Brian Whatley - Catching Coordinator Cleveland Guardians, BA Kinesiology/Sports Medicine Degree

Lodi, CA
Joined December 2017
Best part about having my daughter in AZ for college! Surprise work visits when I come to the complex.
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Outcome data dating back to 2016 when there was still heavy usage of traditional until now which is now pretty much 100%. ABS won’t change C’s going back to traditional.
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472
Often throws get botched during the transfer/exchange phase and the ball gets bobbled. This is a drill to create efficiency and dexterity during the transfer. Hold two balls in your throwing hand and after the ball is released, drop the bottom ball and adjust for the incoming ball during the exchange. Should end holding two balls. Very difficult but creates efficiency with the exchange. *Make sure that C drops the bottom ball after the machine releases the ball.
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2,525
Athleticism and versatility behind the plate is king. Why…because today’s analytics can prove that different knee down set ups in certain situations has a huge impact on strikes gained. Be able to maximize your receiving ability by being versatile and comfortable receiving, throwing and blocking from any set up. Value goes up. Cooper (2028) with transfers from either knee down.
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Probably an unpopular take but Jr. Hacks for receiving are ok for learning basic C movements but often moves don’t translate to high level in game speed for a catchers development (Especially HS C’s). There is a major difference in seeing a ball travel the full 60’6” (Less if machine is at release) at game speed 90mph+ and a 70mph at the same distance or shortened to match reaction time. Catcher’s who work mainly off Jr Hacks will give you a false positive on skill set. Distance and velo matter to translate into skill acquisition at a high level.
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6,055
Drill progression with my son Cooper (2028). Prior to work we sit down and watch video of catchers and what it looks like. After drill set we review the feel and what cues work for him. Then have him self evaluate the work using a 1-5 scale based on goal accomplishment for that session. Learning to be a good self evaluator is a must. Biggest blind spot and gap between player and coach happens here.
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3,667
As a father we want the best for our kids and hope the decisions they make independently are good ones. This kids discipline w/ workouts and his faith is inspiring for me. @beinbrink28 spoke to my son about getting his mind right spiritually with his faith and how that plays into his development. He reads the Bible daily. Truly thankful for those that invest into my kids in a positive manner. Your circle of friends matter. Are they adding or subtracting to who you are and where you want to go!
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1,544