Hitting
the Off Speed Pitch
Confidence, Discipline and Repetition. These
are the main keys to good hitting. Good hitters are usually
aggressive hitters. Aggressive hitters are generally very good at
hitting the fastball, but struggle with the off speed pitch.
Hitting the off speed pitch requires all of the above keys, but
especially discipline.
Two of the most important phases of hitting
cycle are the stride and the hands to the ball. The hitter must
keep the hands behind the hips and not shift their weight with
the stride.
Off speed pitches are designed to get you to commit your weight too soon, get you off balance, and take your body out of the swing. In essence, you become an "arms only" hitter and your power and effectiveness are severely hampered.