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How To Hit a Baseball - Batting Video
Technique is very important when batting. As an
assistant coach, I have watched older Little League players repeatedly
strike out due to poor technique. On the other hand, very small
players can hit very well with good technique. Good technique, along
with practice (and more practice), will help the player become a good
hitter.
Start with a good stance.
The front foot should be lined up with the front of
the plate and the batter should take a wide square stance with weight
slightly on the back foot. The feet should be a little wider than
shoulder width apart.
The bat should be held at about a 45 degree angle up
from horizontal pointing straight back.
The knees should be slightly bent toward each other
and flexed. Maintain a good balanced stance.
Keep the elbows down. The back elbow should be
at a normal 45 degree angle.
The front shoulder should be pointed at the pitcher.
The top hand should be level with the shoulders.
Both eyes should be on the pitcher, ready to follow
the ball from the pitcher into the plate.
As the ball is being pitched - The Stride
When the pitcher winds up, the batter will want to
shift weight to the back foot. As the batter is ready to hit the ball
take a small step forward with the front foot - this is known as the
"stride". The stride is usually 3-6" but can be more if it works
for you. Also tuck the front shoulder, knee, and hip in
slightly. This step (the stride) will help the batter to use their
entire body to add power to the swing - think of a batter as a coiled
up spring. Don't overstep to the point that your eyes leave the ball -
Watch the ball all the way in!
Click on photo to enlarge
Swinging and Hitting the Ball
When you are sure you want to swing at the pitch, you
will start the swing the moment the front foot heel touches back onto
the ground from the stride. You should be starting your swing
from the hips down in order to get the entire body into the swing - it
is very important to lead with your hips! Keep eyes on the ball
and follow it in as you swing - this means your head can not move with
your body but has to stay in place so you can follow the ball in with
your eyes! The hips and both knees should be facing the pitcher
as the bat connects with the ball and your weight will be transferred
to your front foot. The front hand should be facing down and the rear
hand should face up as you hit the ball. Follow through with the swing
completely! You don't have to be big to hit big!
Click on photo to enlarge
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Click on photo to enlarge
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Click on photo to enlarge
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In Summary:
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Have a good square stance with knees slightly bent
and rear elbow down.
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Watch the ball at all times from the pitcher's hand
until after it leaves the bat.
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Take a stride and use your lower body to maximize
the power, leading with your hips.
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Your head should not move with your body and should
be facing the pitcher as the bat hits the ball.
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Follow through completely.
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Timing is critical! Otherwise you will swing too
early or too late. Timing comes with practice and more
practice!
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