How to Throw Better Batting Practice (Without Losing Your Arm or Your Mind!)

Coaches—be honest…
Have your BP sessions ever felt more like dodgeball than batting practice?
You’re not alone. 😅
We’ve all seen it—wild pitches, rapid-fire chaos, kids getting more frustrated than focused. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In our latest YouTube video, Coach Duke Baxter and Coach Steve Nikorak break down exactly how to throw consistent, effective batting practice that builds confidence, rhythm, and results at the plate.
Key Tips:
1. Use an L-Screen (And Use It Right!)
BP doesn’t need to be from 60 feet away. In fact, it’s better if it’s not. Set up your L-screen at a comfortable distance (we recommend ~20 feet) so you can throw strikes safely and consistently without gassing out your arm. Standing, kneeling, or even seated—comfort and consistency are key.
2. Establish a Solid Tempo
Great BP isn’t rapid fire. Your hitters need time to reset, refocus, and get their timing down. Stick to a smooth rhythm of one pitch every 4–5 seconds to keep reps focused and productive.
3. Train with Purpose
Mix up your location and use visual targets to work different parts of the plate—inside, outside, up, down. Or if you’re just trying to find consistency, aim right down the middle using a ball on a tee as a visual cue. Aim small, miss small.
4. Protect Your Arm
BP isn’t a one-coach show! Rotate in with other coaches, or swap to side toss/front toss when needed. Throwing good BP takes practice too—just like anything else we teach.
5. Use a Pregame BP Routine
Structure your rounds! A favorite pregame sequence:
* 2 Bunts
* 2 Hit & Runs
* 2 Get 'Em Overs
* 2 Get 'Em Ins
* 2 Swing Away
That’s 10 focused swings with intent. Run the round once or twice and your hitters are ready for game time.
🎥 Want to see it all in action? Watch the Full Video on YouTube
👊 Whether you're coaching tee ball or high school, mastering batting practice can change the energy of your practices and the performance of your hitters. Let’s make every rep count and help your players swing with confidence so they too can Dominate the Diamond!