How to hit an Inside Fastball

It's often said in baseball that the person, whether it be pitcher or hitter, who controls the inside part of the plate controls the game. Pitching inside is what pitchers do to get hitters out, but if you can hit this pitch, you'll take away a lot of the pitcher's advantage. Follow these steps to become a tough out.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Recognize the pitch and make a commitment to swing if it's a strike. Time your swing as you would a pitch over the middle of the plate.

2. Take your stride by stepping away from the plate and toward left field so that you're opening up your hips. This will create a more open stance for hitting the inside pitch.

3. Go into your swing and pull your hands in close to your body. Put your hips into it to get power behind the swing, as you will need it since you're not able to extend your arms.

4. Keep your eyes on the ball and make contact with the sweet spot of the bat. You'll be more likely to get a successful hit this way than if you let the pitcher jam you and hit it near the bat handle.

5. Try again if you foul off the pitch. Sometimes just fighting off an inside pitch is success, as you'll give yourself another chance to get something to hit over the plate.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice hitting inside fastballs in batting practice so the adjustment is natural when you're in a game situation. You'll only have a split second to recognize and hit the inside pitch.

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