As we head toward another spring of baseball, it is a good time for a recap. As my Diamond Directors’ clients know, there are seven parts of the swing and that it takes 3,000 reps to build a habit. That is 21,000 reps.
- Stance/Load
- Timing
- Tempo
- Tracking
- Approach
- Contact
- Extension/Finish
There are three hitting skills that will launch you to elite status:
- Timing
- Tempo
- Tracking
Talent is what you do well. Habits are what you do well repeatedly without thought. Skills is what you do well repeatedly without thought while under stress.
Timing
Timing is when you get loaded. Fastballs of pitchers can be categorized at above average speed, average and below average. Being in a good loaded position on time allows you to be on tempo and track pitches.
Think about the planning required to get to the field on time for stretching and pregame batting practice. If you arrive too late, it may cause you to feel rushed and stressed and, ultimately have an effect on your game performance.
You can find out more about timing here.
Tempo
Tempo is how you get loaded. Pitchers change speeds to prevent hitters from driving the ball. Hard hit balls can still be fielded by good infielders, while balls driven into the gaps give pitchers nightmares.
So if you are on tempo, it does not matter if the pitch is a fastball, breaking ball or change-up. Your body will be ready to track the pitch.
You can find more about tempo here.
Tracking
Tracking is determining the speed, spin and location of pitches. Tracking is a skill that requires you to see the ball—meaning simply looking at the ball.
Remember: Fans see the ball; skilled hitters track pitches.
As a result of being on time, on tempo and tracking pitches, skilled hitters are able to trust their approach to the ball for good contact and extension.
You can find more about tracking here.
Diamond Directors has been providing the blueprint of success for diamond sports athletes since 1998. Let us assess your swing in our next Hitting Combine.
Remember: Intelligence tops being smart.
For more information, visit www.diamonddirectors.com today. Also, check out our Digital Magazine.
C.J. Stewart has built a reputation as one of the leading professional hitting instructors in the country. He is a former professional baseball player in the Chicago Cubs organization and has also served as an area scout for the Cincinnati Reds. As founder and CEO of Diamond Directors Player Development, C.J. has more than 12 years of player development experience and has built an impressive list of clients, including some of the top young prospects in baseball today. If your desire is to change your game for the better, C.J. Stewart has a proven system of development and track record of success that can work for you.
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