Former Rangers' hitting coach, Bret Boone joins the show talk about Corey Seager slumping but Josh Jung thriving
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In this episode of Shan and RJ, former Rangers hitting coach Bret Boone joins the show to discuss the recent struggles of Corey Seager and the breakout performance of Josh Jung. Boone emphasizes that Seager’s current slump is likely mechanical rather than physical, pointing to a higher swing-and-miss rate and poor pitch recognition, particularly on outside pitches. Despite Seager’s elite status and past success, Boone believes his disciplined, regimented routine—focused on slow-breaking balls and consistent mechanics—will eventually lead to a rebound. He also highlights Seager’s unique, self-directed approach to preparation, which is respected by teammates and coaches alike. On the other hand, Boone praises Josh Jung’s transformation, attributing his 340+ batting average over the past month to a critical adjustment: picking up his front foot and staying balanced through the pitch, which has improved his pitch recognition and plate discipline. Boone debunks the myth that elite hitters are 'pull-happy,' stressing that true elite hitters stay through the ball and react to pitch location, not intent. He also shares a lighthearted moment reflecting on Cal Raleigh’s 0-for-36 slump and his own mental strategies for overcoming adversity in baseball. The episode underscores the importance of process over results, especially during slumps. Boone’s insights reveal that consistency in preparation—like Seager’s 15-minute pre-game routine or Jung’s footwork correction—is what separates elite hitters. The Rangers’ competitive position in a weak division adds context to their optimism despite individual struggles. Boone’s candid reflections on mental toughness, team culture, and the nuances of hitting provide valuable perspective for fans and players alike. His emphasis on staying through the ball, recognizing pitches early, and maintaining a positive attitude through adversity offers actionable takeaways for any athlete or coach.
Corey Seager’s slump is likely mechanical, not physical—focus on pitch recognition and front-foot timing, not swing speed.
Elite hitters like Seager thrive on consistency in routine; their process is more important than results in the moment.
Josh Jung’s turnaround came from correcting his front-foot mechanics, allowing better pitch recognition and plate discipline.
Avoid the 'pull-happy' narrative—great hitters react to pitch location, not intent; staying through the ball is key.
Mental resilience is critical: players like Zeke Durant and Cal Raleigh show that adversity is part of the game and can be overcome with faith and routine.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Rangers Edge Arizona in a Nail-Biter
The episode opens with a dramatic walk-off home run by Chuck Peterson, setting the tone for a high-energy discussion on the Rangers' recent win over Arizona and the team's current momentum.
Bret Boone Joins the Show: Hair, Humor, and Hitting
Bret Boone arrives with a mix of humor and insight, discussing his evolving hairstyle, the cultural shift around baldness, and his deep connection to the Rangers' clubhouse culture.
Corey Seager's Slump: Mechanical, Not Mental
“He's not at that point where his legs are gone or you're getting to that age where, oh, everything's downhill from here. I think his is strictly mechanical.”
Josh Jung’s Breakout: The Power of Footwork and Process
“He's picking up his foot and setting it straight down. That allows him to see pitches better than he saw them all last year. That's the key to being a hitter at the big league level.”
Mental Toughness and the Road Out of Slumps
“When you're going through something like that, it seems like it's you against the world. And it's part of the deal. It's part of what we sign up for.”
“He's picking up his foot and setting it straight down. That allows him to see pitches better than he saw them all last year. That's the key to being a hitter at the big league level.”
“When you're going through something like that, it seems like it's you against the world. And it's part of the deal. It's part of what we sign up for.”
“He's not at that point where his legs are gone or you're getting to that age where, oh, everything's downhill from here. I think his is strictly mechanical.”
Hosts
Guest
Bret Boone
person
Corey Seager
person
Rangers
other
Josh Jung
person
Zeke Durant
person
Cal Raleigh
person
Seattle Mariners
other
Arizona
other
Supercuts
brand
Grainger
brand
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