In this episode, Gerry welcomes Matt Talarico, Director of Speed Performance and Base Running for the Chicago Cubs, to discuss the evolving landscape of speed training in baseball. Matt shares insights from his time with the New York Yankees, highlighting how speed development is becoming a vital focus in player performance and team strategy.

He dives into the importance of creating buy-in from athletes, balancing intensity with recovery, and the innovative methods he’s used to revolutionize base stealing and speed training. Matt also reflects on his early days at Wright State, where he implemented transformative techniques that propelled the program to national success in stolen bases.

All that and more on this episode of Muscles and Management!
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Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction to the Episode and Guest, Matt Talarico

3:21 The Evolution of Speed Training in Baseball

5:27 Insights from Matt's Time with the Yankees and Transition to the Cubs

9:47 How Speed Development Benefits Player Performance

12:00 The Importance of Open-Mindedness in Player Development

14:38 Matt's Work at Wright State and the Revolution of Base Stealing

18:20 Out-of-the-Box Methods for Speed Training and Their Impact

21:30 Challenges and Success Stories in Implementing Speed Programs

24:10 Warm-Ups and Preparation Strategies for Practice

27:01 The Role of Recovery in Speed Development

28:47 Balancing Intensity and Recovery in Professional Baseball

34:12 Managing Workloads and Year-Round Speed Development

41:07 Creating Buy-In and Motivation for Athletes

48:20 Tips for Effective Speed Training Across Levels

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