According to Cal Ripken Sr., a former Major League Baseball player and manager, having quick hands is one of the most important qualities of an ideal hitter. Having quick hands in baseball makes you a better hitter but it also improves your throwing velocity and fielding ability. Training to have faster hands for baseball is incorporated into the general strength, conditioning and skill workouts during the 12-month training cycle.
Step 1
Perform power-training exercises and workouts. Sample power training exercises include plyometrics, ballistic exercises and strength-training. These exercises improve your overall speed and agility along with improving your hand speed and throwing velocity. Use the power training exercises within the general strength and conditioning program during the off-season training phase. Focus on quick, explosive movements with your upper body, arms and hands to improve your overall hand speed.
Step 2
Choose a bat that fits your strength level and hitting style. Bat manufacturers offer a variety of bats with various shapes, sizes, styles and weights. Selecting a bat that you can handle improves your hitting mechanics but also allows you to maximize your hand speed during each swing. Most youth players should choose a short, lightweight bat while power hitters choose a longer, heavy bat.
Step 3
Practice your hitting, fielding and throwing mechanics. With proper mechanics, you eliminate any wasted energy and movement that decreases the overall speed of your hands. For example, while hitting, focus on "throwing" your hands in a straight line to the pitched baseball. Use short, quick movements with your glove and throwing hand while field and focus on quick, explosive arm swings while throwing.
Step 4
Train with a lightweight bat and weighted baseball. The lightweight bat can be used for hitting drills and batting practice to develop speed and strength in the wrists and forearms. Use a weighted baseball to play catch and long toss that result in a stronger arm. Your hand speed increases after you replace the weighted baseball with a regular baseball.
Things You'll Need
- Strength training equipment
- Baseball bat
- Lightweight training bat
- Weighted baseball
