In our previous blog we discussed how to produce an effective swing as a baseball player. We talked about the different components of the body that play a vital role in the outcome of where the ball goes. Within the body of every baseball player is a very intelligent mind that is running and thinking 100 times faster than what their body is physically doing. As Yogi Berra once said, “baseball is ninety percent mental, and the other half is physical.” Today we are going to take a deep dive into what goes on in the mind of a baseball player while they are batting. We will accomplish this through testimonies of professional players and explanations of the routines in which some players perform prior to and during an at bat.
A Typical Day In The Mind
Developing The Proper Mindset
Keeping in mind that baseball is a sport is the pinnacle of having the proper mindset going into it. Sports are challenging, but intended to be fun. Therefore, if you are no longer have fun while playing baseball then it becomes a burden to get better. The proper mindset begins with enjoyment. Evan Longoria, former third baseman for the Tampa Bay Rays, stated in an interview that “I have never seen baseball as a job, and that is why I can continue to press on.”
Starting The Day
The beginning of any routine should influence the rest of the practice session, so start off with something fun. Longoria begins his day with hitting of of a tee because he knows that he will perform well doing that. Before you jump into the nitty gritty of batting, lead with the basics and build a level of confidence. Once you are enjoying the game, then lead into other exercises that will grow your level of expertise.
Day-To-Day and In Between The Lines.
As I have stated previously of the inconsistency of hitting in baseball. A player that fails seventy percent of the time could be considered a hall of fame player. However, a success rate of thirty percent or lower can build a level of hatred towards the game of baseball and a poor mindset can develop. It is important to recognize this reality not only throughout the day to day practice routines but also in between the lines on the field. A poor mindset from the lack of performance will only lead a player into further failure. The key to success at the plate begins with success in the mind. Every player that approaches the plate must approach each at bat with a clear, fresh mind. They cannot dwell on past failures or successes to influence their current circumstances. Each at bat is determined off the current mindset and execution of fundamentals.
Game Time
Outlined in this section is the road to the plate and discussion on the different viewpoints of an at-bat.
The On-Deck Circle
This little circle that resides next to each dugout holds tremendous value, but mainly for the mindset of the batter. “Practice your swing” a little league coach may say to the hitter in the on-deck circle. However, have you not already prepared for that at-bat prior to the game? What good is a couple of swings where you don’t even hit the ball going to do? Baseball is a game of muscle memory and routine. I would argue that the sole purpose of the on-deck circle is to perform a routine that will get your mind focused on the at-bat. It is a chance to clear your head of all distractions outside the game. Most major league batters take their time on-deck to perform the same motions every time. It becomes muscle memory; just like your swing that you have already prepared for prior to game. It is crucial to warm up, stretch, and take practice swings before the game so that when you step up to the plate you don’t have to question whether or not you’re ready. The on-deck circle hold tremendous value, but it mainly for the mindset of the at-bat.
At The Plate
One thing you notice about every baseball player is that every single player has a different batting stance. They also typically have different mechanics based on what they are taught. The one thing that all successful players do have in common is a plan at the plate and a belief that they can execute that plan. It’s a mindset. A good mindset at the plate starts with confidence. Most players use an at-bat routine just like on-deck routine to help them focus and become mentally prepared. The purpose of an at-bat routine is threefold:
- Focus on the task at hand. Every at-bat brings about a different game situation. An at-bat routine can get your mind focused on that situation.
- To build a positive mindset. Focusing on an at-bat routine draws your mind away from negative thoughts or doubt.
- In between pitches, an at-bat routine helps to refocus the mind on each pitch. Sometimes you swing at a bad pitch or miss with your swing. A clean conscience each pitch is imperative.
Conclusion
Analyzing the complexities of the human mind are important in the game of baseball. We can not neglect to think about this aspect and only focus on the physical. While the physical is important, situational hitting and proper mindset can lead a player to great success or great failure.
Nolan Ricketson's Baseball Analytics 