Question about the TCB balls

[David Hayes]

Is it best to use them in soft toss or front toss, I have heard using the TCB ball in front toss can cause some really bad habits in a swing. Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[Westwind]

I love tcb's. Like any tool, use it in moderation, consider the ability and strength of the hitters. Don't overdo it and look for signs of fatigue and break down in form.

I think they are Part of the solution, not The solution.

 

[PGSAKen]

As with any tool if you use the tool improperly you can create bad habits.

TCBs give instant feedback when hit. You have to teach the player to recognize the feedback. they also build strength/conditioning when hitting IF hit properly (extension).

If I had to choose one tool in all of softball Id keep my TCBs that I use at EVERY practice and before EVERY game.

 

[CoachG]

Probably the greatest benefit is that you don't have to chase after batted balls once they swing. Also, the path of ball and the distance it goes helps you see how well the batter is swinging.

 

[JAD]

We prefer to do soft toss with the TCB balls. Just remember to do them in moderation. We do 12 per girl, then rotate stations.

 

[Amy in AZ.]

It is actually the opposite. TCB balls help to establish good mechanics. They let the girls make their own corrections and find eventual success.

 

[MountieSB]

These worked great with our high school team this year. I agree with Amy; the girls got immediate feedback and worked smarter on "centering up" the ball. It's one of the better gadgets we've used in the last 18 years.

 

[JAD]

It is actually the opposite. TCB balls help to establish good mechanics. They let the girls make their own corrections and find eventual success.

How do TCB balls establish good mechanics? Players get immediate feedback on how squarely they hit the ball, and the extra weight forces the girls to follow through and strengthen their wrists, but mechanics?

 

[MountieSB]

How do TCB balls establish good mechanics? Players get immediate feedback on how squarely they hit the ball, and the extra weight forces the girls to follow through and strengthen their wrists, but mechanics?

The TCB balls don't establish good mechanics. Not putting words into Amy's mouth, but the mechanics (good or bad) are evident in the way the ball comes off the bat. The adjustments players make to correct their swings (and subsequently the path of the ball) "establish" good/better mechanics.

 

[redhotcoach]

Next time you guys are out, hit some tcbs with all arms and hands aways from your body. Or how about keeping your weight back and spinning on your back foot. Let us know how far you hit the ball.