Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know I'm a Braves fan…but the 2024 Phillies represent that.
Philadelphia Phillies outfield coach Paco Figueroa helps his players improve their defense, movement and communication. And how does he do this?
By playing pickleball.
In all seriousness, the Phillies utilize elements of pickleball, foursquare, and squash to dramatically improve their skills. (Related article: Chris Sale was filthy in Atlanta Braves' spring debut, but will it last given his injury history?)
They call it Pacoball, and the players use pickleball paddles, but instead of using a wiffleball, they use a racquetball. Also, this version of pickleball does not use a net, only a 30×30 lawn. And another element of his that mimics a baseball glove is that the player holds the paddle in his non-dominant hand. I think this is really great.
“It helps with a lot of things,” Figueroa said sports illustrated. “Movement in different directions, agility, dropping to get the ball, going in to hit the ball. It's an image of three outfielders. [across from another set of three outfielders] We change our positions while communicating a lot, saying, “I understand, I understand.'' ”
Morning pickleball with friends pic.twitter.com/Krwcpn4LSO
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) February 23, 2024
I love pickleball. I play pickleball for all purposes: for exercise and for fun. So the Phillies definitely get some love from me in this regard. So much so that I'm willing to bet on them as World Series champions.
Pickleball is just too awesome, and maybe my love for Phillies pickleball will make me rich this October.
