Baseball, the American pastime, is one of if not the most difficult sports to play successfully. In contrast, playing basketball involves shooting a ball into a stationary opening its size. Further, golf takes enough skill to hit a small ball from the ground at point A to the hole in the green at point B, also stationary. Baseball, on the other hand, requires the batter to swing a narrow bat at precisely the correct speed to contact a ball traveling at speeds up to ninety miles per hour. After many years of playing the sport, I still find hitting to be difficult and discouraging.
             There are many processes involved in successful batting. The first step starts in the dugout or in the on-deck circle. It is here that the batter studies the pitcher. While watching the pitcher, you should analyze the delivery of the pitch and the different types of pitches that are thrown. Take note of pitching patterns for specific situations (pitch counts, number of outs, men on base, and left or right-handed hitters).
             Secondly, you need to know how to grip the bat. Place the dominant hand above the off-hand near the base of the bat. The traditional method is to align the first knuckle of one hand with the second line of knuckles of the other. But your comfort is the key element in how to hold the bat. Gripping the bat at the knob will give you more power but less control. Choke gripping, moving your hands up the barrel of the bat, will result in less power but more bat control during the swing.
             Thirdly, you need a stable base from witch to swing. Your feet should be perpendicular to home plate. Approximately, with the weight on the balls of your feet, stand with a sight bend at the knees and waist to improve balance. Swinging without a balanced base will reduce the chances of hitting the ball square. Also, stand with your upper body completely relaxed. This allows a faster and on time swing. If your muscles are tense, you will ti...