Tips to Become a Better Player

Conditioning
Most young pitchers do not realize the importance of both strong legs and stamina. Long distance running is a mainstay for professional pitchers. You should add long distance running to your regimen if you are truly serious about pitching (run 3-5 times a week!)

Thinking properly
While in the field, always have the thought process of, “What should I do if the ball is hit to me on the ground or in the air.” If you are always thinking this, you will always know where to throw the ball.

Hustle
Hustle is what determines the winners from the losers and the players from the athletes. Hustle catches the attention of coaches. A coach may take a player who hustles over one who is more talented, because that person is more valuable as a team player. It doesn’t take any talent to hustle. Run on and off the field. Run out all ground balls and pop-ups. Hustle will set a player apart.

Back Eye Shut
Great drill for those who are pulling their head out on the swing (excellent for young players). Take batting practice with the back eye closed or covered. This forces the hitter to follow the ball all the way in with the front eye. Thus, they tend to keep their head down throughout the swing.

Know your strengths
Know your strengths and weaknesses as a hitter. Try to maximize your strengths and minimize your weaknesses.
If you make a conscious effort to eliminate a weakness in practice, you can make that translate into the game.

Regimen
One of the simplest tips for hitting is to develop a regimen. Do the same pattern as you step up to the plate. Getting into a pre-at bat ritual will help to keep things constant and get you in a groove.

Get Sideways
When moving to field a fly ball, remember the words ´Get Sideways.´ By doing a drop step and remaining sideways on your approach, you will have a much better chance to field the ball cleanly. ´Getting Sideways´ helps you avoid backpedaling, which often gets you in the most trouble.

The Exchange
Work on a quick exchange from glove to throwing hand. Even while warming up your arm you can work on this skill. Try to make a crisp, clean exchange that puts you in the best position to throw.

Reading the pitch
Third base is a reaction position. Balls are hit so hard to third base that quick reflexes are of major importance. In addition, learn how to read pitches. Get the sign from the shortstop and learn how hitters hit certain pitches from your pitching staff. This will give you an anticipating reflex that will allow you to react even quicker.

Know the nuances
One of the great things about baseball is that you can see something different every single game. The only way to know all the rules is to be an observer. Watch games and pick up on the nuances of the game. Whether you watch a professional game on television or attend an amateur event, you can learn something new about the rules or situations each and every time!

Understand History´s Importance
One of the great things about baseball is its storied history. Learn about the game´s past. Learn about former players. An appreciation of the game´s history will elevate your mindset and game!

Choosing Equipment
If you are serious about the game, you need top notch equipment. Save some extra money and purchase the top of the line. Be sure to treat your equipment properly. Disciplining yourself to take care of your equipment shows you have respect for yourself and the game.

Last 5 posts in Spring Training

Video: How to Pitch From the Wind-up - January 4th, 2009
Video - Learn Pitching Warm-Ups - December 14th, 2008
Mechanics of a Fast Ball - December 13th, 2008
Tips From the Pros: Hitting - December 11th, 2008
Breaking In a New Ball Glove - December 5th, 2008

Originally posted 2008-06-25 15:12:26. We hope you have enjoyed this Post From the Past!

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One Response to “Tips to Become a Better Player”

Tips to Become a Better Player
June 25th, 2008 at 3:34 pm

[...] Major League Baseball Spring Training 2008 - 2008 Major League Baseball Spring Training wrote an interesting post today and shared it with the world.Here’s a quick excerpt [...]
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