The Dugout

Dive into the world of baseball with the Plate Crate blog, where you can swing for the fences with the latest news, all while getting the inside scoop on player profiles, training tips, and more!

A boy wearing a baseball uniform and a red arm sleeve holds a brown baseball glove.
How Baseball Compression Sleeves Can Change Your Game

At a Glance: Baseball compression sleeves provide crucial muscle support and temperature regulation that can enhance a player's performance on the field. They offer both practic...

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Close-up of a baseball bat hitting an incoming baseball.
Youth Baseball Hitting Drills: Helping Players Build their Batting Abilities

At a Glance: Effective youth baseball hitting drills combine fundamental skill development with engaging practice methods. The key is starting with proper stance and grip mechan...

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A young boy wearing a red baseball jersey with a white number "13" printed on the back, black-and-white pinstripe pants, and a blue baseball cap stands on a baseball field and holds a baseball gloves. A second baseball player is visible in the background.
Putting Together Youth Baseball Practice Plans for Season-Long Success

The Short Answer: Effective youth baseball practice plans combine fundamental skills training, game-like scenarios, and fun activities in a structured 90-120 minute format. Put ...

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Close-up of a young pitcher's hand holding a baseball on a baseball field. A hitter and a catcher are visible in the background.
How to Improve Arm Strength for Youth Baseball

The Short Answer: Building arm strength in young baseball players requires a combination of proper throwing mechanics, targeted exercises, and consistent practice routines. Util...

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Essential Catcher Drills for Youth Baseball Training
Essential Catcher Drills for Youth Baseball Training

The Short Answer: Youth baseball catchers need specific drills focusing on stance, blocking, receiving, and throwing mechanics to develop their skills. The best catcher drills c...

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Youth Baseball Pitching Drills for Control and Mechanics
Youth Baseball Pitching Drills for Control and Mechanics

The Short Answer: Youth baseball pitching drills focus on developing proper mechanics, arm strength, and control through structured exercises and progressive training. The most ...

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Baseball Drills for 8-9 Year Olds: Building On Strong Fundamentals
Baseball Drills for 8-9 Year Olds: Building On Strong Fundamentals

The Short Answer: Using fun, goal-oriented drills keeps young players engaged while building strong fundamental skills with more control, confidence, and focus. The right approa...

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Starting Off Strong: Baseball Drills for 6-7 Year Olds
Starting Off Strong: Baseball Drills for 6-7 Year Olds

The Short Answer: Teaching baseball fundamentals to 6-7 year olds is about more than skill—it's about building confidence and a love for the game. By introducing simple, fun dri...

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stretches for baseball players
Best Stretching Exercises For Baseball Players

Baseball players need to stay limber and flexible to perform at their best. Without proper stretching, they may be more prone to injury and won't be able to move as freely on th...

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bandit sports, baseball training aids
Bandit Sports Training Aids: How PlateCrate Can Help Athletes Reach Their Potential

Athletes are always looking for ways to improve their performance and reach their peak potential. The right training aids can help them get there. PlateCrate.com offers a wide r...

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Massage roller, baseball drills, muscle soreness
The Importance of Massage Rollers

A massage roller is a great tool for athletes to use to relieve sore muscles. It can also help to improve circulation and flexibility. Massage rollers are relatively inexpensive...

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How to Pick a Baseball Glove?
How to Pick a Baseball Glove?

Looking for a baseball glove can be a daunting task, with so many different styles and materials to choose from. Whether you are buying for yourself or for a child, there a...

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