Techniques on Building Baseball Speed

Speed in baseball is a bit of a misnomer. Rarely is it the player’s running speed that is crucial; the speeds in reaction time, bat speed and pitch speed play far more critical roles. The moderately fast-moving player with quick reaction time will have a much easier time playing the outfield than an extremely fast player with slow reaction time. There are several techniques players can use to increase their speeds in all aspects of the game.

  1. Hitting Drill

    • Batting more successfully involves several timing aspects. For higher bat speeds, working out the mid-section of the back can be beneficial; however, without maintaining the timing of the entire body, the increase in muscle mass will be useless. A simple batting tee drill can help increase speed by maintaining eye-hand coordination and timing. Hit balls continuously off the tee, focusing on maintaining relaxation throughout the body. The more relaxed the muscles remain, the faster they’re able to twitch. Better timing will leave the ball flying off the bat at increased speeds.

    Pitching Drill

    • Pitching, like batting, is a complex process that involves the entire body. Often, a well-performing lower body compensates for an under-performing upper body. One technique to ensure your upper body is functioning properly is to place a bucket or container upside down on the pitcher’s mound. Place your right knee on the ground, with your right foot behind you, resting on top of the bucket. The left foot will be flat on the ground with the knee up, forming a 90-degree angle. The balance will focus the upper body and ensure a proper pitching motion, subsequently helping you to develop faster arm speeds.

    Cone Drill

    • Reaction speed when fielding plays a major role in baseball success. For infielders, a split-second reaction means the difference between a double and an easy out. Increase the speed in response time by setting up two cones 20 yards apart or use first and second base as your cones. Your responsibility is to jog in between the cones (or bases) continuously. A second person’s responsibility will involve hitting periodic balls to you while you jog. Don't pay attention to the batter until you hear the ball being hit. Your job is to quickly field the ball.

    Ball-Drop Drill

    • Another version of the cone drill can be performed in small confined areas. Take something slightly softer than a baseball, such as a tennis ball, and have one person stand 10 feet away from you, holding his arm and the ball perpendicular from his body. As soon as he drops the ball, your job is to sprint and catch the ball prior to it hitting the ground. You can move the person forward or backward depending upon your skill level. An alternative version of the game is to play with a glove.