Episodes
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What does it take to turn untraditional beginnings into a major league career? In this first installment of a two-part series, Iâm joined by the two-time World Series champion Jonny Gomes. We talk about how todayâs amateur baseball landscape differs from previous generations, how to secure a college scholarship, and what it takes to grind through the challenges of minor league baseball. Jonny shares how to build confidence, the critical role of preparation, and how to make adjustments to thrive at every level of the game.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 How to secure a college scholarship in baseball.
05:30 Lessons from a zero-scholarship athlete who earned a pro tryout.
09:00 Advice for parents on guiding young athletes through rankings and expectations.
13:45 How to build confidence as an athlete.
18:30 How do support systems help overcome the challenges of minor league baseball?
25:15 The most important skill for young players.
33:00 Strategies to simplify the game.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
Jonny Gomes: @jonnygomesusa
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How do you stand out in college baseball recruiting? In this episode, I sit down with Karl Nonemaker, Associate Head Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Auburn University. He breaks down what it takes to catch a coach's eye and shares actionable advice for players, parents, and coaches navigating the recruiting process. We also dive into the impact of rule changes like the transfer portal, and the role of technology and NIL in college baseball. Get ready to level up your understanding of college baseball recruitment.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet Auburnâs Recruiting Coordinator, Karl Nonemaker.
05:30 Factors to consider when deciding between college and professional baseball.
14:30 How the recent rule changes shape the early recruitment process.
17:30 Ways to use social media to grab a coachâs attention.
24:15 Why two-way players are a growing asset for college programs.
27:00 How NIL is reshaping opportunities in college baseball.
33:30 Advice for high school players navigating the recruiting process.
40:00 Why transparency is critical among players, parents, and coaches.
47:45 What parents should and shouldnât do to support their athletes.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
Karl Nonemaker: @knonemak
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Episodes manquant?
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Ever wondered what you need to excel at hitting, both physically and mentally? In this episode, Iâm joined by renowned hitting coach Benny Craig, founder of Feel Good Hitting. He shares his strategies for developing hitters through an individualized approach, combining mechanics, mindset, and MORE. We also dive into lessons from legends like Ted Williams, Sadaharu Oh, and Kobe Bryant. Tune in to learn how to sync your breathing with your swing, and develop a powerful hitting approach that goes beyond the basics.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 The mindset that sets elite athletes apart.
04:00 Meet Benny Craig, personal Big League hitting coach.
07:15 Lessons from Ted Williams and Sadaharu Oh that every hitter should know.
16:30 Ted Williamsâ three golden rules for hitting success.
21:30 Whatâs missing in high school that prepares athletes for the next level?
30:00 Two must-know breathing techniques to improve hitting performance.
39:30 What are the pillars of great hitting?
47:30 How to create consistency with feedback and game-speed training.
55:15 What separates great hitters like Aaron Judge from the rest.
01:01:45 The mindset and work ethic that made Ted Williams and Kobe Bryant legends.
01:08:45 Who is a hitter young players should watch to improve their game?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more from Benny HERE
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
Benny Craig: @bennycraig
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What separates a good prospect from a great one? In this episode, I am joined by Mike Wagner, the National Crosschecker for the New York Yankees, to share ways your son can stand out in the scouting process. He breaks down the role of technology and analytics, the difference between on-field and off-field makeup, and tips on choosing the right coaches and programs for youth players. He also shares the challenges of transitioning into professional play. Get ready to know what scouts are really looking for!
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet Mike Wagner, National Crosschecker for the New York Yankees.
06:30 When do scouts start evaluating young players?
10:30 What is on-field vs off-field makeup in scouting?
16:15 How scouts and directors collaborate to find the next MLB stars.
25:15 How teams evaluate player performance.
31:30 Should young players specialize in one sport?
35:30 The difference between a player's skills vs top-end potential.
44:00 What is the 20-80 player grading scale?
54:30 Advice for youth players on choosing the right team and coach.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
Mike Wagner: @michaelwagner
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What does it really take to defy the odds, going from an overlooked underdog to an MLB player? In this episode, I sit down with former MLB pitcher, Dallas Braden. We break down what good representation in the MLB draft really looks like, and the challenges of being an overlooked prospect. Dallas shares the mindset, lessons, and advice that shaped his Major League Baseball career and transformed his approach on the mound. He also opens up about the impact of his grandmother's unwavering support and the lessons parents need to hear about setting realistic expectations to manage the playerâs pressures of travel ball. Tune in to learn how to rise above systemic challenges and adversity.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet Dallas Braden, former MLB pitcher.
05:00 What advice transformed your approach to pitching?
10:00 Why junior college was a "launching pad" for Dallasâ career.
16:15 Advice for parents on setting realistic expectations.
22:30 How parents' behavior affects a playerâs future.
25:00 What good representation in the MLB draft really looks like.
31:30 The mindset that turns an underdog into a Major League pitcher.
38:00 The story behind Dallasâ perfect game on Motherâs Day.
44:45 What parents need to know about managing travel ball schedules.
54:45 Who should young players watch to learn how to play the game the right way?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
Dallas Braden: @the209mayor
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What really makes a baseball player thrive? Is it raw talent, hard work, or a bit of both? In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Mayo, a renowned expert in the MLB draft, minor leagues, and scouting. We dive into the evolution of scouting since COVID, the pros and cons of hybrid draft models, and the role of the MLB combine. Jonathan also shares insights from his book, which dives into the origin stories of baseball's unexpected stars like Joey Votto, Jacob deGrom, and Albert Pujols. Tune in for behind-the-scenes stories that will change the way you view baseball development.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet Jonathan Mayo, expert in the MLB draft, minor leagues, and scouting.
08:00 How has scouting changed since COVID?
13:30 Is the MLB draft combine worth it for players?
17:45 How to create draft and minor league prospect rankings.
22:00 The origin stories of baseball's unexpected stars.
26:45 What makes MLB teams excel at player development.
33:00 Why is raw talent not enough?
37:45 How minor league top 30 rankings are created.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Get your copy of Jonathanâs book âSmart, Wrong, and Lucky: The Origin Stories of Baseball's Unexpected Starsâ HERE
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
Jonathan Mayo: @jonathanmayob3
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What drives elite performance? Today, I speak with Harvey Martin, former Human Performance Coach for the San Francisco Giants. He shares how he overcame anxiety and the yips as a professional baseball player to become a leader in human performance coaching. We break down the critical connection between physiology and psychology in achieving peak performance. Plus, we unpack how breathing techniques enhance athletic performance, regulate emotions, and unlock untapped potential. Tune in to learn breathing exercises that boost your game!
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet Harvey Martin, former Human Performance Coach for the San Francisco Giants.
04:00 Harveyâs journey from collegiate baseball to the Milwaukee Brewers.
15:30 Breathing exercises to boost athletic performance at any level.
23:00 The physiological impacts between nasal and mouth breathing.
42:30 How has breathwork reshaped your life and coaching philosophy?
51:30 Advice for young players to handle pro baseballâs mental and physical demands.
56:30 What is your baseball coaching approach?
01:01:00 Strategies for creating open communication between players and coaches.
01:04:45 How can high school or college players better prepare for pro baseball?
01:19:00 How to overcome psychological challenges as an athlete transitioning out of their sports career.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Get your copy of Harveyâs book âWithout Wordsâ HERE
Learn more about Harvey HERE
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
Harvey Martin: @harveyjmartin
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What makes a championship team? In this episode, I sit down with Bill Geivett, former Senior VP of Major League Operations for the Colorado Rockies, to uncover the mindset, strategy, and systems behind elite performance. We dive into the evolving role of data in baseball, the balance between analytics and on-the-ground scouting, and the high stakes decision-making process in professional sports. He also introduces an innovative platform designed to transform how athletes, teams, and fans connect. Get ready to elevate your game to the next level!
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Level up your game with former GM, Bill Geivett.
02:15 How data and analytics have transformed baseball.
08:30 The high stakes involved in making professional sports decisions.
15:15 What parents and players need to know about the draft process.
22:00 How minor league development aligns with major league goals.
26:45 What defines a great teammate?
30:45 What made you write âDo You Want to Work in Baseball?â.
41:45 How to prepare your mindset to thrive in Major League Baseball.
46:45 The app designed to revolutionize social connections in sports.
54:00 Billâs long-term mission for youth sports.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Get your copy of Billâs book âDo You Want to Work in Baseball?â HERE
Download the IMA Team app HERE
Learn more about IMA Team HERE
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
Bill Geivett: @geivettbill
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Are NIL deals a huge opportunity or a legal headache for student-athletes? In this episode, I sit down with Tim Nevius, former NCAA Investigator and current NIL Attorney, to unpack the evolving landscape of NIL â Name, Image, and Likeness â in college sports. Tim shares tips with college athletes and families about the complexities of NIL deals. We break down the latest developments in college sports reform, including NIL collectives, brand partnerships, and revenue sharing, and how these changes affect student-athletes at both high school and collegiate levels. Get ready to make smart and balanced decisions in the NIL space.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Timâs journey from college athlete to athletesâ rights advocate.
07:45 The current state and legal evolution of NIL in college sports.
10:45 Common misconceptions about collectives vs. NIL brand deals.
14:15 How can athletes protect their eligibility while maximizing NIL opportunities?
17:30 Advice for parents on protecting their childrenâs eligibility.
25:15 One major factor brands consider in NIL deals.
30:15 Red flags athletes and families should watch for in NIL contracts.
36:00 Why young athletes must prepare for tax responsibilities and seek financial guidance.
41:00 What's your advice for student-athletes figuring out NIL?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more about Nevius Legal HERE
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
Tim Nevius: @timnevius
Tim Nevius Email: [email protected]
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In the highly competitive world of youth sports, how can players get mentally prepared to reach their highest potential? In this episode, Iâm joined by Sean OâBrien, founder of HeadTop Performance, to talk about the mental skills that set great athletes apart. He shares proven strategies for handling pressure, reframing failure, and creating routines that boost confidence. We also dive into the mindset shifts that separate pros from amateurs, daily habits for consistency, and tips for athletes and parents to build and support mental strength from a young age. Tune in to discover tools to build a mindset that drives athletes to their peak performance.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 What is it like to work with athletes on mental performance?
04:45 The standard mindset that defines top athletes in sports and life.
07:00 Tools for overcoming failure and pressure at showcases.
10:30 How commitments to yourself impact sports and life success.
13:00 Reflection exercises for athletes after games and showcases.
16:15 Tools that prepare athletes mentally for peak performance.
19:15 One common pitfall players rarely recognize early in their careers.
24:00 How to balance motivation and commitment.
25:30 How reverse engineering helps athletes reach their ultimate potential.
30:30 The mindset that separates professionals from amateurs.
34:00 What is your advice to parents on supporting their childrenâs athletic journey?
40:30 How to handle adversity and reframe negative situations.
42:45 How young athletes start building mental discipline early.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more about Sean OâBrien and HeadTop Performance HERE
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
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Addendum: In the episode, the guest mentioned the proper water consumption is one ounce per pound of body weight, the correct amount is half your body weight (or an ounce per kg) not an ounce per pound.
Your athlete can improve their game without risking injury. In this episode, Iâm joined by renowned sports performance coach, Dr. Nick Serio. We talk about the crazy lengths these young athletes will go to chase velocity, and how that can actually end up doing more harm than good. Dr. Serio shares his approach to customizing the training to the individual, not just throwing them into a one-size-fits-all program. He also shares the story of an athlete who came in thinking he needed to be squatting heavy, but it was actually wrecking his hips. Dr. Serio drops a ton of knowledge on the mental side, nutrition, and how to set these players up for long-term success, not just short-term gains.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet Dr. Nick Serio.
03:15 The fine line between improving skill and staying healthy.
07:00 How can athletes develop velocity safely?
21:00 What age should players begin strength training?
29:00 The best things you can do to strengthen your athletes' mental game.
31:15 Ways to teach your kids strength training techniques if you canât access experts.
38:00 How to not waste time trying to model what every other athlete is doing.
42:30 How to improve communication skills (including non verbal communication.)
47:45 The power of treating practice like the real game.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
Dr. Nick Serio: @coach_serio
Contact Velocity [email protected]
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In the age of 24/7 sports coverage, how does the media influence the careers and lives of baseball players? In this episode, ESPNâs Senior MLB Insider, Jeff Passan, shares his experiences navigating the complex relationship between athletes and reporters. From breaking major trade news to building trust with players, Jeff shares the responsibility and power the media holds in shaping baseballâs biggest stories. We also delve into how media coverage, analytics, and youth development collide in todayâs game. Get ready for a real inside look at how the media and analytics are shaping the future of baseball.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 How todayâs data-centric world is impacting young athletes.
03:45 What does it take to become a sports journalist?
07:00 How media interact with players when they first reach the big leagues.
14:15 BTS look at reporting trade rumors and the ethical boundaries involved.
19:00 Tips for players when answering media questions.
21:45 The rise of analytics and its impact on how players are evaluated.
28:30 Whatâs the difference between on the record vs off the record?
35:30 The challenges Jeff observed at every stage of an athlete's baseball career.
40:45 Long-term effects of focusing on velocity over mechanics.
45:00 How professional baseballâs current velocity obsession is impacting young athletes.
49:00 How tournaments prioritize exposure over player development.
58:00 What is the role of media literacy for young players, agents, and families?
01:03:00 Jeffâs advice for players on interacting with the media.
01:06:45 What Jeff learned about transparency in journalism.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
Jeff Passan: @jeffpassan
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Ever wonder how athletes build a standout personal brand? In this episode, I sit with Dustin Williams, an artist-turned-marketing expert. We dive deep into sports marketing, branding, and how athletes build their brands. He shares his shift from rebranding a pest control company to working with professional athletes, including his creative approach to helping athletes like Austin Riley stand out. We explore how athletes take control of their marketing strategies, stay authentic, and create engaging content. Dustin offers tips for young athletes on building their brand, including why itâs crucial to be consistent, think like a business, and engage with the community. Get ready to learn more about branding and marketing!
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 The story behind launching and growing Green Mango Pest Control.
04:15 Lessons learned from branding and working with athletes.
07:00 How engagement matters more than high production.
13:30 What do baseball players struggle with branding?
17:00 Dustin's advice for young athletes.
25:00 How to create brand collaborations as a high school athlete.
30:00 What athletes need to think about for long-term success.
41:30 Strategies to create an appealing social media profile that aligns with your brand.
46:30 What are essential in both marketing and building relationships?
49:15 How often should athletes post on social media to grow their following and engagement?
52:00 Top tip to boost your social media content.
01:01:15 Should athletes create their own personal logos?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Dustin Williams: @tdustinwilliams
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
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The game has changed, and so have the risks. Today, we dive into a topic that every parent, player, and coach must be aware of - how to prevent early injuries and build a foundation for long-term athletic success. I sit down with Eric Cressey, the Director of Player Health and Performance for the New York Yankees to talk about all things youth baseball development, the athletic development pyramid, and what is leading young athletes to burnout and injuries so we can avoid them. We discuss everything from building a strong mental approach to nutrition, sleep strategies, and MORE. Tune in to create a balanced, healthy, and fun approach to the game.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet Eric Cressey, President and Co-Founder of Cressey Sports Performance.
04:00 What trends are you seeing in youth baseball development?
09:15 The "athletic pyramid" and how young athletes should prioritize strength and mobility first.
13:45 How Cressey Sports Performance helps players nationwide.
17:45 The dangers of having a "keeping up with the Joneses" mentality.
27:45 How overspecialization affects young athletes.
30:00 The role of nutrition and sleep in athletic performance.
33:30 The Japanese study on UCL damage in young athletes and its implications.
41:15 How can we protect young athletes from getting injured?
43:30 How the shift toward college baseball affects player development and injury rates.
51:00 Lessons about pitching durability from Verlander, Scherzer, and others.
01:01:00 The biggest mistake young players make.
01:03:00 Eric's most important advice for young athletes.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more from Eric Cressey HERE
Learn more about High School Athlete Nutrition HERE
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Eric Cressey: @ericcressey
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
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Get ready to learn the mindset, strategies, and steps every young player and parent needs to navigate the competitive world of baseball. In this episode, I sit down with Steve Bernhardt, Vice President of Baseball Operations at Baseball Factory, to dive into the realities of player development, recruiting, and how to overcome adversity in baseball. He shares advice for players and parents on how to navigate the challenges of pursuing a baseball career, including strategies to stand out when you're not the top recruit and faced with rejection. We also discuss the role of parents, how to build a development plan to stay on track, and tips to balance baseball with life off the field.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet the Chief Baseball Officer of Baseball Factory, Steve Bernhardt.
04:45 Advice for players on taking initiative.
09:00 How to frame setbacks as ârocket fuelâ to propel a playerâs future success.
10:00 How did you become a professional baseball player?
12:45 Baseball Factoryâs approach to developing players.
18:30 What parents and players need to know about college opportunities.
21:00 How COVID-19 and the transfer portal have made the recruiting process even more competitive.
23:45 Why parents and players should focus on development first vs exposure.
27:00 What quality practice looks like.
29:45 What are you looking for when making your initial evaluation of a player?
33:00 The approach for making players better athletes and people.
36:00 How to set long-term goals with your athlete.
42:45 What is Baseball Factoryâs game plan?
49:45 How intentional practice helps players execute in game situations.
54:00 Steveâs top advice to differentiate yourself as a player.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Get Expert Baseball Training HERE
For direct inquiries, you can reach out to Bernhardt at [email protected]
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
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Get ready for an inspiring story of what happens when you don't give up on your big dream. In this episode, I sit down with Jamie Westbrook, a.k.a. "The Barrel Man," who spent over 11 seasons in the minors before reaching the big leagues. Jamie shares advice on managing performance pressures, staying focused during tough times, and why resilience is key to long-term success. We explore how to build a strong mental approach, turn setbacks like injuries into growth opportunities, and how parents and players develop the right mindset to thrive through the ups and downs of a season.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet Jamie Westbrook, a.k.a. The Barrel Man.
05:30 Strategies to stand out if you're an undersized player.
13:30 How to keep moving forward when things donât go as planned.
15:00 The mindset to help your kids develop for competition.
16:30 What do parents and athletes need to know to navigate the college recruiting process?
25:00 How the energy in lower-level vs. higher-level teams impact a player's experience.
33:15 Jamieâs top advice after spending multiple seasons in Double-A.
37:45 Tips to maintain a strong mindset despite setbacks.
46:15 How playing in the Olympics freed Jamie from the pressures of minor league expectations.
50:30 What was the transition like returning to minor league baseball after the Olympics?
53:45 How analytics refine your baseball approach.
01:02:15 Lessons on bouncing back from family challenges.
01:05:15 How does your life outside of baseball impact your performance?
01:08:30 Tips for young athletes to deal with setbacks constructively.
01:10:15 The best support parents can provide without adding pressure.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Jamie Westbrooke: @jwesunderscore4
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
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Does your athlete want to excel in multiple sports? In this episode, Iâm joined by the phenomenal J.R. House, the current third base coach for the Cincinnati Reds. He was an exceptional high school baseball player in Florida and football player in West Virginia, setting numerous state records as a quarterback. He shares how playing multiple sports is beneficial to players. He also breaks down tips on how to overcome the mental and physical challenges of injury recovery, how to deal with failures, and MORE. Get ready to build your athletic versatility.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet the record-breaker of West Virginia, J.R. House.
05:45 Benefits from playing multiple sports.
08:30 The biggest adjustment you have to make as a player.
12:30 How did you overcome injuries at a young age?
21:00 The challenges of transitioning to coaching.
25:30 How do you communicate with players' parents (esp. the controlling ones)?
28:00 The BTS preparation of big leaguers.
31:00 Top tip to have a great relationship with your teammates and coaches.
34:15 The biggest difference between players before vs now.
40:15 How should players deal with possible failures?
46:00 Whatâs your advice on aspiring baseball players?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
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The world of college baseball has turned into a complete business. Todayâs guest is my good friend and newly appointed head baseball coach at Long Beach State, TJ Bruce. Heâs here to share his thoughts on the similarities between college baseball and professional baseball. We also dive into the most important thing to make sure your athlete develops and what separates players that make it to the pros. Tj also shares the challenges posed by the transfer portal and an inside look at his recruiting process so you know what colleges are looking for in your athlete. Tune in to learn more about the "Dirtbagâ culture that fosters growth, both on and off the field.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet the new head coach of the Long Beach State baseball program, Tj Bruce.
04:45 TJ Bruce's background and journey as a player.
11:15 Challenges of starting as a volunteer coach.
17:15 How do you know when is the right time to retire?
22:00 Why did you choose to step down as the Head Coach of Nevada?
26:45 What happened before and after you had your best offense at TCU?
32:45 The role of coaches in a player's development.
37:30 Advice to player's parents who are preparing for college baseball.
45:15 The culture that is bigger than the result of your game.
50:15 The biggest misconception players have about the transition from college to making it to the pros.
53:00 What characteristics are you looking for to determine if a player is a good fit for your program?
01:00:30 How do you deal with the transfer portal?
01:07:45 Advice to players in handling communication about the draft process.
01:13:30 What does Long Beachâs nickname âdirtbagsâ really represent?
01:18:30 Questions that players should reflect on.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Tj Bruce: @tjbruce02
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
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Ready to take the next step in your player's college baseball journey? In this episode, Joe Oliveira, founder of Oliveira Baseball Consulting, shares his experience as a college 3-time All-Conference player himself to his approach helping families navigate the college recruiting process. We cover tips to manage expectations in the draft process, the pros and cons of the college baseball transfer portal, and the current state of NIL in college baseball. Get ready to know the best practices for showcasing talent and finding the right college for your athlete!
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 The man behind the Oliveira Baseball Consulting.
05:45 How it's like coaching at San Diego State under Tony Gwynn.
12:15 How do you evaluate individual players and families?
18:45 The process of working with college baseball programs.
23:15 How do you manage player expectations during the draft process?
28:00 The pros and cons of the transfer portal.
35:15 The most frequent question about NIL.
38:45 Advice for players and families on attending showcases and camps.
44:45 The common mistake families make with the college recruiting process.
48:15 What advice would you give to these parents on taking video?
52:15 What advice do you give to players before going to the showcase?
55:00 Suggested questions for players/families to ask colleges during first contact.
37:45 Best way to respectfully handle calls with schools when a player chooses not to attend.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more about Oliviera Baseball Co. HERE
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
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Letâs dive into the world of travel sports. In this episode, I sit down with Jered Goodwin, the VP of Scouting Operations at Perfect Game, to explore the intricate world of travel baseball and player development. He shares over two decades of experience in high school and travel ball. We dive deep into the indispensable role that dedicated coaches play in a player's journey, offering insights that often go unnoticed by scouts. We delve into the Perfect Game ranking system, the mental aspect of the game, and how players should engage in self-reflection, identifying personal strengths and areas for improvement. Tune in to learn the balanced approach that prioritizes player development alongside competitive success.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Jered's journey as a player.
03:15 How did you utilize your experience as a player and a coach to scouting?
05:45 The perks of mentorship in youth sports.
09:30 Why development and teamwork important than relying on scoreboard results.
13:00 The BTS work, goals, and mission of Perfect Game.
17:15 Why you should prioritize development and showcasing skills over exposure?
23:00 How Perfect Game rankings are created?
30:45 How many times a year do players' re-rank.
34:00 How important is the national for being selected in the all-American game?
36:45 What should players do to prepare for the national?
41:15 How do you identify if a player has more potential than others?
01:02:00 What advice would you give to a 13 year old kid who wants to reach his potential?
01:06:00 Jeredâs advice to players being open to versatility.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more at aligndsports.com
Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE
FOLLOW
Jered Goodwin: @jeredgoodwin3
Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford
- Montre plus
