Watch both of these videos. It’s the closest you will get to pornography for hitting coaches.
The first is Josh Donaldson and the second is Mike Trout. If you don’t have a lot of time at the moment, go to the 5:25 point of the Josh Donaldson one and watch the rest later.
Now it’s Mike Trout’s turn. Be sure to pay attention to the 1:00 mark.
Take aways …
- Is there a better way to start your day than to watch two premier hitters talk hitting? Don’t thank me, just doing my job.
- Both hitters contradict each other. Trout says he needs to “stay on top of the ball” and Donaldson tells 10 year olds to ignore their coaches when they tell them to “stay on top of the ball.” Who is wrong? Are they both right? (Answer: they are both right.)
- If you are teaching one way to hit (either the Mike Trout way or the Josh Donaldson way), you are wrong and you need to fix yourself. Each hitter has their unique needs and cues that enable them to get the most out of their ability. Donaldson’s philosophy works for him. Trout’s works for him. Demand/teach only one style and you are only reaching the kids who match that style. And the others?
- No topic on this website has generated more negative feedback/emails than when I have written or done videos on “staying on top of the ball.” For those who say I am WRONG!, is Mike Trout wrong? I think his stats beg to differ.
