Usually referred to as “America’s pastime,” baseball is practically universal. Many player aspire to learn to play the game as the pros do. The tips and nuggets of advice featured below should help baseball player everywhere improve their game, regardless of their current level of play.
If you’d really like your batting average to increase, attempt to hit the ball towards where the fence is instead of over it. You want to hit it back towards where the ball came from. Most times that balls are hit into the air, they’re easily caught.
If you’re a baseball coach, remember that keeping your players excited and happy is a great way to help them win. Enjoy rewards such as pizza parties or team building activities. Always remember baseball is only a game, and not the most important thing in the world.
Holding and throwing the ball correctly is the only way to succeed in the pitching position. First, you have to have the seam right under your middle finger. Then, you position your thumb on top of the other seam. This will help you grip the ball properly, allowing you to maximize your speed, distance and accuracy.
When hitting a baseball, everyone should wear a helmet. These helmets protect against head injuries. The best helmets have shields that guard the face too.
10 Minutes
When coaching baseball, make sure you have an established practice schedule so all players will know what is expected and can allocate personal goals accordingly. An effective 30 minute practice incorporates a short warm-up with a lengthier period of hitting drills. 10 minutes of drills and 5 minutes of running bases should follow. Lastly, drill specific defense for 10 minutes and finish it all with a cool down. Finish with a team meeting and you have completed your workout.
Learn what is the proper stride for playing baseball. If you use your right hand, your left leg should be used to pick things up when you release the pitch. Left-handed folks should do the opposite. As the pitch approaches the hitting zone, you should stride towards the mound, gaining momentum as you do so. Smaller and younger people should stride a bit less than a foot.
Depending on the way the grass is mowed, a ground ball may roll differently. Outfield lines often cause the baseball to change course when it hits the ground. If you take the time to study how the ball’s trajectory changes, you will have an advantage.
If the sun blinds you as the ball comes strait toward you, shield your eyes with your glove. By lifting your glove above your eyes, you can help block some of the extreme brightness of the sunlight while still being able to keep your eyes on the baseball.
To maximize the stretch when you play first base, place a foot under your throwing hand right on the base. Stretch your glove for the coming ball, step your other foot out toward the ball, stretching so you keep your first foot touching base.
When fielding a ground ball, do not reach in front of your entire body to grab it. Shuffle left or right to get the gloved hand ahead of the ball. Otherwise, when trying to catch it, it may hit your glove’s side.
If often feels like every little kid dreams of playing in the big leagues. While only a few are able to achieve that dream, being a great player at school or recreation is well within reach. Use these tips to increase your success.