Joe R.

I coach a 9U and now 10U travel team in orange county. I have coached for the past 5 years, providing lessons to players as young as 4 to as old as 14. I coach based on your current ability and provide drills and tools for you to grow in the game of baseball.

I grew up in San Diego, CA, playing baseball at the elite travel level before going on to compete professionally. I signed with the Baltimore Orioles organization as a pitcher, which represents the culmination of years of high-level competition and development. Competing at that level gave me firsthand experience with the standard of mechanics, mental approach, and work ethic required to advance in the game. While my primary focus as a pro was pitching, my background spans hitting and fielding as well, giving me a well-rounded perspective when I work with athletes today. That professional experience allows me to identify the small but critical details in your mechanics that make the biggest difference on the field.

I am committed to providing a fun environment for you to develop and become a better baseball player and man. My focus as a coach is to provide specific input based on your body composition and profile — I see you as a person, and I focus on your strengths while developing your weaknesses in a compassionate way. I do not treat every student the same. My goal is always for you to become the player you have always dreamed of.

In the coaching partnership, my job is to shine a light on ways you can improve. As the student, you're accountable for practicing at home and engaging with what I share to see if it works for you. To become better, you need to practice every day — the most boring parts of practice are what build the confidence that comes from preparedness.

My coaching covers:

Speed and agility — quickness and strength are essential when throwing, fielding, or hitting.

Mental preparation — always finding ways to improve from the results of a game or practice, reflecting on unintended outcomes, and making changes.

Throwing (fielding or pitching) — proper grip, arm circle, and pressure, with an arm path suited to your size and build; front-side direction for the arm, and leg balance and weight placement as the ball is thrown.

Hitting — stance, hand placement for quickness and strength, weight placement in the legs for power and timing, and eye placement for focus on the ball.

Fielding (infield and outfield) — footwork from agility that translates into an accurate throw.

Every practice is different — I incorporate drills based on your individual progression.