Coming out of spring training camp we had a sit down interview with Eugene Miller. Eugene went 0-3 in 9.2 innings pitched. We talked about what he does in spring training to prepare for the season.
In 1997, you were the first overall draft pick by the Montreal Blazers. While in college at Miami FL, you served as the team's number one starter in your junior and senior year. You pitched a total of 112.2 innings went 11 - 1 with a 1.84 ERA, struck out 156 batters, and started in 17 games.
Did you think your career in the MBWBA is just as impressive?
Yes, I have had a great time living out my dream of pitching in the majors.
What is the biggest change in the league you have seen over your career?
The use of video tape. I remember when I was coming up the scout would report on the tendency of batters liking pitches inside, outside, or low ball hitters. Now we look at a tape to see how the batter hit me last time. I look at videos of batters before the games and from time to time between innings based on who I'm going to be facing.
When you come to spring training camp how to you prepare for the season?
The only thing I now care about in spring training camp is innings and velocity. Any time you come to camp 2 3 4 MPH off you can work though that. Anything more then 5 6 7 MPH you have serious problems with your offseason workouts regiment or even a mechanical problem.
What did you do to get ready for spring training and the regular season?
I work out all year long. However, preparing for the season is a series of steps for me.
Step one is just after the new year starting to light toss the ball, working on my mechanics to start to feel the release points. I work on this part in the gym. No need to look for a mound at this point. I play catch 2 days on and one day off.
Step two is coming to camp and starting to long toss the ball, getting the arm stronger and increasing the intensity to 80 to 85 present. I start to look for control of the ball.
Step three is throwing from the mound. This was a big step because, all the angles change and the forces change to see if everything is fine. Next is the first bullpen session it is just me and a catcher. Then I move to having a batter in the box, like in batting practices and starting to have to pick up my velocity.
Following all of the throwing preparation is the first spring training game. It is always a thrill to throw your first pitch of the new season even in spring training. Now you are competing against other players with different color uniforms, having fans buying tickets, and the intensity level increases. The outcome is not that important as is where is the ball going. Are you hitting your spots? Do you have the control and movement you are looking for?
During spring training the goal is to replicate game conditions that will happen in regular season play so that the mechanics become automatic. Spring training camp for pitchers includes preparing for the mental aspect of the game. By my last start in spring training I am ready for the season, with the intensity, velocity and control all at 100 percent and being able to throw 100-110 pitches. If I don't have it here, I am not physically or mentally ready for the season. I do not want the manger to have me on a pitch count on opening day, I want to be able to throw a complete solid game.
Eugene thanks for your time and we hope you have a great season.
Thanks. I think the Kernels are prepared to have their best season yet.
