Da Coach

Hi All,

I've been reading through all the threads and have learned a great deal. I've been coaching for 5 years but you can always learn more.

I've got a new B team of 12's. Some of the girls have strong swings but tend to uppercut a lot. I'm looking for some drills to get them on the correct swing plane. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Darrick Brown

A great tool for hand path is the Derek Jeter zip line. Have them first hit it stationary and then add the pitch. I also use high tee drills. You may also want to look at the shoulders. Place an emphasis on level shoulders. Hope this helps.

Mark H

When you say upper cut, do you mean this Photo 24 of 31, Analysis or this Photo 4 of 7, UCLA vs. Michigan and this Photo 3 of 31, Analysis ?

kenkrause

I agree on the Zip n Hit. I like it as a tool to teach hitters not to get under the ball. But I have to question your statement about level shoulders. Take a look at these clips of hitters from the source Mark H always links to. You won't find a set of level shoulders in the bunch.

The only way to get your shoulders level in the swing is to pull your front shoulder out first. And that's a bad thing.

__________________
Mundelein Thunder 18U
Danes Fastpitch
Contributing editor, Softball Magazine
Life in the Fastpitch Lane

Flash101

I know what this is, but how do you use it effectively if one is attempting to match the plane of the swing to the plane of the pitch? Thanks.

Mark H

Amen, Amen and Amen. Only time the shoulders ought to stay level through a swing is on a pitch at or just below the shoulders. And if you can't hit that pitch over the light poles...a lot...I suggest not swinging at it.

Da Coach

Mark,

The first one. Swings up at any pitch. A letter high fastball gets them every time.

Steve

Da Coach

I always thought this was kind of gimicky but after thinking about it I can see where this could help. I'll give it a try. Thanks.

Mark H

That pic is bat drag, a casting swing. This is often mixed in with using the arms to "go get the ball" rather than adjusting posture to make the arms' job easier and the swing more efficient, repeatable and quick from decision or heel plant to contact. I suggest studying everything on Siggy's analysis page Analysis and then read everything you can get to on the public and free side of englishbeyhitting.com.

Mark H

It can be used very effectively...but...if they stand up and continue to use the arms to get on plane with the zip line, you will have helped them succeed only at a very low level. Which IS something. After all, most aren't aiming for college etc.