Situational Approach
Look for Patterns:
- If you are not paying attention to how the pitcher is sequencing his pitches you are missing an easy way to gain an advantage.
- Ask yourself: “What pitch does he like to throw with 2 strikes?” “Is it always the same?” “Does he fall into any predictable patterns in specific counts?”
- Watch the game and take mental notes, during your next at-bat this information may help you identify a pitch before it is thrown, and lead to an easy base hit.
Use Your Teammates:
- Talk to the guys that have hit before you.
- Ask them what pitches they saw, and how they moved. “Did they see anything that can help you succeed in your next at-bat?”
- Communication between hitters occurs constantly at the pro level, but rarely at the youth level.
- Make it your mission to build a team culture where everyone works together to beat the pitcher.