Chris Mackie – Quickball Co-Founder
If you’re a baseball fan, you have probably heard of a ‘Five-Tool player.’
Credited to Hall of Fame manager Leo Durocher, the term was originally used in reference to Durocher’s then-star outfielder Willie Mays. It described a player who can do five things at the highest level: 1) Hit for average; 2) Hit for power; 3) Run with speed and prowess; 4) Catch the ball; and 5) Throw the ball with accuracy and velocity. Mays, one of the all-time greats and also a Hall of Famer, was in his prime when Durocher made those comments some 65 years ago. Since then, many others have been described in the same way — some deserving and some not.
But when it comes to game balls, the patented EL1 Quickball Revolution is truly unique in this way — it absolutely deserves a five-tool designation. Those five tools include: 1) Easy pitch proficiency; 2) Training aid versatility; 3) Game-play realism; 4) All terrain flexibility; and 5) Player safety. Also consider that the Quickball Revolution comes in three sizes and works for all players of all ages and skill levels.
In terms of pitch selection, the Revolution offers a simple but functional design. A red diamond-shaped dot provides an easy reference point for pitch-grip orientation. Depending on the placement of the dot upon release, a variety of big league pitches can be thrown while sparing the thrower of the need to rotate his or her wrist. Four-seam fastballs, sweepers, tailing two-seamers, screwballs and sidearm sinkers can all be thrown with ease. The dot also teaches beginners how to “cut the ball in half” when throwing, and gives experienced hitters a focal point for spin recognition.
Those features dovetail into the second tool: Training aid versatility. Regardless of age, all hitters — male or female — can benefit from training with the Revolution. It challenges all batters with realistic straight and breaking stuff that any BP pitcher can easily master. And for fielding practice, it works perfectly in an assortment of wall ball drills.
Participate in an actual Quickball game and you will discover the meaning of tool three — game-play realism. Whether it’s a tape-measure home run or a long throw from shortstop to first base, the Revolution delivers hitting and fielding dynamics that mirror those of an actual hardball. The only difference is field space — you won’t need as much.
Speaking of field space, there are no limitations on field types when playing with the Revolution. Players can train or compete on grass, artificial turf, hardwood, dirt, asphalt and even sand with a Quickball.
Finally, there’s player safety. Because the Revolution is a pliable ball, athletes of varying skill levels can compete safely in Quickball games. Gloves are optional but not necessary. Fielders can scoop grounders and catch popups barehanded or with a baseball or softball glove.
As a whole, the Revolution is the “complete player” of game balls. It builds a bridge to baseball or softball while also holding its on as a game ball for the third diamond sport — Quickball. Regardless of where you live, what your skill level is or how many friends you have to play with, it’s never been easier to step up to the plate!
