By Chris Moheno
Sometimes when people think about hitting a baseball, they end up over thinking the situation. Then again, there are others that just get up there and swing away, which only hurts them in the end. The truth is there are essential facts about baseball hitting that often get overlooked. Today we wanted to talk about some of the main methods and techniques many of the pros use that you can utilize in your own swing.
We understand that professional baseball players are role models for many younger players out there. Whether you dream of wanting to be a pro someday or are simply looking for ways to improve, all the tips and tricks below will help. Granted, all of them may not be for you, so make sure you take the ones that pertain to your stance and swing. In the end, you will see the ball better, get around quicker, and hopefully, have a higher batting average.
The Right Bat
No matter how many different things you try, if you don't have the right bat it will throw off your baseball hitting tremendously. So before anything else be sure to find one that is the right length and weight for you. If you have long arms, make sure the bat compliments that aspect. If some bats are too heavy then find one that allows you to swing faster. Doing these things alone will give you an extra edge when you are up to the plate.
Waiting for the Right Pitch
One of the best tools you can have in your baseball training is patience. Learning to wait for "your pitch" will not only make the pitcher work harder, but will allow you to be in control instead of the other way around. Don't be afraid to take a pitcher deep in the count. The reason being is it can help you build your tolerance for swinging at bad pitches. Plus, no matter if you are a power hitter or hit for average, this will improve both areas tremendously.
Swinging Through the Ball
Sometimes, the difference between a good hitter and a great hitter is being able to swing through the ball. The easiest way to do this is by making sure your back elbow stays close to the body. In the beginning, this may be hard to get used to, but in the end, you will drive more balls than before. This also gives you an advantage towards getting the bat around quicker in dicey situations against a flamethrower.
The Confidence Factor
Listen, when you walk up to the plate feeling as though you are going to get a hit every time, you will be a better hitter. Even if everyone tells you that you have bad mechanics, the confidence factor can have a positive effect on your hitting. One thing to keep in mind is having the right techniques and confidence combined is much better, but worst-case scenario, you can make it work for you. Standing on deck just praying you aren't going to strikeout is definitely not a hitter's mentality.
Balance is Key
Amongst all the baseball training you go through, balance is always key. The golden rule of keeping your back foot planted is enough to improve your hitting if you aren't already doing it. Also, having a balanced batting stance can give you enough leverage to get around the ball just like everyone else. Think of this as balancing one of those teeter-totters on the elementary playground. If you have the right balance, then you will keep everything level (shoulders, elbows, legs, etc).
Have Fun
The main ingredient to playing baseball is having fun, period. When you walk up to the plate, keep a loose and relaxed persona. If you have ever seen the Derek Jeter Gatorade commercial, you don't want to be thinking about everything going on. Granted, a smart hitter is thinking about the count, what pitch is coming next, and how your opponent is fielding you, but also feel like you are enjoying yourself. The end result is more hits, fewer slumps, and better averages.
What All This Gets You
At the end of the day, you want to be a better baseball hitter. If you take the advice we gave you above and utilize the areas you need to work on, your experience is going to be a good one. Like we said before, there are many different mechanic driven points as well, but these are the essential facts. Once you start utilizing them and the coaches see improvements you are bound to move up in the order. Then again, they may just help you get some more playing time. Either way, it is all better for you.
Chris Moheno has a long time passion for sports in general and for baseball coaching more specifically. His goal is to spread the word about effective non-fluff baseball training techniques for both more experienced and young baseball players, to help them perform better during the game. Discover more about baseball training on baseballtrainingsecrets.com
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Hello Baseball Friend,
I welcome any comments or suggestions. If you have a question or a topic that you would like to read about, please leave a comment and I will try to address that topic as soon as I can. Good luck in the coming season!
Have a great day, Nick