Episode 199: East Cobb Baseball Rewards Passion—Love the Game and It Gives Back w/ Kevin Baldwin

Episode 199 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  

This week we are joined by the Vice President of East Cobb Baseball, Kevin Baldwin!

Episode in a Glance:

In this episode of The Hitstreak, I get to sit down with Kevin Baldwin, the head coach of the East Cobb Astro 17U national team, discussing the legacy of East Cobb Baseball, its evolution over 40 years, and the impact of Guerry Baldwin, Kevin’s Dad. We explore the importance of competition, the right fit for youth players, and the lessons learned from alumni. The episode also touches on the family dynamics within sports and the future of East Cobb Academy, emphasizing the significance of fostering a love for the game while ensuring players are in the right environment to succeed. We go into the importance of calculated risk-taking in youth sports, the commitment required from players and parents, and the unique challenges of coaching in a competitive environment. Kevin also emphasizes the need for purpose in expanding youth sports programs and the significance of teaching kids to love the game.

Key Points:

- East Cobb Baseball has been leading the charge for 40 years.

- It's important to instill a mindset of competition and hard work in youth sports.

- Baseball is a game, and games are supposed to be fun.

- You can't push your kids into something they're not comfortable with.

- Purpose-driven expansion is crucial for youth sports organizations.

- Coaching requires understanding each player's unique needs.

- Parents should do their homework on coaches and teams.

- Kids need to be in environments where they want to play.

- Commitment and availability are key for competitive players.

- Understanding the nuances of baseball is vital for success.

- NIL is changing the landscape of youth sports.

About our guest: 

Kevin Baldwin grew up immersed in baseball—you could say he was raised in the dugout. A former high school All-American and graduate of Western Carolina and Kennesaw State, Kevin dedicated his life to helping young athletes grow and succeed in the game. He coached the ECB 17u Braves for 9 years, leading teams to multiple national titles, including the Perfect Game BCS and WWBA Championships. Along the way, he coached future MLB stars like Buster Posey, Javier Báez, and Jason Heyward. 

When his kids were born, Kevin began co-coaching the 16u Astros with his father, Guerry, to bring the family along for the ride. Eventually, he returned to lead the ECB 17u Astros, where he continues to build a winning culture—earning national titles and mentoring future pros like Zack Wheeler, Will Smith, and Taylor Trammell. 

Kevin’s coaching philosophy is rooted in creating a high-level learning environment, elite competition, and a deep love for the game.

Follow and contact:

Instagram: @eastcobbbaseball_official

eastcobbbaseball.com

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