Recruiting tapes:

This is very basic and Easy.

Make a recruiting tape of yourself showcasing your tools.  In your recruiting tape you want to have footage of your swing from the back, the open side, and the front.  You want to include yourself fielding (position specific), throwing and running if possible.  At this point in the game you do not have to be outside, you can make this tape at a facility or a gym.  If you do not have film of yourself running but you want to include your sixty time simply tell the coach on the tape.  Do not and I repeat do not lie or stretch the truth.  Doing this is the fastest way to get a coach upset and you off their radar.  Be honest, after all you have already narrowed down the schools that value your tools.  For catchers make sure the video is from behind you so the coach can see the throw in its entirety.  You want them to know your ball does not tail and you also want them to see how much of an arch your throw has (hopefully none).  This will also allow the coach to put a stopwatch on your throws from their office.  For pitchers make sure you set the camera up behind the catcher, behind the mound, and on your open side.  You want the coach to see the movement of your pitches and your mechanics.  If possible when the camera is behind the catcher get your velocity on tape by using a radar gun.  If you do not have this available, then you should be very honest as to your actual velocity or simply leave it out altogether, if the coach likes what they see, they will find out the rest.  Infielders should show themselves fielding the routine ground ball, the ball to the left, to the right, and slow rollers.  If you are a middle infielder you can show a few double plays as well.  The coach will be looking for footwork and your skills around the bag.  Do not show off in these tapes, do not bare hand a slow roller and make sure you use the inside of your glove to catch the ball when you are turning a double play.  For the outfield you need to have some room.  You may have to go to a field for this because you are mainly going to show off your arm strength and your ability to get to the ball properly.  When throwing from the outfield for a recruiting tape, do it from right field no matter what position you play.  Show yourself throwing to third and home.  Also, film from behind the base you are throwing too.  If you have no way of getting outside (seasonal) then make sure you have enough room to let a few throws go and try to find a radar gun to prove your arm strength, if a coach likes what they see they will watch you play to figure out the rest.  A key to the tape is keeping it short and simple, remember coaches are busy and don’t have time to watch ten minute tapes.  Get them the basics.  5 good swings from each angle, 5-8 fielding frames, 5 throwing frames, and 1 running frame.  Pitchers you will need to show off your full array of pitches.  Film yourself starting with 3-5 fastballs (4 seam), 3-5 two seam fastballs, 5 change ups, and 5 curve balls. If you would like, you can end with 3 more fastballs.  This is plenty for a coach to know what you have to offer.  Remember the tape is not the final judge, it’s just part of your marketing plan.  If the coach likes what they see then they will come to a game.  Also, make sure you let the coach know it is coming.  You will want to email him and ask if he minds if you send in a tape, or email him and let him know it is on its way.  Some tapes will get tossed if the coach has had zero communication with a player previous to getting a tape in the mail.  I have had this happen personally.  Also, a lot of coaches will invite you to a camp after seeing your tape.  If you can make it to the camp you should, remember getting in front of the staff is what you want to do and anytime you can do it you should.