Player Development

The off-season (summer and fall ball) is the most critical time for players to improve and develop. This time of the year should be used for players to work on their skills, such as increasing velocity, commanding the strike zone, improving strength and conditioning, etc. The off-season is the most important time to focus on player development because it provides a live game situation where the outcome is not important. These games give players the opportunity to translate what they are working on in practice to a live game. However, most programs prioritize winning games rather than developing players, and unknowingly, coaches tend to create environments that prevent players from developing to reach their maximum potential.

Take for example, a pitcher working on improving his fastball to the inner half of the plate. If the pitcher walks/hits a batter or two, his coach scolds him. As a result, the pitcher slows down his mechanics in an attempt to “aim” the ball in order to throw a strike. While in the short-term, this tactic may seem successful; it actually impedes long-term progress by causing players to stay in their “comfort zone” rather than testing their limits. In addition, slowing down mechanics reduces velocity, as well as increases the risk of injury by straining the throwing arm, which is detrimental to a player’s future. When coaches put a heavy emphasis on winning instead of improving and developing their player’s skills during the off-season, players regress rather than improve. Players at the high school level need an environment in which they can work on their craft without the fear of failure.

 The key to being physically and mentally prepared to compete at the highest level during the regular season is the off-season environment. Programs should support environments during the off-season that allow players to feel comfortable taking risks. Players are more likely to develop and improve when they are not concerned of the repercussions for making mistakes. In a supportive environment, players can overcome barriers that they never knew existed. It is the job of coaches and educators to provide a setting needed to help build a foundation for future success.

-Adam Landecker