In slow pitch softball, how do you push the ball instead of pulling the ball when I hit?

Question

While playing slow pitch softball, I bat right and can only seem to hit the ball (pull it) between 2nd and 3rd base, and normally only right down the 3rd base line. What's the trick to hitting it to the opposite field (between 1st and 2nd, which would be a push hit)? I would like to be able to hit the opposite field at will, or at least hit the gap between the shortstop and second baseman.

Answer 1

Swing later.

Answer 2

You might try dragging the bat by leading more with your hands.

I do think that you would be better served by trying to drive the ball right up the middle rather than pulling or going the opposite way. Hank Aaron (a pretty fair hitter) said that is what he tried to do whenever he was in a slump.

Before next season, try working on your hand strength. Even if you still pull the ball, it might help hit it harder past the third-baseman. Just a thought. Good Luck!

Answer 3

First off its a lot easier if you're trying to go to right field to hit an outside pitch. You need to change the way you stride at the pitcher. You need to step with your front foot towards the plate/firstbase, and have your back foot more towards third base. But it all depends on the pitch. Its alot easier going opposite field with an outside pitch. Also lead with your hands when you swing, and have the barrel of the bat come a little later. Timing is key to being able to place your hits.

Answer 4

Ok, in the batting stance you currently use, you probably have your front shoulder pointing directly toward the pitcher, instead of this, turn (your whole body, feet and all) so that you shoulder will be pointing towards right field. If you swing at the same speed as you do now, you will contact the ball later and thus hit it the other way.

If this isn't comfortable (cause you will have to twist your neck further to see the pitch) just try slowing down, and maybee using a heavier bat.

Answer 5

You aim the ball with your front foot when in the batters box waiting for a pitch.

If you want to hit to right field, move your front leg while in the batters box pointed to right field and get comfortable in the batters box with your back leg/foot. But, do it at the last possible moment before hitting the ball, otherwise, you will tip off the fielding team.

And, if you want to hit the ball out of the infield in slow/softball, hit a high pitch. Don't try to 'golf' your swing by swinging at low pitches.

It works for me...

It takes practice...

Answer 6

Wait a little longer, and develop an outside-in swing as in slicing a golf ball. Open your stance and open your hands on the bat

Answer 7

it seems like your swinging late try swinging earlier. but for me thats easy to say im a switch hitter and taught myself. so go by a hit away and try hitting left handed that way when you hit right your use to swinging early because when you hit left you have less force and so you just get use to when to swing the bat.

Answer 8

move your left foot forward of the right swing a little late better if pitch on outside of plate.

Answer 9

You will have to time your swing to be a bit behind your normal swing right now........You'll get it down when you practice it enough.......It's like tennis, I have played for years and can time my swing to hit the ball anywhere I want it to go on the court........Just keep working at it dear........You'll be great!!!!!!

Answer 10

swing just a touch latter....that will produce the push your looking for