Fisher Cats Baseball Camp: Fun, Friends, And Fundamentals

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats are hosting baseball and softball camps for kids aged 6-15. The camps will run from 8:30 am to 12 pm daily, with a focus on baseball skills, drills, and physical activities. Each camper will receive a complimentary ticket to the Fisher Cats game on the Friday night of the last day of camp. The camps will cover proper stretching and warm-up routines, throwing and catching, infield and outfield tips and drills, and pitching. The Fisher Cats are also offering a separate softball instruction option. These camps provide a great opportunity for kids to develop their baseball skills and have fun during the summer.

Proper stretching and warm-up routines

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats baseball camp is a great opportunity for kids aged 6-15 to learn about the game and develop their skills. An important aspect of the camp will be teaching the young players about proper stretching and warm-up routines, which are essential in baseball to optimise performance and prevent injuries.

Static vs Dynamic Stretching

There are two main types of stretching: static and dynamic. Static stretching involves holding a stretch for a certain period, usually 15-30 seconds, to elongate the muscle fibres. Dynamic stretching involves moving parts of the body through a full range of motion to increase blood flow, raise body temperature, and improve neuromuscular function.

In the past, static stretching was considered the norm for baseball players, but now it is more common to include it as an addition to a dynamic stretch routine. Dynamic stretching is more suitable for warming up, but static stretching can be beneficial after a workout to improve flexibility and joint mobility, and aid in muscle recovery.

Warm-Up Drills

It is important for baseball players to know which muscles are being used during performance so they can achieve a proper warm-up. Baseball players should stretch their hip flexors, quads, hamstrings, calves, trunk, glutes, IT bands, groin, and upper body.

• Walking High Knee Lunge: Alternating high knee walking lunges with good posture and chest up.
• Reverse Lunge Reach: Step back with the left foot, twist to the right, and touch the left foot with the right hand, then alternate.
• Alternating RDLs: Used to stretch the hamstrings, glutes, and lower back, while also testing balance and body control.
• Groin and Hamstring Slide: Slide the right foot out and stretch to the right and left, then repeat on the other side.
• Hurdle Walk: Kick the right knee up and out to the right in a circular motion, then repeat on the left.

Upper Body Warm-Ups

It is also important for baseball players to warm up their upper bodies, especially the shoulders and arms, as throwing causes tension. Here is an example of an upper-body stretch:

Throwing Arm Stretch: Put your partner's throwing arm up so the elbow is even with the shoulder. Roll the hand back from the elbow to the point of tension, hold, then repeat on the other side.

By incorporating a variety of stretching techniques and warm-up drills, the Fisher Cats baseball camp can help young players improve their performance, enhance their recovery, and reduce the risk of injuries.

Throwing and catching

Throwing:

• Grip: Campers will learn the proper way to grip the baseball when throwing. This includes positioning the ball across the fingertips with the thumb and index finger forming a "V" shape, allowing for better control and accuracy.
• Stance: The right stance is crucial for generating power and accuracy when throwing. Campers will be taught to position their feet shoulder-width apart, with their throwing arm back and the non-throwing arm out in front for balance.
• Throwing Motion: Instructors will guide campers through the proper throwing motion, emphasizing the importance of a smooth, fluid motion. This includes bringing the throwing arm back, stepping towards the target, and following through with the throw.
• Accuracy and Distance: Campers will practice throwing at different targets and distances to improve their accuracy and distance control. They will learn to adjust their throwing motion and strength depending on the situation.

Catching:

• Ready Position: Campers will be taught to always be in a balanced, athletic stance when preparing to catch a ball. This includes bending the knees, keeping the feet shoulder-width apart, and having the glove up and ready to receive the ball.
• Glove Position: Instructors will emphasize the importance of proper glove positioning when catching. Campers will learn to keep their glove out in front, with their eyes on the ball, and to soften their hands to help absorb the impact of the ball.
• Catching Drills: A variety of drills will be conducted to improve campers' skills. This includes practicing different types of catches, such as pop flies, ground balls, and line drives.
• Communication: Campers will also learn the importance of communication when catching. This includes calling for the ball, alerting teammates of potential obstacles, and providing feedback to improve their catching technique.

The Fisher Cats Baseball Camp aims to provide a fun and engaging environment for kids to develop their throwing and catching skills. Through a combination of demonstrations, drills, and games, campers will improve their technique, accuracy, and overall confidence in these fundamental baseball skills.

Infield and outfield tips and drills

Infield Drills

The Relay Race

This is a fun game for players and an opportunity to practice the fundamentals of receiving a relay. Divide your players into equal teams (4 to 5) with players spaced equally apart (25 to 40 feet depending on age group). Place the first player in each group on the foul line. On your command, players throw down the line and back. Players should give a big target, move toward the ball, get it gloveside, transition to a crow-hop, and send it cleanly. If a player misplays or overthrows the ball, it must return to them before continuing. Players rotate after each round.

Fielding and Rolling

Pair players in two facing lines 10 feet apart with one ball. The players alternate rolling and receiving. The receiver starts in a fielding position with their feet spread and knees bent, glove on the ground and out in front. The roller should start with a moderate pace and then vary the speed and location between the receiver's front and backhand.

Tagging and Throwing

Place one player at each base and divide the rest of the team into lines behind each base. The player at home begins by throwing to third base, who tags the inside of the bag and throws to second. The action continues around the bases with players increasing speed and intensity. The thrower should put the ball low and at the inside edge of the base, allowing the receiver to make an easy tag. Players should alternate between one-hand and two-hand tags. After throwing, players go to the back of the line at their base.

Fielding and Throwing

Place players in a triangle 30-40 feet apart (or at basepath depth, depending on age). There should be a second player behind each point. The player at the first point ('home') throws a ground ball to the second point, who fields and throws to the 'first baseman' at the third point, who then throws back home. The player at home puts down a quick tag and then follows their throw to the next point. Each player follows their throw and the next player at each point steps in to keep the drill going.

Outfield Drills

Grounding Position

In a ready position, a coach or teammate rolls a ground ball into the outfield. The outfielder charges the ball, decreasing speed and getting into a grounding position before making contact. In the grounding position, the glove is on the ground with the lead foot being the glove-side foot, and the back foot staggered behind in a balanced wide base. The backside should be low to the ground so the head can track the ball. The player fields the ground ball and throws with a crow hop on the third grounder to the base. This drill should be repeated for all three outfield positions and vary the base the ball is thrown to.

Fly Ball Tracking

Set up four cones in a zigzag formation heading away from home plate and towards the outfield wall. The outfielder starts at the first cone in a ready position and, on the coach's signal, drop-steps towards the next cone as the ball is tossed into the air. The outfielder tracks the ball towards the cone on their right, secures it, and then drop-sets towards the next cone on the left to catch another ball. Repeat the zig-zag to each cone and then plant the back foot to sprint out of the drill. This drill helps with tracking fly balls and catching them on both sides of the body.

Crow Hop

This drill helps with throwing power and momentum. For right-hand dominant people, start at the top of two circle cones and jump with the left leg, twice, towards where the throw will go. Then, take another jump towards home plate, planting the right foot to set a foundation for the left foot to come forward as the ball is thrown. The final step is to launch the ball in rhythm, coming into a throwing position.

Hat Bill

Stand away from others and have a coach toss a tennis ball or smush ball into the air. The outfielder gets under the ball as fast as they can, but instead of catching it in their glove, they try to brush the ball on the bill of their hat. This drill helps with situational awareness and maintaining the correct base position.

General Outfield Tips

• Always be in a balanced ready position with knees bent and hands ready
• Be aware of the sun and wind direction
• Know the value of keeping a double play in order
• Be aggressive and dive for the ball when there is another outfielder to back you up
• Know how to back each other up and communicate which base to throw to

Pitching

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats Baseball and Softball Camp is a great opportunity for kids aged 6-15 to learn and develop their baseball skills. The camp runs from 8:30 am to 12 pm daily and focuses on a range of baseball skills, including pitching.

Fundamentals and Techniques

The pitching instruction at the Fisher Cats Baseball Camp will cover the fundamentals and techniques of effective pitching. Campers will learn about different pitching styles and mechanics, such as the wind-up and stretch positions, as well as the importance of proper footwork and body control. They will also be taught how to vary their pitch speed, from fastballs to change-ups, and how to throw different types of pitches, such as curveballs and sliders.

Practice and Drills

In addition to theoretical knowledge, the camp will provide extensive practical experience. Campers will participate in pitching drills and exercises designed to improve their accuracy, control, and consistency. They will work on their arm strength and develop techniques to ensure proper arm care and injury prevention. The coaches will also emphasise the importance of proper grip and release, ensuring that campers can execute pitches with precision and maximum spin.

Strategy and Game Application

The Fisher Cats Baseball Camp will also teach campers about pitching strategy and its application in game situations. Campers will learn how to read batters' tendencies and make strategic pitch selections to gain an advantage. They will understand the importance of pitch sequencing and how to keep batters off-balance. Additionally, they will develop skills in fielding their position, holding baserunners, and working effectively with their catcher and infielders.

Individual Development

The camp encourages individual development and recognises that each pitcher has unique strengths and areas for improvement. Coaches will provide personalised feedback and work closely with campers to set goals and track their progress. This individualised approach ensures that campers can refine their pitching skills and take their game to the next level.

The Fisher Cats Baseball Camp provides a comprehensive pitching programme that will benefit participants of all skill levels. Through a combination of instruction, practice, and strategy, campers will enhance their pitching abilities and gain a deeper understanding of the art of pitching in baseball.

Hitting techniques

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats Baseball Camp is a great opportunity for kids to learn and improve their baseball skills. The camp focuses on various aspects of the game, including hitting techniques, which is a crucial part of becoming a well-rounded player.

Hitting a baseball is one of the most challenging tasks in sports, and developing solid hitting techniques can give young players a significant advantage. Here are some detailed instructions and techniques that can be taught at the Fisher Cats Baseball Camp to help young players improve their hitting:

Stance and Bat Position:

• The first step to a good swing is a proper stance. Players should position their feet at a comfortable width, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. This provides a stable base and allows for a powerful swing.
• The batter should hold the bat at a comfortable height, with their arms slightly bent, elbows down, and the knob of the bat pointing towards the pitcher. This is the starting position.

Loading and Stride:

• From the starting position, the batter should load their weight onto their back leg, slightly bending the back knee. This coiled position adds power to the swing.
• As the pitcher delivers the ball, the batter takes a small stride forward with the front foot, transferring their weight to the front leg. This initiates the swing.

Swing and Contact:

• The swing should be smooth and fluid. The batter should focus on rotating their hips and torso, using their legs and core to generate power rather than just their arms.
• The batter should aim to make contact with the ball slightly in front of their body, known as "hitting through the ball." This ensures a solid connection and helps drive the ball.

Follow-Through:

• After making contact with the ball, the batter should continue their swing, following through with the bat and ending with their arms extended towards the pitcher.
• A good follow-through helps ensure the batter has completed a full rotation, maximizing the power of their swing.

Vision and Timing:

• Hitting a baseball requires excellent hand-eye coordination and timing. Players should focus on watching the ball carefully as it leaves the pitcher's hand, tracking it into the hitting zone.
• Proper timing involves swinging the bat so that it makes contact with the ball at the optimal moment. This comes with practice and a good understanding of pitch speed and distance.

Batting Practice Techniques:

• To improve their hitting, players can use various practice techniques. This includes soft-toss drills, where a coach underhand-tosses balls to the batter, helping them focus on their swing mechanics.
• Hitting off a batting tee is another excellent way to practice, allowing batters to work on their swing path and consistency.

By focusing on these hitting techniques, young players at the Fisher Cats Baseball Camp can develop their skills and become more confident and powerful hitters. With practice and dedication, they can improve their performance and enjoy the game even more.

Frequently asked questions