501 ESSENTIALS OF GOOD HITTING

Contact Zone:
The contact zone (area the ball makes contact with the bat) is just out in front of home-plate.

Gripping The Bat:
For the best bat control, knuckles of the top hand should be lined up with the knuckles on the bottom hand. The bottom hand grips the bat firmly while the upper hand pinches the bat between the index finger and thumb for control purposes. Holding the bat firmly without gripping it to tight will allow for flexibility and control during the swing.

Different Batting Stances:
(1) Even - Both feet are in a straight line with the pitcher.
(2) Open - Front foot is drawn away from the plate, back toward third base.
      with the open stance it is easier to observe the pitcher and pull the ball.
(3).Closed - Front foot drawn closer to the plate, then the back foot. This
      stance helps make contact with the out-side pitch easier.

The Swing Sequence:
(1) Eyes on the ball, weight shifted to your back foot. (or weight should be
      evenly distributed evenly. Experimenting with the weight balance to find
      out what is best for you will help develop a good stance, which is
      paramount to being a good hitter.
(2) Hold the bat three or four inches to the right  from the centre of your chest.
      Note: For right handed hitters-opposite for left handed players.
(3) "Trigger" by taking the bat slightly back an inch or two before starting
       your swing.
(4) The swing starts with the hands and hips coming forward while your
      left foot (kept closed) steps slightly toward the pitcher with a natural stride.
(5) Keeping your head on the ball try to extend your arms fully and roll your
      wrist over with contact. Remember, you are trying to make contact
      with the ball just before it reaches home-plate.

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