How To Hit A Fast Pitch With Weight Forward & Knob To The Ball

The challenge of hitting a fast pitch in baseball can be overwhelming at times. Some pitchers are capable of throwing the ball at speeds greater than 95 mph and locating the ball on the inside or outside corner. Attempting to make solid contact with those pitches requires quick hands, outstanding hand-eye coordination, strength and an intelligent plan to get the best of the opposing pitcher. Hitters need to practice their craft regularly so they can step into the batter's box with confidence.

Step 1

Position your feet a little bit more than shoulder width apart. Stand with your weight evenly distributed between your back and front legs. Hold your bat over your rear shoulder. Your hands should grip the bat firmly but not squeeze it so tightly that you lose circulation in your fingers.

Step 2

Shift most of your weight to your rear leg as the pitcher starts his windup. This weight shift is called "negative movement" by hitting coaches. You want to hit the ball with your weight, strength and momentum going directly at the pitcher. The way to prepare for this is to get your weight on your back leg to start. The only place you can go at this point is forward.

Step 3

Drive forward as the pitcher releases the ball by taking a small step forward directly at the pitcher.

Step 4

Pull the knob of the bat toward the baseball to get your bat moving. The barrel of the bat will follow directly. Your vision must be clearly focused on the center portion of the baseball and the knob of the bat must be on a line toward the baseball. As your hands clear the ribcage area, the barrel of the bat comes through to make solid contact and drive the baseball on a line to the far reaches of the outfield.

Tips and Warnings

A quick step directly at the pitcher allows the batter to get momentum in the direction of the baseball. Many right-handed hitters make the mistake of stepping slightly toward third base, while left-handed hitters step toward first base. This pulls batters away from the baseball and keeps them from hitting outside pitches.