How to use these batting drills
A batter who makes contact reliably can still struggle to choose the right shot. Keep the first practice simple, then vary one thing: direction, length or scoring area. Give feedback after a small set rather than interrupting every swing.
A simple progression
- Tee-drive gate — Guide a straight-bat shot along the ground through a target gate.
- Drop-feed contact — Meet a gently dropped ball after one bounce with a controlled straight swing.
- Back-foot placement — Move back into balance and guide a short, gentle feed into a marked scoring area.
- Call-and-run batting — Connect a controlled shot with a clear running decision.
Choose the right challenge
If the ball is often missed, slow the feed or make the target wider. Once the batter can find the middle of the bat, change the length or direction of the feed, but not both together. Give the player time to notice the difference.
Make feedback useful
After each short round, ask the batter where the ball pitched and why they chose that shot. If they lose balance, slow the feed before discussing bat speed. Look for a steady head, controlled contact and a finish that leaves the player ready for the next ball.
