The Complete Game Podcast

Summary

Today's topic is creating a solid pregame routine, emphasizing how a little mental prep can elevate physical performance. We'll swap stories and strategies as we touch on everything from the importance of proper hydration to keeping your gear in tip-top shape. True success begins with building habits that can turn a good player into a great one. So, whether you're a player, coach, or just a fan of the game, grab your popcorn...

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If you’re not paying attention to Nathaniel Lowe, you might want to start! This dude's been a total game-changer for the Reds, stepping up to the plate in clutch moments and proving he’s more than just a pretty face. We chat about how the Reds have this knack for picking up players with potential and how Lowe fits into that mold, especially after a less-than-stellar stint with Boston last season. But hey, it’s not just about...

Summary

You only fail if you don’t learn. That is basically our mantra as we kick off this new season. We’re all about making mental adjustments in baseball and we're talking about how even the greats like Dale Murphy had to pivot and adapt throughout their careers. It's something we all need to embrace, whether we’re in the big leagues or just having fun on the diamond. Today, we'll share some tips on how to handle failures, like k...

Summary

We're wrapping up season one with the Complete Game Podcast Trivia Championship, so the stakes are high and the competition is fierce. Today, we're testing our knowledge on Hall of Famers who never snagged an MVP. Our guys are battling it out to claim the title of Season One Trivia Champion. We're throwing in some playful banter, unexpected twists, and a few surprises that will keep you on your toes, so join us for a hilari...

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Getting outs with defense is the name of the game in this episode. We're wrapping up our series on defensive directives with some solid strategies to keep those pesky runs from crossing the plate. We chat about everything from the most error-prone plays in youth baseball to the nuanced intricacies of making that perfect throw, whether you're backing up a base or trying to snag a double play. Communication is key; if your tea...

Summary

Is this episode we're continuing our discussion of how to Get Outs with Pitching. We'll take our player archetypes and naming past players who embody these styles. You know how every player has their unique flair? Well, we’re dissecting that too, from leadoff hitters looking to get on base to power drivers swinging for the fences. It’s all about pitch strategy today: what to throw, when to throw it, and how to keep those hit...

Summary

This week we're all about the art of getting those elusive outs with pitching. We’ll start by profiling various hitter archetypes, because understanding who’s at the plate is half the battle. From leadoff hitters looking to get on base to power drivers just trying to crush it, we’ll dissect what makes each type tick and how pitchers can best approach them. We’ve got some great insights lined up, including the nuances of pitc...

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Baseball fans, you’re in for a treat as we dive deep into the art of clutch hitting in this episode. We’re joined by the legendary George Foster, renowned for his clutch performances, and we’ll be breaking down what it truly means to bring runners home under pressure. We’ll also share some of our favorite clutch hitters and reminisce about their unforgettable moments on the field. So, grab your favorite snack, kick back, and...

Summary

We're talking about being a "hitter with options," this week. We're focusing on how to move runners effectively in various game situations. The fellas get into the weeds on laying down sweet bunts and hit a gap shots. So get ready to take some notes this week on the Complete Game Podcast!

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career inclu...

Summary

Today, we're diving into the world of baseball statistics with a spotlight on an essential aspect of the game: getting on base. The episode kicks off with a deep dive into on-base percentage (OBP), a stat that is crucial to any team's success. It’s not just about the numbers, though—we’re also dishing out some solid insights on the mental game and the strategy behind being a smart hitter. So grab your bat, settle in, and let...

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Today, we're diving into what it really takes to make it to the postseason. We'll explore the five essential ingredients every team needs to secure their spot in October. Spoiler alert: mindset is a biggie! You can’t just show up and hope for the best; teams need that competitive fire to truly contend. We’ll also chat about the importance of talent, depth, and the ever-elusive consistency. So grab your favorite snack, kick b...

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Today's episode is all about the world of minor league baseball. George Foster, the Reds Hall of Famer, shares his journey through the minors, giving us a peek into the experiences, the quirks, and the unexpected challenges that come with climbing the baseball ladder. George’s tales will make you appreciate every little moment of the game. We wrap up this week with a hilarious round of "mascot or make believe," where we’ll ...

Summary

This conversation is essential for parents looking to ensure their kids have the best experience possible while navigating the often chaotic world of youth sports. We’ll offer you a list of helpful questions to ask your child’s potential coach about the team and the program to ensure that it's a good fit for you. Whether you’re a parent trying to advocate for your player or a kid just trying to figure out where you fit in, w...

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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...

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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...