The fastball/curveball variation drill is an excellent way to help hitters develop their approach and timing at the plate. The drill involves having the coach throw both fastballs and curveballs to the hitter, with the goal of teaching the hitter to recognize and adjust to different pitches.
To begin the drill, the coach will throw a series of fastballs to the hitter. The hitter's goal is to be aggressive on the fastball and make solid contact with the ball. Once the hitter has demonstrated a consistent ability to hit the fastball, the coach will then mix in a curveball.
The key to the drill is for the coach to use the curveball sparingly and to make it look as much like a fastball as possible. The goal is to surprise the hitter and force them to adjust their swing mid-pitch. This helps the hitter learn to recognize and adjust to different pitches, which is a critical skill for success at the plate.
As the hitter becomes more comfortable with the drill, the coach can increase the frequency of curveballs and make them more difficult to hit. This will help the hitter continue to develop their approach and timing at the plate.
This drill is an excellent way to help hitters develop their approach and adjust to different pitches. By practicing this drill regularly, hitters can become more confident and effective at the plate, which can translate into success on the field.
