No Cage, No Problem

 For the amateur player it can be difficult to find a cage to hit in on a daily basis over winter break. However you can still make improvements on days you do not have access to a cage. Here are a few things you can do.

1. Take dry swings: you do not need a huge area to work on the mechanics in your swing. Even if you do not have enough room to actually swing you can work on your load to landing segment of your swing. Dry swings are great because you are taking the ball out of the equation and you can focus on feeling the right movements. A mirror is also a plus so you get immediate feedback but also try closing your eyes for a few of your reps it will allow you to focus on the movements you are trying to master.  Most of the movements that have mechanical deficiencies happen before actually swinging the bat so with the dry swing you can isolate and develop cleaner movements.

2. Study video of MLB players: watch big leaguers and see how they move to be successful. I suggest watching guys with similar body types to yourself. Try to mimic these players when you are experimenting in the cage. I can't emphasize enough the importance of watching guys who hit at the highest level. A big reason why big leaguers are the best hitters in the world is that they have developed great mechanics that fit their coordination level and body type.

3. Read articles and books on hitting. There are plenty out there and they will help develop your mental approach.

4. Go to the gym/ if you don't have a gym do some pushups, sit-ups, pull-ups. The stronger and more dynamic you get the easier hitting becomes. You can never be too strong

5. Study your own video. Make it a priority that every time you can hit in the cage you take some video of yourself. There is no better tool in improving your game. Keep the videos organized together so you can track your progress.

6. Keep a hitting notebook. Not many amateur players spend the time to write down their process with their swing. Your thought patterns when your swing feels good is important to remember when your swing goes through a rough patch. Just going back and reading through your notes can get you back on track. Also, keep track of what you are working on so that you can monitor your progress. One of the first pages in your notebook should be your goals for the 2016 season so you can remind and motivate yourself why you are putting the work in to improve.

-Take ownership of your swing. Find a way to improve. Every day you have a chance to get better in some way. The more you understand your swing and have the ability to critique and develop your own swing without your coaches feedback the quicker you will see results.