Episode 157: Infield Play with Former MLB Player Kevin Smith

In this episode, we sit down with former MLB infielder Kevin Smith for an in-depth conversation on elite infield defense, footwork, positioning, and baseball development. Since retiring from professional baseball, Kevin has launched Kali Gloves and built a strong presence on social media, where he teaches modern infield play and shares insights to help the next generation of players improve their defensive game.   This episode dives deep into the value of defense in baseball and why infield play can be the key to getting — and staying — on the field. Kevin breaks down actionable infield drills and defensive training strategies that players at all levels can apply immediately.   We cover:   The importance of quality catch play and how proper throwing routines translate directly to game performance   How to train “game throws” during warmups to improve arm strength, accuracy, and body control   Pre-pitch positioning and first-step quickness to increase range   How to move efficiently off the baseball to field more balls cleanly   Why the traditional advice to “get in front of the ball” can be misleading — and how reading hops from the side can lead to better reactions and truer reads   Whether you're a youth infielder, high school baseball player, college athlete, or coach, this episode is packed with practical defensive tips, infield mechanics, and baseball IQ insights that will help elevate your glove work and overall game. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com  Chapters (00:00:02) - Kevin Smith(00:04:35) - Do Defensive Skills Matter in the College Baseball Process?(00:11:08) - Baseball Recruitment: Can You Tell A Kid From His(00:18:07) - All the Defensive Focus(00:19:33) - Do Defensive Players Need Pre-Pitch?(00:27:15) - Diamond College Showcase(00:33:47) - Throwing Routine for Minors(00:40:57) - Defense Lessons Learned Through Long Toss(00:47:51) - Throw Harder For Catchers(00:55:20) - Catchers on Their Aim Points(01:02:54) - Defense Lessons for Kids(01:08:02) - Get in Front of the Ball(01:15:28) - Don't Get Behind The Ball(01:20:28) - Outfielders on Defensive Runs(01:25:53) - Kevro on His Catches(01:29:18) - How To Catch A Baseball Ball!