CHANCE-SPEEDS DRILL

A teammate or coach stationed 25 to 30 feet away (20 feet for Little League) pitches the ball at different speeds, and you must see the ball clearly, adjust to the speed of the pitch, and make solid contact (fig. 2-34). This drill can also be done at the full distance if a batting practice pitcher is available. A protective screen and helmets should be required. There are several variations of this drill. The pitcher can throw all breaking balls, you can hit everything to the opposite field, or you can practice the hit-and-run using teammates as baserunners.

2-34. The Change-Speeds Drill is great for training hitters of all ages to judge speeds more effectively. Use your imagination and develop other variations of this drill. Be sure to wear a helmet at all times, whether hitting or feeding this drill.