VeloUnlocked: Decrypting Elite Baseball Performance

What role do your fingers play in velocity and spin? More than most pitchers and coaches realize. In this episode of Applied Baseball Science , Dr. Nicholas Serio of VeloU breaks down a 2024 study that used a sensor-embedded baseball to analyze finger strength, rate of force development (RFD), and anatomical structure in college pitchers — and how each contributes to fastball velocity and spin rat...

Towel drills are widely used as a “low-stress” tool in throwing programs — especially during rehab or mechanical refinement. But new research suggests they may not be as harmless as we think. In this episode of Applied Baseball Science , Dr. Nicholas Serio of VeloU breaks down a 2024 study that measured elbow valgus torque during towel drills and compared it to full-effort throws. What researchers...

One of baseball’s oldest beliefs says pitchers should keep their arms warm between innings. But what if cooling down actually helps? In this episode of VeloUnlocked , we break down a 2016 study where pitchers applied ice to their shoulder and forearm between innings—and ended up throwing harder, feeling better, and holding their velocity deeper into games. We cover what the study showed, possible...

What happens when pitchers stop lifting — but continue throwing? In this episode of Applied Baseball Science , Dr. Nicholas Serio of VeloU breaks down a revealing study that tracked NCAA Division I pitchers through an 8-week fall throwing program with no access to strength training. Despite structured mound work, progressive intensity, and live batters, the athletes experienced a 6.3 mph drop in f...

Why are warm-weather pitchers undergoing Tommy John surgery earlier than their cold-weather peers? In this episode of Applied Baseball Science , Dr. Nicholas Serio of VeloU breaks down a recent NCAA D1 study that reveals a troubling trend: pitchers from warm-weather states experience UCL injuries at significantly younger ages — and that early breakdown may carry long-term consequences. This video...

In this episode, Nick and Tom Jankins, VeloU's Director of Pitching and former AAA pitcher with the Brewers, talk about how pressure affects performance. They break down how athletes can manage stress in high-pressure situations and perform at their best when it matters most. Watch to the full discussion on YouTube : Watch the full episode Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated...

In this episode, we break down why so many pitchers struggle to throw strikes when the pressure is on — and how internal language and mindset are often the root cause. You'll learn about self-fulfilling prophecies, ironic process theory, and how future- or past-focused thinking can sabotage your performance. We also cover actionable strategies to fix it both on the mound and off, including si...

In this episode, we dive into how the landscape of college baseball recruiting is changing — and what that means for pitchers chasing velocity numbers. We discuss why the rush to hit 90 mph in high school may no longer be the only path, how the transfer portal is reshaping recruiting priorities, and why a longer-term development approach could lower injury risk and lead to better career outcomes....

Control issues in throwing often stem from mental barriers like anxiety and overthinking rather than mechanical flaws. Athletes can improve accuracy by focusing on the simple goal of hitting the target, using a constraints-led approach and ecological training to build confidence and consistency. By combining mental clarity with practical drills, throwers can overcome control challenges and perform...

"Elbow flu" is a term used to describe joint inflammation in throwing athletes during or after a viral illness like a cold, caused by the body's inflammatory response. This condition can lead to joint stiffness, pain, and reduced performance, especially if athletes train at high intensities during recovery. To avoid setbacks, proceed with caution.  Thanks for listening to this episo...

🎯 Get 2 weeks of FREE training at VeloU today! Click here to claim your spot: https://tinyurl.com/yc3fh833 In this exclusive VeloU session, we had the privilege of hosting MLB pitcher Tejay Antone of the Cincinnati Reds and owner of Kova Sports in Alvarado, Texas. Tejay shared invaluable insights with our athletes, covering: His unique journey to the big leagues Overcoming injuries and the mental...

In this episode we are joined by Justin Sanchez, a LHP prospect in the Texas Rangers organization. Justin joined VeloU as a high school junior, looking for guidance on mechanical and velocity developments.  With some of the most fluid mechanics we have seen, minor tweks were put in place with a major emphasis on strength development over the next two years.  Since, Justin was drafted in the 18th r...

Welcome to VeloUnlocked, where we delve deep into the world of baseball, exploring the journeys of rising stars and seasoned professionals alike. In this episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Duncan Davitt, a talented right-handed pitcher in the Tampa Bay Rays organization.  Drafted in the 18th round of the 2022 MLB draft, Duncan is currently making waves in the high A league with th...

Without a doubt, the number one is workload management. I mean, it's probably the reason you see injuries throughout the entire year, but it's ever more prevalent right in the beginning of the season. Thanks for listening to this episode! To stay updated with VeloU and our insights on maximizing performance while minimizing the risk of injury, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter...

Get your FREE remote assessment for a limited time ✅ http://tinyurl.com/ycwt8z3n In this episode we are joined by Boston Red Sox pitching prospect, Brendan Cellucci. This episode dives deep into the topics of breath work, off field meditation, mentality, and much more. You can hear more from Brendan on his podcast,   @CultureChurchPodcast   This episode is brought to you by Ardor Energy - The off...

In this episode of VeloUnlocked w/ Dr. Nick Serio, we’re joined by Joe Brown, the distinguished head coach of the Cortland Red Dragons. They discuss how Joe's unique approach to team culture and recruitment fuels Cortland Baseball's historic success, the power of internal growth and mental toughness in baseball, and what it takes to foster real champions. Thanks for listening to this epi...

In this episode of VeloUnlocked w/ Dr. Nick Serio, we’re joined by Tyler Anzmann, a professional baseball player, certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS), and Founder of Tyler Anzmann Performance. Join them as they: Discuss Tyler's journey to mastery in strength and throwing training Share the lessons in self-driven success Tyler learned from the Florida Baseball Ranch Explore t...

In this bonus episode, here's a chance to listen to, our very own, Dr. Nick Serio's appearance on The Baseball Playground podcast. Recently, Nick jumped on the podcast to discuss innovative coaching strategies, how to throw harder and misconceptions people have now, and essential skills and techniques for aspiring baseball players and coaches. Thanks for listening to this episode! To sta...

In this episode of VeloUnlocked w/ Dr. Nick Serio, we’re joined by Brandon Neeck, a left-handed pitcher currently assigned to the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes from the ACL Dodgers. Join them as they: Explore how curiosity and commitment shaped Brandon’s path to excellence Share the importance of curiosity and learning in unlocking athletic potential Discuss how Brandon chose his future over immediate g...

In this episode of VeloUnlocked w/ Dr. Nick Serio, we’re joined by Thomas Jankins, a Performance Coach at Velo University. Join them as they: Discuss the challenges of modern baseball coaches Explore athlete development in the data-driven sports era Share the power of resilience in the face of uncertainty Navigate challenges and growth in professional baseball Examine the transition from a traditi...

In this episode of VeloUnlocked w/ Dr. Nick Serio, we’re joined by the professional baseball coach Rob Blanc. Join them as they: Discuss innovative wellness practices like cryotherapy and infrared sauna and their benefits Delve into Anatomy Trains and fascial meridians Explore accepting biomechanical differences and embracing individual asymmetry Discuss the interconnected roles of physiology, mec...

In this bonus episode, we're sharing, our very own, Dr. Nick Serio's appearance on the Clearing The Bases podcast. Recently, Nick was asked to appear on podcast to discuss his work at VeloU. So listen as Nick discusses his own journey of empowering athletes. From receiving a doctorate in Sport and Performance Psychology in 2014 to finding Velo University in 2020. Nick's mission is t...

In this episode of VeloUnlocked w/ Dr. Nick Serio, we’re joined by the professional baseball pitching trainer Dean Jackson. Join them as they: Share the importance of adopting the billionaire mindset for aspiring big leaguers Unveil the underestimated journey to top-level success in baseball The key to fulfillment in high-performance fields Dean is a former pitcher who became obsessed with pitchin...

In this episode of VeloUnlocked, host Dr. Nick Serio is joined by the professional baseball player Aidan Curry. Aidan is currently a pitcher for Down East Wood Ducks. As the Texas Rangers' No.16 prospect, he was awarded the 2023 Carolina League Pitcher of the Year, Carolina League Postseason All-Star, and Baseball America Low-Class A All-Star.  At only 17 years old, Aidan Curry had a big choi...

In this episode, we move beyond traditional goal-setting, emphasizing the transformative impact of consistent actions in shaping our desired identity. We challenge the notion that goals alone define us and guide listeners through a practical exercise to align their daily behaviors with their envisioned identity. Discover why embodying the identity of the person who achieves a goal is more crucial...