In this episode of the Driveline Podcast, Hitting Trainers Brandon Dim and Jacob Hirsh preview the 2025 Home Run Derby — breaking down this year’s participants, what makes a great Derby swing, and why the event can actually make hitters better. They also dive into past examples like Julio Rodríguez, Bobby Witt Jr., and Juan Soto to show how pulling the ball in the air can unlock second-half success.
In this episode Jack, Josh & Marek sit down with special guest Katie Krall for a deep dive into the evolving role of analytics in player development. From advance scouting and swing decisions to defensive training and the rise of tandem starters, the conversation unpacks how players and coaches can better leverage information for on-field success. Katie shares key insights on ownership, communication, and the tools shaping the future of baseball. This podcast offers a unique look into how Dr...
In this episode, Jack, Josh & Marek dive into how model-based approaches are transforming player evaluation and development across baseball. They unpack key ideas like model stabilization, predictive accuracy, and the nonlinear relationship between velocity and pitch effectiveness. The conversation also explores how to visualize complex pitch dynamics, communicate insights to athletes, and balance objective data with a player’s feel. With practical examples and strategic takeaways, they show...
In this episode, Daulton Barry and Grayson Liebhardt discuss the growing influence of artificial intelligence in baseball, exploring its potential benefits and challenges. They emphasize the importance of using AI as a tool to enhance human capabilities rather than replace them, and they explore the future of AI in player development, scouting, and how the human element of the game fits into these boundaries. The conversation wraps up with them revealing their athlete spotlights for the week, hi...
In this edition of The Desert Shift Podcast, Daulton Barry chats with the most recent addition to the AZ Pitching Staff, Pitching Intern Brewer Hendrix, who shares a little about his journey from athlete to coach and dives into his key takeaways from his first few weeks in-gym. Daulton and Brewer go on to explore the challenges of imposter syndrome, the significance of fostering strong relationships, and the diversity of athletes that train at Driveline. The conversation highlights the struggles...
In this episode, Jack, Marek and guest Director of Hitting Tanner Stokey break down how new hitting metrics from Baseball Savant are reshaping the way we evaluate and train hitters. They explore key concepts like vertical and horizontal attack angles, depth of contact, and bat path—and explain why context is critical when interpreting these numbers. Using case studies of hitters like Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Ronald Acuña Jr., they highlight how swing decisions, biomechanics, and bal...
In this episode, Jack, Josh and Marek dive into the evolving landscape of bullpen strategy, breaking down how teams are using openers, managing pitcher familiarity, and creatively deploying relievers to gain an edge. They explore how back-to-back usage, arm slots, and chronic workload impact performance, and why spring training should prepare pitchers for postseason demands. The conversation also touches on the double hook proposal, the challenges of positionless pitching, and the need for more ...
In this edition of The Desert Shift Podcast, Daulton Barry and Grayson Liebhardt discuss the importance of autonomy in player development, effective methods to get out of a pitching rut, and the mental preparation and pre-pitch routines necessary to have a successful outing. The concept of pitching on the offense is explored, as well as the necessity of training to perform well in-game, not in the gym. They share personal experiences throughout their careers, highlighting decisions made and less...
In this episode of the Driveline podcast, Connor White, Jack Lambert, and Tanner Stokey discuss the science of bat speed. They explain how increasing bat speed directly impacts exit velocity and distance, using insights from Driveline's research and MLB data. They go over effective training methods, why raw speed isn't always enough, and the importance of optimizing for game-usable speed by swinging at 90-95% of peak capacity.
In this episode, Daulton Barry sits down with Mike Paesani, who shares his journey to Driveline as well as insights gained from working in high performance sports. The discussion highlights the importance of diversified work experience, the need for cohesion between high performance and skill training, and the significance of data-driven approaches in athlete development. They explore how to enhance coordination and movement patterns in athletes, the value of gamifying bullpen sessions, and the ...
In this episode, Jack, Josh & Marek discuss how data and wearable technology are revolutionizing pitching workload management. They explain how tools like Pulse and Whoop provide key insights into total stress, beyond just game throws, by tracking acute and chronic workload. This data-driven approach enables intentional strategies crucial for preventing injuries and optimizing performance for pitchers at all levels. This podcast offers a unique look into how Driveline combines research, anal...
In this episode of the podcast, Daulton Barry and Nik Pearson explore various topics relating to baseball training, focusing on the intersection of neuroscience, mental training, and importance of asking 'why' as a coach. They discuss the importance of movement preparation, the role of mental clarity in athletic performance, and the significance of building strong relationships with your peers. The conversation also delves into the value of experimentation in coaching, learning from failures, an...
In this episode of the Driveline podcast, Tanner Stokey, Connor White and Joel Condreay sit down with Corvallis Knights Head Coach Brooke Knight to discuss how summer baseball shapes player development. They cover the importance of game reps, collaboration with college coaches, and the challenges of daily play. The conversation also explores NIL, leadership, and how players can maximize both personal and athletic growth during summer leagues.
In this edition of the podcast, Daulton Barry and Dylan Gargas explore various topics surrounding college baseball, coaching confidence into pitchers, and the mental aspect of the game. The bio-psycho-social model is discussed as an effective framework for training, and the balance of life and sports in baseball is highlighted. The discussion concludes with the importance of community and support in athletic performance. 00:00 Introduction 02:08 Insight's from LSU's Baseball Environment 11:41 Ve...
In this episode, Jack, Josh, Marek, and special guest Andrew Aydt break down how advance scouting reports and game day data help players build effective attack plans. They explore how to simplify analytics into actionable insights by leveraging heat maps, pitch profiles, and batter tendencies. The conversation highlights how Driveline helps MLB players boost confidence, adapt in-game, and maximize performance. This podcast offers a unique look into how Driveline combines research, analytics, and...
In this episode, Jack, Josh, Marek, and special guest Connor Pelletier explore the challenges of measuring command in pitching. They dive into the development of the Intended Zones tool, the role of mechanical adjustability, and how variability can actually improve command. The conversation also covers new research on throwing mechanics and what it means for the future of command training. This podcast offers a unique look into how Driveline combines research, analytics, and practical applicatio...
In this episode of The Desert Shift Podcast, Daulton Barry and Pitching Intern, Grayson Liebhardt, discuss various aspects of training, particularly focusing on the use of plyo balls, the importance of training intent, and the concept of expectations versus reality. They delve into the significance of recovery, nutrition, and the environment in which athletes train. The conversation also highlights the unique experiences and growth opportunities Driveline offers, emphasizing the importance of be...
In this episode, Jack, Josh & Marek break down the importance of arsenal models in pitching, highlighting how different pitches interact to create uncertainty for hitters. They introduce new metrics like "mix" and "match," discuss the trade-offs of adding pitches, and explore how batter familiarity and training economy impact pitch effectiveness. The conversation also touches on heart rate data and the future of pitching analytics in MLB. This podcast offers a unique look into how Driveline ...
In this episode, Daulton Barry and Tyler Kozlowski discuss the offseason strategies for college athletes, emphasizing the importance of self-assessment and honest evaluation of one's skills and readiness for the next level. They explore training strategies, the significance of strength and conditioning, and the role of aerobic capacity in baseball performance. The conversation also touches on the mental aspects of training and the necessity of recovery and family time for athletes. 00:00 Introdu...
In this special episode of the Driveline podcast, a few members of Driveline’s R&D team (Kyle Boddy, Clayton Thompson, Conner Pelletier & Jack Lambert) talk through how they use AI in projects, from building pitch models to solving motion capture problems on-site with an NBA team. They share what it was like starting as interns, the mistakes they made, and what helped them grow. The episode also covers what they look for when hiring now, and why technical skills alone aren’t enough. It's...
In this inaugural episode of The Desert Shift Podcast, Dalton Barry and Dylan Gargas discuss various topics related to baseball training, including the impact of new technologies like torpedo bats, uncommon training tools, and the importance of a supportive training environment. They share their personal journeys to Driveline, highlight success stories of athletes, and provide insights into the hiring process for interns at the facility. The conversation emphasizes the significance of hard work,...
In this episode, Jack, Josh & Marek explore the evolution of pitch modeling in baseball, covering key metrics like 'Stuff' and the shift to component-based approaches. They discuss how advanced models predict pitching success and how insights can be applied to both pitchers and hitters. The conversation also touches on the 'Big 3' of hitting analysis, the development of a matchup model tailored to hitters, and the limitations of current models, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement...
In this episode of the Driveline podcast, Director of Hitting Tanner Stokey, along with Hitting Trainers Brandon Dim and Jacob Hirsh, break down what Leather Smash Factor Balls are. They discuss what these unique balls are, how they're used in training, and the reasoning behind their development. 0:00 What are Leather Smash Factor Balls 6:00 Bridging Between Different Training Environments 9:29 Benefits of Leather Smash Factor Balls 11:12 Data Collected 16:05 Feedback From Hitters 25:00 Better F...
In this episode of the Driveline podcast, Tanner Stokey, Connor White, and Matt Kress discuss the importance of summer training for high school and college baseball players. They emphasize the need for self-evaluation, understanding personal development needs, and the impact of the transfer portal on player opportunities. The conversation highlights the balance between competing in summer ball and focusing on physical and skill development, with real-life examples illustrating the importance of ...
Welcome to the Driveline R&D Podcast, where we explore the cutting-edge intersection of baseball analytics, player development, and on-field performance. In this milestone 100th episode, the new R&D crew takes over following the departure of the original hosts to MLB organizations. Join Jack Lambert (Baseball Operations Director), Josh Hejka (minor league player with the Phillies and Driveline's longest-running intern), and Marek Ramilo (part-time R&D analyst and quant trader) as the...
In this episode of the Driveline podcast, Tanner Stokey, Elijah Boyer, and Zach Settles discuss the significance of lifting, exercise selection, and targeted skill development, especially for those not actively playing. They emphasize the need for athletes to prioritize their training and make the most of their opportunities to improve, regardless of their current playing status. They discuss the significance of having a structured game plan for athletes, particularly in baseball. And emphasize ...
In this episode of the Driveline podcast, Mike Rathwell and Director of Hitting Tanner Stokey discuss the integration of data and technology in baseball training, particularly focusing on in-season adjustments for players with the new release of In-Season Smart Reports in the Driveline app. They explore how data can provide actionable insights for players and coaches, enhancing performance and facilitating real-time feedback. The discussion emphasizes the importance of blending training with gam...
In this episode of the Driveline podcast, Mike Rathwell and Pitching Trainer Joel Condreay discuss the importance of in-season adjustments for pitchers with our new In-Season Smart Report feature in the Driveline app, focusing on workload monitoring, game tracking, and the significance of accurate data in training. They emphasize the need for pitchers to understand their physical and mental preparation, the impact of stress, and how to effectively manage their throwing workload throughout the se...
In this episode of the Driveline Baseball podcast, Mike Rathwell & Jack Lambert discuss the innovative in-season smart reports designed for college athletes. The conversation covers the mechanics of workload estimation for pitchers, the integration of defense-independent statistics, and the metrics used to evaluate hitting performance. The importance of data analytics in enhancing athlete performance and decision-making is emphasized throughout the discussion. 0:10 Introduction to In-Season ...
In this episode, Director of Hitting Tanner Stokey and former Driveline Hitting Trainer and current Red Sox MiLB Hitting Coach JP Fasone discuss the transition from Driveline to professional baseball with the Red Sox, focusing on training approaches, building player relationships, and setting goals for off-season and in-season development. They explore the challenges of player engagement, long-term development, and maintaining performance throughout the season. 0:00 Intro 2:29 Off-Season Trainin...
