South Jersey pitcher spent time with the Phillies, now coaching next generation of hurlers

CHERRY HILL - Former Holy Cross Academy pitching product, Jeff Singer, has transitioned from his time in professional baseball with the Philadelphia Phillies to becoming a coach and instructor.

Former Phillies Pitcher Jeff Singer in the Phillies alternate Red jersey
Former Phillies Pitcher Jeff Singer in the Phillies alternate Red jersey

While sometimes life can throw a curveball your way, Singer said "he has enjoyed every minute working with these kids and helping them reach their goals."

Singer created 1 and 1 pitching, named after what he believes to be "the most important pitch count for a pitcher."

Located in Cherry Hill, Singer has brought his knowledge, experiences as a professional and love of the game to help mold the next generation of pitching prospects.

While Singer hasn't put the dreams of pitching professionally to rest just yet, Singer has been getting his body right and back into game shape.

Complex where Singer holds his training sessions
Complex where Singer holds his training sessions

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From Holy Cross Academy to undrafted pitcher for the Phillies.

The Delran native played his high school career at Holy Cross academy. While Singer wasn't drafted, he was signed by the Phillies.

The Southpaw Singer worked his way up until he was eventually promoted to the Phillies in April of 2022. He spent one day on the active roster, but did not appear in a game.

"It was great to put on that Phillies jersey, even in the Minor Leagues. I got to meet and play with some great guys." Singer said.

Former Phillies Pitcher Jeff Singer in his pitching motion
Former Phillies Pitcher Jeff Singer in his pitching motion

"While last year was my last season in professional baseball, I did stay on with the Kansas City Monarchs as a pitching coach" Singer said on his experience.

Jeff Singer training one of his pitchers
Jeff Singer training one of his pitchers

As Singer transitioned, he started seeing things he wished that he could have known for himself both growing into the game and playing in his professional career.

"Baseball is different today than it was 10 years ago. Analytics have become a big part of how baseball is played," Singer explained.

Using the analytics really affects how a pitchers can protect themselves and how to prolong their careers with how they throw, what they throw and when they throw it.

Jeff Singer training one of his pitchers
Jeff Singer training one of his pitchers

Singer believes, as a pitcher, the 1 and 1 count is the most important count to either make the hitters average go up or for the pitcher to get an out.

Singer wants to help each kid get better and excel in their craft.

"I try to keep my kids as engaged as possible. I teach them how continue to compete and learn how to keep their pitch count down and stay in the game." Singer said. "I just want them to compete and evolve their games. Everything I give them is a guide."

Nick Butler is an impact reporter for the Courier Post, the Daily Journal and the Burlington County Times covering community news in South Jersey. Have any tips or stories? Reach out to NButler@Gannett.com. Subscribe to stay in the loop.

This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: One-time Phillie from South Jersey now coaching young pitchers