Coach Paul Petricca is the former hitting coach for the Wheaton College softball team is a true student of hitting – both baseball and softball.

His website is one of my favorites and I highly recommend that you check it out.

As a matter of fact, he’s just written a book on the subject – and I’d encourage you to purchase it here !

One of Paul’s latest posts is called “The Best Laid Plans” – and you can find it here – The Best Laid Plans

Some key takeaways….

Flawed Mechanics

“Poor hitting performance is usually an indication of weak hitting mechanics. At least that’s a good place to start. Mechanical issues can range from a weak set-up position, hands that are too forward, an ineffective load (leg lift and initial weight transfer), poor extension at the point of impact with the ball, and an abbreviated or awkward finish.”

Too Many Voices and Too Much Noise

“Hitters with cluttered minds in the batter’s box focus on the last few failed at-bats, a recent error in the field, history with the opposing pitcher, expectations of friends or family members in the stands, or any other negative thoughts. A mind that is filled with loads of non-hitting information can negatively affect the physical swing by causing hitters to be tentative, tense, and guess too much before the pitch is thrown.”

“Another common reason for poor hitting performance is confusing hitting advice from multiple sources. In the post “One Voice”  http://wp.me/p3zdlH-S5, I emphasized the importance of finding the right hitting instructor and remaining loyal to his or her voice. Loyalty means having faith in the primary hitting mechanics and overall philosophy of the instructor [or coach].”

In Closing

“I like to tell my hitters when they are struggling that baseball and softball are games of second chances. A hitter can strike out the first three times in a game and then hit the game-winning home run. Hitters also have the opportunity to follow-up a challenging season with a great one by working hard on the right mechanics with the right hitting coach with a positive attitude.”

Great advice from a great coach!