Teaching players to hit a baseball may be one of the most subjective endeavors in all of sports. Catching and throwing are relatively basic in terms of teaching. But batting stances and swings vary with a particular player's capability. Some batters set their weight on the back foot and step forward when the ball approaches. Others prefer to spread their feet and use their arms and torso to swing the bat. You can teach players to hit a baseball by developing their timing and accuracy with the baseball bat.
Step 1
Have the player select a bat he can handle. Bat weights vary just as the size of the grip and head varies from one bat to another. The player should be able to swing the bat smoothly and under control.
Step 2
Stand a hitting tee on the center of home plate. Have the batter take a hitting stance at home plate. Adjust the height of the tee so the ball is at the player's waist level. Put a Scrabble letter in the cup of the tee and set a wiffle ball on the tee.
Step 3
Call out a verbal cadence that consists of "Set," "Windup" and "Pitch." The batter should swing on the silent fourth count to develop rhythm and timing. When the wiffle ball is hit, the batter must call out the letter on the Scrabble piece. This teaches the batter to keep her eyes on the spot where the bat contacts the ball.
Step 4
Place another letter and wiffle ball on the tee. Instruct the player to hit the ball directly toward the pitcher's mound. Continue the drill until the player is successful at hitting the ball toward the mound and calling out the letter each time.
Step 5
Instruct the player to hit the ball in the direction of each field. Have the batter attempt to hit the ball down the first base line and third base line.
Tips and Warnings
- Determine the batter's potential with regard to hitting for accuracy or power. Develop that aspect of the player's ability through additional batting drills. Make sure the players consistently focus on the contact point when hitting the baseball.
Things You'll Need
- Hitting tee
- Scrabble letters
- Wiffle balls
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