Contact Hitting

Question
Larry,

I currently coach a select 14U team.  Several of the girls strike out way too often.  Any drills/suggestions that would help the girls learn how to put the ball in play better?  

CH

Answer
I'm a true believer of the short, quick, powerful swing. This method works best for most girls playing fast pitch softball.

1. To create a short swing the radius must shorten, and then lengthen through contact and extension. Starting the swing with the hands close to the body assists in keeping the radius from getting too wide, early in the swing.

2. Think "short to, long through" the ball.

3. Thinking "knob straight to the ball" will shorten the swing arc.

4. Minimize the linear components of the swing such as a big stride and weight shift. The farther the center of gravity moves forward, the more the hands have to "play catch up" in order to get out in front of the body.