Baseball Instruction/start the swing

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Expert: John Priest - 3/6/2009


Question
my boy plays high school baseball,he bats lefthanded. my question is how do i stop him from pulling his shoulder an head off the baseball at the start of the swing.

Answer
James,
Sounds like your son hits more with his upper body similar to that of a linear style.  The rotational style gives more bat speed and power and will fix this problem of pulling away.  In the rotational style the swing will start and be controlled by the rotation.  The rotation starts with the back foot and goes up the body.  I always like to say "footwork, hips, then hands".  Notice that the hands are last and the motion goes up the body.  This will ensure that the hands stay back and the head stays in.  Also in practice don't let your son pull the ball.  hit everything from center field and left field.  This will work on a few things such as; using the body to create the swing, keeping the hands back, staying inside the ball, and perfect body mechanics.  Let me know if I can help with anything else or explain things further.

Thank You,
John Priest

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John Priest

Expertise

I can answer all questions regarding baseball fundementals from the little league to the professional level. I have the most knowledge in hitting mechanics and fundamentals and the development of power and batspeed. I can also answer all questions for catchers, pitchers, infielders, and outfielders. I also have experience coaching at the high school and AAU levels. Please no questions about rules and/or rule interpretation. English only please.

Experience

I have played through college, and semi pro baseball. For the past 10 years I have been coaching and providing instruction for all age and ability levels. Numerous clients of mine have gone on to play in college and some are playing in the minor leagues. I have provided coaching and instruction for high schools, training facilities, and the Nokona Baseball Factory.

Publications
http://jpbaseball.blogspot.com/

Education/Credentials
Graduated 2009 Associates degree in Science

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