Posted by: Coach Ron (ron_reardon@msn.com) on Fri Mar 18 09:02:41 2011

> Hi Ron,
>
> FWIW, I 100% agree. I guess you are looking for votes. I would add though that the kids I have seen need a lot of work on hitting change-ups too. In some case, more than the fastball.
>
>
> Best wishes,
>
> Joe
>
> P.S. Nothing beats experience with pitches in games, but...
> -------

Joe, I agree with that too....and would refine further by saying it's the ***adjustment*** to the offspeed pitch which needs to be drilled. The only way to hit the fastball at the right point of contact is by getting geared up for the fastball and starting the swing before the batter can determine it is a fastball or offspeed. Picking up the ball at the release point is key, as well as being able to slow down--adjust--the hip and shoulder rotation. The pitching machine of course isn't so good for that...mixing in live pitching too is important.