How to Shorten Your Swing

A batter's swing is one of the most important aspects of the offensive side of baseball. If a batter swings too wide, the ball will not connect with the sweet spot of the bat and will likely result in a foul or strike. Shortening your swing will also quicken it, enabling you to hit tough fastballs. Choking up on the bat and keeping your elbows bent will ensure a tight, short swing, making you a tough opponent for the opposing team's pitcher.

Instructions

    • 1

      Choke up on the bat to bring the barrel of the bat closer to the center of the plate. Place your non-dominant hand a couple of inches above the knob on the bottom of the bat. Place your dominant hand above and on top of your non-dominant hand.

    • 2

      Keep your front or lead elbow down. Keeping your front elbow down will help you swing the bat at a downward angle. This will eliminate pop flies and easy outs.

    • 3

      Practice a swing-shortening drill. Stand 8-10 inches away from a chain-link fence. Turn your back toward the fence. Swing the bat, concentrating on a short swing and not looping the bat around. If you are performing this short-swing drill correctly, you should not hit the fence with the bat as you swing.