Nutrition is one of the most overlooked aspects of youth baseball development. What your child eats and when they eat it has a direct effect on their energy, focus, and performance.
A meal 2-3 hours before a game should include protein and complex carbohydrates. Avoid high-fat, high-sugar foods before games. These cause energy spikes and crashes that impair performance.
Dehydration impairs athletic performance even at mild levels. Youth athletes should drink water consistently throughout the day on game days, not just immediately before or during the game.
Tournament days are nutritional challenges. Pack a cooler with water, fruit, nuts, and sandwiches. Avoid the concession stand for primary nutrition. It is fine for a treat, but not as the foundation of a tournament day diet.
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Clint McGill
Former Professional Baseball Player · Founder of Baseball Notes
Clint writes about confidence, mental performance, and the habits that separate good players from great ones — all from the perspective of someone who lived it professionally.
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