FUNGOMAN JOURNAL

There's a long going conversation about the benefits of live arm vs. pitching machine batting practice. In a nutshell, here's how the debate sounds: The problem with pitching machine batting practice: the machine looks different than a pitcher, lacking the rhythm and timing you see with a live arm. The benefits of using a pitching machine are its consistency of pitches and unlimited energy. The problem with live arm batting practice: inconsistency of pitches and limited energy of pitcher(s). The benefit of having a live arm batting practice is that the hitter can practice rhythm and timing, unlike a standard pitching machine.

A well oiled practice regiment is a fantastic thing. But you know what's better than filling your hour and half with drills? Developing skills that lead into real game outs (video below). The key to turning drills into skills is giving your player the chance to practice the exact feed (i.e. game ball) until he masters it. Too often, we focus on getting through the drills, giving everyone a handle full of tries to complete a play that isn't really the same ball. The instructors at Texas Rangers Youth Academy in Dallas, TX are making sure their players get quality feeds in practice—and it's already paying off.

While some drills specialize in position or game situation, Trent Mongero's Pick and Pop "Ozzie" Drill is a fundamental must for every player on the field. You'll want to use this drill again and again in practice, working on the three zones that Coach Mongero breaks down in his video. Read on to see the "PICK AND POP 'OZZIE' DRILL."