Batting with a 2-strike count can be unnerving. At D-BAT, we get it. We know the pressure you feel when you’re in the box, and we want to help your mental toughness to get over the hump and be more successful when the 2-strike count is upon you.
We’ve coached a lot of players over the years, and here are 4 common mistakes we see players make over and over:
Mistake #1: Not Swinging
With 2 strikes, you’ve got to swing! Swing hard and aggressively at anything that’s close, and if it goes foul, it’s no big deal. A foul ball keeps you in the count and gives you the opportunity to nail the perfect pitch.
Mistake #2: Swinging Too Softly
As we said earlier, you’ve got to swing hard every time! Hitting it too softly could result in a weak grounder that is easily fielded. Also, don’t forget to swing through as you make contact.
Mistake #3: Getting Down on Yourself Because you Struck Out
We must rethink the way we think about strikeouts. Cade Griffis – founder of D-BAT and former scout for the Chicago White Sox/former player for the Kansas City Royals – says the following about strikeouts: “I don’t judge a kid (any worse) who goes 1-for-3 and strikes out twice. It’s the same thing if he goes 1-for-3 and hits two weak ground balls to the pitcher. An out is an out. I think we create outs because we put too much emphasis on the strikeout, and we get them out of their comfort zone.”
Mistake #4: Ignoring Cues Around You
When you’re batting, let all your senses in on the action because you might be surprised what you can hear or see that will tip you off. Listen for cues from the coach and watch the wind-up of the pitcher. If a coach yells, “be smart!” then the pitcher might be playing it safe with his pitch.
Want to run batting practice with the best? Schedule private batting lessons at D-BAT – the best baseball training facility in the country. Find the location closest to you HERE!