Anti-Slap Hitting Coach.....

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Jun 27, 2011
5,088
0
North Carolina
I've worked with dozens of HS age players who have switched to LH with slapping during HS. Almost all hit at least .300 the first year but continued to improve significantly each year though out their career, eventually receiving all conference or all state recognition...a few even made it as D1 players. Speed, practice and parent/coach support are the key factors.

That's what makes me think it can't be harder. Yes, it's a TON of work and dedication, and I applaud those who have success. But it would seem like it would be easier to teach a right-hander to slap lefty than to hit ''normal'' lefty. But I don't know. ...

Also curious: How important is the speed for slappers at the highest levels? I see younger slappers who take advantage of the defenses' weaknesses. I'd think that at higher levels, the speed part is even more important because better defenses aren't going to mishandle as much. You're going to have to put more pressure w/ speed.
 
Jul 10, 2014
1,283
0
C-bus Ohio
Interesting discussion. After reading, I offered my DD the option of switching to lefty and learning to slap: she does everything else lefty but bats righty. 1st time even trying lefty was at the cages on Sat, and she got down a nearly perfect drag bunt in a game on Sunday. I know what we're working on this winter lol!
 
Last edited:
Oct 16, 2008
164
18
SE Michigan
That's what makes me think it can't be harder. Yes, it's a TON of work and dedication, and I applaud those who have success. But it would seem like it would be easier to teach a right-hander to slap lefty than to hit ''normal'' lefty. But I don't know. ...

Also curious: How important is the speed for slappers at the highest levels? I see younger slappers who take advantage of the defenses' weaknesses. I'd think that at higher levels, the speed part is even more important because better defenses aren't going to mishandle as much. You're going to have to put more pressure w/ speed.

I did an analysis a few years ago that indicated that the average HS infielder in my area takes about 1.5 seconds from picking up the ball to getting it first but the average D1 college infielder takes about 1.2 seconds which equates to probably more than a step difference. On the other hand, that same improved defense is also taking hits away from the full swingers as well.
 
Jun 27, 2011
5,088
0
North Carolina
I did an analysis a few years ago that indicated that the average HS infielder in my area takes about 1.5 seconds from picking up the ball to getting it first but the average D1 college infielder takes about 1.2 seconds which equates to probably more than a step difference. On the other hand, that same improved defense is also taking hits away from the full swingers as well.

I remember years ago when my DD was just starting and there was a head coach of what was perhaps the best 12U team in the state. His DD was fast, but he said, ''But she's not so fast that she can be a slapper at the college level. They're looking for x.x speed.'' I forgot the speed he quoted, but his theory was that too many were slapping just because they were kinda fast, but to be a top prospect at it, you need to be exceptionally fast. Of course, to be elite at anything, you probably have to be exceptional at something.
 

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