How to Coach to Not Sling the Bat

Slinging the bat is a safety concern and coaches must approach and instruct the player against the action. Slinging the bat is a difficult issue to approach because the player has achieved relaxed hands and may have success with the loose swinging style. Correcting the issue requires small adjustments that do not have a negative impact on the swing. Practice with the adjustments to correct the issue before the game. Although slinging the bat is not illegal, the umpire may choose to enforce a penalty if safety becomes a concern.

Things You'll Need

  • Baseballs
  • Bat
  • Batting cage
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Pitch several practice rounds to the player in a cage. The cage prevents the bat from injuring others when the player slings it in the air.

    • 2

      Ask the player to add slight tension to the grip after each slinging incident. Continue pitching to the player until the grip adjustment minimizes slinging the bat. Do not continue to tighten the grip as over-tightening will reduce bat speed, power and success at the plate.

    • 3

      Work with the player on following through after hitting the ball. Watch the swinging motion and make adjustments for players who throw the bat in an outward motion. The bat must follow around and finish behind the player to prevent slinging.

    • 4

      Instruct the player to pivot on the back foot, rotate the hips and follow through the swing until the bat touches the front shoulder. The motion creates a control without sacrificing power and a relaxed stance and grip.