La Jolla Youth Baseball Manuals
Player development is a key measure of our success as a league. To faciliate player development, La Jolla Youth Baseball has assembled manuals which can be used by managers, coaches, parents, and players to better understand the different facets of the game. These are intended to be a quick overview on a body of knowledge for a specific topic, incorporating a variety or resources and years of experience.
Instead of being static pieces of information, these "best practices" evolve every year with new ideas that hopefully bring increased value to our community. As such, if you have suggestions, disagree with a philosophy or approach, or have any other comment, we want to hear from you. Please contact us at:
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The LJYB Manuals are all PDF files. The topics include:
* How to Line the Field Before a Game - Step by step instructions detailing how to line the batters box, foul lines and running lane using the paint striping equipment in each field's shed.
* How To Operate the Mustang Field Scoreboard - Step by step instructions detailing how to operate the scoreboard on the Bronco field. Includes how to turn on the power, synching the remote, troubleshooting and turning off the power.
* How To Operate the Bronco Field Scoreboard - Step by step instructions detailing how to operate the scoreboard on the Bronco field. Includes how to turn on the power, synching the remote, troubleshooting and turning off the power.
* LJYB: How To Email From the Website - Step by step instructions for managers to email members of their team using the messaging tool on the LJYB website.
* LJYB: How to Add Games and Practices to the Website Calendar - Step by step instructions for managers to schedule games and practices on the website calendar.
* LJYB: Mental Game - "Baseball Intelligence" - While a lot of time is spent developing the physical skills of a youth baseball player, very little time is spent coaching the mental side of the game. Here, we highlight four key components to enhance "Baseball Intelligence."
* LJYB - Fielding - The biggest difference between an advanced player and a developing player with fielding is in quickness in getting into ideal position and making the transition from catch to throw. This comes with both skill and experience. There are key fundamentals and drills which help facilitate this transition.
* LJYB - Hitting - The science of hitting has evolved significantly over the last 30 years in terms of understanding the physics and biomechanics behind a high-level swing. The key to hitting for power is bat speed. There are some universal biomechanical traits of a high-level swing that can be learned to improve bat speed. We separate the swing into four phases: stance, load, separation, and connection. A big difference between an inexperienced swing and a high-level swing is the amount of torque/power generated outside of the arms.
* LJYB - Throwing - Proper throwing/pitching mechanics not only help to minimize injury, but also help to maximize speed. The "kinetic link" is the biomechanical process through which the different parts of the body come together to maximize arm speed. For the young player, it starts with correct throwing form -- specifically the "L" and the "T". As the player progresses, it is important to integrate shoulder/hip rotation with leg drive to maximize mechanics.
* LJYB - Base-Running - Base-running tends to be under-coached in youth baseball. Good base-running teams can easily add 2-4 runs to their score every game, while bad base-running teams can subtract that amount. Players need to understand the various scenarios, develop good judgment through practice, and learn the habit of running hard. Learnings correct sliding technique is crucial to successful base-running as well.
