with Danielle Zymkowitz,
University of Wisconsin Assistant Coach;
as a player, was the first 2x AFCA All-American at the University of Illinois (the first in the history of the program), where she led the Illini to two NCAA Regional Appearances and holds the career records for batting average (.384), hits (277), runs scored (202), stolen bases (91) and stolen base percentage (.858); was a 3x 1st team All Big Ten selection as well
As a hitting coach, would you rather produce great individual hitters or great team offenses? What if you could develop both at the same time?
In this video, Danielle Zymkowitz explains how to get the most out of every hitter in your lineup by catering your coaching approach to what each hitter needs, all while equipping them with the tools to be productive for your team.
Philosophy and Lineup Development
Learning and understanding each player's strengths and weaknesses, as well as each player's mindset, is part of the art of coaching. You'll learn the questions Coach Zymkowitz asks her players to learn about them, their swing, and their approach in the box.
The best hitting coaches create individualized plans of attack to utilize each player's strengths. Zymkowitz shows how she groups her hitters into tiers, and has specific roles and expectations for each tier of players.
A and B hacks
Not all hitters can or should step up to the plate and swing for the fences in every at bat. With a runner on base, it may be more advantageous for the offense to put the ball in play to a specific area to move the runner. Coach Zymkowitz simplifies these concepts with the terminology 'A' hack and 'B' hack, and explain how hitters at each level can best use them both. You'll learn when to use the 'A' hack or 'B' hack depending on:
- The count
- The game situation
- What the opposing pitcher throws
- The hitter vs. pitcher match-up
Drills
Getting players to understand and execute the 'A' and 'B' hacks can be easier said than done. Zymkowitz offers five drills to help hitters work their timing, mechanics, and execution of their 'A' and `B' hacks. Learn how to get hitters just as comfortable swinging for the fences as they are hitting a hard ground ball to move a runner!
In one particular 'on knees' drill, hitters work on their 'B' hack mechanics on both knees, hitting different types of balls thrown from a pitching machine. Putting the hitter on their knees effectively takes their legs out of the swing, allowing them to focus on their core and upper body mechanics.
In conclusion, Coach Zymkowitz offers drills and coaching tips that will help your hitters become the most productive version of themselves. Whether using the 'A' hack or 'B' hack, your hitters will learn how to hack opposing pitchers into submission!
61 minutes. 2020.