Why Tee Drills should be part of every practice plan.
As a coach, incorporating tee drills into your practice routines provides players with foundational skills that are transferable to all aspects of hitting. Tee drills are adaptable, low-pressure, and high-reward, offering focused repetition that helps players master their mechanics before moving on to more complex, game-like hitting scenarios.
Tee drills are essential exercises in baseball that involve hitting a stationary ball placed on a tee. These drills allow players to work on key elements of their swing mechanics and timing in a controlled environment without the added complexity of a moving pitch. Because the ball is stationary, players can focus entirely on their stance, bat path, hand-eye coordination, and follow-through. Tee hitting drills are versatile and beneficial for all levels, from beginners learning the basics to advanced players refining specific aspects of their swing.
Benefits of Tee Hitting Drills for Coaches and Players
Coaching Perspective: Tee drills provide a unique opportunity for coaches to pinpoint and correct specific swing mechanics with minimal distractions for the player. Unlike live pitching or soft toss drills, which introduce variables like timing and speed, tee drills allow players to repeat their movements consistently. This consistency enables coaches to observe and adjust specific elements of a player’s swing, like hand position, weight transfer, and contact point, without needing to recalibrate for pitch placement. For developing players, tee drills are an effective way to build foundational skills that will help them succeed in more dynamic hitting situations.
Pros of Tee Hitting Drills:
- Focus on Mechanics: Tee drills isolate swing mechanics, enabling players to refine their form and approach.
- Repetition and Muscle Memory: Players get more repetitions in less time, building muscle memory critical for consistent hitting.
- Immediate Feedback: Coaches can provide immediate, targeted feedback, making it easier for players to adjust their stance or swing path.
- Low Complexity, High Benefit: Because the ball is stationary, players and coaches can concentrate on form without the challenge of timing a moving pitch.
Cons of Tee Hitting Drills:
- Less Game Realism: Tee hitting lacks the variability of live pitches, so it should be complemented with drills that train timing and reaction to movement.
- Can Be Overlooked: Some coaches may underestimate the benefits of tee drills, but they’re foundational and have a long-lasting impact on players’ swing consistency.
Level of Coaching Knowledge Required:
Tee drills can be highly effective regardless of coaching experience level. Newer coaches can use basic tee drills as a starting point for understanding swing mechanics, while more experienced coaches can adapt tee drills to target specific adjustments or challenges for advanced players.
Top Tee Hitting Drills
Here are some of the best tee hitting drills to incorporate into practice. Each drill focuses on a different aspect of the swing, allowing coaches to tailor training to a player’s unique needs. Click on each drill name to find step-by-step instructions and coaching tips:
- Basic Contact Drill – Focus on making consistent, solid contact with the ball.
- High Tee Drill – Teaches players to drive through high pitches and avoid an uppercut swing.
- Inside Pitch Drill – Helps players adjust for inside pitches by refining their bat path and timing.
- Outside Pitch Drill – Aids in practicing hitting outside pitches with proper form.
- Front Foot Load Drill – Emphasizes proper weight shift to increase power and control.
- One-Handed Drill – Builds strength and control by isolating each hand in the swing.
- Backspin Drill – Trains players to create backspin for better ball trajectory.
- Two-Tee Drill – Uses two tees to promote proper swing angle and path.