Swing Hard

It's time to "Swing Hard" with Coach Denny Barrett! Coach Denny has been coaching at the high school and collegiate level for almost thirty years. He has also recruited and coached some of the top collegiate and professional athletes. Throughout his career, Denny has also been involved in all aspects of the athletics programs including recruiting, coordinating programs, budgeting, staffing and maintenance. And, with his successful BATRS program, he and his staff provide preparation for young players to succeed at the high school level and beyond! With the "Swing Hard" podcast, it doesn't matter if you play baseball or not - just step up to the plate and get some life inspiration every week with Coach Denny!

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Swing Hard

SWING HARD EPISODE #249 - ADAM SARANCIK

April 09, 2026 • Coach Denny Barrett • Season 2 • Episode 249

0:00 | 44:00

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Author Adam Sarancik joined Denny to discuss the role of parents in youth baseball and how they should communicate with coaches and players about game strategy and performance. Adam emphasized that parents should avoid second-guessing coaching decisions and instead use open-ended questions to engage their children in post-game conversations. Denny shared his experience with a player who was moved from the 3-hole to the 6-hole in the batting order, explaining that such decisions are based on mechanics, mental approach, and situational needs rather than personal performance. The discussion included detailed analysis of hitting mechanics, the importance of first-pitch strikes, and the need for situational hitting practice. The conversation also touched on the challenges of managing young players' mental state during a tough losing streak and the importance of maintaining trust in coaching decisions.

Don't forget to read Adam's book "A Ground Ball to Shortstop - How and Why Coaches See Their Game Differently Than Anyone Else." It is a quick read and that perfectly aligns with today's podcast.

"Swing Hard in case you hit it!" Denny Barrett