By: Bob Benson,
Offspeed Hitting Drills Author: Bob Benson I have seen this used for the past three springs at legion level, but should work for younger kids. Buy red, white and blue wiffle balls. Inform the hitter that the white ball will be neutral and will be pitched as a standard fastball near the middle of the plate. This pitch is to be lined near the middle of the field. The red ball is the "hot" pitch, to be pitched inside and pulled by the batter. The blue ball is the ball away or the change-up away. This ball is to be struck hard into the opposite field. It takes a little time, but kids 13-18 seem to enjoy the practice. After a while, use only the white balls and instruct the hitter that he will hit the ball where it is pitched. Before reaching this point, throw a lot of curves and change-ups only with the blue ball. I think you will be surprised at his pitch recognition after only 4-5 practices. This is a good indoor practice, suggest a gym.
Date: May 31, 1998 at 12:09