33

20 weeks ago42:33

42:33

In this episode, I sit down with Danny-David Linahan, the new hitting coach at Texas State University. Danny shares his journey from playing college baseball to coaching in the major leagues with the Minnesota Twins. He offers valuable insights on hitting, player development, and transitioning between professional and college baseball. Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction and Danny's background 2:11 - Transition from playing to coaching 5:17 - Experience with the Minnesota Twins 10:24 - Moving to Texas State University 15:19 - Approach to player development 21:39 - Key indicators for hitters 26:00 - Importance of marginal gains 30:33 - Differences between pro and college baseball 35:45 - Advice for aspiring players and coaches College Baseball Recruiting Consultation patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

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Former MLB Hitting Coach Andy Barkett on Swing Mechanics and Player Development 40:10

21 weeks ago40:10

40:10

In this episode, we welcome back Andy Barkett, former MLB hitting coach, and current private hitting instructor. Andy shares insights from his nearly 30 years of coaching experience, focusing on the mechanical aspects of hitting. He discusses his transition from professional baseball to private coaching, the development of his remote training business, and his new product, the Power Pivot. Andy also delves into common issues he sees in college hitters and provides valuable tips for improving swing mechanics and mental approach. 0:00 - Introduction and Andy's background 5:30 - Transition to private coaching and remote training 10:15 - Evaluating hitters and addressing mechanical flaws 15:45 - The Power Pivot tool and proper hip rotation 22:30 - Common issues in college baseball hitting 28:00 - Comparing MLB hitters to amateurs 33:45 - The role of technology in hitting development 38:00 - Closing thoughts and contact information Contact Information: Andy Barkett Power Pivot product Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

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Tyson Ellis: Inside Florida JUCO Baseball and Pitching Development 51:37

22 weeks ago51:37

51:37

In this episode, we sit down with Tyson Ellis, the pitching coach at Eastern Florida State College, a Division I junior college. Tyson shares insights into the world of junior college baseball and pitching development. Here's what you'll learn: Junior College Baseball Breakdown Differences between Division I, II, and III junior colleges in terms of scholarships and competition levels Scholarship opportunities and roster management in Florida junior colleges The recruiting process for junior college players moving to four-year schools Pitching Philosophy and Development Tyson's approach to developing pitchers, focusing on toughness and competitiveness The importance of game experience in pitcher development Insights on pitch calling and working with catchers Summer Baseball Tyson's role as head coach for the Florence Flamingos in the Coastal Plain League The process of building a summer league roster The value of summer ball for college pitchers Career Path and Coaching Philosophy Tyson's journey from player to coach His views on pitcher workload and off-season training Advice for high school players on managing their throwing schedules Follow Tyson on Twitter @Tyson_Ellis13 for more baseball insights and Florida Gators content. Here are the timestamps for key segments of the episode with Tyson Ellis :00:00 - Introduction and background of Tyson Ellis 03:45 - Explanation of Division I, II, and III junior colleges 07:30 - Scholarship opportunities in Florida junior colleges 11:15 - Tyson's pitching philosophy and focus on toughness 15:30 - Evaluating mental toughness in pitchers 19:45 - Discussion on velocity ranges in Florida JUCO baseball 24:00 - Recruiting process for JUCO players moving to four-year schools 28:30 - Tyson's approach to calling pitches during games 33:15 - Tyson's role as head coach for the Florence Flamingos 36:45 - Building a summer league roster 41:30 - Importance of summer ball for college pitchers 46:00 - Advice on pitcher workload and off-season training 50:30 - Recommendations for high school pitchers 54:15 - Closing thoughts and where to follow Tyson on social media Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

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Johns Hopkins Associate Head Coach | Adam Schlenoff 35:10

24 weeks ago35:10

35:10

In this episode, Patrick Jones interviews Adam Schlenoff, the Associate Head Baseball Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Johns Hopkins University. Adam discusses his coaching journey, the challenges of recruiting for a top academic institution, and the high level of competition in Division III baseball. He explains Johns Hopkins' unique position as an elite academic school and a national championship contender in baseball. Schlenoff shares insights into their recruiting process, player development strategies, and the team's recent success in hitting for power. Time Stamps: 13:07 - Division III baseball - pitching and defense 19:36 - Setting the Division III record with 114 home runs in 56 games in 2023 23:19 - Example of a Division I transfer 24:51 - Explanation of the process-oriented approach to hitting and player development 26:41 - Building trust with student-athletes and utilizing resources at Hopkins 28:33 - Focus on proper loading in hitting 30:04 - Drill work to improve players' adjustability at the plate 30:30 - Collaborating with team captains on new ideas for training and development Follow Patrick: Patrick's Twitter Follow Adam: Adam Schlenoff Follow Johns Hopkins Baseball: Johns Hopkins Baseball Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

1
How College Coaches Evaluate High School Hitters 29:16

26 weeks ago29:16

29:16

Would you like to work with me to help you find your perfect school? https://patrickjonesbaseball.com/recruiting My service includes: * Full evaluation and personalized recruiting plan. * Direct connections and recommendations to college coaches. * Access to honest feedback from coaches. * Player development support throughout the recruiting process. * Ongoing communication and guidance for both recruitment and player improvement. Episode notes: 1. Consider Position Projection - Evaluate the player's projected position in college, not just their current position. - Up-the-middle players are valued differently than corner players due to defensive impact. 2. Understand Context - Consider how the player fits the team's home park dynamics. - Some coaches recruit based on how their home park plays, influencing player selection. 3. Batting Practice - Focus on hitting to all fields, not just pulling the ball. - Showcase hitting ability by staying up the middle and demonstrating power without solely focusing on home runs. 4. Metrics - Metrics are a starting point, not the sole determinant of a player's potential. - Coaches prioritize hitting ability and swing decisions over metrics. 5. Movement - Coaches look for good movement and a swing that translates to the next level. - Individualized stances and hitting styles are valued, focusing on hitting consistency. 6. Mental Game - Demonstrate competitiveness and resilience in the face of failure. - Show a growth mindset, situational hitting, and positive team interaction. 7. Power and Speed - Coaches value players who can reach second base independently through power or speed. - Power includes hitting doubles, not just home runs. 8. Left-Handed Hitters - Left-handed hitters are often preferred due to swing aesthetics and matchup advantages against right-handed pitchers. - Avoid overemphasizing metrics; focus on overall hitting ability. - Do not solely rely on physical attributes; mental game and team dynamics are crucial. Tips for Efficiency - Emphasize hitting to all fields during batting practice. - Prioritize consistency and situational hitting - Foster a growth mindset and positive team interactions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

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Strength Training For Baseball & Softball Players | Angelo Gingerelli 47:19

27 weeks ago47:19

47:19

In this episode, Angelo Gingerelli, Strength & Conditioning Coach at Seton Hall University, joins us to discuss his two decades of experience in the field and the evolution of training for college athletes. We dive into topics like the importance of mastering basic movement patterns, the role of strength training in developing explosive power for baseball and softball players, and how to balance individualized training with foundational athletic development. Angelo's new book Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

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The Art & Science of Baserunning | Tyler Packanik 46:45

29 weeks ago46:45

46:45

This week, we’re diving deep into baserunning, a crucial game aspect often overlooked. Our guest, Tyler Packanik, the Recruiting Coordinator at Jacksonville State University, is an expert in baserunning. Beyond his recruiting role, Tyler focuses on infield and baserunning, bringing insight into how to excel in these areas. In this episode, he shares advanced techniques and tips on getting leads to reading pitchers, stealing bases, and more. Episode Highlights: Introducing Tyler Packanik : His background as a recruiting coordinator focused on infield and baserunning at Jacksonville State University. Breaking Down Baserunning : Fundamentals of baserunning, including taking leads, reading pitchers, stealing bases, and running through and around bases. Techniques & Strategy : How to effectively use the vault and creep leads. Knowing when to steal bases and understanding pitcher cues. Tips for maximizing a lead-off without getting picked off. How to round first base and take an aggressive approach to turning doubles into triples. The Mental Game of Baserunning : Developing confidence on the base paths and staying in control under pressure. Pro-Level Insight : How MLB players like Anthony Volpe showcase elite baserunning and why speed isn't the only factor for practical baserunning. Tips for Coaches : Structure baserunning drills in practice, build players' instincts, and emphasize repetition and situational awareness. Key Coaching Techniques : Tyler's approach to coaching all types of runners (green, yellow, red) involves maintaining a "best time every time" mindset and encouraging players to see their foot hit the base for precision. Tyler does an incredible job of breaking down complex techniques and strategies to help you or your team improve. From maintaining momentum at second base to running through first base correctly, Tyler’s insights make this episode a must-listen for anyone serious about elevating their baserunning skills. Follow Tyler Packanik on Twitter : @TPAC5 . Enjoy the episode, and get ready to dominate the base paths! Patrick's new course, Swing Decisions: How To Master The Strike Zone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Patrick Jones Baseball

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Coaching High School Baseball | Kyle Wagner 42:50

30 weeks ago42:50