NJ Healthy Heat

Matthew de la Rosa
  • 5.0 (1)
  • BASEBALL

The NJ Healthy Heat Podcast brings you conversations with college coaches from all levels of baseball, diving into training, recruiting, and everything in between. Whether you're a player, parent, or coach, you'll get insider insight to help you succeed on and off the field.

Episodes

  1. DEC 14

    Inside the mind & life of Legendary Infield Instructor | Lou Colon

    Send us a text In this engaging conversation, Lou Colon shares his extensive journey in baseball, from being a professional player to becoming a renowned coach and infield expert. The discussion covers various aspects of player evaluation, coaching techniques, and the impact of social media on training. Lou emphasizes the importance of building a strong culture in youth baseball and navigating the overwhelming amount of information available to players today. He also shares insights on running successful clinics and the realities of traveling for coaching. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolution of fielding in baseball, the impact of technology and distractions on youth players, the role of parents in player development, and the intricacies of college recruitment. They also explore how young infielders can stand out and the importance of adjustability in fielding techniques. The discussion wraps up with insights into future training methods and the creation of a comprehensive infield training package. Takeaways: Lou Colon emphasizes the importance of sponsorships in sports.Mark Pro is a key tool for arm health and recovery.Customizable gloves can enhance a player's experience.Building relationships in baseball is crucial for collaboration.Scouting involves a detailed process of player evaluation.Every player is unique and requires tailored coaching.The transition from pro ball to coaching can be fulfilling.Creating a winning culture starts with fundamentals.Experience in coaching leads to better player development.Social media can be both beneficial and overwhelming for players. Players today are more athletic, but training is more structured.Kids used to learn organically through play, unlike today's structured practices.Distractions from technology hinder youth participation in sports.Parents play a crucial role in limiting screen time and encouraging outdoor play.Recruitment requires academic success and proactive outreach from players.Exposure is different from being exposed; players must actively seek opportunities.Fluidity and confidence are essential for infielders to stand out.Adjustability in fielding techniques is critical for elite performance.Consistent practice, like wall ball, can significantly improve skills.The future of training will focus on comprehensive development for infielders.Follow us or contact us! Instagram: @njhealthyheat TikTok: @NJHealthyHeat Youtube: @NJHealthyHeat Email: njhealthyheat@gmail.com

    1h 8m

  2. DEC 19

    Head Pitching Coach @ BYU | Adrian Dinkel | The Art of Coaching: Insights from BYU's Pitching Coach

    Send us a text In this episode of NJ Healthy Heat, host Matthew de la Rosa sits down with Adrian Dinkel, the pitching coach at BYU, who shares insights from his extensive coaching career. Dinkel discusses his transition from head coach to pitching coach, the importance of high standards in coaching, and the dual perspectives he brings from his playing days. He emphasizes the significance of mental training, building effective routines, and the need for constant communication with players. Dinkel also addresses the challenges of command training and the evolving methods in coaching, highlighting the importance of being a lifelong learner in the field. In this conversation, Adrian Dinkel and Matthew de la Rosa delve into various aspects of baseball, focusing on command, training philosophies, recruitment strategies, and the differences between professional and college baseball development. Dinkel emphasizes the importance of understanding command, developing velocity, and creating high-intent practice plans. He also shares insights on what he looks for in recruits at BYU and discusses the impact of the transfer portal on player development. The conversation concludes with advice for aspiring players to be unique and competitive in their approach to the game. Follow us or contact us! Instagram: @njhealthyheat TikTok: @NJHealthyHeat Youtube: @NJHealthyHeat Email: njhealthyheat@gmail.com

    1 hr

  3. DEC 1

    Red Sox 2018 World Series Hitting Coach | Andy Barkett @ Holistic Hitting

    Send us a text In this episode, Matthew de la Rosa interviews Andy Barkett (Holistic_Hitting), a 2018 World Series champion, MLB Hitting Coach and personal hitting coach. They discuss Andy's unique journey in baseball, the importance of the mental game, and the challenges faced by modern athletes. Andy shares insights on developing a championship mindset, navigating the complexities of hitting instruction, and the role of technology in training. He emphasizes the need for effective routines and techniques to help players succeed, drawing from his experiences with the 2018 Red Sox team. In this conversation, Andy discusses the importance of having a strategic approach to hitting in baseball, emphasizing the need for players to understand movement patterns and mental strategies. He shares insights on training young athletes, the significance of baseball acumen, and the differences between guessing pitches and having a well-defined approach. The discussion also covers the two-strike approach, the efficiency of movements in swings, and the future of his training program, Holistic Hitting. Follow Andy: Instagram & YouTube: Holistic_Hitting PowerPivot USA Discount Code: Power15 Follow us or contact us! Instagram: @njhealthyheat TikTok: @NJHealthyHeat Youtube: @NJHealthyHeat Email: njhealthyheat@gmail.com

    1h 6m

  4. NOV 24

    Hitting Coach @ Richmond University | Collin Radack

    Send us a text In this episode, Matthew de la Rosa interviews Collin Radack, a hitting coach and assistant coach at Richmond University. They discuss Collin's journey from high school baseball in Texas to playing professionally with the St. Louis Cardinals, and now coaching at the collegiate level. The conversation covers various topics including recruitment strategies, coaching philosophies, the impact of NIL on college baseball, and advice for aspiring players and their parents. Collin emphasizes the importance of individual player development and the unique experiences offered at Richmond University. Takeaways Collin shares his journey from high school to professional baseball.The importance of physical development in high school baseball.Every player has a unique skill set that needs to be nurtured.Richmond University focuses on individualized player development.Recruitment is about finding good baseball players, not just specific skill sets.The portal has changed the landscape of college baseball recruitment.NIL opportunities are available but vary by player and school.Richmond offers a strong academic and athletic experience.Players should focus on their own development rather than comparisons.Communication with coaches and camps is crucial for recruitment.Contact Collin: Email: cradack@richmond.edu Twitter: @CollinRadack Chapters 00:00 From High School Dreams to College Baseball 08:33 The Journey Through Professional Baseball 16:43 Coaching Philosophy and Player Development 24:38 Recruiting Strategies in Modern Baseball 27:32 Navigating the Transition from Junior College to D1 29:29 Understanding NIL and Its Impact on College Baseball 31:26 The Unique Experience at the University of Richmond 33:22 Recruiting Strategies and Geographic Reach 35:38 Maximizing Exposure at Camps and Showcases 37:31 Post-Event Strategies for Players 39:38 The Role of Social Media in Recruiting 45:27 Final Thoughts on Player Development and Recruitment Follow us or contact us! Instagram: @njhealthyheat TikTok: @NJHealthyHeat Youtube: @NJHealthyHeat Email: njhealthyheat@gmail.com

    52 min

  5. OCT 5

    Head Coach @ Lenoir-Rhyne University | Building a Winning Culture at Lenoir-Rhyne | Adam Skonieczki (2024 D2 Coach of the Year)

    Send us a text In this episode, Coach Adam Skonieczki discusses his journey to becoming the head coach at Lenoir-Rhyne University, the importance of building a strong culture within the team, and the strategies he employs to develop players both on and off the field.  He emphasizes the significance of creating a thriving environment for players, the challenges of recruiting in a competitive landscape, and the balance between coaching and family life. The conversation also highlights the recent success of the Lenoir-Rhyne baseball program, including record-breaking achievements, and the approach to developing complete hitters for the team's success.  In this conversation, Adam Skonieczki discusses the multifaceted nature of athletes, emphasizing the importance of versatility in baseball. He shares insights on coaching strategies, particularly focusing on the concept of 'swinging with a purpose' and the significance of ground balls in practice. Skonieczki highlights the exceptional talent and coachability of McKenzie Wainwright (2025 D2 National Player of the Year), a standout player in his program. The discussion also covers recruiting strategies, balancing high school and transfer players, and the role of summer baseball in player development. Finally, he outlines what he looks for in high school recruits, emphasizing athleticism and a strong work ethic. Follow Coach Adam Skonieczki Twitter/x: @CoachSkoneck Instagram: @askonieczki Email: adam.skonieczki@lr.edu Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Coach Skonieczki and Lenore Ryan 02:54 Coach's Journey and Building a Winning Culture 08:30 Creating a Thriving Environment for Players 12:14 Recruiting Players Who Fit the Culture 17:54 Balancing Life as a Coach and Family Man 27:21 Achieving Record Success at Lenore Ryan 36:19 Developing Complete Hitters for Success 37:57 The Versatile Athlete 39:51 Swinging with Purpose 44:40 Coaching Excellence: The Case of McKenzie Wainwright 48:46 Recruiting Strategies: Balancing High School and Transfers 52:09 The Importance of Summer Baseball 57:46 What Coaches Look for in High School Players Follow us or contact us! Instagram: @njhealthyheat TikTok: @NJHealthyHeat Youtube: @NJHealthyHeat Email: njhealthyheat@gmail.com

    1h 5m

  6. SEP 28

    Assistant Coach @ Yale University | Inside Yale Baseball: Recruiting and Academics | Trevor Wren

    Send us a text In this episode, Matthew de la Rosa interviews Trevor Wren, an assistant coach at Yale University, discussing the intricacies of recruiting for Ivy League baseball. They explore the academic requirements for admission, the importance of well-rounded candidates, and the strategies used to identify and recruit talented players. Trevor emphasizes the caliber of players at Yale, the unique selling points of the program, and the historical significance of Yale's baseball field. The discussion also covers the national recruiting strategy and the process of evaluating player fit within the program. In this conversation, Trevor Wren, a coach at Yale Baseball, discusses the intricacies of recruitment, player development, and the transition from high school to Division I baseball. He emphasizes the importance of leadership within the program and how the culture at Yale is evolving to meet high standards. Wren also provides insights into the recruitment process for aspiring players and offers advice for catchers looking to improve their skills. The conversation concludes with a rapid-fire round of questions that reveal Wren's personal preferences and experiences in baseball. Follow us or contact us! Instagram: @njhealthyheat TikTok: @NJHealthyHeat Youtube: @NJHealthyHeat Email: njhealthyheat@gmail.com

    1 hr

  7. SEP 22

    Baseball Mental Training: Overcoming Anxiety & Building Mental Toughness | Matt Rieger... Mental Performance Coach

    Send us a text In this week’s episode of NJ Healthy Heat, I'm joined by Mental Performance Coach Matt Rieger to tackle one of the most overlooked areas of development—the mental game. We dive into the real challenges athletes face when performance dips, including anxiety, confidence struggles, and emotional setbacks. Through real examples and coaching strategies, you’ll learn how athletes can: Manage anxiety and pressure in high-stakes momentsBuild resilience and toughness that lasts beyond the fieldMake progress visible in ways that fuels motivationWhether you’re a player, parent, or coach, this conversation gives you practical tools to strengthen the mental side of performance and take your game to the next level. Follow us or contact us! Instagram: @njhealthyheat TikTok: @NJHealthyHeat Youtube: @NJHealthyHeat Email: njhealthyheat@gmail.com

    56 min

  8. SEP 15

    Head Coach @ Cleveland Community College | JUCO Baseball EXPLAINED | John Grigg

    Send us a text 🎙 In this episode, I sit down with Cleveland Community College Head Baseball Coach John Grigg to dive deep into JUCO baseball, his coaching style, and what players and parents need to know about the recruiting process. We cover: ✅ The culture Coach Grigg is building at Cleveland CC ✅ Why JUCO baseball is such a powerful option for players ✅ What he looks for when recruiting athletes (on and off the field) ✅ The most common recruiting mistakes players make ✅ How to get noticed by college coaches — even if you feel overlooked ✅ The future of Cleveland CC baseball If you’re a high school player or parent trying to navigate recruiting, this conversation will give you a clear roadmap and the inside scoop from a college coach who recruits players every year. 👀 Listen until the end for Coach Grigg's best advice for players who want to take their game and their opportunities to the next level. FOLLOW COACH GRIGG:  Twitter/x = @5_jrg email: johnrgrigg5@gmail.com 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with coaches, players, and experts to help you get better and get recruited. Follow us or contact us! Instagram: @njhealthyheat TikTok: @NJHealthyHeat Youtube: @NJHealthyHeat Email: njhealthyheat@gmail.com

    55 min

  9. SEP 10

    Pitching Coach @ Southern Illinois University | Inside College Baseball Recruiting: Strategies Every Player Needs | Connor Dailey

    Send us a text In this epidsode, Matthew and Connor delved into strategies for collegiate baseball recruiting, emphasizing the importance of personalized communication with coaches, the impact of strong academics, and the creation of effective highlight videos. They discussed how players should prioritize honesty, transparency, and confidence in their emails to coaches, while also highlighting the value of early communication to build relationships and improve visibility. Connor stressed that athletes should utilize both social media and personal email as recruitment tools, suggesting that recruits pin highlight reels on platforms like Twitter for easy coach access. They also covered strategies for balancing high school and junior college recruits, the impact of metrics on player evaluations, and the advantages of considering JUCO routes. Ultimately, Matthew and Connor encouraged players to focus on finding a program that aligns with their goals, where they can grow athletically and academically. Follow us or contact us! Instagram: @njhealthyheat TikTok: @NJHealthyHeat Youtube: @NJHealthyHeat Email: njhealthyheat@gmail.com

    1h 10m

  10. SEP 10

    Head Coach @ Thomas University | 125 Drafted Players, 17 MLB Stars – Coach Tom Fleenor’s Blueprint for Success

    Send us a text In this episode, I sit down with my former college coach, Tom Fleenor, who has 32 years of college coaching experience, 125+ drafted players, and 17+ MLB players under his belt. Coach Fleenor shares incredible insights on: What college coaches REALLY look for during recruitingHow high school players can stand outHow parents can best support their player’s baseball journeyLessons from coaching future Major LeaguersHow to build leadership and a winning mindset as a young athleteWhether you're a high school player chasing your college baseball dreams or a parent looking for guidance, this conversation is packed with valuable advice you won’t hear anywhere else. 👉 Make sure to subscribe for more tips to help you level up your baseball journey! Tom Fleenor Social Media: Twitter/x: Fleedog28 Instagram: Tom.Fleenor Follow us or contact us! Instagram: @njhealthyheat TikTok: @NJHealthyHeat Youtube: @NJHealthyHeat Email: njhealthyheat@gmail.com

    1h 4m

  11. SEP 10

    Recruiting Coordinator @ Vanderbilt Baseball Coach | Ty Blankmeyer

    Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with the Recruiting Coordinator at Vanderbilt for a deep dive into what he looks for in future college players and how high school athletes can set themselves apart. We cover everything from academics and multi-sport participation to the role of college camps. You’ll also hear personal stories, recruiting strategies, insight into NCAA scholarship changes, and why body language and self-awareness can make or break a player’s chances. Follow us or contact us! Instagram: @njhealthyheat TikTok: @NJHealthyHeat Youtube: @NJHealthyHeat Email: njhealthyheat@gmail.com

    39 min
  • 11 Episodes

About

The NJ Healthy Heat Podcast brings you conversations with college coaches from all levels of baseball, diving into training, recruiting, and everything in between. Whether you're a player, parent, or coach, you'll get insider insight to help you succeed on and off the field.

Information

  • Creator
    Matthew de la Rosa
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 NJ Healthy Heat
  • Show Website
    NJ Healthy Heat