How USA Baseball Focuses at the Plate: STACK Magazine - Exercises, Training, Nutrition, High School Athletes

A gaudy batting average requires you to consistently hit a round ball with a round bat-square. It's not an easy task, but Rob Walton, head coach for the 2008 USA National Team and Oral Roberts University, provides some education to get you raking this spring.

Pre-Pitch
Survey the field to see how the defense is playing you. Pitch location and strategy are usually contingent on D alignment. [For example, if the defense is playing you away or to the opposite field, then expect pitches away.]

Notice if the pitcher spends extra time going into his glove to get a better grip on breaking pitches.

Look for any revealing cues from the pitcher, such as index finger placement [some pitchers keep their finger inside the glove for a fastball and remove it for breaking balls].

Think fastball. Adjust deuce.

During the Pitch
Focus on the pitcher's hat emblem, which narrows your field of vision, which will help you pick up the ball sooner when he releases it from his hand.

Recognize the pitcher's elbow placement. If the pitcher's elbow is caught under his armpit, that usually indicates a fastball. If his elbow splays to the side of his body, that most likely signals a breaking pitch.

Trigger your stride and motion when you see the pitch. Never lose your balance, and keep your nose in the zone as long as possible.

When facing a tough pitcher, it’s okay to jump on the first-pitch hanging breaking ball—as long as it’s up [belt-high] and something you can stroke.

Working the Count

Ahead in the count: Look for a fastball in the middle third of plate. Better pitchers can locate a fastball on the inner or outer third of the plate. If you can handle it, rip it.

Down in the count: Avoid becoming too defensive by choking up on the bat or crowding the plate, because you're vulnerable on inside pitches. Look for pitches you can put in play, preferably to the opposite field.

Quick Tips
Never attempt to guess pitches; you'll be chasing breaking balls in the dirt. // Monitor your at-bats and teammates at-bats to recognize an individual pitcher's tendencies. // Stay patient, and look for elevated pitches // Force a pitcher to prove that he can consistently paint the corners before you commit to outside and inside pitches.