Opportunities Over Excuses: KC Royals Hitting Coach, Keoni DeRenne’s, Message to Young Baseball Players

The jump from amateur baseball to the big leagues is bigger than most people realize. In today’s episode, I’m joined by Keoni DeRenne, Assistant Major League Hitting Coach for the Kansas City Royals, to break down the realities of making it to the pros. He shares the hidden struggles of big leaguers and what truly separates them from everyone else. We talk about what parents need to do differently when talking to their kids about the game, how young players should structure their training, and what every aspiring pro needs to be thinking about NOW if they want to make it.

 

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 The common pitfall parents make when coaching their kids after a game.

07:30 How has baseball changed over the last 15-20 years?

12:15 The hardest part about transitioning from playing to coaching in the big leagues.

17:45 How does music impact player performance and mindset?

22:30 The best way to approach players struggling with performance slumps.

29:15 How parents can support their kids in baseball without adding pressure.

35:15 How can players develop a drill package from tee work to live BP?

40:00 What mindset and process does it really take to make it to the big leagues?

45:45 What are the biggest challenges for youth and travel baseball players from Hawaii?

53:45 How former Hawaiian pros stay connected and mentor the next generation.

56:15 The one thing every aspiring major leaguer should pay attention to.

 

RESOURCES + LINKS

Learn more at aligndsports.com

Book a 1:1 Consultation HERE

 

FOLLOW

Matt Hannaford: @mfhannaford

Keoni DeRenne: @kepony__derenne