How to Hit a Fly Ball

With a runner at third and less than two outs, many good hitters will go for the sacrifice fly. But if the batter is not ready for such a task, the most likely result will be a harmless infield pop out. That's why baseball players should prepare themselves for every hitting situation. What follows are some pointers on how to add some lift to your swing.

Instructions

1. Look for a pitch up in the zone. A long fly ball will allow the runner to tag up and score. Don't be overly aggressive though. Swinging at a pitch way out of the strike zone will only play into the pitcher's game plan.

2. Aim for the lower half of the baseball. Hitting the bottom half will increase the chance of a fly. Don't dip your back shoulder or else you'll be hitting a measly pop up.

3. Swing down to create an upper cut. Swinging downward does not mean chopping at the ball (which will surely lead to ground balls). As Ted Williams preached in his book "the Science of Hitting" all great swings start downward then begin to arc in the strike zone.

4. Finish high. To create more power, follow through with the barrel of your bat high (as though you were finishing up and over your front shoulder). This will create lift and power in your swing.

5. Gamble when ahead in the count. If the pitcher is behind (1-0, 2-0, 3-1) look for a pitch to drive. Think "middle in" and gear up to send the next pitch over the score board.