Everyone talks about the hands, swing up, swing down, swing level, leg kick for power and the list goes on. Instead of all that for now let's talk about one of the biggest power killers in a lot of hitters' swings.
The inability for a hitter to get loaded properly, causing their front shoulder to fly open too soon.
Sometimes we see hitters start their swing with their front foot still in the air. People and coaches will immediately yell “ get your foot down!” Yes, your front foot needs to get down but that is not the root cause of the problem. The importance of getting your body prepared (loaded) to hit properly is what needs to be understood. Or the hitter will never hit as well as they potentially can. Below is a video comparison that will show you what to look for and then a drill on how to fix it.
1.Mind-Body Connection-
2.Connection-
3.Time-
Garrett Gordon | Hitting Drills | Intent | Load | Lower Body | Swing Mechanics | Timing | Upper Body
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Just to help you some, the guy on the right isn’t quite in launch position when he starts turning. He hasn’t transferred his weight to he front foot yet when he begins to turn. If he’ll give himself a little time there and allow the transfer, his front hip to quit sliding forward and his front leg to brace, before he turns, his power will really shoot through the roof with almost no effort. It’s the difference in the kids that look like they’re swinging with everything they have and not hitting as hard as the ones that seem smooth and effortless (like a Yelich last year). All else equal, it’s the difference in opposite field singles and power alley bombs. Kids, mine included, struggle with this because they’re anxious and trying too hard, and often don’t have enough leg strength to really make this happen until they mature. Just food for thought to help you help some of your better kids a little more.