The Art & Science of Baserunning | Tyler Packanik

This week, we’re diving deep into baserunning, a crucial game aspect often overlooked. Our guest, Tyler Packanik, the Recruiting Coordinator at Jacksonville State University, is an expert in baserunning.

Beyond his recruiting role, Tyler focuses on infield and baserunning, bringing insight into how to excel in these areas.

In this episode, he shares advanced techniques and tips on getting leads to reading pitchers, stealing bases, and more.

Episode Highlights:

• Introducing Tyler Packanik: His background as a recruiting coordinator focused on infield and baserunning at Jacksonville State University.
• Breaking Down Baserunning: Fundamentals of baserunning, including taking leads, reading pitchers, stealing bases, and running through and around bases.
• Techniques & Strategy:
• How to effectively use the vault and creep leads.
• Knowing when to steal bases and understanding pitcher cues.
• Tips for maximizing a lead-off without getting picked off.
• How to round first base and take an aggressive approach to turning doubles into triples.
• The Mental Game of Baserunning: Developing confidence on the base paths and staying in control under pressure.
• Pro-Level Insight: How MLB players like Anthony Volpe showcase elite baserunning and why speed isn't the only factor for practical baserunning.
• Tips for Coaches: Structure baserunning drills in practice, build players' instincts, and emphasize repetition and situational awareness.
• Key Coaching Techniques: Tyler's approach to coaching all types of runners (green, yellow, red) involves maintaining a "best time every time" mindset and encouraging players to see their foot hit the base for precision.

Tyler does an incredible job of breaking down complex techniques and strategies to help you or your team improve. From maintaining momentum at second base to running through first base correctly, Tyler’s insights make this episode a must-listen for anyone serious about elevating their baserunning skills.

Follow Tyler Packanik on Twitter: @TPAC5.

Patrick's new course, Swing Decisions: How To Master The Strike Zone