Baseball Factory’s Spring Training at the Yankees Training Complex wrapped up over the weekend – and players, ages 12-to-14 – enjoyed four days of training, instruction, live games and recognition for their hard work in sunny Tampa, Florida.

In total, 52 players traveled to Tampa for the event. The weekend began with running the 60-yard dash on Friday afternoon, participating in a throwing program, and individual defense drills led by Baseball Factory’s Director of Youth Baseball Operations, Ryan Liddle and other
position-specific coaches.

The players spent the majority of the day on Saturday working on their throwing and individual/team defense. Two teams worked on cuts and
relays while the other two teams worked on pop-fly priority.

Teams also rotated between hitting BP on field and the indoor cages as well for more work. Speed and strength coach, Phil Wallin spent 30 minutes with each group on speed & agility training.

On Sunday, players stretched and warmed-up for their specific throwing programs. Afterwards, two teams participated in a live six-inning game, complete with umpires while the other two teams played a simulated L-screen game, giving players live reps while coaches are able two stop the game and break down certain scenarios.

After the players last individual defensive segment, Coach Liddle spoke to the players on Sunday evening about ‘Life Skills’, discussing academics, mental approach and positive reinforcement.

Wrapping up a great weekend, all teams played a live game with umpires on Monday, followed by closing comments from Coach Liddle as players participated in team picture taking.

During the weekend, the players had some fun with the coaching staff.

For Xavier Mitchell, his first event experience was a memorable one, getting to meet future Hall of Fame reliever, Mariano Rivera.

Photo Credit: The Mitchell Family

Here are some standout players from the event:

Luke Moon – 1B/3B – Luke has a strong, athletic build. He can really swing the bat and uses the whole field with pop. He translates into an advanced player.

Isaiah Aguilar – 2B/RHP – Isaiah has a small, athletic build to him. Very quick footwork and showed an advanced defensive approach. What he does well defensively is presents his glove with very smooth actions. As a pitcher, he pounds the zone with strikes through fluid, repeatable
mechanics.

Brody Szako – SS/OF – Brody is very athletic and versatile; he can play anywhere. With the bat, he drives the ball to all parts of the field. On the bases paths, Brody is very aggressive.

Matthew Corlew – SS/RHP – Matthew sports an athletic frame. He has quick hands with plus bat speed, which is key. He used the whole field and just looked smooth at the plate.