3 Drills to Increase Bat Speed
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When any hitter steps up to the plate, the objective is obviously to hit the ball as hard as you possibly can. Although this is easier said than done, there are multiple ways to ensure that your swing is smooth, efficient, and powerful when your barrel passes through the strike zone. Timing, barrel path, and mechanics are all extremely important at the plate. But the key ingredient you need to hit with purpose and intent is Bat Speed.

 

What is Bat Speed?

Bat speed can be defined as the speed of the sweet spot or barrel of the bat at the moment it comes in contact with the baseball.

 

Why Is Bat Speed Important?

Swinging your bat fast is critical to your success at the plate because it determines exactly how hard you’ll be able to hit the baseball. Your bat speed is pivotal because the higher your bat speed, the higher your exit velocity, the higher probability you have of getting on base. This can all be broken down into a science, which our friends at Driveline Baseball break down. Click here to see their equations and the science behind it.

 

  1. Weighted Bat/Resistance Swings:

Using a weighted or heavier bat has been a go-to drill to increase barrel speed through the strike zone. This can be done by either using a designated weighted bat or swinging a bat that is heavier than your gamer. The goal is to hit a few rounds with the weighted bat and then use your everyday bat.

 

  1. Inside Focus Front Tosses:

 Have your BP partner toss balls towards your front hip. This simulates and inside pitch, which forces your hands to be quicker through the zone in order to catch the pitch on the sweet spot of the barrel. This forces more bat speed and if practiced effectively, will speed up your barrel to other pitches in the zone.

 

  1. Explosive Med Ball Throws:

The third drill that can effectively improve your bat speed does not need a bat, but a medicine ball. Rotational med balls throws are one of the best ways to improve your rotational power, and If executed correctly, is the same path as your swing at the plate. Explode with the med ball in practice – explode through the zone at the plate.