All New HitMan

Hello Hitters,

I'm about ready to put the finishing touches on a big project of mine. Before it's ready to go I want to give all the HitMen out there a chance to comment on it.

If you get over to this site www.conditionedtohit.com you will get a look at my work in progress. Leave me a comment on the site, or to support@conditionedtohit.com

O.K. Get on over and get an inside look and give me your 2 cents. I want to create the home of hitting and share my passion with you!

Stay Focused
Mike "The HitMan" Easler
www.conditionedtohit.com

All the Tools a Hitter Needs

Hey Hitters,

Check out all the tools that will assist you in becoming a dangerous hitter!



Stay Focused

Brandon Smith CSCS
www.conditionedtohit.com

The Myth of the Hit & Run

Hello Hitters,

Lets talk about the classic hit and run play. You will see this play used more and more as teams jockey for position at the top of their divisions. As the playoffs begin, runs are at a premium, and the hit and run is designed to move runners into scoring position before the double play can kill a rally.

As many of us know, the purpose of the hit and run is to get runners moving and stay out of the double play. Many hitters believe they must hit the ball behind the runner when given the hit and run sign. Wrong!

You do not have to hit behind the runner. However, you MUST hit the ball on the ground, anywhere. Bat control is the skill you need to accomplish this task. You should be able to hit a hard ground ball anytime the coach gives you the hit and run sign. Much like the suicide squeeze play...you must get the ball down and in-play!

Guys like Derek Jeter and Ichiro have tremendous bat control and are able to put any pitch in play.

But, like all baseball skills, it takes perfect practice day in and day out, to develop bat control. A good way to learn good bat control is to choke up on the bat and practice hitting down through the ball to all parts of the field. Always keep your head and eyes on the ball and just stay on top of the ball and hit it as hard as you can, always maintaining your balance throughout your swing.

You will develop bat control and you will learn how to handle the bat in all crucial situations. Hitting down through the ball will help you develop a nice controlled, aggressive swing, and help eliminate a long looping swing without bat speed, which in most cases will cause a pop up...a killer of the hit & run!

Remember, Perfect Practice, Makes Perfect.

Stay Focused

Mike "The Hitman" Easler

http://www.conditionedtohit.com/ (it's almost ready!)

Small Ball Part 2

If you want to take your game to another level, and be a real threat at the plate, you must develop your bunting skills. Practice bunting every time you step in the batting cage.

The bunting game is a lost art. Back when I played, everybody on the team would work on their bunting mechanics day- in and day- out during spring training and throughout the season.

I will never forget the late, great Manager of the New York Yankees, Billy Martin, saying in spring training, " I don't care who you are or how many home runs you have hit in your career, you must learn to bunt if you plan to play for me".

Billy Martin was a winner, and he knew how to prepare properly for the 162 game Major League season and post season play. Bunting was a secret weapon for success when the opposition least expected it. Especially from a few power hitters such as Reggie Jackson and Dave Winfield, or even myself, the HitMan.

Perfect your bunting skills and take your game to another level. Trust me your coach will be very impressed and you will become one of his favorites.

Coaches loves players who know how to play the game, and are fundamentally sound, especially in the art of bunting.

You will play a lot and be called on in big situations to move a runner over, or lay down the suicide squeeze to win a game.

Add solid bunting fundamentals to your repertoire and you will be a complete hitter!

Stay Focused
Mike "The HitMan" Easler
www.conditionedtohit.com

Small Ball

Hello Hitters,

This is the time of season where wining ball clubs will concentrate more on Small Ball. Division races are getting tight and the emphasis is on winning baseball games.

What is Small Ball?

i consisder Small Ball as doing the little things on the field to win close ballgames. Bunting, Hit and Run, hitting the ball to the right side of the field to move a runner over and running aggressively from first to third are all elements of Small Ball. Getting the runner in from 3rd base with no outs or 1 out is always a must, but during last half of the season it becomes a necessity! The squeeze bunt will be used more frequently as well, as winning ball clubs try to score runs anyway they can. Yes this is Small Ball time. As you watch Major League games, look for the announcers to comment on the clubs who do the little things to win ball games.

I will start breaking down the game in the coming weeks as it should be played describing the importance of playing small ball. In my 39 plus years in the game I have learned that the teams that execute the best, are the teams that's always seem to make it to Post Season play or finish towards the top of the division year after year.

Tony Larussa of the St. Louis Cardinals is one of the best Managers in the game today who stresses basic fundamental Small Ball, day in and day out. And people wonder why year after year his teams are always in the playoffs or going to the World Series.

Big ball is fun, but great hitters excel when the situation calls for some small ball.

Stay Focused
Mike "The HitMan" Easler

Old Timers Day

Hey hitters,

It's Brandon here. Just wanted to post some pictures and give you all a re-cap about the HitMan at his first New York Yankees Old Timers Day game.

Mike was batting clean up for the "Clippers" squad and playing first base. In his first at bat Mike faced Mike Mussina! Mussina came out throwing hard, but the Hitman looked ready! He fouled off some tough fastballs. Mussina knew he couldn't beat the Hitman with the gas, so he went to an off-speed pitch. The Hitman, being a professional hitter, waited on Mussina's junk and dropped an RBI single into left field!

Mike also showed off some great defensive skills at first base! He robbed Micky Rivers of a hit by going two steps to his right and getting a force out a t second. The play should have made SportsCenters top plays!

Mike's second at bat came against Mel Stottlemyre. Mike hit a hard ground ball to second base, resulting in a DP, but he made solid contact and put the ball in play. Even though he didn't get a hit, Mike ran the ball out all the way through first base....something everyone should do!

Mike, once again showed what a professional ball player should do, and hustled to first base!

Overall, the Hitman had a good day. One- for- two with an RBI and great defensensive play!

I was fortunate enough to be in the crowd with my father (a long time Yankee fan), Mike's beautiful daughter, Misty and two friends. After the the game, all the Yankee Old Timers came up to the luxury suites where we were sitting (boy the Yankees do everything with class) and hung around with family and friends.

It was a great day all around, As the Yankees swept the Tigers and the Old Timers got to play again.

The Hitman is traveling home today, but told me that once he lands and takes a nap, he will begin training for next years Old Timers Day game!

Well, Mike and I are excited to continue bringing you hitting and conditioning tips and thoughts, so check in often as the best info is yet to come!

Leave a comment and forward to all your baseball buddies!

Stay focused

Brandon Smith

Coming Soon!

Coming Soon!

I'm Feeling Good!

Hello Hitters,

Just wanted to check in and tell ya that I'm in New York and I feel great. I'm ready for this Sunday's "Old Timers Day Game" at New Yankee Stadium.

The Game is Sunday, July 19th, so watch me if you can. If you can't, don't worry, I'll make the SportsCenter highlights when I go DEEP!

Stay Focused

Mike "The HitMan" Easler

Watch for my big website launching soon www.conditionedtohit.com

Back in the Bigs!

Hey hitters,

I'm back in the big leagues!! O.K. it's only for one day, but I'm back!

I'll be playing in the New York Yankees Old Timers Day Game on July 19th, but I ain't no old timer yet!

I've been working out and taking some cuts, because I plan on hooking one down the right field line for a big time jack! That's why I'm the hitman!

If you have the MLB package, tune in on July 19th and see me back on the diamond.

I'll let you know how I do after the game.

If you go to the game, yell my name and tell me you're a "HitMan" and I'll try my best to come over and chat for a minute.

Stay focused
Mike "The HitMan" Easler

P.S. We are almost done with the new website, conditioned to hit, so be on the look out!

Be a team player

In my first full year in the Major Leagues with the Pittsburg Pirates I didn't play very much. I was the designated left handed pinch hitter. 162 games and I only started 3 games the whole year. 2 games in May, and 1 game in Sept. But I was called upon in very tough and clutch situations to come through off the bench and get a big hit or keep a rally going. I learned very early in the season that I had to become a good teammate and keep myself mentally and physically ready each and everyday. I became what you would call a cheerleader for the everyday players. By becoming a team player and a good teammate I ended up playing the full year in the Major Leagues with the World Champion Pittsburgh Pirates and established myself as one of the best pinchitters in the game. Oh, by the way I earned the name that year that people recognize me today as the "HitMan", by being patient and being a good team player, and a good teammate. If you are not a starter on your team be patient and wait for your opportunity, you never know you might become the next "HitMan".

Stay Focused
Mike "The HitMan" Easler

What to Eat?

Hi hitters,



I've been away for awhile, but you should know, I've been working on something pretty cool for you!



Updates: I've finished up the fine points and our new Ebook, "Conditioned to Hit" will be available soon! You are in for a special treat as well! I've gone out and found a great pitching coach who wrote a manual called "How to Get Hitters Out!". You will also have access to that book as well! As a hitter it doesn't get any better. You have a chance to get a Hitting book from Mike and a Pitching book as well! You will now know what a pitcher is thinking in every situation! Mike will tell you that this Pitching coach knows the game and has been a student of pitching for his whole life. Some powerful secrets will be revealed in this book!!



Now.....On with the show!



While I was away, I received an email from a fellow trainer. He was introducing his new nutrition website and his new diet program. He is giving me a chance to download a sample 7 day nutrition plan. I dare you to show me something more confusing than NUTRITION! Anyway, I'm going to pass this info onto you!



I'm a huge believer of recovery and eating for energy, and this program delivers! So with out further nonsense from me, visit this site and download your FREE 7 day sample menu!

http://tinyurl.com/mxlctu



What are you waiting for!! Download a free sample and give it a try!



Stay Focused and eat well!

Glad to be back and get ready for some exciting stuff from the HitMan!



Brandon Smith CSCS

How To Practice

HOW IMPORTANT IS PRACTICE?

WELL ALL I CAN SAY IS I BELIEVE "PERFECT PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT". NOT JUST PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT, BUT "PERFECT PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT".

THE GREAT SLUGGER, MARK McGUIRE, COMES TO MY MIND AS THE PLAYER WHO TOOK PRACTICE AS SERIOUSLY AS THE GAME ITSELF.

WHILE COACHING MARK IN ST. LOUIS HE WAS ALWAYS 1ST TO THE BALLPARK AND HE PRACTICED ON HIS SWING RELIGIOUSLY.

HE WANTED EVERYTHING ABOUT HIS SWING TO BE PRECISE AND PERFECT. WHILE IN THE BATTING CAGE WORKING WITH MARK IT WAS AS QUIET AS A CHURCH SERVICE.

MARK NEVER FOOLED AROUND OR PRACTICED WITHOUT TOTAL FOCUS AND CONCENTRATION. IT WAS LIKE BEING AROUND A GRAND MARTIAL ARTIST CHAMPION PREPARING FOR A BIG MATCH IN THE ARENA.

MARK WAS A GLADIATOR PREPARING FOR WAR THAT MEANT LIFE OR DEATH. HE TOOK PRACTICE TO THE NEXT LEVEL OF PERFECTION. I LEARNED SO MUCH FROM MARK IN THE AREA OF PERFECT PRACTICE.

IF YOU WANT TO BE THE VERY BEST THAT YOU CAN BE, THEN YOU MUST PRACTICE PERFECT. NO FOOLING AROUND, BUT WITH TOTAL FOCUS AND TOTAL CONCENTRATION. THIS TAKES DISCIPLINE AND PERSEVERANCE. BUT IF YOU WANT TO REACH THAT NEXT LEVEL IN YOUR GAME YOU MUST "TRAIN AND PRACTICE PERFECT".

Stay Focused
Mike "The HitMan" Easler

Conditioned to Hit.......Coming Soon!!

Guess and Hit?

Many players and coaches have asked me if I ever guessed at the plate.
The answer is yes, and no. Sounds weird, doesn't it!

Well, in certain situations I would guess, and other situations I would "anticipate". What is the difference?

The difference is, I would sit on certain pitches when I was at the plate. The pitcher would dictate what pitches I would sit on. Since I prepared so well before the game, I knew the pitches and I knew the pitchers tendencies. I knew how he would try and get ahead of me, and I knew how he would try and put me away. that knowledge allowed me to guess at times during an at-bat.

Early in the count I would guess fastball, because the pitcher wants to throw strike one. Then I would anticipate what pitch he would throw according to the situation and according to the pitches he had in in his arsenal.

I would suggest that you NOT guess 100% of the time. Guessing all of the time will get you in very bad habits and you will get fooled a lot on certain pitches. Instead of guessing, try and learn as much as you can about every possible pitches you could face.

I am a believer that you hit off the fastball and adjust to everything else. In certain situations I would guess fastballs and try and not to miss it. All the great hitters in baseball are great fastball hitters, and I am sure they all guessed at times. Other times they would anticipate.

More often than not, with two strikes a pitcher will throw some type of off speed pitch. He will try to fool you or get you off balance. This is when you anticipate an off speed pitch, and fight the fastball off to the opposite field.

Again, it is alright to guess, but you must guess smart. You must See the ball first, then Read the ball when it is thrown, and Explode on the ball when it gets into your Happy Zone!

Be sure to check out my new Ebook, "Conditioned to Hit" coming out soon, for more great hitting information.

Stay Focused
Mike "The Hitman" Easler

Finish Strong

Hey Hitters,



Are you going through a slump or "dry period"? Are you striking out a lot and not getting on base? If so, don't feel sorry for yourself!



Check out this great short video clip!!

http://www.ncfinishstrongmovie.com/4



Stay Focused



Mike "The HitMan" Easler



Let me know what you thought of this video. Leave a comment

My Supplement

It seems in the modern era of baseball everyone wants to get an edge. Players are trying to get an advantage by using illegal drugs to get stronger and faster.

The way to stay on top of your game is through hard work and determination.

There are many legitimate supplements, that when taken correctly, give you the neccessary boost to keep you strong and alert, to stay on top of your game.

I will give you the name of a supplement that I take which was sanctioned by the "Major League Players Association". I have been taking this supplement for the last four months and it really keeps your body feeling fresh and strong, day in and day out. It is all Natual and Legal, with no drugs.

I want you to go to this website: www.ghpsport.com and read up on this great natual product and see the many benefits you will recieve. The ID number you can use to order this product is: 51309. This ID number will allow you to order this product 24-7. You can then remain in the system and pass it on to your friends!

I just want you, as my readers, to become the best hitters you can become the proper way. By following my Hitting Fundamentals and Mental approach to the game, as well as using Brandon's Training Techniques, and taking Natual supplements offered on the market. You will be "Conditioned to Hit" and be better then you ever thought possible.

Stay with your game plan, continue to work hard and dedicate yourself to excellence. Put in your time at the batting cages prfecting your swing. Spend the proper time in the gym training your body with a professional strength coach and and check out the ghpsport.com website for the natual supplement that will keep you strong and alert.

Remember "There is No Elevator to Success, You Must Take the Stairs".

Stay Focused
Mike "The Hitman" Easler
www.mikeeasler.com

What can Save you at the Plate

What can save you as a hitter when all of your fundamentals are out of whack?

You are not in a slump or a "dry period", but you're not feeling well up at the plate, or you are facing a real tough pitcher. Like when I faced Phil Kniekro!

Well I am going to give you a safety valve to go to when this happens at the dish.

Your safety valve is your "Head".

When things feel wrong at the plate, keep your head and eyes on the ball a little longer than normal. Over exaggerate your head and eyes on the ball as long as you can.

The Hit King, Pete Rose, followed the ball from the pitchers release point to the catchers glove almost every time when he was at the plate. Recent Hall of Fame 3rd baseman Wade Boggs did the same thing. They would track the ball all the way into the catchers mitt. This technique gave them the feeling of seeing the ball longer, therefore they could stay on the ball longer and make solid contact instead of getting out in front.

In my many, many years in baseball, observing hitters constantly, these two guys stayed on the ball longer than any other hitter I have ever seen.

Oh yeah, there is one other hitter I can think of that did the same, and that is future Hall of Fame 1st baseman Frank Thomas, (The Big Hurt). He really Kept his eyes on every pitch thrown to him.

Keeping your head and eyes on the ball as you approach the pitch, will cure a lot of mistakes you make at the plate.

No one is perfect, but everyone can keep their head down when they hit.

I will cover this theory at a later time in more detail as we continue our journey to become a consistent and dangerous hitter.

My goal on this site is to "Condition you to Hit", like you've never hit before. Remember, when all else fails, Keep Your Head Down and eyes on the ball!

Let me know how this tip helps you!! Leave a comment for me.

Stay Focused
Mike "The Hitman" Easler
www.mikeeasler.com

Love and Hate

Hello Hitters,

A while back I asked The Hitman who he loved to face and who he hated seeing on the mound. Here are Mike's answers. Enjoy
-Brandon

In baseball there is always one pitcher you love to face, and then there are one or two pitchers you hate to face.

When I was in the Big Leagues, the pitcher I loved to face was a guy named Scott Sanderson. He pitched for the Montreal Expos. He was a tall lanky pitcher with an over the top, explosive arm.


He had a big overhand curve ball and a straight change up. But for some reason I could really see the ball well off of him.

I got a surprise start in 1980 against the Expos and Scott Sanderson was on the mound that day. I didn't really play that much at that stage of my Major League career so I was somewhat nervous. It was a cold rainy day in Montreal and most of the veterans, had the day off. I was hitting 5th and playing left field.

I ended up going 4 for 5 with 4 RBI's and 1 towering home run.From that day on, every time I faced Scott Sanderson I seemed to get 2 or 3 hits and a bunch of RBI's. It was just one of those things in baseball. He was a good pitcher, but I just saw the ball better off of him then I did against other pitchers.


Now, on the other hand, the pitcher I hated to face was Hall of Fame pitcher, Phil Niekro. Phil didn't throw more than 84-86 miles per hour, if that but he gave me fits.

His knuckle ball jumped around like a drunk'en butterfly. He threw it soft, and he could throw it hard. All I know is, it was very tough for me to hit. After facing him it seemed like I was in a minnie slump or (dry period) for about a week. I hated facing Mr. Niekro.

My wife Brenda hated seeing me face him too. When we played the Atlanta Braves she would say jokingly, Phil Niekro is pitching this series you better get ready! I would just shrug my shoulders and say, I am going to get him this time, yeah right, I never did.

I am sure many other batters struggled against him too. That is why he enshrined in Baseball's Hall of Fame.

That's the way it goes in this game. Some guys you love to face, others you hate. No matter what you do you just can't hit them. I would just spread out at the plate and think "hard contact" and hope for the best!

Keep posting those comments and asking your questions!

Stay Focused
Mike "The Hitman" Easler
http://www.mikeeasler.com/

Break out of a Slump

When you play the game of baseball long enough, you will eventually hit what baseball players call a "minor slump".

When I played I called my called slumps a "dry" period. The word "slump" just sounds to negative. But, we will all go through them as hitters.

The only two hitters, I think, who never went through a minor slump are Ted Williams and Pete Rose. Just kidding!! I'm sure they had their 'dry" periods too.

I am going to give you some advice that I received from some of the "old school" players back in my day. My dry periods didn't last long once I applied the advice I was given. I was back to being the "HITMAN" real quick!!

Some of my old teammates said when you are struggling up at the plate, try to widen your stance and think about driving everything hard up the middle. Simple as that.

To many hitters over swing and try to do to much at the plate when they are struggling up at the plate. You must simplify hitting when you are struggling. Remember, keep it simple! just shorten up on the bat and try and drive everything straight up the middle.

This allows you to keep your head, shoulders and eyes on the pitch being thrown. You can practice this by setting a batting tee up at home plate and try and drive everything right over the 2nd base bag, and to straight away center field.

Second, you must stay "aggressive" at the plate when you are struggling. Don't become to "passive" at the plate. If you are too passive then the pitcher will beat you with "mediocre" fastballs. Try to stay up the middle and stay aggressive.

Also, try to slow the game down by "slowing your mind down". Don't try and do to much, just concentrate on hitting the ball on the nose.

As we say in the Big Leagues, just try and square the ball up on the barrel of the bat.

So, next time you hit a "dry" period, think about getting a little wider in the box, choke up some on the handle and think about driving the ball up the middle.

Work on this with a batting tee. Keep making swings until you hit every ball up the middle!

Please leave a comment if you have questions about breaking out of a slump!!

Stay Focused
Mike "The HitMan" Easler

Conditioned to Hit

Hi everyone,

I just wanted to let our loyal readers know that Mike and I are busy working on a hitting and conditioning book, titled "Conditioned to Hit".

This book will be available very soon (hopefully). Once it's ready, I will provide you with all the information you will need to purchase.

In the mean time, please check out strengthcoach.com. It's only 1$ to try it out for 14 days! You can get tons of ideas and ask questions on the message board, even ask direct questions to me!

Also, coming in the next couple of days will be an interview I did with the Hitman. Find out some cool things about Mike, hitting and who the best hitter of all time was/is.

Lastly, with the book nearing completion, please leave a comment with topics you would like to see covered. We want to cover all the bases!!

Thanks,

Stay Strong,
Brandon

Check Up

Hello Hitters,

I just wanted to post a quick note and tell everyone to start watching MLB and study your favorite hitter.

If you have DVR, it's even easier to record some at-bats, then rewind them and go over the swings again and again.

Hope everyone is having a great season so far!

Please let me know what you would like to improve on, or if you have questions about hitting. Leave a comment and I'll get it answered for you.

Stay Focused
Mike "The Hitman" Easler

Lower Body Power

Flexibility equals power

If a hitter is not flexible at home plate his swing will be long and lethargic. Otherwise, 'no bat speed'. A "stiff" bottom half will cause a "stiff" swing, and a lazy swing,simple as that.

If you want to maximize your bat speed, learn to become more flexible with the lower half of your body, mainly through your hips and legs.

I would like to allude to another sport and make my point about how flexibility produces power. UFC fighters are always in an "athletic and flexed" position as they walk around the ring, ready to strike their opponent. Flexibility allows fighters and boxers to generate tremendous punching power from the ground up (hips and legs). The same is true for hitting. Bat speed is dependent upon how flexible and balanced your stance is.

Flexibility also allows you to hit the off speed pitch. You will be able to go down and get a nasty curve ball or change up that is breaking away from you. It is very similar to bunting. To bunt a pitch low in the strike zone, you must be flexible enough to get the bat head on the same level as the ball.

I have a favorite saying that I use with some of my Major League Hitters. " If you drop the pistons, (your legs), the power will flow like a river". Dropping the pistons is just another word for being flexible.

Albert Pujols, Manny Ramirez, Matt Holliday, Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Suzuki Ichiro, just to name a few, are some of the most flexible and successful hitters you will ever see. Just study their swings and you will see the proper use of their lower bodies being "perfectly balanced and flexed” .

Once you understand the importance of flexibility throughout your swing, you will be amazed at the bat speed you can generate. Always remember, " Power comes from "within"your body not from "without". Use your lower body to generate power!

Proper use of your legs will generate more power than you have ever felt before in your career. Just ask the 2008 American League MVP, Dustin Pedroia. For a smaller player he is pretty "powerful".

Stay Focused
Mike "The Hitman" Easler

Planks for Crunching

Hey hitters,
If you want to hit the ball harder and farther, keep reading!

It’s a well know fact, inside the Strength & Conditioning field, that the crunch is dead. Extensive testing and case studies have been done and it’s been determined that laying on your back and flexing your spine to do a “crunch” is just not recommended anymore.


O.K., we’ve all done tons of crunches. I’ve even had clients do them, until now. Studies show us there is a better way, but what do we do?

Have no fear; the planks (and several variations) are here! The plank is a very basic looking exercise that requires no movement and places no stress on your spine. Don’t be fooled by its easy looks, it’s a killer! Doing planks will add much needed stabilization to your core, leading to more bat speed


Below is an example of the basic plank position.




The plank is a great replacement exercise for the crunch. Set up and execution are pretty easy. As seen above, place forearms on floor, and place feet and legs into push up position. The goal is to hold steady and keep square to the floor (no twisting).

Again, don’t dismiss this exercise as easy. If you have never attempted a plank before, try holding for 15-20 seconds and do 2-3 sets. If you are more advanced, try holding for 45-60 seconds. Once you manage 60 seconds for 3 sets, try advancing the difficulty by placing your arms on a Swiss Ball. Placing your arms on a ball will add the element of instability, making your core work harder to stabilize your body.

The plank can also be done one-side at a time, as seen below.

Ask anyone who has done a side plank and they will tell you it’s harder than the front plank! Side plank set up and execution are simple as well. Place forearm on floor and make sure elbow is under your shoulder. Place one leg on top of the other and raise hips. Again, a simple looking move, but very effective.









Try adding some side planks to your routine. As mentioned before, there are several variations of the plank.


My personal favorite “AB” exercise is the stability ball roll out. You are essentially rolling into a modified plank position. Here is the roll out.The set up for the roll out is simple.

Kneel on a mat, or soft floor, and place hands on stability ball. This is the start and finish position. Slowly and under control, roll out onto the ball.

There are several variations of the roll out as well, so only go as far as you can, comfortably. Once you roll out, try to pull yourself back to the finish position, keeping your hips and shoulders in line.

I recommend mastering the front and side planks before you attempt the roll out.The plank (and its variations) will strengthen your core and save your spine from unnecessary flexion.

Try adding planks into your routine, and scrap those traditional crunches from the floor.

Oh yeah, if you don’t think you can get a “six pack,” doing planks think again!

Brandon Smith C.S.C.S

This is what it's all About!

Hey hitters,

Check out this awesome update I received.......This I why I love working with people!

BIG MIKE:We just had a bunch of games during spring break. I went 14-35. In those games we had our first three game conference series and in the three games I was the DH. 7-13, 2 doubles, 6 runs, 3 rbi, 1 stolen base. I was the tying run in all three games and had the game winning rbi in the second game.

Just thought you would like the update. Hope all is well.

sayheydude24

Keep leaving comments and pass this stuff around to all of your friends!

Stay Focused
Mike "The Hitman" Easler

The last "C' of training

Concentration

The last of my essential “C’s” of training is Concentration. Just like the “Hitman” I consider concentration an essential. Concentration is vital to playing the game of baseball and having productive workouts. If you play at the Major League level, concentration is must. If you want to make your school’s team, concentration is a must. If you want to make progress and see results from your training, concentration is a must.

Here are some keys to better concentration while working out.

1. Don’t have your cell phone anywhere near you! If you are expecting an important call or email, working might not be a high priority. Take the call, then shut the phone off and dedicate time to your workout.
2. Give yourself the proper time to workout. If you’re a busy person, you might have to workout in the early morning hours, like me. Try to find a time that will give you the best chance to succeed. Don’t try to “sneak” away to the gym for a workout if you are busy at work. Your time will be unproductive and your mind will be elsewhere.
3. If you’re in the gym, ignore the T.V. newspapers, magazines and chatty gym employees. Get in and turn everything off around you. If you only have 30 minutes, use them!
4. Don’t read emails or open snail mail, like bills, before your workout. Again, your focus will be on “what else” you could be doing, rather than what you “should” be doing.
5. Hire a strength coach to keep you on track. Working out is valuable time, any for many, time is at a premium. A coach will keep you focused and make great use of your time.

Simply put, to see results in any aspect of hitting or fitness, you must concentrate on the task at hand. In hitting you must concentrate on your stance, the pitcher’s release point and the situation. While working out you need to focus on what muscles are “firing” and concentrate on proper technique at all times. Loose focus for a minute and you leave the door open for an injury or you can turn a good at-bat into a lost at-bad!

If you can follow my 3 “C’s”, (Commitment, Core, Concentration) you will see great results at the plate, and with your personal fitness and conditioning.

The key to my three C’s, starts with commitment. If you don’t have the commitment, it will be impossible to make gains. You can’t work on your core strength one day, and then take 4 days off. It all starts with commitment. You only have a certain amount of time during pre-game batting practice. Concentrate every minute you have while in the batters box!

Once you set a schedule and commit to it, your core strength and concentration will improve. “This domino effect” also leads to a secret “C”!!

The secret “C” is confidence! Once all three essential “C’s” fall into place you will have much more confidence. This new found confidence will permeate all aspects of your life, from how you feel about yourself to how you perform on the diamond! Confidence breeds confidence. The more you have, the more you will get!

The bottom line is, if you stick to the “C’s” you will “Move Better, Feel Better, Play Better.”

Stay committed,
Brandon Smith C.S.C.S

See "The HitMan" Live

Mike "The Hitman" Easler
Hitting Lessons & Camp
April 2, 3, 4, 5
www.mikeeasler.com
210-445-0107

The HitMan has been Instrumental in the successes of: Albert Pujols, Mark McGwire, Jim Edmonds, Andre Ethier, James Loney, Mat Kemp and others.

Member of the 1979 “We are Family” World Champion Pittsburgh PiratesBatted over .300 on 4 different occasions, National League All-StarProfessional Baseball Player with:
Pittsburgh Pirates, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies Former Hitting Instructor for the: Cincinnati Reds, St. Louis Cardinals, Boston Red Sox,
Milwaukee Brewers, Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Dodgers *****************************************************************

HITTING LESSONS
THURSDAY, FRIDAY AND SATURDAY
at BASEBALL SCHOOL
8023 MAINLAND SAN ANTONIO, TX 78250
210-520-2271
Coach Easler will evaluate, break down the mechanics, then fine tunes your sons swing.You will see improvements in your sons swing the first lesson.Your son will increase their batting average, improve his power, become an IMPACT player.

Thursday LessonsPrivate Lessons 6:00 – 7:00 PM, 9:00 - 10:00
Group Lesson (5 players) 7:00 - 8:30 PM

Friday Lessons Group Lesson (10 players) 8:30 - 10:00 PM
Saturday Lessons Private Lesson 1:00 – 2:00, 7:30 - 8:30
Group (10 players) 11:00 - 12:30, (5 players) 4:00 – 5:30, (5 players) 6:00 - 7:30

RATES - ALL AGES Fee structures are set up to promote repetition (muscle memory) Group Lessons$ 40.00 - 10 players in a group
$ 60.00 - 5 players in a group
$120.00 - Private lesson for 1 hour

Group lessons consists of Coach Easler and one coach; 1 1/2 hour lesson:
TEAM RATES AVAILABLE
**You do not need to get the 10 or 5 players yourself.
**We will add your son or group to the lesson you choose.
************************************************


THE ULTIMATE HITTING CAMP
SUNDAY

McAllister Park Little League
13102 Jones Maltsberger Rd San Antonio, TX 78247Upper Fields 7-9 (the BLUE SQUARE on the map)Click Here for printable map

RATES - ALL AGES $80.00 per Player

TEAM RATES AVAILABLE
Itinerary:Registration
2:15 PMPass out Tee ShirtsInstruction
3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Hitting stations: Shadow Swing, Head Balance Drill, Hitting off the tee, Hitting soft toss, Live pitching in the cage,Home Run Derby Game- Live pitching on the field
Secure a spot! Email or Call/Text.


Thank You,
Paul Rodriguez
210-445-0107
http://www.mikeeasler.com/

Please forward this flyer along to other players & coaches who are looking to advance to the next level.

The Core "C" To Training

The Second Essential C to Training is "CORE"

I know you've heard the term “core” over and over again, but do you really know where it is located? Do you think it's the “6 pack abs” section of your body? Do you do crunches to train your core?

I define the “Core” as the area of your body from mid-thigh, all the way up to just below your chest. Wrap that section all around your body and your core consists of: mid-quads,hamstrings, hips, glutes, all stomach muscles, lower and mid back. That's a big section, and consists of much more than the magazine cover “six pack”. The core is responsible for creating and storing energy and allowing our bodies to move on a stable foundation.

You hit with your core, not your arms. If want more bat speed. Train your core and not your biceps!

The core has been studied for years, by many, and it's recently been determined that the worst exercise we can do to strengthen it is crunches. So that makes us all guilty of improper and unsafe training. Doing crunches involves flexing the spine; not a recommended move! What can you do instead of crunches? Well, I'm glad you asked! Through study, it has also been determined that the core is best utilized when it's used to resist rotation. Baseball players everywhere must be scratching their heads over this one! Isn't rotation crucial to hitting? When you train your core to resist rotation, you are actually going to be able to generate more power. I know, more head scratching.

The perfect exercise for training the Core is the plank. Here is an example.

The plank is pretty basic in execution, but is also very challenging. You want to keep your elbows under your shoulders and set your feet in a push up position. Lift your body off the floor and try to maintain a “flat back” position. Try to hold for 15-20 seconds if you are a beginner and don't hold for more than one minute, even if you are advanced.

There are many variations of the plank (side plank, one legged plank, plank on ball) but this is the basic starting position. Master this position before trying a more advanced progression.

Oh yeah, for all you “six pack” guys out there, you can achieve the magazine cover look doing planks. Try them next time you workout and ditch the crunches!

Stay Motivated
Brandon Smith C.S.C.S

The Second C of Hitting

Hello Hitters,

Here we go with the second C.

Concentration

Concentration is my 2nd essential to hitting. Without the ability to concentrate and focus, no athlete can compete on a daily basis. Baseball at the Major League Level takes maximum concentration, day-in and day-out, from Spring Training to the end of October.

The player who jumps into my mind when I think of concentration is Andre The "Hawk" Dawson. Every season, every day and every at-bat, the Hawk was locked in and focused on his game. Even when he struggled (which was rare) he was on top of his game. There is no doubt in my mind that Andre Dawson should be elected into the baseball Hall of fame!

To be a successful hitter, you must be able to clear out all distractions all the time. Andre could do that better than anyone. Baseball, to me, is more of a mental game than a physical game. When your concentration is off, your game is off. It's that simple. Mark McGuire used to say "Focus on one thing when the pitcher is about to throw the pitch, and that focus should be on the ball." Mark used to take a soft focus on the pitcher and hard focus on the ball and release point.

A great way to make sure you are locked in during every at-bat is to step out of the box if the pitcher holds the ball more than 5 seconds. Ask for time out and step out of the box.

As I always say, "Stay Focused" and you will have more success at the plate.

Mike "The Hitman" Easler

PRELUDE TO THE SECOND C

HITTERS WHO ARE THE MOST CONSISTENT AT THE PLATE ARE THE ONES WHO HAVE THE ABILITY TO "SLOW THE GAME DOWN" AND LET THE GAME COME TO THEM. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?

NUMBER 1, THEY ARE PREPARED. THROUGH HARD WORK AND DEDICATION THEY HAVE PREPARED THEMSELVES FOR ANY SITUATION.

NUMBER 2, THEY ARE CONFIDENT IN THEIR ABILITY, AND THEY BELIEVE IN THEMSELVES.

NUMBER 3, THEY DO NOT TRY TOO HARD AND PUT UNDO PRESSURE ON THEMSELVES TO BE PERFECT.

BASEBALL IS A GAME OF FAILURE, AND YOU MUST ACCEPT THAT. JUST COMPETE EACH AND EVERY TIME YOU GO TO HOME PLATE AND LET THINGS HAPPEN. KEEP CONTROL OF YOUR BODY AND MIND AT ALL TIMES.

REMEMBER, RELAXED HITTERS ARE DANGEROUS HITTERS. THESE HITTERS KNOW THE SITUATIONS AND JUST LET THINGS HAPPEN. THEY DON'T PUT PRESSURE ON THEMSELVES, RATHER, THEY LET THE PITCHER MAKE THE MISTAKES. IN OTHER WORDS "THEY LET THE GAME COME TO THEM". IT'S ALMOST LIKE THEY ARE IN "A ZONE". THEY ARE TOTALLY FOCUSED AND SHUT THE CROWD, AND THE NOISE AROUND THEM, OUT. THE ONLY THING THEY ARE FOCUSED ON IS THE BALL LEAVING THE PITCHERS HAND. WHEN THE BALL IS DELIVERED THEY TRACK IT AND ATTACK IT! THEY CONTROL THE SITUATION AND DO NOT LET THE SITUATION CONTROL THEM. THEY ARE WHAT I CALL LOCKED AND LOADED.

THE HITTER I WATCH REGULARLY, AND HAVE SEEN OVER THE COURSE OF THE LAST 15 YEARS, WHO TRULY SLOWS THE GAME DOWN IS L. A. DODGERS LEFT FIELDER MANNY RAMIREZ. JUST STUDY HIS AT BATS, ESPECIALLY IN TOUGH, GAME WINNING SITUATIONS. IT IS LIKE HE IS COMPLETELY IN CONTROL OF EVERY SITUATION. HE DOESN’T PANIC AND HE IS SMOOTH AS SILK. HE SLOWS THE GAME DOWN AS WELL AS ANY HITTER I HAVE EVER SEEN OR PLAYED WITH. DURING HIS AT BATS, MANNY LETS THE PITCHER MAKE THE MISTAKE, AND IN MOST CASES, IT’S FATAL!

REMEMBER, PREPARE YOURSELF, BELIEVE IN YOURSELF AND STRENGTHEN YOURSELF.
DON’T PUT ADDED PRESSURE ON YOURSELF TO BE PERFECT. JUST LET THE GAME COME TO YOU.
THE "PRESSURE IS ON THE PITCHER", NOT ON YOU.

STAY FOCUSED,
MIKE "THE HITMAN" EASLER

P.S. IF YOU LIKE THIS BLOG, PLEASE FORWARD IT TO YOUR FRIENDS, AND KEEP SENDING THOSE COMMENTS.

The C's

Hello everyone,



I have my essential C's, just like Mike.

My first Essential "C" is Commitment. You can not do anything very well or to the best of your ability without commitment. It doesn't matter if we are talking baseball, hitting, fitness or life. Commitment is a must.

I know Mike is committed to each and every player he has ever worked with. When you have a coach like the Hitman, it's easy to stay committed.

For those of you who do not have a personal hitting coach, or strength coach, here are some ways to stay committed to your craft:

1. Write down your short term goals. Review them often.
2. Circle a date on the calender when you want to achieve your first goal.
3. Do whatever it takes. Wake up early if you have to, or stay home on a weekend.
4. Tell your family and friends your goals. They can help keep you on track.
5. Watch and study others who have achieved what you want to. See what they do and copy it.
6. Do something to improve your baseball skills and strength everyday.
7. Eliminate negativity.

I'm a professional Strength Coach, so let's talk about fitness for a moment. I know many of you are busy and think you do not have time to work out or practice. If you had 30 minutes of free time, you would rather hit, or take some live BP and work on your skills. Take that time and work on your Strength, Fitness and Conditioning. Working on those aspects of your game will make it easier to work on your baseball skills. Look at what I have for #3 above. "Do whatever it takes" even if you have to wake up early or sacrifice going out with friends. Get your work out done and you will see your skills improve.

Don't look back, only forward. You can't change what you did last week or yesterday. You have control over right now and tomorrow.

Leave a comment with your goals or success stories. Mike and I love to see them!

Stay Motivated
Brandon

The FIVE C's of Hitting

Hello Hitter's.

I'm going to be covering my FIVE Essential C's of Hitting. All hitters should review these often!

The First "C"

CONFIDENCE
If you lack confidence it will be impossible to become a good hitter. All successful athletes have confidence. You must do everything you can to learn the proper fundamentals of whatever aspect of the game you are trying to perfect. You will learn so much from this website on hitting, which in return, will help give you the confidence you need to become a great hitter.
The most confident athlete and hitter I have ever worked with in my coaching career at the Major League level was the St. Louis Cardinal's all star and MVP, Albert Pujols.
In his rookie year he told me that he would become one of the best hitters in baseball someday. He spent hours and hours working on the basic fundamentals of hitting; from soft toss, batting T work, machine work and live batting practice. Albert asked me question after question about the art and science of hitting......everyday!
I would throw him every pitch I could, from low and away to curve balls, up and in and even knuckle balls. He would ask me how to approach each pitch from his legs on up to his follow through.
I have never seen such a student of the game. He never stopped working. Albert rose from class "A" ball in the Midwest League to becoming the 2002 National League Rookie of the Year. Albert believed in himself inside and out. He was filled with confidence in his ability to learn and ask questions. the more he put in, the more confident he became. Now look at his career!
I love him like a son and the key essential to his success was CONFIDENCE!

Stay Focused and be looking for the following four C's to success!
Mike "The Hitman" Easler

No Trainer, No Gym, No Problem

Hello Hitters,

Are looking to improve your performance on the baseball diamond, but don't have the means to start?
You don't need to join a gym, hire a trainer or buy an expensive home gym.
The easiest, and best, way to get started is to begin a flexibility and body weight program. Body weight exercises, such as squats and lunges, are excellent for improving strength. When used during interval training, body weight exercises can improve your conditioning.
I recommend that anyone who begins a strength program of any type visits their physician first!

Body weight exercises are easy to do and can be varied to progress the difficulty.
My list of five body weight exercises are:
1.Squats-great for leg strength and hip flexibility
2.Push ups-upper body strength (chest, shoulders) and core stability
3.Planks-core stability
4.Pull-ups-upper body (lats, back, arms) strength
5.burpees-great total body strength and conditioning.

To get more information on these exercises and many more, follow this link. strengthcoach.com

Improve the way your body moves using body weight. As you gain more flexibility and strength, increase the number of sets and/or reps you do. If that's not enough, vary the exercise to make it more difficult.

For those of you who are more advanced, please take the time to visit strength coach. Click here.strengthcoach.com

Stay focused and learn all you can.

Brandon

Equipment

Hello Hitters,

Today's lesson is a quick one.

Take care of your equipment.

It doesn't matter if you play with a wood bat or an aluminum bat. Learn to Cherish your equipment, even your gloves and spikes.

In the big leagues, you get your spikes cleaned for you! For those of you not playing Major League Baseball, shine your spikes after every game and keep your glove looking new. Equipment is expensive, so take care of it.

All of these items are the tools of your trade. Respect and take care of your equipment and it will take care of you.

Stay Focused,

Mike "The Hitman" Easler

Strength & Conditioning

Hello everyone,

I'd like to introduce myself. My Name is Brandon Smith and I'm a professional Strength and Conditioning coach.
I have 11 years of experience in the strength training field . I have worked for the New York Yankees and Cleveland Indians Baseball Clubs, working with both Major and Minor League players. I have also worked to develop Pro, High school and college athletes from all different sports.
My first intern job was in 1998 working with Mike in Nashua New Hampshire for the Nashua Pride in the independent baseball league. I've been very impressed with Mike and his enthusiasm ever since!
I'm very excited to be working with The Hitman again and giving you all I can to help you become a better hitter.....a powerful hitter!
I'll be providing you with workouts, valuable information about nutrition and recovery and I'll also recommend other websites to visit that will help you develop into a great player!
The first place you should visit is called strength coach.com (link on left). Strengthcoach.com is a terrific place to interact with strength coaches from all over the world! It's also a great place to read articles and watch video about training.
Join strengthcoach.com and ask me a question on the forum!!
Let's have some fun and get ready to hit!

Brandon

All Jacked Up!

Hello Hitters,

Man, I'm all jacked up and excited!! It's one of my favorite times of the year, SPRING TRAINING!

Professional Baseball is in the air. Spring training has started, colleges have begun practice (even in the cold Northeast) High School Baseball is beginning and we even have the World Baseball Classic going. The guys are WIDE AWOKE AND READY TO STROKE!!
I have so many things to be excited about. One thing that really has me jacked up is my good friend Brandon Smith is coming on board to share all his expertise!
Brandon is a Professional Strength and Conditioning Coach who has several years of experience training baseball players, and began his career working for the New York Yankees and Cleveland Indians Organizations.
I'm excited that Brandon will be posting on this site with me and teaching all you great hitters the importance of training and conditioning....the "right" way....The Hitman way!

Stay Focused and check back often for more updates and some big announcements; coming soon!

Mike "The Hitman" Easler

Know Yourself

Hello Hitters,

Today's words are about you. Know your strengths and weaknesses. All great hitters work extremely hard at perfecting their strengths, but they work even harder at improving their weakness.

Great players know where they need improvement. Great hitters will seek out hitting coaches, managers, strength coaches and instructors to help them turn their weakness into a strength.

Examine your game and find a weakness. Work twice as hard on it. Find quality coaches to help you, and you will become a better hitter.

Know yourself and be the very best you can be.

Stay Focused

Mike "The HitMan" Easler

Take The Stairs

There is no elevator to success.

There is no elevator to success, you must take the stairs. There is no easy way to become a successful baseball player. As I've mentioned in previous posts, it takes hard work and sacrifice to become a major leaguer. Every successful player has paid the price with blood, sweat and tears. All the great hitters of the game have realized there is no short cut to success.

Take the stairs and you will become a better hitter.

Stay focused

Mike 'The HitMan" Easler

Passion to Hit

Hello Hitters,

One of the biggest things I can tell you is that if you want to play the game of Baseball you NEED Passion!

Playing and competing at the highest level everyday takes lots of hard work, dedication and enormous sacrifice.

It is impossible to put in the time to do the hard work, have the dedication and make the time and family sacrifices if you do not have a deep love and passion for the great game of baseball!

Spend the time, do the hard work. Take the stairs to the top, not the elevator! Love the game of baseball and the game will love you back!

Love The Game-Love To Hit

Mike "The HitMan" Easler

PLAY BALL, NOT "WORK" BALL

Hello hitters!

Today I'm going to give you some words of wisdom from my 38 years of Professional experience.

Try not to complicate the game of baseball. The game "itself" is tough enough. The umpire says "Play Ball" not "Work Ball."

Remember, the game of Baseball will never be mastered, only challenged.

Keep to the K.I.S.S theory and you are one step ahead of the game!

Be on the lookout for more words of wisdom and hitting tips and techniques.

Mike "The Hitman" Easler

Hitting Made Simple

Hello Friends,

I'm Mike "The HitMan" Easler.

On this blog site we are going to explore the great art of hitting. I like to use the K.I.S.S theory (keep it simple stupid) so everyone will understand.

I love hitting and I love to teach hitting, so please visit often for the best content anywhere.