Cage Rat: Lessons from a Life in Baseball by the Yankees Hitting Coach

Description

From Yankees hitting coach Kevin Long-the man who coaches all-stars like Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, and Robinson Cano-comes the inspiring story of one man's road to the big leagues, full of practical advice, behind-the-scenes baseball action, and an enduring, inspiring love for America's national pastime. In Cage Rat, Long-with help from his spirited wife, Marcey-takes readers on an unforgettable journey from his early days in the minor leagues, to his major-league dreams of playing with the Kansas City Royals, to his dramatic decision to turn to coaching, to the fateful call from the Yankees. Along with its compelling narrative, Cage Rat is also an indispensable guide to hitting. From bat angle to grip, from plate coverage to athletic stance and hitting drills, Long takes us into the Yankees' batting cage, showing us how major-league players hone their hitting skills. Chock-full of inspirational stories, practical advice, behind-the-scenes action, and instructional photographs, Cage Rat is a must-read for young athletes, aspiring players, Yankees fans, and anyone who loves baseball.

Kevin Long was named the hitting coach of the New York Yankees in 2007. Before that, he served as the hitting coach of the Triple-A Omaha Royals and the Double-A Wichita Wranglers. He made his professional coaching debut at Single-A Wilmington in 1997 after eight seasons as a player in the minors. Long played college ball at the University of Arizona, where he earned second-team All-America honors in 1989. He resides in Scottsdale, Arizona, with his wife, Marcey, and their three children, Britney, Tracy, and Jaron.