ive been using Pro Speed baseball for 4 years, Michael is absolutely the best teacher ive ever seen, his plan works, my son plays college ball and actually had no chance to play until we started working with Pro Speed in August 2019
Hey Michael, My son is 10 and one of the top players in his league. He is a natural athlete and absolutely loves the game. This year he started having trouble with pop ups. Every game, no matter how hard we worked he was popping up. I even started taking him to a hitting couch, and although he was obviously very knowledgeable, nothing changed. Because I was already a fan of your free RUclips vids, I decided to purchase your hitting course. Best decision I have ever made for the growth of my sons game. The way in which you break down the mechanics of the swing into separate parts makes all the difference. He is now hitting more rocket line drives in the gaps than I imagined possible. I'll be reaching out to you soon to get your opinion of his swing. HUGE fan. Keep doing what you do.
Hey Luis, this is absolutely awesome! It's tough to get to all of the comments here on RUclips, but I'm glad I ran into this one! Great stuff. Feel free to hit me up whenever, I'd be happy to take a look at his swing for you guys: michael AT pro speed baseball DOT com. Let me know who you are in the email! Talk soon! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
First, I am a big fan of your videos. I do think that "hands to the ball" in general promotes a great move from the top but generally forces youth players to hit at the ball instead of through. This, in my opinion, is why there are posture and balance issues for most youth players because they are trying to hit "at" the ball. I agree with this video in premise and the science is hard to argue against (your communication is superb)...but the application of the drill particularly with youth players "handle to the ball" will complicate matters as far as I can tell. I feel like at some point you will have to remind the student to not literally hit the ball on the handle no matter the tee position. It also appears this would promote the barrel around the ball, which is what I already fight against with youth swings, especially on the tee. Again, your content is much appreciated!
Thank You! This is such an awesome video. My son plays Mustang league, and after watching Swing Plane Secret and this video, (and a lot of practicing hands to the ball) his batting has improved incredibly. Last night he hit a grand slam followed by a 3 run homer. These are, by far, the best batting instructions around. He really appreciates these videos and wanted me to tell you that.
That is awesome to hear! Thank you so much for commenting! Really glad to hear the instruction is helping out and you guys like it! I'd take 7 RBI's in two swings any day! You guys are more than welcome, and tell your boy, "nice work!" Keep up the smart/hard work. If you guys ever have any questions, or if there's anything we can help with, just let us know! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Watched this video a few times. Used your tips and it felt so good hitting off that sweet spot. The ball was just flying off the bat. Keep up the good work.
+ROBERTO SALAZAR Hey Roberto, really glad the instruction is helping out. This is a great one, especially when it comes to good contact like you said. (Great feeling!) Thanks for the awesome comment, and we'll definitely have more videos on the way! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
If you are a non believer, just go out and try it. If you are having a hard time getting the barrel to the ball, you will love how the barrel whips to the ball! Thank you for the great videos! I'm about to go on the website and sign up!
You are most welcome! Thanks for the awesome comment. You should see the look on some of my newer students when I have them do the drill in this video. They get all sweet spot and swear up and down they were trying to hit the handle! Excited for you to join the website! If you need any help or have any questions, just let us know! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Awesome video! I have a question. Is it possible to separate your hands too much? As in, my pulling arm is over extending because my hips are coming through the zone too early?
Yes, it is definitely possible to separate too much. Think about trying to jump as high as you can... Your full range of motion would allow you to squat very low, however you wouldn't be able to jump will full efficiency if you used that full range of motion. Here you could imagine a basketball player going in for a dunk and squatting with their glutes almost to the floor before they jumped... Same with hip torso separation... It is better for the separation to be timed and powerful, than just simply trying to do it as much as possible. It sounds good, but definitely is counter productive. To clarify, a good amount of separation is key for maximizing efficiency, however, too much of most things is simply too much! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Your definitely the most knowledgable baseball instructor I have ever seen anywhere. It seems these baseball swing dynamics of taking the hands to the ball and allowing the bat drag to happen naturally work better as the swing speed increases. Isn't it easier to teach younger players to take the knob of the bat to the ball. I've also heard instructors promote a "high knob" approach with younger payers .
Great videos! Would all these hitting instructions be transferable to fastpitch softball as well? Do you instruct any fastpitch softball players or only pure baseball?
Yes, every hitting lessons directly translates to fast pitch softball. And yes, we absolutely work with softball players as well! Thanks for the question! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Best video ive seen in a while. Its been killing me watching all these new videos focusing on hips, stride, and launch angle. While ignoring your hands. Hell Josh Donaldson said in one of his videos he doesnt even feel his hands I feel this is a big mistake to teach young kids. More times than not i see young kids who take this approach just spin out with there shoulder. And even when they make contact its very weak even when catch the sweet spot of the bat. I fee bring you hands to the ball gives you that second level of bat speed and force that strong wrist snap. Glad i found this video.
+Brock Phillips Awesome to hear! (Not that you were late to work) but that you are liking the instruction! If you have any questions on anything, just let us know! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
I'm left handed, I have been practicing for try outs every day and 70-80% of my hits are to left field. So I'm hitting oppo a lot of the time. I feel like I'm under it most of the time. Idea for fix? Or should I even be worried? Thanks and keep up the great work.
+TOXICxACHIEVER +TOXICxACHIEVER Tough to say exactly what's going on without physically seeing your swing, there are multiple reasons why this could be happening. We have a great video coming out on ball striking direction that should help give you an idea of what's going on. WIsh I could help more, please feel free to ask more questions or let us know if you need help with anything! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
That was me 2-3 years ago. I would rly work on batspeed and do drills where you purposely come down to the ball, this will get your hands quicker and also be able to see the ball longer
2 big things to hit a curve ball, maintaining your eye level and timing. I'd suggest checking out any of the hitting approach videos we have on RUclips and pay attention to the 2 strike approach mentioned in those videos. They talk about timing the ball later in the swing. As far as keeping your eyes level, I would check out the Fix Head With 1 Simple Step video here: ruclips.net/video/lH4udG9zzhw/видео.html Hope this helps out! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Just started watching your videos 2 days ago and in my first game using what I learned today I hit an inside the park home run that I crushed over the right fielders head and a double to left that I crushed. Thanks man keep the videos comin
+Kevin Kagel Awesome to hear Kevin! Nice work! Kudos for taking the time to research the game and put it to use. Keep working at it and if you ever have any questions, just let us know! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
+Jorge Martinez Absolutely! Just pay attention to your timing, if you're on time you will catch the sweet spot perfectly. If you're early you will hit it more towards the end of the bat, and if you're a little late you'll hit it more towards the handle.' Good Luck! If you get a sec, let us know how it goes! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
+MegaGamingGames Would be happy to check out your swing. You can send it to my email that's available on the main page of our website (towards the bottom CONTACT section). ProSpeedBaseball.com I will say, however, that I do get a TON of emails, and it might take me a little bit to get back to you. If you are looking for some consistent instruction, I would suggest checking out the Pro Swing System or our Unlimited Online Reviews program on the website as well! Thanks for the comment, look forward to hearing from you! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
-Thanks You Michael for all your work here! I really enjoy your vidéo, I'm french and beginner at baseball, for 6 month and since i look at your tips, i really improved my position, mouvement and seems to be working well for me, I feel that way for now at least=) So thanks you Again, you have that something which help to understand the way to do it!
+Emmanuel Court You are most welcome Emmanuel, and thank you for the amazing comment! Really glad to hear the instruction is helping you get a good start in the game! If you ever have any questions, just let us know! Good luck out there! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
I enjoy your videos, thanks for making them. I understand what you're saying regarding physics, etc. but I have to ask what the difference is between what you're proposing and "casting" or extending the hands too far from the body to be able to hit the ball with the sweet spot of the bat and jamming.
+M Harper Thanks M Harper! You are most welcome! "Casting" is a term used for early release of bat lag, meaning the barrel is thrown around the ball. This video is going over how taking the hands to the ball with bat lag works. I could've probably explained this a little better in the video, but I wasn't saying to have full extension at contact. I was simply showing the extremes of how far the arms can get off the body without the hands getting to the ball. The thing to take from this video is that when you take your hands on a direct route to the ball, physics will take over due to the speed of the bat and counterbalance your hands to make square contact... ...and, if the hands are relaxed and bat lag is created properly, this will maximize speed and efficient contact into the ball. Pretty difficult to explain in text, but I hope this makes sense. If you have any other questions on this or anything else, just let us know! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
+Pro Speed Baseball Thanks for the response. I understand what you're saying, especially about getting your hands there first, the way you make it sound in the video is that by "taking your hands to the ball" you are supposed to extend your hands from your body as though you were trying to hit the ball with your hands. But then when you would swing naturally, it was clear that you were not extending your hands, but keeping them inside. I think the take away is think about getting your hands in the swing path first and the bat will follow. I always understood "casting" as this extension of the hands from the body, putting the barrel of the bat beyond the lateral strike zone and getting jammed, hitting the ball with the inside of the bat.
Anytime! Wish I could explain everything perfectly, but that would be an extremely long video! But, you're take-away is spot on. The move you will feel like your doing is taking your hands to the ball and extending. Yet, because of the physics explained in the video, the bat will follow and counter-balance the hand path. If you ever have any other questions, just let us know! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Remember, the process works better if the elbows are still slightly bent at contact, and do not fully extend until after contact. Also, if you watch MLB swings (slo-mo) during a game a lot of balls are struck at just in front of the knee, not the foot. Obviously, there are all kinds of contact, with lots of variance.
I think I'll revisit this with Kalei. I'll have him do this still trying to him the ball with the handle and record him trying this a bunch of times for you.
This approach, in my perspective will add power but your timing has to be perfect, swinging more on plane like Jose Altuve will get you a MVP. This is not semantics this is two totally different aproaches.
My nephew is extending his lead arm too early in his swing. I don't know how to teach him that he needs to "turn into the swing." And he keeps dragging his bat/swing. His back elbow is coming in front of the knob which is causing his barrel to drop. How should we go about fixing it? He uses a 29inch/20oz (he's 9 and 4'8.5, weighs 83 pounds) during the playoffs but he kept hitting hard groundballs or flying out. And his coach kept saying he has a long, slow swing? He kept giving him lighter, small barrel bat but it didn't help much. :/ we're clueless right now.
Without physically seeing his swing, it would be really tough to tell you guys what to work on... The biggest issue here is that there might be a core position/move in his swing causing him to "drag" or pop up... Almost all swing issues can be resolved from positioning alone. Example: Opening up too soon could be caused by the hands being to far behind the body during the load... I'd be happy to help out best I can, maybe take a look at his swing on video.... If you guys would like to email me directly, you can at the bottom of the home page at ProSpeedBaseball.com, then we can go from there! In the mean time, I would highly recommend checking out the free lessons on the website. They go over the entire swing, start to finish and give a really good overview of positioning and how things work in the swing. ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Thanks so much for this video. It has made a huge difference on my two ball players who are 9 and 11 years old. They now understand the science concepts behind hitting. After working on the drills for two weeks, they have had amazing results. Opening weekend tournament they both crushed the ball by "taking their hands to the ball". I appreciate your videos and knowledge. Please keep it up!
+Amy McKenzie You guys are more than welcome!! Really glad the instruction is helping with their games! There is a huge advantage in knowing what the proper mechanics are and why they work the way they do. Thanks for the awesome comment! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
+Ian Thorley Haha, yea, their going to be very similar. The point of the take your handle to the ball drill is to give a visual to the hitter. When the hitter attempts to do this drill, they will see right away that the physics take over and we can free up those hands! Thanks for the comment! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
do a mental video for younger kids. think in practice, game time let your practice work for you and i would clear my head and think simply "see the ball hit the ball". I'm a coach now it would be good to have a video. thanks
Great idea! We actually shot a video last week on something very similar to this, also sounds like a great subject to focus on in a separate lesson. We'll put it on the list! Thanks for the request! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
I have a question. Why are you telling us to take are hands to the ball and then in the drill saying take the handle (which is above the hands) to the ball? Ps: great videos!
+Brandon Taylor52 Thanks for the question! When most hitters try to take their hands to the ball, they don't quite trust it all the way. By thinking "handle to the ball" it forces the hands to go towards the ball because the hands are right next to the handle. The drill is designed to show you that if you how the physics explained in this video work! Hope this answers your question! If you have any other questions on this or anything else, just let us know! Thanks for the awesome comment! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
swing level with the p itch,not the ground,,this requires a 10 degree up tilt cause ALL PITCHES COME AT A DOWN TILT,,KILL THE MYTHS AND LEARN TO GET ON PLANE WITH THE PITCH NOT THE GROUND .
Hey Johnny, thanks for the comment! If you haven't already, I would check out the Swing Plane Secret Videos on our channel that prequel this video. The swing, as we mention, isn't down, the hand path is... and because of the physics of what happens when force is applied to the light end of a lever (aka the bat) there is a counterbalance type action that happens that gives us our positive strike on the ball. It is extremely difficult, considering the physics of swinging a top heavy object, to swing down on the ball. It's really quite interesting when you think about it. You're absolutely right that there is a positive angle of attach on the ball, yet how this actually happens in terms of physics, ideally, is a direct hand path. Hope this helps clear up the instruction. So tough to get every detail in every video :P ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
No one extends their hands down to the ball,the handle will hit the ball ,not the barrel,arms should never extend down to the pitch,,watch Josh Donaldson on video 43,,back elbow slotted against side and arms not extended til after the swing,,,then out towards pitcher never down,,how horrible this video is
This is a very tough subject to teach through video! I appreciate your critique though! I've had lots of comments similar to yours, which is why we will be coming out with a video soon using numerical data to back this up. The main point of this video and the Swing Plane Secret videos is to explain hand path and the physics of what happens to the bat during the swing. It takes some time to put the video together, but we've tested numerous swings already with myself and other professionals that I work with. My swing seems to be on the chopping block for the most part since I hit a lot of balls on a low placed tee in the videos and it appears to be a downward swing... ...even had me thinking there for a bit. However, when we tested my swing on sensors, even low pitches had an ascending blow on the ball! Even the one's that appear to be swinging down.... It's crazy but it's actually pretty difficult to swing at a high speed and hit a ball on the downswing... We tried :P I've tested this in the past with other radar equipment, but never one with a 3-D playback. The results are great and even better prove the physics explanations in these videos. I'd really like for you to check it out when we release the video to get your perspective on it! Thanks for commenting! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Haha, thanks! It is a very simple concept that is pretty difficult to explain on video. Really glad it made sense! Thanks for commenting! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
All of you saying he is wrong are really missing out on the point of the video. He is simply saying that if you create the correct hand path you will have a downward swing and correct positioning of the bat at contact. It's a simpler way to teach the swing mechanics.
Hey Johnny, thanks for the comment! If you haven't already, I would check out the Swing Plane Secret Videos on our channel that prequel this video. The swing, as we mention, isn't down, the hand path is... and because of the physics of what happens when force is applied to the light end of a lever (aka the bat) there is a counterbalance type action that happens that gives us our positive strike on the ball. It is extremely difficult, considering the physics of swinging a top heavy object, to swing down on the ball. It's really quite interesting when you think about it. You're absolutely right that there is a positive angle of attach on the ball, yet how this actually happens in terms of physics, ideally, is a direct hand path. Hope this helps clear up the instruction. So tough to get every detail in every video :P ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Haha, yes, swinging level is not really in the realm of possibilities when we are talking about attempting to swing level on a consistent basis. Understanding how the bat works in the swing is huge advantage by keeping hitters from trying to attain something that's not going to aid in hitting better. Thanks for the question! Glad you liked the lesson! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
If you blink and miss the point at 7:25 where it's really take your hands to the inside of the ball. Not to the ball... you are all messed up. Point in case is me. I had to learn the proper instructions a year later from another instructor. I don't appreciate the waste in time. Please remake this video properly and take this one down. It's the focal point of your teaching and correct aiming!
Hey Bryant, thanks for the comment! Sorry you had a difficult time understanding the instruction. It's hard to get every detail in every video. This video in particular, was part 3 of 3 videos. (Swing Plane Secret, Swing Plane Secret Revisited if you want to check them out.) In these videos, we explain how the counterbalance of the end-heavy lever (aka the bat) involuntarily forces are hands inside their intended path. Therefore, if our hand bat is inside the ball the we are effectively taking the mass of the bat away from impact. If our intended hand path is direct, the counterbalance will give us a net effect of solid and square hit. (based on timing of course.) Hope this helps out! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
I usually love your stuff but I just have to respectfully disagree with you on this and on that vertical toe line thing...They are tie together... I just think your missing the elastic properties the body makes and the proper hand channeling... I really dislike cues... I think, this one can very easily teach disconnection...Without going into too much... Obviously I believe in the elastic properties and proper bone angles....I think a lot of the hands to the ball is just letting it happen with some shoulder and hand alignment... I feel like there are two planes one on your right side and one on the left side... And going into the second feels week for fractions of a second than most powerful as you push through the ball... I really am not a fan of stopping the swing at contact... No such think in the real swing... That gives a false impression... You would never do that...Maybe the transfer of energy goes from one to another but the swing is a head and through the ball...Sorry! Thanks.
Yeah both elbows should be bent at contact. When u lock both elbows, you lose all power and will rotate your hands waaay to early. You should extend through the ball, not at contact. NEVER at contact. I teach elbow to the ball so you keep elbows bent at contact.
I mean this with the utmost respect, but you're just dead wrong about almost everything you say in this video. I think if you want to teach the art of hitting, you need to consider that how you learned wasn't correct. Taking the hands to the ball is a horrible cue to use w/ hitters, let alone just plain incorrect. I'm not even sure what you're doing, and I'd recommend just watching some MLB hitter swing, and outside of McCutchen almost NO MLB hitters have a hybrid hands to the ball rotational swings.
Think of rotational swings as, what are the basic body movements during a swing? most incoming pitched balls travel on somewhat of a downward plane except for that high riser, so the fact that the shoulders do not/should not rotate during the approach of an incoming pitched ball, the shoulders have/should have an up and down tilt on a lateral axis all on a vertical plane, the angle of the incoming pitched ball dictates the necessary body tilt makes sense, I teach batters to start with a slightly tilted front shoulder. The rotational aspect of hitting is executed only through one's hips during their pivot to contact, the rear knee pivot will initiate rotational hip pivot. Due to MLB batters mental anxiety's to hit home runs their bat path angles are escalating tremendously. GreatBaseBall-N Don Ervin Former Philly, pro player ame392002@yahoo.com
Hey Johnny, thanks for the comment! If you haven't already, I would check out the Swing Plane Secret Videos on our channel that prequel this video. The swing, as we mention, isn't down, the hand path is... and because of the physics of what happens when force is applied to the light end of a lever (aka the bat) there is a counterbalance type action that happens that gives us our positive strike on the ball. It is extremely difficult, considering the physics of swinging a top heavy object, to swing down on the ball. It's really quite interesting when you think about it. You're absolutely right that there is a positive angle of attach on the ball, yet how this actually happens in terms of physics, ideally, is a direct hand path. Hope this helps clear up the instruction. So tough to get every detail in every video :P ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
The great one,{MR.Ted Williams} kept his hands inside of the ball while taking the barrel following barrel lag down into a level plane with/into the downward flight of the incoming ball followed with/by a slight five degree barrel upswing immediately following barrel to ball contact allowing the barrel to continue it's swing through it's follow through. in my playing days we were taught that there were two barrel movement segments to contact and on through the follow through, {#1.was/is a {stroke} to contact} and {#2.The barrel follow through {was/is} the {swing segment} of the barrel movement, we were encouraged to think of the barrel movement from the launch position to follow through as, {barrel stroke to contact,} {barrel swing to and through follow through.}
Please show a video of a mlb level hitter who is consistently hitting 35+ homeruns a year that 'takes there hands to the ball'. When your body initiates the swing, a centrifugal force is produced. Simply by throwing your hands at the ball you are disconnecting the swing from the main source of power -that being YOUR BODY.
Sam Scott - Freddie Freeman. The knob of his bat would almost hit the ball if his timing was off. He has the best baseball swing IMO. He swings to hit, not just for power. He stays inside the baseball and is content to going opposite field every at bat.
I see the instructor, move the feet placement to set up each explanation of inside , outside , time late swing early, etc never setting feet with consistency, ..i agree with physics, but not sure it was presented correctly or explained well enough here..keep trying coach. your obviously pationate.
+James Derby Thanks for the comment James. The feet positioning was changing due to the information being presented at the specific time of the video. Was attempting to make the video understandable without making it 45 minutes long! (Which it could have easily been) Appreciate the critique and the comment! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
+Pro Speed Baseball I can see, how it could turn into a long video..if every detail was presented, that being said im using some of your advise at BP today.
Of course not! haha, the bat hits the ball... and like stated in the video, the hands cannot reach the ball unless timing is extremely late or we do something very off with our body during the swing... therefore the hands are always inside the ball... ... the key is to create a good transition as hands are going to the ball and the counterbalance from swing physics will take over. I'd recommend checking out the Swing Plane Secret videos! Thanks for commenting! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
In my many years of playing, coaching and most importantly, my many hours of researching I have found that teaching batters how and why to keep their hands inside of the ball while taking the barrel to the ball after barrel lag, along with teaching them the difference between barrel lag and barrel drag is more understandable for batters to comprehend. Great BaseBall-N Don Ervin, former pro player in the Philly's org. ame392002@yahoo.com
Ask a physics teacher. Ball is on 8 to 10 degree down slope. Efficient force vector would be at 8 to 10 degree up slope in opposite direction. Chris O'Leary video shows homers have no spin. Great hitters contact on up slope. Any backspin created from downswing would not create enough lift to compensate for inefficient contact with ball. Again, just ask a physics teacher , I did.
This is so so incorrect. It's sad that so many people are watching this and nodding their heads. Some day this guy will learn the correct mechanics that MLB pros ACTUALLY use and he will have to debate whether to do the right thing and take this video down. For a guy that tries to sound like a scientist talking about variables, mass, centrifugal force, physics, etc., its crazy that he doesn't watch slow motion footage of ANY MLB OR even NCAA Fastpitch swing to see ALL of them keep hands much higher above the ball than him. This is the instruction that sets players way back and many don't go as far as they could have because of it. Likely him as well.
You guy's, he is actually correct in what he is doing. The only thing he needs to change is the saying "take your hands to the ball". It needs to be more like "getting your hands in-line" with the ball and stay behind it.
john johnson you know I thought that at first when I saw his video, but actually prospered baseball is correct. The problem with Donaldsons explanation is that he was demonstrating dropping his bat behind his hands and then swinging. He doesn't do that with a normal swing. This guy here is saying to swing DOWN at the ball he's just trying to explain how to have a short efficient swing so it's just from point A to point B. It's also all about timing.
John Johnson you know I thought that at first when I saw his video, but actually prospeed baseball is correct. The problem with Donaldsons explanation is that he was demonstrating dropping his bat behind his hands and then swinging. He doesn't do that with a normal swing. This guy here is saying to swing DOWN at the ball he's just trying to explain how to have a short efficient swing so it's just from point A to point B. It's also all about timing.
To be fair, Donaldson was talking about hitting for power and how you don't get paid in the big leagues to just make solid contact. I love that video and have used it with my team, but you also need to take it in the context it was given.
john johnson no it's not man. Obviously different things work with different hitters that works for him but it won't work for all. Of Dee Gordon did that he wouldn't be as productive. This is for line drives single double. Also it's dumbed down a lot. He probably could have made a two hour video on this
ive been using Pro Speed baseball for 4 years, Michael is absolutely the best teacher ive ever seen, his plan works, my son plays college ball and actually had no chance to play until we started working with Pro Speed in August 2019
Hey Michael,
My son is 10 and one of the top players in his league. He is a natural athlete and absolutely loves the game. This year he started having trouble with pop ups. Every game, no matter how hard we worked he was popping up. I even started taking him to a hitting couch, and although he was obviously very knowledgeable, nothing changed. Because I was already a fan of your free RUclips vids, I decided to purchase your hitting course. Best decision I have ever made for the growth of my sons game. The way in which you break down the mechanics of the swing into separate parts makes all the difference.
He is now hitting more rocket line drives in the gaps than I imagined possible.
I'll be reaching out to you soon to get your opinion of his swing. HUGE fan. Keep doing what you do.
Hey Luis, this is absolutely awesome! It's tough to get to all of the comments here on RUclips, but I'm glad I ran into this one! Great stuff. Feel free to hit me up whenever, I'd be happy to take a look at his swing for you guys: michael AT pro speed baseball DOT com. Let me know who you are in the email!
Talk soon! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
First, I am a big fan of your videos. I do think that "hands to the ball" in general promotes a great move from the top but generally forces youth players to hit at the ball instead of through. This, in my opinion, is why there are posture and balance issues for most youth players because they are trying to hit "at" the ball. I agree with this video in premise and the science is hard to argue against (your communication is superb)...but the application of the drill particularly with youth players "handle to the ball" will complicate matters as far as I can tell. I feel like at some point you will have to remind the student to not literally hit the ball on the handle no matter the tee position. It also appears this would promote the barrel around the ball, which is what I already fight against with youth swings, especially on the tee.
Again, your content is much appreciated!
Thank You! This is such an awesome video. My son plays Mustang league, and after watching Swing Plane Secret and this video, (and a lot of practicing hands to the ball) his batting has improved incredibly. Last night he hit a grand slam followed by a 3 run homer. These are, by far, the best batting instructions around. He really appreciates these videos and wanted me to tell you that.
That is awesome to hear! Thank you so much for commenting! Really glad to hear the instruction is helping out and you guys like it!
I'd take 7 RBI's in two swings any day!
You guys are more than welcome, and tell your boy, "nice work!"
Keep up the smart/hard work. If you guys ever have any questions, or if there's anything we can help with, just let us know! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Watched this video a few times. Used your tips and it felt so good hitting off that sweet spot. The ball was just flying off the bat. Keep up the good work.
+ROBERTO SALAZAR Hey Roberto, really glad the instruction is helping out. This is a great one, especially when it comes to good contact like you said. (Great feeling!)
Thanks for the awesome comment, and we'll definitely have more videos on the way! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
If you are a non believer, just go out and try it. If you are having a hard time getting the barrel to the ball, you will love how the barrel whips to the ball!
Thank you for the great videos! I'm about to go on the website and sign up!
You are most welcome! Thanks for the awesome comment. You should see the look on some of my newer students when I have them do the drill in this video. They get all sweet spot and swear up and down they were trying to hit the handle!
Excited for you to join the website! If you need any help or have any questions, just let us know!
~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Awesome video! I have a question. Is it possible to separate your hands too much? As in, my pulling arm is over extending because my hips are coming through the zone too early?
Yes, it is definitely possible to separate too much. Think about trying to jump as high as you can... Your full range of motion would allow you to squat very low, however you wouldn't be able to jump will full efficiency if you used that full range of motion.
Here you could imagine a basketball player going in for a dunk and squatting with their glutes almost to the floor before they jumped...
Same with hip torso separation... It is better for the separation to be timed and powerful, than just simply trying to do it as much as possible. It sounds good, but definitely is counter productive.
To clarify, a good amount of separation is key for maximizing efficiency, however, too much of most things is simply too much!
~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Your definitely the most knowledgable baseball instructor I have ever seen anywhere. It seems these baseball swing dynamics of taking the hands to the ball and allowing the bat drag to happen naturally work better as the swing speed increases. Isn't it easier to teach younger players to take the knob of the bat to the ball. I've also heard instructors promote a "high knob" approach with younger payers .
Great videos! Would all these hitting instructions be transferable to fastpitch softball as well? Do you instruct any fastpitch softball players or only pure baseball?
Yes, every hitting lessons directly translates to fast pitch softball. And yes, we absolutely work with softball players as well! Thanks for the question! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Best video ive seen in a while. Its been killing me watching all these new videos focusing on hips, stride, and launch angle. While ignoring your hands. Hell Josh Donaldson said in one of his videos he doesnt even feel his hands I feel this is a big mistake to teach young kids. More times than not i see young kids who take this approach just spin out with there shoulder. And even when they make contact its very weak even when catch the sweet spot of the bat. I fee bring you hands to the ball gives you that second level of bat speed and force that strong wrist snap. Glad i found this video.
I was late to work watching your videos. I hope my players do well with your drills!
+Brock Phillips Awesome to hear! (Not that you were late to work) but that you are liking the instruction!
If you have any questions on anything, just let us know! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Awesome stuff! I feel like I could actually hit a baseball now!
+3in1allinme Thanks 3in1allinme! Commit to it and it will open you're whole hitting world! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
I'm left handed, I have been practicing for try outs every day and 70-80% of my hits are to left field. So I'm hitting oppo a lot of the time. I feel like I'm under it most of the time. Idea for fix? Or should I even be worried? Thanks and keep up the great work.
+TOXICxACHIEVER +TOXICxACHIEVER Tough to say exactly what's going on without physically seeing your swing, there are multiple reasons why this could be happening.
We have a great video coming out on ball striking direction that should help give you an idea of what's going on.
WIsh I could help more, please feel free to ask more questions or let us know if you need help with anything!
~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
That was me 2-3 years ago. I would rly work on batspeed and do drills where you purposely come down to the ball, this will get your hands quicker and also be able to see the ball longer
Do you have a video on gripping the bat the right way?
Really enjoy your videos man, very helpful!
+Colby Clayton Thanks Colby! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
+Pro Speed Baseball hey i have a problem on hitting curveballs can you give me some tips to make me a better curveball hitter
2 big things to hit a curve ball, maintaining your eye level and timing.
I'd suggest checking out any of the hitting approach videos we have on RUclips and pay attention to the 2 strike approach mentioned in those videos.
They talk about timing the ball later in the swing.
As far as keeping your eyes level, I would check out the Fix Head With 1 Simple Step video here:
ruclips.net/video/lH4udG9zzhw/видео.html
Hope this helps out!
~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Just started watching your videos 2 days ago and in my first game using what I learned today I hit an inside the park home run that I crushed over the right fielders head and a double to left that I crushed. Thanks man keep the videos comin
+Kevin Kagel Awesome to hear Kevin! Nice work! Kudos for taking the time to research the game and put it to use. Keep working at it and if you ever have any questions, just let us know!
~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Can I use the drill you explained on the tee while taking front toss also?
+Jorge Martinez Absolutely! Just pay attention to your timing, if you're on time you will catch the sweet spot perfectly. If you're early you will hit it more towards the end of the bat, and if you're a little late you'll hit it more towards the handle.'
Good Luck! If you get a sec, let us know how it goes! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Hey, nice video I was just wondering if I can send you my swing and we can see what I can improve thanks!
+MegaGamingGames Would be happy to check out your swing. You can send it to my email that's available on the main page of our website (towards the bottom CONTACT section).
ProSpeedBaseball.com
I will say, however, that I do get a TON of emails, and it might take me a little bit to get back to you. If you are looking for some consistent instruction, I would suggest checking out the Pro Swing System or our Unlimited Online Reviews program on the website as well!
Thanks for the comment, look forward to hearing from you! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
-Thanks You Michael for all your work here! I really enjoy your vidéo, I'm french and beginner at baseball, for 6 month and since i look at your tips, i really improved my position, mouvement and seems to be working well for me, I feel that way for now at least=) So thanks you Again, you have that something which help to understand the way to do it!
+Emmanuel Court You are most welcome Emmanuel, and thank you for the amazing comment!
Really glad to hear the instruction is helping you get a good start in the game! If you ever have any questions, just let us know!
Good luck out there! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Спасибо за такие полезные видео! очень помогаете
+mrsVodenjan Вы очень радушны , thakn за удивительными комментариями ! ~MIchael Pro Speed Baseball
I enjoy your videos, thanks for making them. I understand what you're saying regarding physics, etc. but I have to ask what the difference is between what you're proposing and "casting" or extending the hands too far from the body to be able to hit the ball with the sweet spot of the bat and jamming.
+M Harper Thanks M Harper! You are most welcome!
"Casting" is a term used for early release of bat lag, meaning the barrel is thrown around the ball.
This video is going over how taking the hands to the ball with bat lag works.
I could've probably explained this a little better in the video, but I wasn't saying to have full extension at contact. I was simply showing the extremes of how far the arms can get off the body without the hands getting to the ball.
The thing to take from this video is that when you take your hands on a direct route to the ball, physics will take over due to the speed of the bat and counterbalance your hands to make square contact...
...and, if the hands are relaxed and bat lag is created properly, this will maximize speed and efficient contact into the ball.
Pretty difficult to explain in text, but I hope this makes sense. If you have any other questions on this or anything else, just let us know!
~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
+Pro Speed Baseball
Thanks for the response. I understand what you're saying, especially about getting your hands there first, the way you make it sound in the video is that by "taking your hands to the ball" you are supposed to extend your hands from your body as though you were trying to hit the ball with your hands. But then when you would swing naturally, it was clear that you were not extending your hands, but keeping them inside. I think the take away is think about getting your hands in the swing path first and the bat will follow.
I always understood "casting" as this extension of the hands from the body, putting the barrel of the bat beyond the lateral strike zone and getting jammed, hitting the ball with the inside of the bat.
Anytime! Wish I could explain everything perfectly, but that would be an extremely long video!
But, you're take-away is spot on. The move you will feel like your doing is taking your hands to the ball and extending.
Yet, because of the physics explained in the video, the bat will follow and counter-balance the hand path.
If you ever have any other questions, just let us know! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
thanks this really helped.
+Ivan Reyes You are most welcome Ivan! Thanks for the great comment! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Remember, the process works better if the elbows are still slightly bent at contact, and do not fully extend until after contact. Also, if you watch MLB swings (slo-mo) during a game a lot of balls are struck at just in front of the knee, not the foot. Obviously, there are all kinds of contact, with lots of variance.
I think I'll revisit this with Kalei. I'll have him do this still trying to him the ball with the handle and record him trying this a bunch of times for you.
That would be great! This is a great one to revisit. Can't beat solid contact! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
This approach, in my perspective will add power but your timing has to be perfect, swinging more on plane like Jose Altuve will get you a MVP. This is not semantics this is two totally different aproaches.
My nephew is extending his lead arm too early in his swing. I don't know how to teach him that he needs to "turn into the swing." And he keeps dragging his bat/swing. His back elbow is coming in front of the knob which is causing his barrel to drop.
How should we go about fixing it? He uses a 29inch/20oz (he's 9 and 4'8.5, weighs 83 pounds) during the playoffs but he kept hitting hard groundballs or flying out. And his coach kept saying he has a long, slow swing? He kept giving him lighter, small barrel bat but it didn't help much. :/ we're clueless right now.
Without physically seeing his swing, it would be really tough to tell you guys what to work on... The biggest issue here is that there might be a core position/move in his swing causing him to "drag" or pop up...
Almost all swing issues can be resolved from positioning alone. Example: Opening up too soon could be caused by the hands being to far behind the body during the load...
I'd be happy to help out best I can, maybe take a look at his swing on video.... If you guys would like to email me directly, you can at the bottom of the home page at ProSpeedBaseball.com, then we can go from there!
In the mean time, I would highly recommend checking out the free lessons on the website. They go over the entire swing, start to finish and give a really good overview of positioning and how things work in the swing.
~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
thanks so much :)
You're most welcome, thanks for commenting! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Thanks so much for this video. It has made a huge difference on my two ball players who are 9 and 11 years old. They now understand the science concepts behind hitting. After working on the drills for two weeks, they have had amazing results. Opening weekend tournament they both crushed the ball by "taking their hands to the ball". I appreciate your videos and knowledge. Please keep it up!
+Amy McKenzie You guys are more than welcome!! Really glad the instruction is helping with their games! There is a huge advantage in knowing what the proper mechanics are and why they work the way they do.
Thanks for the awesome comment!
~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Good stuff bro
Thanks Christian! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Good video Micheal but you should change the title to Take Your Handle to the Frickin Ball
+Ian Thorley Haha, yea, their going to be very similar. The point of the take your handle to the ball drill is to give a visual to the hitter. When the hitter attempts to do this drill, they will see right away that the physics take over and we can free up those hands!
Thanks for the comment! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
ty so much for the awesome tips !
+hong kim You are most welcome! Thank you for the awesome comment! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
That's really true
+Shane Wamboldt It sure is! Thanks for the comment Shane! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
do a mental video for younger kids. think in practice, game time let your practice work for you and i would clear my head and think simply "see the ball hit the ball". I'm a coach now it would be good to have a video. thanks
Great idea! We actually shot a video last week on something very similar to this, also sounds like a great subject to focus on in a separate lesson.
We'll put it on the list!
Thanks for the request! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
very cool
I have a question. Why are you telling us to take are hands to the ball and then in the drill saying take the handle (which is above the hands) to the ball?
Ps: great videos!
+Brandon Taylor52 Thanks for the question!
When most hitters try to take their hands to the ball, they don't quite trust it all the way. By thinking "handle to the ball" it forces the hands to go towards the ball because the hands are right next to the handle.
The drill is designed to show you that if you how the physics explained in this video work! Hope this answers your question!
If you have any other questions on this or anything else, just let us know!
Thanks for the awesome comment! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
swing level with the p itch,not the ground,,this requires a 10 degree up tilt cause ALL PITCHES COME AT A DOWN TILT,,KILL THE MYTHS AND LEARN TO GET ON PLANE WITH THE PITCH NOT THE GROUND .
Hey Johnny, thanks for the comment!
If you haven't already, I would check out the Swing Plane Secret Videos on our channel that prequel this video. The swing, as we mention, isn't down, the hand path is... and because of the physics of what happens when force is applied to the light end of a lever (aka the bat) there is a counterbalance type action that happens that gives us our positive strike on the ball.
It is extremely difficult, considering the physics of swinging a top heavy object, to swing down on the ball.
It's really quite interesting when you think about it. You're absolutely right that there is a positive angle of attach on the ball, yet how this actually happens in terms of physics, ideally, is a direct hand path.
Hope this helps clear up the instruction. So tough to get every detail in every video :P ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
subscribed!
No one extends their hands down to the ball,the handle will hit the ball ,not the barrel,arms should never extend down to the pitch,,watch Josh Donaldson on video 43,,back elbow slotted against side and arms not extended til after the swing,,,then out towards pitcher never down,,how horrible this video is
This is a very tough subject to teach through video! I appreciate your critique though! I've had lots of comments similar to yours, which is why we will be coming out with a video soon using numerical data to back this up.
The main point of this video and the Swing Plane Secret videos is to explain hand path and the physics of what happens to the bat during the swing.
It takes some time to put the video together, but we've tested numerous swings already with myself and other professionals that I work with. My swing seems to be on the chopping block for the most part since I hit a lot of balls on a low placed tee in the videos and it appears to be a downward swing...
...even had me thinking there for a bit. However, when we tested my swing on sensors, even low pitches had an ascending blow on the ball! Even the one's that appear to be swinging down.... It's crazy but it's actually pretty difficult to swing at a high speed and hit a ball on the downswing... We tried :P
I've tested this in the past with other radar equipment, but never one with a 3-D playback. The results are great and even better prove the physics explanations in these videos.
I'd really like for you to check it out when we release the video to get your perspective on it!
Thanks for commenting! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
You should teach physics. Finally, that stuff makes sense!
Haha, thanks! It is a very simple concept that is pretty difficult to explain on video. Really glad it made sense! Thanks for commenting! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
Still, how come no MLB hitter with respectable stats 'takes their hands to the ball'?
All of you saying he is wrong are really missing out on the point of the video. He is simply saying that if you create the correct hand path you will have a downward swing and correct positioning of the bat at contact. It's a simpler way to teach the swing mechanics.
Never swing down,,biggest myth in baseball
Hey Johnny, thanks for the comment!
If you haven't already, I would check out the Swing Plane Secret Videos on our channel that prequel this video. The swing, as we mention, isn't down, the hand path is... and because of the physics of what happens when force is applied to the light end of a lever (aka the bat) there is a counterbalance type action that happens that gives us our positive strike on the ball.
It is extremely difficult, considering the physics of swinging a top heavy object, to swing down on the ball.
It's really quite interesting when you think about it. You're absolutely right that there is a positive angle of attach on the ball, yet how this actually happens in terms of physics, ideally, is a direct hand path.
Hope this helps clear up the instruction. So tough to get every detail in every video :P ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
wow,So swinging the bat in a level plane isnt the right way?Thanks
Haha, yes, swinging level is not really in the realm of possibilities when we are talking about attempting to swing level on a consistent basis.
Understanding how the bat works in the swing is huge advantage by keeping hitters from trying to attain something that's not going to aid in hitting better.
Thanks for the question! Glad you liked the lesson! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
But you can't stay connected that way
Watch my videos. You’ll see how I stay connected while still using my hands to swing
If you blink and miss the point at 7:25 where it's really take your hands to the inside of the ball. Not to the ball... you are all messed up. Point in case is me. I had to learn the proper instructions a year later from another instructor. I don't appreciate the waste in time. Please remake this video properly and take this one down. It's the focal point of your teaching and correct aiming!
Hey Bryant, thanks for the comment! Sorry you had a difficult time understanding the instruction. It's hard to get every detail in every video. This video in particular, was part 3 of 3 videos. (Swing Plane Secret, Swing Plane Secret Revisited if you want to check them out.) In these videos, we explain how the counterbalance of the end-heavy lever (aka the bat) involuntarily forces are hands inside their intended path. Therefore, if our hand bat is inside the ball the we are effectively taking the mass of the bat away from impact. If our intended hand path is direct, the counterbalance will give us a net effect of solid and square hit. (based on timing of course.) Hope this helps out! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
This has be "feel" and not "real"!?
“I never want to think about my hands”- Josh Donaldson
...? What are you trying to say? Your hands have nothing to do with hitting?
donaldson is right
I usually love your stuff but I just have to respectfully disagree with you on this and on that vertical toe line thing...They are tie together... I just think your missing the elastic properties the body makes and the proper hand channeling... I really dislike cues... I think, this one can very easily teach disconnection...Without going into too much... Obviously I believe in the elastic properties and proper bone angles....I think a lot of the hands to the ball is just letting it happen with some shoulder and hand alignment... I feel like there are two planes one on your right side and one on the left side... And going into the second feels week for fractions of a second than most powerful as you push through the ball... I really am not a fan of stopping the swing at contact... No such think in the real swing... That gives a false impression... You would never do that...Maybe the transfer of energy goes from one to another but the swing is a head and through the ball...Sorry! Thanks.
Yeah both elbows should be bent at contact. When u lock both elbows, you lose all power and will rotate your hands waaay to early. You should extend through the ball, not at contact. NEVER at contact. I teach elbow to the ball so you keep elbows bent at contact.
I mean this with the utmost respect, but you're just dead wrong about almost everything you say in this video. I think if you want to teach the art of hitting, you need to consider that how you learned wasn't correct. Taking the hands to the ball is a horrible cue to use w/ hitters, let alone just plain incorrect. I'm not even sure what you're doing, and I'd recommend just watching some MLB hitter swing, and outside of McCutchen almost NO MLB hitters have a hybrid hands to the ball rotational swings.
Couldn't agree more. This video is complete garbage. (No disrespect intended).
Think of rotational swings as, what are the basic body movements during a swing?
most incoming pitched balls travel on somewhat of a downward plane except for that high riser, so the fact that the shoulders do not/should not rotate during the approach of an incoming pitched ball, the shoulders have/should have an up and down tilt on a lateral axis all on a vertical plane, the angle of the incoming pitched ball dictates the necessary body tilt makes sense, I teach batters to start with a slightly tilted front shoulder. The rotational aspect of hitting is executed only through one's hips during their pivot to contact, the rear knee pivot will initiate rotational hip pivot. Due to MLB batters mental anxiety's to hit home runs their bat path angles are escalating tremendously.
GreatBaseBall-N
Don Ervin
Former Philly, pro player
ame392002@yahoo.com
Watch some videos on turning the barrel if you want to see what really happens during a good swing
Ted willuams hitched down and actually swung up never down at the pitch,,as AL L GREAT HITTERS DO
Hey Johnny, thanks for the comment!
If you haven't already, I would check out the Swing Plane Secret Videos on our channel that prequel this video. The swing, as we mention, isn't down, the hand path is... and because of the physics of what happens when force is applied to the light end of a lever (aka the bat) there is a counterbalance type action that happens that gives us our positive strike on the ball.
It is extremely difficult, considering the physics of swinging a top heavy object, to swing down on the ball.
It's really quite interesting when you think about it. You're absolutely right that there is a positive angle of attach on the ball, yet how this actually happens in terms of physics, ideally, is a direct hand path.
Hope this helps clear up the instruction. So tough to get every detail in every video :P ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
The great one,{MR.Ted Williams} kept his hands inside of the ball while taking the barrel
following barrel lag down into a level plane with/into the downward flight of the incoming ball followed with/by a slight five degree barrel upswing immediately following barrel to ball contact allowing the barrel to continue it's swing through it's follow through.
in my playing days we were taught that there were two barrel movement segments to contact and on through the follow through, {#1.was/is a {stroke} to contact} and {#2.The barrel follow through {was/is} the {swing segment} of the barrel movement, we were encouraged to think of the barrel movement from the launch position to follow through as,
{barrel stroke to contact,} {barrel swing to and through follow through.}
Please show a video of a mlb level hitter who is consistently hitting 35+ homeruns a year that 'takes there hands to the ball'.
When your body initiates the swing, a centrifugal force is produced. Simply by throwing your hands at the ball you are disconnecting the swing from the main source of power -that being YOUR BODY.
Sam Scott - Freddie Freeman. The knob of his bat would almost hit the ball if his timing was off. He has the best baseball swing IMO. He swings to hit, not just for power. He stays inside the baseball and is content to going opposite field every at bat.
Launch angle= garbage
I see the instructor, move the feet placement to set up each explanation of inside , outside , time late swing early, etc never setting feet with consistency, ..i agree with physics, but not sure it was presented correctly or explained well enough here..keep trying coach. your obviously pationate.
+James Derby Thanks for the comment James. The feet positioning was changing due to the information being presented at the specific time of the video.
Was attempting to make the video understandable without making it 45 minutes long! (Which it could have easily been)
Appreciate the critique and the comment! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
+Pro Speed Baseball I can see, how it could turn into a long video..if every detail was presented, that being said im using some of your advise at BP today.
No one hits the ball with their hands ,the hands stay inside the ball,taking them to the ball is goofy
Of course not! haha, the bat hits the ball... and like stated in the video, the hands cannot reach the ball unless timing is extremely late or we do something very off with our body during the swing... therefore the hands are always inside the ball...
... the key is to create a good transition as hands are going to the ball and the counterbalance from swing physics will take over. I'd recommend checking out the Swing Plane Secret videos!
Thanks for commenting! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball
In my many years of playing, coaching and most importantly, my many hours of researching I have found that teaching batters how and why to keep their hands inside of the ball while taking the barrel to the ball after barrel lag, along with teaching them the difference between barrel lag and barrel drag is more understandable for batters to comprehend.
Great BaseBall-N
Don Ervin, former pro player in the Philly's org.
ame392002@yahoo.com
False, swinging down creates backspin, power, line drives which is why I try to teach it to most of my hitter
Ask a physics teacher. Ball is on 8 to 10 degree down slope. Efficient force vector would be at 8 to 10 degree up slope in opposite direction. Chris O'Leary video shows homers have no spin. Great hitters contact on up slope. Any backspin created from downswing would not create enough lift to compensate for inefficient contact with ball. Again, just ask a physics teacher , I did.
This is so so incorrect. It's sad that so many people are watching this and nodding their heads. Some day this guy will learn the correct mechanics that MLB pros ACTUALLY use and he will have to debate whether to do the right thing and take this video down. For a guy that tries to sound like a scientist talking about variables, mass, centrifugal force, physics, etc., its crazy that he doesn't watch slow motion footage of ANY MLB OR even NCAA Fastpitch swing to see ALL of them keep hands much higher above the ball than him. This is the instruction that sets players way back and many don't go as far as they could have because of it. Likely him as well.
You guy's, he is actually correct in what he is doing. The only thing he needs to change is the saying "take your hands to the ball". It needs to be more like "getting your hands in-line" with the ball and stay behind it.
See Josh Donaldson in studio 42 video to see why throw your hands at the ball IS THE WORST HITTING CUE OF ALL TIME
john johnson you know I thought that at first when I saw his video, but actually prospered baseball is correct. The problem with Donaldsons explanation is that he was demonstrating dropping his bat behind his hands and then swinging. He doesn't do that with a normal swing. This guy here is saying to swing DOWN at the ball he's just trying to explain how to have a short efficient swing so it's just from point A to point B. It's also all about timing.
John Johnson you know I thought that at first when I saw his video, but actually prospeed baseball is correct. The problem with Donaldsons explanation is that he was demonstrating dropping his bat behind his hands and then swinging. He doesn't do that with a normal swing. This guy here is saying to swing DOWN at the ball he's just trying to explain how to have a short efficient swing so it's just from point A to point B. It's also all about timing.
To be fair, Donaldson was talking about hitting for power and how you don't get paid in the big leagues to just make solid contact. I love that video and have used it with my team, but you also need to take it in the context it was given.
john johnson ii
john johnson no it's not man. Obviously different things work with different hitters that works for him but it won't work for all. Of Dee Gordon did that he wouldn't be as productive. This is for line drives single double. Also it's dumbed down a lot. He probably could have made a two hour video on this
Please go find a video on turning the barrel and DON'T do this hands to the ball thing....it's garbage
Really enjoy your videos man, very helpful!
+Colby Clayton Thanks Colby! ~Michael Pro Speed Baseball