Hit2win.com - Free Tips & Drills

Here at Hit2win.com, we are here to help baseball players improve swing quality by learning correct hitting techniques, proper swing mechanics, and eliminating hitting flaws.

We have articles providing you with the very latest in baseball coaching tips, hitting drills, and baseball training methods. Plus, we have a "help desk" where you can email your questiosn for help.

Hit2win.com

The Easy Job of Baseball Dad and Mom

The Easy Job of Baseball Dad and Mom
From http://www.coachandplaybaseball.com/baseball-dad.html

I am really trying to help make the job of baseball dad and baseball mom easy.

I am taking all the stress and worry out of the equation.Your main job is to get the kids to the games and practice on time, practice with them when they are away from the ballfield and sit back and enjoy watching them play baseball.Ask the kids if they had fun and tell them that you really enjoyed watching them play.

It is going to be really hard to not coach from the bleachers and give them encouraging cheers.Believe me, really harming your ball players by coaching and encouraging from the stands because this adds way too much added pressure and mind clutter that slows their reactions.

Now, you can certainly clap when something nice happens, but you have to trust me to let go so I will be able to coach them for the couple hours you leave them with me. - See more at: http://www.coachandplaybaseball.com/baseball-dad.html#sthash.RQH1DPDL.dpuf

T-Ball / Coach Pitch - How to Choose a Glove (Ages 4-6)

By Larry Callicoat

You've signed your Little League player up for T-ball/coach pitch and now he needs a glove. Starting a new sport can be a drain on the wallet, especially if you're not sure if your son will enjoy playing baseball. You do not need to spend a lot of money on a glove in order to get a good quality one that can be used throughout the T-ball and coach pitch seasons. You just need to know how to pick out a good glove.

1. Size does matter. Contrary to popular belief, bigger is not always better for the beginner player. Beginning players need a smaller glove so that they can hone the skill of catching and fielding a baseball. Look for a youth glove that is 9 1/2" to 10 3/4". At this age, players do not need an 11" glove or a specialized glove (one made for 1st baseman, infielder, outfielder, etc.). They need an all purpose glove for T-ball and or coach pitch. Don't worry about playing certain positions at this point, T-ball is geared towards teaching fundamentals and making baseball FUN so that they want to come back next season.

2. Construction and Material. Most youth gloves are constructed with a leather palm and synthetic material for the outer shell. This allows for a lighter glove and one that easier to close. Look for a glove that is mostly leather and leather laces. If taken care of properly, a mostly leather glove can be used season to season. You will also need to look for a glove that has a good rounded pocket and one that features "easy close" or "power close" technology. Because beginning players are still developing muscles, gloves with closing technology make it easier to squeeze the glove closed when a ball is caught.

Once you get your player's glove, have him try it on and practice catching balls with it before the season starts. Not only will this practice help him, it will also help break in the glove. Since most youth gloves are a combination of leather and synthetic material, it is not advisable to use a glove conditioner. The best way to loosen up youth glove is to USE IT!

Once your player completes T-ball/coach pitch and moves into the upper leagues, it may be time to get a new glove. Again, there are key elements to look for when choosing a glove for the intermediate player.

Coach Larry is a youth baseball coach, having coached t-ball through high school. Visit http://www.superstarbaseball.blogspot.com for more on hitting, pitching, coaching and baseball tips, techniques and inspiration.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Larry_Callicoat

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6294345

Little League Baseball Drills - Batting Practice

Little League Baseball Drills - Batting Practice
By guest author: Chris Campbell

I have heard it said by many an accomplished athlete, that one of the hardest things you can do in professional sports, is to hit a major league fastball. Or any major league pitch for that matter. Just ask Micheal Jordan. He may be a living legend in the world of professional basketball, but he only managed a 202 batting average for the Birmingham Barons (a farm team for the Chicago White Sox). The moral being, it's best to get your little leaguer started early, if they plan on challenging some of the MLB hitting records.

With that in mind, lets consider a few hitting drills that the kids can use to get their bats swinging true, and making contact as soon as possible. One of the best drills you can do with your kids, is simply to grab a bucket of balls, and pitch a few to them every day you can find the time to do so. It's practically impossible, for most kids to get enough batting practice with the team. There's a limited number of pitchers, catchers, and backstops for most little league coaches to work with. It's almost impossible for them to get more then a few minutes hitting each practice. A one on one practice with mom or dad every day or so will really help out.

Now just swinging for the sake of swinging will make you a better hitter, but there are a few simple points you should keep in mind, to maximize the time put in. Don't harp on these items too much, as they can be a bit technical and boring for kids. Try to make it fun for them at the same time.

Choosing The Right Bat

Picking a bat that's appropriate for your child's height and strength can make all the difference. It should feel comfortable for them to hold and swing the bat. If the bat is slowing down their swing too much, it's probably a little too heavy. There is a simple way to test a bat, even before you buy one. Simply have your son or daughter hold the bat by the handle, and hold it straight out to the side, so the bat is parallel to the ground. They should be able to hold the bat steady for at least fifteen seconds. If they can't, or their arms starts to shake, you should try a smaller bat.

Batter Positioning

It's important to know where the batters box is, where home plate is, and where the strike zone is. That way, even little league players, can put themselves in good position to reach any ball that is passing through the strike zone. Even if your in your back yard practicing, you can mock up a plate, and batters box. Just use a can of spray paint on the grass to mark out home plate and a made up batters box. Don't worry, it'll disappear the next time you cut the grass.

Little League Baseball Drills is a great resource for helping your little leaguer get the most out of his or hers favorite pastime. With a little good training, amateur or even professional ball players will see a dramatic improvement in the way they play.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Campbell

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T-Ball University Batting Grip & Hand Position www.tballu.com

Originally Posted on Youtube by TBALLUNIVERSITY
This mini lesson (www.tballu.com) will instruct coaches and parents on proper batting grip and hand position for Tee-Ball age children. Additional lessons and downloadable drill sheets, practice plans and coaching forms are available at www.tballu.com.

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Chollas Lake Little League T-ball Coaching Clinic pt.1 - Batting

Chollas Lake Little League T-ball Coaching Clinic pt.1 - Batting

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Great Hitting Tips - Baseball

Great Hitting Tips - Baseball
By Guest Author: Jeffery A Wise

It's common for young baseball players to hear that they need to keep a level swing while hitting. This is good advice for the most part, but players shouldn't take it too literally. I'll provide you with more recommended hitting tips baseball.

Hitting the ball with a completely level swing is unnatural. Doing so would mean your hands would start at your chest and end at your chest. Instead, it is more natural to have a slightly up swing. This swing starts at your chest and finishes high above your head. It has a "U" shape and puts the bat and ball on the same plane during contact.

When practicing this swing, do not dip your shoulder as this will most likely cause the ball to pop up or fly out. The slightly up swing puts your bat on the same level as the pitch. The pitcher's mound is 18 inches higher than the batter's box, not to mention the height of the pitcher and his hand as he releases the ball. So, the pitch flies on a downward plane. The slightly up swing allows you to hit the ball more easily.

Be sure to keep proper hitting mechanics during your at bat. Keep your shoulders parallel to the plate while the ball is being pitched and keep your front shoulder closed and low until contact. If your shoulder leaves and opens up too soon then you are in danger of making a mistake.

During your swing, keep your top hand slightly below the bottom hand on contact. This creates the upward arc of the bat when it meets the ball. If you're watching a Major League Baseball game, study the hitters' swings. You will spot this slightly up swing almost every time. I recently saw a walk-off single by the Cardinals Colby Rasmus and it was a beautiful swing. With runners on first and second, one out and a 1-1 count, he ripped a fastball with that slightly up swing into right field for a line drive single.

Practice the slightly up swing as often as you can so that you perfect it. It should come very naturally. Watch big leaguers to see how they do it. Take batting practice and utilize these hitting tips baseball.

Jeffery A Wise invites you to learn the proven system of hitting tips baseball so that you can learn how to hit a baseball better. Start learning today at http://www.baseballhittingtipsonline.com by reading our information and downloading our free report.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffery_A_Wise

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Perk Up Your Baseball Skills

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Perk Up Your Baseball Skills
By Connor R Sullivan

We live in times where sports have become more than just a game for physical activity. It has reached a professional level which, with the media's intervention, brought an entertaining aspect to it. Now the players are not merely the players, but they have elevated to celebrity level. It is important to note how fame brings along many great responsibilities. Whether it is a league game or any international tournament, winning is the major facet of the sport. After soccer, the most popular types of sports are the bat and ball games. Among them, baseball enjoys the top spot. It is a score oriented game in which the hitter responds to the ball thrown at him. To easily train baseball players, using pitching machines within batting cages can be quite useful.

There are different ways in which a ball could be pitched. Some variations could be added to the pitches such as a curve ball, in which you give a downward spin to the ball, thus making it difficult to play. It is a pitch which has a reduced pace in it. As a result, the batter is caught off guard and responds to this ball in a haphazard manner. A slider is one method of throwing balls. It is like the curve ball; however it is a medium pacer closer to a cutter. The selection of pitch is of critical importance in the game of basketball. The fielding, however further supports the gaming tactics.

There needs to be an adequate co-ordination between the pitcher and the catcher sitting behind the hitter. The catcher signals the pitcher for the type of pitch to throw. If his partner disagrees, he signals for a different one. In other words, the catcher should be aware of the upcoming pitch. The fielding team's placement could be changed according to the employed pitch. If the runner is placed on the third base, the infielders have an option to move closer to the home plate.

Baseball is basically a bat and ball contest between two teams comprising of nine players each. Both the teams take turns to be the defending team and the batting team. The defending team along with their fieldsmen prevents its opponents from scoring runs by trying to grab chances to get the hitters out. Players of the opposing team take turns to hit the ball thrown by the pitcher. As there is a strong need for game tactics from the defending team, there is also a need to have a game plan from the strikers end.

The hitter needs to have a strong arm to tackle any pitch. He has to make a forceful twist and then keep his balance in order to do the hitting and running without sparing seconds. It is of vital importance for the runner to occupy second base and then wait for a suitable hit so that he can make a run for it. This creates a gap between the infields allowing the hitter ample space to position his stroke. The lineup of players is a part of common gaming strategy. The choice of a right handed batsman against a left-handed pitcher and vice versa proves to be successful.

To sum it all up, baseball does not just test your physical endurance but also your mind. Whether you are the pitcher or the hitter, you would always be considering different options in your minds before finally executing them.

Connor Sullivan has recently researched and purchased several pitching machines online from a reputable source. He also ordered several batting cages online from a reputable source to donate to his high school.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Connor_R_Sullivan

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The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!

Free Baseball Artilces for TeeBall Parents

Coaching Baseball - 12 Things That 3rd Base Coaches Should Say to Baserunners

Fewer things in baseball are more embarrassing for a young baseball player than to make a base running mistake that cost his team a run. Some of the most devastating and demoralizing mistakes in baseball are made by baserunners at 3rd base. When a runner gets to third, the team momentum and confidence is increased. The team and the player, and the fans feel like they are going to soon score a run. But, to have that chance of scoring removed by a blunder by the runner or coach can take the momentum completely away from the team.

Coaching Baseball - 4 Things the On-Deck Batter Should Always Do and 4 Things He Should Never Do

Baseball coaching is teaching the big and little details of the game. Every position or location on the field requires a player to observe and to be aware of what is happening. Many young batters on deck often do no pay attention to what is happening. They are often guilty of looking into the crowd or even talking to someone through the fence. On-deck batters that do not closely observe the pitcher and the catcher are missing a greatly opportunity to "scout" the opponent.

Baseball Pitching - Coaching Pitchers to Succeed by Starting With the Basics

The coaching of baseball pitchers does not require a degree in "pitchingtology". There is no such degree to my knowledge. I just made that up. My point here is that coaching baseball pitching is not rocket science. However, having a basic knowledge of the terms and mechanics is a must.

Coaching Baseball Pitchers - The Use of Visual Anchor Points For Curve-Ball Accuracy

The skill of throwing a good curve ball accurately is a skill that must be taught and coached. Teaching curve ball control and accuracy is vital to a pitcher's success at any level. Here I discuss the method I use to teach and coach our high school pitchers to vary their curve ball location and to accurately control the spot to which the ball will break.


4 Baseball Pitching Drills For Little League Players

Teaching, training and developing young baseball pitchers takes a lot of time, patience, and practice repetition. Many young pitchers need to practice pitching skills daily. To keep the interest level high, it is best to use a variety of drills on alternate days to prevent boredom. Here are 4 baseball pitching drills that can be used to train youth and beginner pitchers.

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The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!

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Best Baseball Hitting Techniques For Beginners

Best Baseball Hitting Techniques For Beginners
By Peter S. Smith

If you are a beginner, then learning from the start the best baseball hitting techniques is mandatory, since this will help your game tremendously. This article is intended to do just that, so you will be able to learn the right techniques right from the beginning.

The first thing you want to do is to have a good batting stance. This means the position of the bat and body while waiting for the pitch. You will want your feet to be shoulder wide apart, and the foot closer to you should to be lined up near the front edge of the home plate.

Your knees will have to be slightly bent, and you should also have your waist slightly bended.

The way you hold your bat is also very important. You will want to hold the handle as close as possible to your back shoulder, and the barrel of the bat should be just above your head. Needless to say, you want to grip in the right way. This means that you shouldn't squeeze the bat, but rather keep it loose.

When the ball comes at you, you should keep your eyes solely on it, until you hit it. Remember that your head shouldn't follow your body as you hit it.

These techniques will help you tremendously in bettering you game, so take great care in mastering these basic baseball hitting techniques. Once you do that, you will be able to master more and more advanced techniques, but always remember that baby steps are needed before you get to be good at this game.

More comprehensive information on hitting techniques can be found here, so you should check it out.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_S._Smith

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T Ball Ready Position - Coaching Ready Position in T Ball

T Ball Ready Position - Coaching Ready Position in T Ball
By Brian McClure


In coaching t ball probably the first thing to do is teach the Ready position. You cant do nothing if your not ready so..What is the Ready Position?

1. Feet spread a little wider than shoulders
This gives balance and ability to move any direction

2. Balance on the balls of your feet:not the heels.
Sometimes when the kids are getting a little disinterested I may state (loudly of course) On Your Toes! This will wake them up and get them in position

3. Butt Down!

Most important..if your butt is down the knees bend and the hands go down with them. This gives balance.

4. Hands in Front

Two hands(I like to have kids (the first few practices) practice a few ground balls catching them in front without a glove to get them used to catching with two hands and then try it with the glove on.

5.Eyes on the Ball

Cant catch what you cant see. Catch the ball in front with two hands Safety too. If there is a bad hop your hands will move to protect and catch. How do I Coach and teach the ready position? Lets keep it simple.. It would be best to have the kids divided into at least 2 groups. This gives the most repetition and is the most efficient use of time. It will also keep them from getting bored to quickly. Pretty much every drill in t ball should be done in groups for these reasons.

1. READY! Spread your feet a little, get your butt down, hands out in front.

2. Toss a few ground balls without gloves

3. Ground balls with gloves

4. GET IN FRONT OF THE BALL! Now lets get them moving. Remember Eyes on the Ball? Toss a few balls to either side of the player and get them to move in front of the ball. (Some coaches like to use the belly button for this but I still like using the eyes and it has been effective for my coaching)

5. CHARGE! With this command you should toss some slow rollers and get the players moving in to the ball. It will happen I guarantee you.

A Special Note for Parents: I started working with my latest T baller during winter in the house. Showed him relaxed(which was hands on knees) and then Ready. We would practice this just a few times. I would say Relax! and he would go in to the relaxed position..I would say Ready! and hands come up and butt goes down. Then we would catch some tennis balls without a glove..then we would do a few with the glove. You will have to help them a few times with this but if you do this a few times a week...When the weather is nice enough to go outside you can do the above drills. At that first practice when Coach states Everybody Ready! You will be very proud. The Ready Position is the beginning of coaching youth baseball.

Author- Brian McClure
http://www.coaching-youth-baseball.com/

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brian_McClure

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The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!

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Coaching Baseball Batters - 3 Common Baseball Swing Mistakes and Corrections

Coaching Baseball Batters - 3 Common Baseball Swing Mistakes and Corrections
By Nick Dixon


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Article Body:

Coaching youth and high school baseball batters requires a watchful eye and close attention to detail. Baseball coaches must identify and correct any flaw in batting hitting mechanics. Players should not be allowed to practice their swing over and over without correcting their mistakes. Good baseball coaches are always on the constant lookout for any bad habits that a young player may develop. Here I discuss three of the most common hitting mechanical flaws and my approach to correcting each. Here are three common mistakes I often see at my baseball camps and when I observe youth games and youth practices.

1) BARRING THE FRONT ARM - The batter locks or stiffens the front arm as the swing begins. Many young batters will have assumed the correct stance and launch positions but have a tendency to tighten up as the swing begins. The barring of the front arm causes the swing to loop and to be too long. The batter has great difficulty taking the bat to the ball and making contact unless the ball is thrown exactly on the swing plane. The proper swing has a "short stroke" or path to the ball. The best way to correct barring of the front arm is to make sure that the batter keeps the front arm elbow bent or at an "L" position prior and during the swing.

2) STEPPING OUT OR PULLING OFF PITCHES - I often see this with young kids in our summer camp program. They always step out or their front side often flies open before the ball arrives. This batter has great difficulty making contact. Until this flaw is corrected, the batter will only become frustrated and embarrassed. To keep the front shoulder in the proper "closed" position, teach the batter to keep the front shoulder closed and directed at the second baseman for right-handed batters and toward the shortstop for left-handed batters. The stepping out is a more difficult flaw to fix. Having the batter pick the front heel off the ground and stepping just slightly toward the plate may help. I frown on putting obstructions behind the front foot to keep it from moving backward, although many coaches do this to stop this bad habit. I often use the "step in and hit: drill with a hit trainer, Bat Action Machine or batting tee. The batter assumes a position back away from the ball target that requires the batter to step toward the ball in order to make contact. If the batter does not step toward or into the ball, the batter will not be able to hit the ball.

3) UPPER CUT SWING - The upper cut swing may be caused by two things that are quickly identified Dropping the hands and back leg collapse can both cause the batter to swing upward. Make sure that the batter keeps the hands at the top of the strike zone and does not drop the hands or dip the back side shoulder during the swing. The back leg should be keep "tall or straight" to prevent back side dipping which can also cause an upper-cut swing. Two great drills that we use to stop this is the "Zone Circle" tee or soft-toss drill. We make a circle the side of our batting cage by inter-weaving a white or yellow rope in the net. The batter must hit or drive the ball off the tee or from a soft-toss into the circle. The batter must have a level swing and keep the front side in to be able to hit the zone.

COACHING POINT: Make sure that the batter is not over striding. This too can cause a batter to pop up. The batter must concentrate visually on the top half or middle of the ball to make good contact.

The CoachesBest Baseball Store has a great selection of 1400 Baseball Products. Check out the BatAction Hitting Machine baseball pitching simulator. This high speed training machine is 100% Guaranteed to raise Batting Averages and has a full year warranty.

Nick Dixon is the President and founder of Nedco Sports, a sports training company established in 1999. Dixon is also an active and full time high school baseball coach with over 25 years experience. Coach Dixon is better known as the inventor of the BatAction Hitting Machine, the SKLZ Derek Jeter Hurricane Hitting Machine, the SKLZ Target Trainer, the SKLZ Derek Jeter ZipnHit Pro, and the SKLZ Strikeback Trainer. Dixon is also a contributing writer for BaseballCoachingDigest, the Youth Baseball Digest, the Baseball Parent Guide, the Baseball 2Day Coaches Journal, and Blog4Coaches.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Dixon

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The Categories they have are: Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
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How to Hit a Baseball

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Article Title: How to Hit a Baseball
By Chris Moheno

There is a science to the sport of baseball, especially in the batters box. It really is more than just standing up there and hoping to hit the ball. A player can either research baseball hitting information on their own or seek out professional baseball training. Either way, learning is the companion of success.

There are several principles involved with hitting a baseball successfully and consistently. Once these principles are learned and memorized, practice is the key. Ever wonder how the MLB players hit a 98 mph fastball? Lots and lots of baseball batting training.

So take these basics and practice them until they become second nature. Everything should feel natural and comfortable. Now let's take a look at the elements of baseball hitting.

1. Select the proper bat. Bats come in different lengths and weights. Then there is what is called "bat drop". This is the difference between the length and the weight. For instance, a bat that is 29" long and weighs 18 ounces has a drop of -11. This means that it feels lighter and is easier to swing. The higher the drop number, the better (and more expensive) the bat. Selection is made based on the batters height and weight.

2. Develop a hitting approach. This is also known as plate discipline and is extremely important as the player gets older. The batter needs to be able to distinguish what is a "hittable" pitch and what is not. Simply going to the plate and swinging away works for very young players as it helps allay the fear of being hit, but older players need discipline. A good start is to watch the ball from the pitcher's hand all the way to the plate, or preferably, to your bat. Adjust your strike zone as the strike count develops. A smaller zone for 0 strikes, a bit larger for 1 strike and larger still for 2 strikes.

3. Develop a good bat grip. Not tense yet firm. Not loose yet relaxed. When you grab the bat, it is important to stay relaxed in your whole body, starting with the hands on the bat. The hands should be positioned so that the top knuckles of the lower hand line up somewhere between the middle and top knuckles of the upper hand. Anywhere in that area that is comfortable is workable. The idea is to keep the bat out of the palm and closer to the fingers for more control. This also helps keep the grip relaxed, helps avoid "bat drag" resulting from tension and increases bat speed/reaction time.

4. Take note of how you stand in the batters box. Always remember the three B's: Be comfortable, be confident and be balanced. All three are necessary for hitting success. Make sure you can cover the plate and your strike zone(s) completely. Find the right depth in the box, too. You will want to be able to get on top of a fastball as well as time the breaking pitches. Most important of all is to be perfectly balanced with the hands at the top of the strike zone.

5. Learn to "pick up the ball" as it is released by the pitcher. Watch his arm until the ball is released, then pick up the ball as it travels towards you. After a little practice, you will learn to distinguish the type of pitch that is coming and that goes a long way towards hitting the baseball. Baseball training focuses on this aspect of hitting mechanics.

6. Take your stride before you swing the bat. As the ball travels towards you, take your step (stride) and keep the weight on the back leg. As you begin to take the swing, bring the weight forward and use the momentum for power.

7. As the swing starts and your weight comes forward, pivot the back foot and keep the front as planted as you can. The hips will begin to open up and work with the legs to add the power to the swing. Arms and hands should be brought through close to the body. This helps with bat speed and accuracy. The head should be picking up the ball the entire time it is in flight.

If you practice these basics of baseball hitting, you will see a difference at the cages as well as on the field. Your batting average will soar and you will hit the ball consistently. Baseball training is the way to go for baseball hitting success!

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Moheno

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One Word That Will Make You Sound Like a Baseball

www.HandsBackHitter.com

Article Title: One Word That Will Make You Sound Like a Baseball Expert - 5 Tips For Hitting, Pitching & Fielding
By Jack Perconte

Not everyone knows the finer details of the game of baseball and, of course, many do not care to be baseball coaches or experts. Everyone has there own interests and that is fine. However, that does not mean you cannot say helpful things to young ballplayers. Using this one word will make one sound like a baseball expert and sound like you really know the game of baseball. As a baseball instructor over the past 21 years there is one word that I believe I have said more than any other word. This word is revealed below. If you would like a hint, think of the first thing that you teach your dog to do?

You guessed it - stay. Using the word "stay" with most any baseball term gives instant, "expert" credibility to the one saying it. Following are the terms good coaches often use when talking to players about the three key skill components in baseball - hitting, pitching and fielding. People, who use these terms with the magic word "stay," will sound like a knowledgeable, baseball expert.

Hitting Tips:
1. Stay back - good hitters do not jump at the ball, they let it come to them.
2. Stay inside - good hitters do not reach for balls, they try to hit the side closest to them on all pitches.
3. Stay behind - when good hitters swing, they rotate, transfer their weight and throw their bat at the ball while keeping their head back over their rear hip.
4. Stay balanced - good hitters swing the bat at 100% speed, but make it look like they are not working hard at all.
5. Stay ready - good hitters always expect the next pitch to be "their pitch."
6. Stay focused - good hitters concentrate on just watching the baseball from the pitcher's release to the hitting zone and tune out all other thoughts.

Pitching Tips:
1. Stay balanced - good pitchers throw at maximum speeds but make it look effortless.
2. Stay direct - good pitchers keep great direction, stepping on direct line towards home plate with their delivery.
3. Stay on top - good pitchers keep their fingers on top of ball on backswing and at release.
4. Stay behind - good pitchers do not rush themselves, allowing their arm time to come around.
5. Stay focused - good pitchers remain focused on their target, and tune out any distractions.

Fielding Tips:
1. Stay ready - good fielders "want" and expect the ball to be hit their way.
2. Stay down - good fielders approach ground balls low to the ground and keep their glove below the hop initially.
3. Stay smooth - good fielders make fielding look effortless, moving through the ball with grace.
4. Stay focused - good fielders keep their concentration on the ball, ready for any hop.
5. Stay balanced - good fielders have great footwork when fielding, always remaining under control.

You may have noticed that there are two terms used with our word "stay" that applies to every fundamental tip and those are balanced and focus. Everything in sport requires great balance and focus. So, when you are not sure what to say to your athlete, you can never go wrong with saying, "stay balanced" and "stay focused" as long as they are said in a positive, affirmative manner.

Former major league baseball player, Jack Perconte gives baseball hitting tips and batting practice advice for ballplayers of all ages. His baseball playing lessons, books and advice can be found at http://www.baseballhittinglessons.com/baseball Jack is the author of two books, The Making of a Hitter and Raising an Athlete - his positive parenting advice and books can be found at http://positiveparentinginsports.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jack_Perconte

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Baseball Batting Techniques - Finding Some Help in Improving Your Baseball Skills

Backyard Baseball Batting Machine by Nedco Sports

By Carolyn Anderson

Baseball is indeed one of the favorite sports we want to watch and play as well. If you have the interest to learn baseball, either as a sport or just for fun, then you can actually learn some baseball batting techniques that can improve your skills.

Learning these techniques can also be good for your children if you want to train them and help them learn to play baseball at a young age. Of course, the younger your kids are trained in any sport, the better they can become when they grow up especially if they like the sport.

Of course, the basic skills that one should learn if he wants to play baseball is batting the ball and catching. Although, it is also important to learn about pitching as well as other defense skills you need to learn about the sport. Indeed, batting is an essential skill of every baseball player and, of course, becoming a good baseball hitter makes you one good baseball player too. So for some baseball batting techniques that you may find useful in improving your game, here are some of them.

Learn the proper batting technique. The key to master baseball batting is to master the basics. Of course, you have to make sure you are gripping the bat correctly. One of the most commonly used gripping technique that players use in playing baseball is holding the bat such that the middle knuckles of your hands are lined up. This technique gives better control than gripping the bat tightly with both palms.

To master your baseball batting techniques, it is also important to consider your stance. This allows you to have good balance and of course allows you to hit the ball properly. To maintain a good stance, your knees should be slightly bent, and your weight rested on the balls of your feet and your waist slightly bent forward.

Another important thing to master is your swing. Your lower body should control your swing and your weight should transfer from the balls of your feet to the front foot. You should also keep your hands within the flight of the ball so you can hit it better. You should also keep head movements at a minimal.

Aside from these baseball batting techniques, keep in mind some important tips to help you master hitting the ball. Be positive. Think that you can hit the ball even before you step into the batter's box. Clear your mind from any distraction and concentrate on hitting the ball. It helps also not to be in a hurry. You can always wait for a good pitch.

To help you improve your batting skills, it would help to find someone who is an experienced baseball player to watch you when you practice your batting so that you will know what needs to be improved and corrected. You can also practice your batting with several hitting drills that will truly improve your skills before getting into the real battle.

Carolyn Anderson loves to play sports including softball. For a step-by-step training manual to help you master baseball skills like hitting, check out Parker Training System Manual. Also check out The Super 8 Hitting System, a comprehensive digital course on how to hit a baseball.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carolyn_Anderson

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