Purpose
Helps players learn to get out of the box quickly, emphasizing the acceleration phase of the sprint to first
Drill Setup
- You can run this drill in the infield, or set up a home plate and first base in the outfield the appropriate distance apart.
- Players line up at home plate with a bat and helmet.

How it Works
- The hitter will check his alignment by taking a slow practice swing – making sure that the sweet spot lines up with the ball.
- On the coach’s signal, the hitter makes a short, quick stride aiming to set his front foot down on the stride line.
- Coach checks the stride position and makes any necessary corrections.
- On the next signal the hitter strides, loads up and swings, making line drive contact with the ball.
Coaching Tips
- The stride foot should land softly and in an athletic position
- Keep the front side closed. Avoid opening up the hips toward the pitcher when you stride (otherwise known as “stepping in the bucket”)
- The stride and the swing are two separate actions – the swing should not start until the stride foot lands
- Make it harder: To practice hitting changeups, stride first, pause, then swing to simulate the timing of hitting an off-speed pitch
- Make it easier: Tie a string connecting the front and back foot, and preventing overstriding.