First Post: HITTING PHILOSOPHY

Hitting should be a natural fluid motion that is done by a habit and initiated by reactions. Although all hitters should not be molded into one form, there are certain fundamentals of hitting that have to be consistent at all levels. Balance, grip, utilizing the body’s core muscle groups, and keeping the head still are all examples of habits that need to be consistent. Hitters also need to make their approach their own. After the basic fundamentals become natural, the hitter can make small adjustments in their approach by using more advanced movements to help in rotation, bat speed, and power. The swing is unique and the hitter needs to make it his own. Every hitter has strengths and weaknesses. The goal of all good hitters should be to become strong were they are weak while not weakening their strengths.
Hitters also should be patiently aggressive. The patience comes when a hitter waits for his pitch. The hitter should not go after pitches early in the count that he cannot drive. As the hitter gets ahead in the count he should minimize his zone. If the hitter gets behind in the count the hitter needs to maximize his zone. If a hitter chases a pitch outside his power zone early in the count he is helping the pitcher. The hitter needs to hit his pitch and try to get the pitcher to pitch it to him, in his zone. If the hitter tries to hit the pitchers pitch the pitcher will be in control of the at bat, keeping the hitter off balance.
Hitters also need to trust themselves and be confident in their ability. The hitter needs to have the confidence that he can hit any pitcher no matter how good the pitcher is. The hitter also needs to trust himself and his hands and know that by using this trust no pitcher can beat him. Trust will lead to confidence and confidence will lead to trust. One cannot go without the other. If the hitter does not have both then he is not a complete hitter. All his talent will not go anywhere without trust and confidence. A lack of athletic ability can be overcome by having great confidence and trust.

Welcome

Welcome to the John Priest's Baseball Instruction Blog.