Timing a Baseball Swing

Timing is an important factor in the baseball swing. Timing ensures the bat and ball cross paths over the plate at the same time. Good timing is required to make contact and place the ball in live play. Timing is developed through repetition in practice and eye-hand coordination. In addition to timing, the bat level and technique determine the manner in which the ball flies off the bat. Timing is a difficult skill to develop as you must read the pitch speed and make your swing decision in an instant.

Instructions

    • 1

      Assume a comfortable stance with your weight focused on the back foot and the bat held above the back shoulder. Turn your head and look directly at the pitcher.

    • 2

      Watch the pitcher in the wind-up, and shift your weight back to prepare for the swing. The weight on the back foot is used to provide power as you turn your hips and swing at the ball.

    • 3

      Watch the ball as it leaves the pitcher's hand to time the swing. You see the ball clearly at this point to track the direction and time your swing. Also watch the spin on the ball to adjust timing for different pitches. Diagonal spin means the ball might drop and curve, and a fast release with horizontal laces typically designates a fastball. React quickly for the fastball, and hesitate to delay the timing for a curveball or change-up.

    • 4

      Push off the back leg and turn your hips towards the pitcher as you swing the bat at the ball. Adjust the speed of the swing based on the position of the ball. This process requires practice and experience as the adjustments are minute and based on reaction. No time is available to think about the swing.