Vickie Buller Howard, R.I.P.

Vickie loved baseball and the Texas Rangers. I considered her a real friend, and a person of great character that sought to make the world a better place. She will be sorely missed.

Improving 60yd Sprint Times

how to run a faster 60 yard dash?

Van asked

my response:

Form running and sprinting downhill on a 5 degree decline and sprinting back up backwards at a 5 degree incline. 

A more detailed program is archived in my blog.

The Other Bearded Ones

What team had the most Jewish players on the field at one time?

Chip asked

my response:

Not the Robertsons from Duck Dynasty...

Do an internet search on the past House Of David teams (US) or the current Israeli Baseball League.

http://www.peppergame.com/
http://www.baseball.org.il/en/

New York Yankees' RHP Prospect Luis Severino OIP Pitching Mechanics Evaluation

Leg Extension: -14

Hip Rotation: -10

Follow Through: -8

Other: -10

OIP: 42%

Water And Gloves Combo

How can I stiffen a baseball glove?

Daniel asks

my response:

Water...quick dipped or steamed.

As long as it's filled with synthetic fiber

San Diego Padres' RHP Odrisamer Despaigne OIP Pitching Mechanics Evaluation

Leg Extension: -10

Hip Rotation: -17

Follow Through: -12

Other: -10

OIP: 49%

Conclusion: Has live arm, but mechanically poor. Short shelf life...possibly 2 years before breakdown.

Bat Handle Thinning

Alex asks:

what are some ways to enhance a wood bat?

Im wondering is there are any ways to give a wooden bat a little extra pop…

my response:

Hitters will shave the handle slightly. This is commonly done in pro baseball to remove pine tar off the handle. 
Warning: lightens bat, but can also cause a break if the handle is thinned too much.

Pitch Clock?

Gary asks:

Should major league baseball have a 15 second limit in between pitcfhes in order to speed up the game?

This would be like a shot clock in basketball. If the pitcher does not pitch it within 15 seconds it is a ball. If a hitter is not in the box within 15 seconds, it is a strike. Some people are proposing this idea. What do you think?

my response:

It takes 20 seconds for a hitter recycle (mental prep for the next pitch and forget the last pitch) after each pitch.

NY Yankees' RHP Reliever Adam Warren OIP Pitching Evaluation

Leg Extension: -11

Hip Rotation: -14

Follow Through: -8

Other: -10 (Wear and Tear)

OIP: 43%