One Knee Soft Toss Drill

Purpose

Isolates upper body mechanics so hitters can work on the proper bat path and timing

Set Up

• For younger teams, assign a coach or parent helper to each player, who will act as the tosser.
• Older players can partner up and toss to each other.
• The tosser kneels at a 45 ° angle from the hitter 8-10 feet away.
• The hitter sets up at a plate with her helmet and bat.

Instructions

1. The hitter drops into a kneeling position, with her back knee down and front leg extended to the front with a slight bend.
2. The tosser lobs the ball into the strike zone.
3. The hitter swings, trying to drive the ball into the net or field.

Coaching Tips

• If you’re doing this drill in the dirt, throw down a base, pad or towel under the hitter’s knee for comfort.
• Make it harder: Draw a number on each ball. Ask the hitter to focus on the ball as it approaches, then call out the number on it as she swings.
• Make it easier: Younger players may have difficulty generating much power from this position. Feel free to suggest a lighter bat, or have them choke up 2-3 inches.