What should batters do if they are having problems hitting pitchers with high-velocity fastballs? I had an email exchange with Jake Epstein on this topic. Here are some strategies you might want to try.
- Set up farther back in the batter’s box. Remember, however, the strike zone is over the plate, not where you set up.
- With no strikes or even one strike, look for a fastball down the middle, sit on that pitch, and try to get the bat head out front.
- Start the load/stride sooner. For example, if you usually start to move as the pitcher brings his arm forward, then try starting as the pitcher brings his arm back and up.
- If you are having trouble striding on time, try using a no stride.
- If you are having trouble getting the bat head out front, try driving the ball to the opposite field. Let the ball travel a little deeper and get on plane with the pitch.
- The more fast pitches you see, the quicker you will adapt. The Bat Cave has machines that can throw pitches from 35 to 100 mph.