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Hitting and Bunting Mechanics |
| ...the right way goes a long way |
HITTING MECHANICS
First, it must be noted this is simply an overview of hitting and bunting mechanics. Teaching through demonstration is the only way to capture all of the elements needed to maximize hitting potential.
Hitting mechanics are made up of:
1 - Grip;
2 - Stance;
3 - Trigger Mechanism;
4 - Swing Action and Follow Through.
The grip is often overlooked because it seems like such a natural factor. But the reality is too many ball players limit themselves by using a hindering grip. The bat must rest in the hand so that it allows the wrists to accomplish full range of motion. Full range of motion provides bat control and maximum "pop".
Ideally, the bat should rest in the middle of the fingers, as is the case in the photo above. When looking at the grip the middle knuckles (the ones used to knock on doors) should be lined up. The absolute incorrect way to hold the bat is to hold it deep in the hands (palm). This allows very little wrist flex.
With respect to the stance, as is the case with all baseball mechanics, balance is the key. Generally speaking, the feet should be roughly shoulder-width apart. As hitters get older and learn what works best for them, the stance is altered accordingly.
In terms of weight distribution there are two things to consider, weight distribution and balance point. The weight is usually distributed in a 60/40 split between back and front leg. Secondly, the weight is on the balls of the feet. This enables maximum reflex reaction.
In keeping with the good balance objective, the hands should be positioned roughly 7-15 centimetres (3-6 inches) in front of the back shoulder. Contrary to popular belief, the back elbow does not have to be in the "up" position (as shown in the diagram on the left below) so that it is parallel to the shoulder. This tip is often used to encourage ball players to keep their hands up. The reality is the back elbow should be in a relaxed position, as this is the most direct route to making contact with the ball in the strike zone (Think of it this way, what position is the back elbow in when chopping wood.). Finally, the head should be positioned so that it is facing the pitcher with the chin on the front shoulder (please see diagram on the right below).
 
Now that a good grip and balanced stance have been employed, it is time to consider the trigger mechanism. The theory behind the trigger mechanism is identical to the "cocking" motion before delivering a punch. Typically, one does not throw a punch by simply moving the fist forward. In order to achieve maximum force one first cocks the arm (brings the fist back) and then moves the fist forward to deliver the punch.
The trigger mechanism in hitting provides the same purpose, maximum force. The trigger is made up of two movements, cocking of the hands and the front leg stride.
Cocking the hands means taking the hands from the back shoulder position described above and bringing them back another 4-6 centimetres (2-3 inches) in preparation for the forward motion of the swing. Part of that preparation involves weight transfer from back leg to front leg. Therefore, once the hands have been "cocked" the front leg goes into a soft stride of 10-15 centimetres (4-6 inches). The stride must be directed towards the pitcher. This is the most balanced approach. Once the trigger mechanisms are in place, the ball player is ready to begin the swing action.
The first two images on the left in the diagram below display the trigger mechanism, while the other two images indicate the swing aciton.
In terms of the swing action, the first move is with the hips. The rotational force generated from the hips and torso is a significant part of the overall power generated for the swing (as is the case when throwing and/or pitching a ball). The rotation of the hips drives (leads) the swing. The actual swing path is a downward motion from the cocking position to the ball at the strike zone. As we have all heard at one time or another, baseball is a game of inches. Therefore, actions must be done as efficiently and effectively as possible. In terms of the swing the hitter must take the most direct route to the ball (shortest distance between two points is a straight line), which is the downward chopping motion described above.
Finally, the most important aspect of hitting mechanics is the follow through. Too often young ball players try to emulate the pros they see on TV or at the stadium. One of the common errors is taking one hand off the bat. Of course, the pros do this once they have hit the ball. Too often amateurs take a hand off the bat before they have struck the ball. The lesson here is to ensure all hitters continue to swing through the ball as if they are trying to hit two balls, the one they see and the imaginary one two feet infront of it. This will ensure they are maximizing their swing speed.
Hitters displaying a relaxed grip, balanced stance, trigger mechanism and optimal swing path will put themselves in a position to succeed.
BUNTING MECHANICS
Looking at an overview of the fundamentals of bunting there are three factors to consider:
1 - Grip;
2 - Stance;
3 - Bunting Action.
As is the case with hitting, a proper grip when bunting allows for maximum control. There are two parts to the grip, the top hand and bottom hand.
The top hand should pinch the bat between the index finger and thumb, while the bottom hand should grasp the bat in the middle of the fingers (similar to a hitting grip) about 2 centimetres (1 inch) from the knob of the bat. The top hand should be positioned so that the batter can easily hold up the balanced bat with that one hand. This grip allows the top hand to be used as a fulcrum, which can be directed by the bottom hand. For example, a right handed hitter who bring the knob of the bat closer to his/her belly, while not moving the top hand, would direct the bunt to go down the third base line. Conversely, if that same hitter moved the knob of the bat away from the belly, the bunt would be directed to the first base line.
In terms of stance there are two approaches taught, pivot (left photo above) and square (right photo above) method. Both have their merits and neither is absolutely the best. Personal preference plays a significant role in determining which method to teach.
Regardless of method there are certain factors that are a given. First, the feet are roughly shoulder-width apart with knees slightly bent (important for balance). Secondly, the weight is on the balls of the feet (enables the hitter to react properly). Thirdly, The bat is angled at roughly a 45 degree angle (ensures the ball is directed towards the ground). And finally, the arms are extended so that the bat is out in front of the plate and the elbows are at a slight bend (promotes control).
The difference between the pivot method and the square method is in one method a hitter abandons his/her hitting stance (square method). The square method asks the back foot to be brought forward to be in line with the front foot. The pivot method simply warrants the back foot to pivot so that it points towards the pitcher, much the same as it would during the swing action of hitting.
The Baseball Mechanic prefers to teach the pivot method because of safety. The pivot method allows the hitter to spin away from the ball coming at his/her ribs. The square method can leave a hitter looking like a deer caught in head lights when a ball is pitched at his/her chest.
The final element in bunting mechanics is the actualy bunting action. The best way to describe it is to say the hitter attempts to catch the ball with the bat. This will promote a soft touch. Further, during the bunting action the angle of the bat should never change. A high or low pitch should be compensated with bending or extending the legs. |
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