The Complete Game Podcast

Summary

This week, we tackle a topic that hits home for a lot of coaches and players alike: how to play all of your players and remain competitive. We’ll discuss the importance of practice, creative game-time strategies, and how to keep kids engaged, even when they're not in the game. So grab your glove and settle in, because we’re about to break down some clever techniques to make sure every player gets the chance to contribute the...

Summary

Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of switch hitting, exploring whether every player should take a shot at it. The discussion kicks off with some light-hearted banter about the joys and challenges of switch hitting, and we’ll also touch on the strategic advantages it offers, like enhancing your playing time and giving you an edge against pitchers. Plus, we'll be throwing out some favorite switch hitters and disse...

Summary

In this Complete Game Extra, we’re chatting with George about the current state of the Cincinnati Reds. We’re seeing some promising signs as the team ramps up for the second half of the season, especially with their newfound aggression at the plate. But that's not all, there are definitely areas that need some work if the Red Legs are going to have a shot at a wild card, like situational hitting and consistency in scoring. S...

Baseball is more than just a game; it’s a way of life, and in our twelfth episode, we’re discussing how to watch a baseball game at the ballpark. There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere where the sights, sounds, and, oh yeah, that sweet smell of nachos combines to create an experience that television just can’t replicate. We’ll be chatting about everything from ballpark snacks to the nuances of player positioning, and even those ...

If your young player's got his sights set on high school ball, you’re in for a ride because it’s not just about the swings and strikes; it’s about the whole experience. We’re serving up some solid strategies—from evaluating skill levels and finding the right coaching to keeping a balanced diet and managing expectations. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in some dad wisdom about making those travel tournaments not just a grind, but a chance for ...

While only about 3% of kids who play baseball will make it to high school, we’re here to remind you that playing for fun is just as important as chasing the next level. This week, we’ll explore the real numbers behind youth baseball participation and why the vast majority of kids will eventually prioritize enjoyment over pressure. Select and travel teams can be intense environments and, many times, Rec leagues are where the heart o...

Summary

This week we talk about what happens when you get hurt and you can just walk it off. George, Rick, and Ethan discuss injuries common to baseball players, how to prevent them, and how to come back properly when they happen.

We break down when to tough it out and when it's time to sit down and let your body recover. Spoiler alert: ignoring those warning signs won’t win you any medals. So whether you're a player, a parent, or j...

This week we get nerdy about all of our favorite gear. If you love bats, gloves, shoes, and all manner of baseball accessories, this is the episode for you. George talks about how pros get their gear. We find out what each member of our team chose as his go-to tools of the trade. And then we play another round of "Who's The Hero" to see if George can defend his title as champion of trivia.

Here are some of brands mentioned in this ...

This week we talk about what it truly means to be a great teammate. We'll begin by listing the five qualities that make a team tick, from supporting your fellow players to leading by example. George reminisces about the Reds—where body language spoke volumes and trust was the glue holding everything together. He highlights the importance of showing up prepared, while Rick emphasizes the magic of team chemistry cultivated through en...

This week on the Complete Game podcast, we’re discussing the art and craft of being behind the plate, and boy, do we have some gems to share. From the legendary Johnny Bench to the current stars like Salvador Perez, we’re exploring what makes a great catcher, and why their role is crucial on the field. We’ll chat about traits that make catchers stand out, the evolution of techniques, and how today’s catchers are adapting to new rul...

We're talking baseball practice today, and let me tell ya, it’s not just about showing up and swinging the bat. Practice more than just a routine; it's your golden ticket to leveling up your game.

We’re chatting with some heavy-hitters in the baseball world, including Cincinnati Reds Hall-of-Famer George Foster (George Foster Baseball), Rick Finley (MD&I Baseball Academy), and Ethan Dungan (Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop...

Base running, or as we like to call it, the art of the steal, is the spotlight topic today, and let me tell you, there's a lot more to it than just running fast. We're diving into the nitty-gritty of how to make smart decisions on the bases, avoid common rookie mistakes, and capitalize on every opportunity to score. With insights from Ethan Dungan (Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop), Rick Finley (MD&I Baseball Academy), and...

This podcast episode delves into the art playing the outfield. We engage Reds Hall-of-Famer George Foster (George Foster Baseball), Ethan Dungan (Glovehound baseball glove repair shop), and Rick Finley (MD&I Baseball Academy), as they share their insights on the importance of outfielding and the role of proper technique. We 'll also discuss the many oppotunities that can open up for young players when they embrace playing the o...

This podcast episode delves into the pivotal question of whether every player should learn to pitch, a topic that underscores the essential skills required in the game of baseball. We engage Reds Hall-of-Famer George Foster (George Foster Baseball), Ethan Dungan (Glovehound baseball glove repair shop), and Rick Finley (MD&I Baseball Academy), as they share their insights on the importance of mechanics and the role of proper tec...

Our discussion today explores the intricacies of power hitting, a topic that has garnered considerable interest among baseball enthusiasts. We delve into what it truly means to hit for power, distinguishing between mere home runs and the broader concept of driving the ball effectively. The insights shared by our esteemed guests, including Cincinnati Reds Hall-of-Famer, George Foster, Founder of MD&I Baseball Academy, Rick Finle...