HITTING DRILLS

When doing drills that involve a batting tee or "soft toss," we prefer to work out on the field so that we can see the spin on the ball coming off the bat. If space is a problem we recommend using whiffle balls-they are safer, and they "overspin" so it is easier to see what it really going on at contact. It is always a good idea to hit the ball on the ground and/or to the opposite field during most drills. If you are using baseballs, be sure to use a protective screen and helmets.

Any drill involving a bat and ball can be dangerous, so the area around you should be clear of other players, coaches, and onlookers.

The following drills are designed not only to solve problems but to prevent them as well. A regular maintenance program can help you avoid mechanical problems before they start.

GO-TO-THE-BALL DRILL

Standing in your normal stance, place the batting tee on the outside corner and even with your front foot (fig. 2-1)-if you're a right-handed hitter, your left foot. It is important that the tee be placed in exactly this spot. This positioning not only will make you take a positive movement toward the ball but also will make you transfer your weight through the ball as you hit it.

2-1. The Go-to-the-Ball Drill: place the tee on the outside corner and even with your front foot.

2-2. Make contact with the ball in the center of your body.

The object of this drill is to hit the ball to the opposite field or, at the very least, up the middle; that is, a right-handed hitter should not hit the ball to the left half of the field. Make contact with the ball in the center of your body (fig. 2-2). Try to hit line drives and hard grounders.