There is nothing wrong with getting your bat on the ball and hitting singles and doubles. However, there is a time in baseball when the big hit is important and having the ability to drive the ball over the fence will play big dividends for yourself and your team. Hitting a home run requires strength, timing and an excellent fundamental swing.
Home Run Drill
New York Yankees hitting coach Kevin Long uses a very simple drill to help his hitters drive the ball and hit more home runs. Instead of throwing batting practice from the pitching mound, toss the ball underhanded to batters halfway to home plate. The pitch is not coming in with velocity and it is easy to hit. However, the idea behind the drill is to be quick with the bat through the hitting zone. This drill helps you develop a short and powerful swing that helps you hit home runs.
Tire Drill
Much of the power in your swing comes from your core muscles in addition to your arms and shoulders. Building strength in your core muscles can help you develop a more powerful swing. Attach a 15-foot rope to a car tire. Grasp the rope and keep the tire off to your left side. Pull the rope and swing your hips until the tire is on the right side. Then do the same exercise from the opposite side so the tire is back in the starting position. Do this 10 times, take a 30-second break, and repeat the set.
Bench Press
The bench press will help you build strength in your abs, chest, shoulders and arms. Lift about 75 percent of your capacity on the bench press and do 20 reps. Take a one-minute break and repeat the set. Lift weights at least three times per week during the season so you can maintain your strength and power as the long season rolls along.
Basketball Drill
Place a basketball on a hitting tee so it is sitting at about waist height. Take your normal stance and hit the center of the basketball with a baseball bat that is about three oz. heavier than you normally use in a game. When you first try to do this, your swing may come to a halt on impact with the ball. Continue to drive your hands through the ball and follow through completely. The size and resistance of the basketball will help give you a stronger follow through and will give you the ability to hit the ball for longer distance in game situations.
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