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 of the game really lies. So grab your glove, kick back, and let’s chat about how we can all foster a love for the game while keeping it real—and fun!

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

• 00:25 - Introduction to Episode 10
• 00:40 - The Journey to Elite Baseball
• 07:05 - The Reality of College Baseball Scholarships
• 13:41 - The Transition from Recreational to Competitive Baseball
• 24:22 - The Reality of College Baseball Costs
• 26:34 - The Impact of COVID on Baseball Aspirations
• 41:43 - Navigating the Transition from Youth to High School Baseball
• 49:11 - The Shift from League to Select Baseball
• 55:06 - Encouraging Youth Sports Participation
• 01:02:01 - The Importance of Community in Youth Sports
• 01:09:10 - The Role of Patience in Youth Sports Coaching
• 01:18:46 - Understanding the Balance Between Happiness and Joy in Parenting
• 01:27:11 - The Case for Recreational Baseball

Key Takeaways:

• The majority of kids who start playing baseball will ultimately decide to play for fun rather than pursue a career, with statistics showing over 99% make this choice by college.
• It's crucial for parents to understand the financial implications of select baseball and consider the realistic chances of their children making it to higher levels of play.
• Rec baseball provides an essential foundation for youth, allowing kids to learn life skills and enjoy the game without the pressure of elite competition.
• Investing in quality coaching and player development at the rec level can create a supportive environment that encourages kids to continue playing for the love of the game.
• Parents often impose their dreams on their children, pushing them towards select teams instead of allowing them to enjoy playing recreationally, which can lead to burnout.
• The podcast emphasizes the importance of community support for rec leagues, highlighting that strong local ties can enhance youth sports experiences and foster a love for the game.

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week we talk about we offer the Parent's Guide to Advanced Baseball for those player who decide to work toward playing in High School, College, and maybe even beyond.

Companies mentioned:

• ...

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 just a baseball enthusiast, tune in as we dish out valuable advice and personal stories that might just save your season—or at least help you avoid a trip to the DL.

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

• 00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast
• 00:33 - Injury Discussion Begins
• 31:21 - Understanding Sports Injuries and Recovery
• 54:14 - Managing Pain and Recovery in Sports
• 01:18:02 - Injury Prevention and Player Health

Key Takeaways:

• Injuries are an inevitable part of the game, and learning to manage them is crucial for long-term success on the field.
• Communication is key; players should feel empowered to report pain to coaches and trainers to prevent further injury.
• Building a strong foundation of flexibility and strength is essential in preventing injuries during the season.
• Taking the time to rest and recover is just as important as training hard; balance is the name of the game.
• Understanding the mechanics of your body can help prevent compensatory injuries that arise from poor form or technique.
• Coaches and trainers should work together to ensure athletes are not only developing their skills but also their physical health.

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week we share the stark reality of playing in high school and beyond. We talk about when to make the decision to play for fun and we make the case for Rec Ball, so don't miss it.

Companies mentioned:

• Glovehound
• MDI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball

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 week's episode:

• Glovehound
• MDNI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball
• Louisville Slugger
• Adidas
• Nike
• Easton
• Spalding
• McGregor
• Rawlings
• Wilson
• Mizuno
• All Star
• Nakona
• Dick's Sporting Goods
• Bombat
• Bombat
• Play It Again Sports
• Oakley
• Baseball Bat Bros
• Ball Glove King

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

• 00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast
• 00:38 - Featured Faves: Gear Talk
• 11:40 - Transitioning from Youth to High School Baseball Equipment
• 20:44 - Choosing the Right Gear for Young Players
• 31:58 - Choosing the Right Equipment for Young Players
• 36:33 - Transitioning to Select Teams and Equipment Choices
• 49:05 - Choosing the Right Glove for Young Players
• 01:03:08 - The Importance of Breaking in Your Equipment
• 01:06:26 - Advanced Gear and Equipment Care
• 01:18:09 - Transitioning to Gear Discussions
• 01:25:10 - The Rise of the Louisville Slugger

Key Takeaways:

• In baseball gear, personal preference and comfort play a huge role in performance.
• Choosing the right bat and glove is crucial for youth players to develop their skills effectively.
• Breaking in a glove is a personal journey that helps players build a connection with their equipment.
• Using used gear can be a smart, economical choice for young athletes who are still growing.

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week we talk about injuries – what to do when you can't just walk it off. The fellas shares valuable insights into how to handle an injury and work through your comeback. Don't miss it.

Companies mentioned:

• Glovehound
• MDI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball