Play Ball The Major League Way: Fielding; Play Ball The Major League Way: Hitting & Baserunning; Play Ball The Major League Way: Pitching & Catching

Aimed at baseball coaches pretty much across the spectrum (Little League to the minors), the Play Ball the Major League Way series provides excellent instruction in specialized areas (pitching, hitting, fielding, etc.) as taught by a major league coach. Fielding is separated into two sections. "Infielding" is taught by the L.A. Dodgers' Joe Vavra, and covers techniques and drills for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd base positions, as well as shortstop. "Outfielding" is taught by the Oakland Athletics' Casey Parsons and covers the left, right, and center field positions. In Hitting & Baserunning, Parsons demonstrates proper bat grip, stance, and swing, while Vavra outlines the principles of good base running. In the final program, Pitching & Catching, the St. Louis Cardinals' John Martin takes viewers through the six stages of delivering a pitch, and the Atlanta Braves' Ned Yost covers the fundamentals of catching. Excellent video and audio qualities enhance these fine productions, which also utilize slow-motion and onscreen arrows to underscore important points. In an already crowded field, this series still stands out, and the affordable price helps make the set a good choice for extra material to have on hand now that the season is starting. For an additional savings, the three tapes are being sold as a set for $39.95. Highly recommended. (Available from most distributors.)