Drill has raked .258 for his career with 87 runs scored and an OPS of .445. In his time spent in pro baseball, he came to the plate 1,057 times and has delivered with a hit 231 times. He has recorded a slugging percentage of .092 and he has accumulated 298 bases. For his career, Drill has drilled 2 balls out of the park while knocking in 100 runs. He has been struck out 114 times and has taken a walk on 114 attempts at the plate, which has contributed to a .353 on-base %.
Lew Drill
In the world of baseball, mastering the art of hitting can be the difference between a good player and a great one. Achieving consistency and power in hitting requires dedication, skill, and the right techniques. One technique that has gained popularity among players and coaches is the Lew Drill. This drill is designed to improve the hitting skills of MLB players and youth baseball enthusiasts alike, offering a structured approach to honing one’s craft. In this article, we’ll explore the Lew Drill, its benefits, and how you can incorporate it into your training routine to elevate your game.
Understanding the Lew Drill
The Lew Drill is a specialized exercise aimed at enhancing a baseball hitter’s ability to make solid contact with the ball. It focuses on improving hand-eye coordination, timing, and body mechanics, which are all critical components of a successful swing. Named after its creator, Lew, a renowned hitting coach in the MLB, the drill has been embraced by athletes due to its effectiveness. His technique has been adopted by players of all levels, from youth baseball leagues to professional teams, illustrating its versatility and wide-ranging impact on the sport.
Why the Lew Drill Matters
The Lew Drill is important because it breaks down the complex process of hitting into manageable parts. This breakdown allows players to focus on specific aspects of their swing, facilitating targeted improvements that can lead to more consistent performance. By honing in on each element of the swing, players can develop a more consistent and powerful hitting technique. It is particularly beneficial for young players who are still learning the fundamentals of baseball hitting, providing them with a solid foundation upon which to build their skills. Additionally, the drill’s emphasis on mechanics helps prevent the development of bad habits, setting players up for long-term success.
Key Components of the Lew Drill
To perform the Lew Drill effectively, players need to focus on several key components. Each component works in harmony with the others to produce a well-rounded and effective swing.
Proper Stance
A good stance is the foundation of any successful hit. In the Lew Drill, players are taught to stand with their feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight evenly distributed. This position helps maintain balance and allows for a more controlled swing, reducing the risk of off-balance hits that can lead to poor contact. By establishing a strong and stable base, players can better transfer their energy through their swing, resulting in more powerful hits. Practicing the proper stance also helps players become more aware of their body positioning, which can be crucial in adjusting to different pitches.
Hand Positioning
The position of the hands is crucial in the Lew Drill. Players should hold the bat with a firm grip, keeping their hands close to their bodies. This positioning helps generate more power and ensures better control over the bat, allowing for quicker and more precise swings. By keeping the hands close to the body, players can also protect the strike zone, making it easier to adjust to inside pitches. Developing a consistent hand position is essential for creating a repeatable and effective swing, which is why it is a focal point of the Lew Drill.
Eye on the Ball
Keeping an eye on the ball is a fundamental aspect of any hitting drill. In the Lew Drill, players are encouraged to track the ball from the pitcher’s hand all the way to the point of contact. This focus helps improve timing and increases the likelihood of making solid contact, which is crucial for successful hitting. By training their eyes to follow the ball, players can better anticipate its trajectory and adjust their swing accordingly. This skill not only enhances hitting performance but also boosts confidence at the plate, as players become more adept at reading pitches.
Swing Mechanics
The swing is the most critical part of the Lew Drill. Players are taught to initiate their swing with their hips, followed by their shoulders, and finally their hands. This sequence of movements ensures maximum power and precision, as it allows the entire body to work together in a coordinated effort. By focusing on swing mechanics, players can avoid common mistakes such as “arming” the ball or swinging with only the upper body. The Lew Drill emphasizes the importance of using the lower body to generate power, which is a key factor in achieving consistent, powerful hits.
Benefits of the Lew Drill
The Lew Drill offers several benefits for baseball hitters, making it a valuable addition to any training regimen. By focusing on key aspects of hitting, the drill helps players develop essential skills that translate to improved performance on the field.
Improved Hand-Eye Coordination
By focusing on tracking the ball, the Lew Drill helps players develop better hand-eye coordination. This skill is essential for making contact with the ball and increasing hitting accuracy. Players who can track the ball effectively are more likely to make solid contact, leading to better results at the plate. Improved hand-eye coordination also aids in adjusting to different pitch speeds and locations, making players more versatile and adaptable hitters.
Enhanced Timing
Timing is everything in baseball. The Lew Drill teaches players to time their swings perfectly, leading to more consistent hits. By practicing the timing of their swing, players can better anticipate the pitch and adjust their swing accordingly. This ability to time pitches accurately is crucial for success, as it allows players to make the most of their opportunities at the plate. Additionally, enhanced timing can help players develop a better understanding of different pitchers’ tendencies, giving them an edge in competitive situations.
Increased Power
The emphasis on swing mechanics in the Lew Drill helps players generate more power in their hits. By using their entire body, from hips to hands, players can hit the ball with greater force. This increase in power can lead to more extra-base hits and home runs, making players more formidable threats at the plate. Furthermore, the ability to generate power consistently can boost a player’s confidence, allowing them to approach each at-bat with a more aggressive mindset.
Consistency
Consistency is key to becoming a successful baseball hitter. The Lew Drill instills good habits and encourages repetition, leading to more reliable performance in games. By practicing the drill regularly, players can develop muscle memory and refine their skills, resulting in more consistent at-bats. Consistency also allows players to better handle the mental aspects of hitting, as they can rely on their training to guide them through challenging situations.
Incorporating the Lew Drill into Your Routine
Whether you’re an aspiring MLB player or a youth baseball enthusiast, incorporating the Lew Drill into your training routine can yield significant improvements in your hitting skills. Here’s how you can get started and make the most of this effective training tool.
Start with Warm-Ups
Before diving into the Lew Drill, it’s important to warm up properly. Spend a few minutes stretching and doing light exercises to prepare your muscles for the workout ahead. A proper warm-up not only helps prevent injuries but also ensures that your body is ready to perform at its best. Incorporate dynamic stretches and movements that mimic the actions involved in hitting to further enhance your readiness.
Practice Regularly
Consistency is crucial when it comes to the Lew Drill. Set aside time each week to practice the drill, focusing on different components during each session. Regular practice will help reinforce good habits and improve your skills over time. By varying your focus, you can address different aspects of your swing and ensure a well-rounded development. Consider incorporating the Lew Drill into your regular practice routine, making it a staple of your training regimen.
Monitor Your Progress
Keep track of your progress by recording your performance during the Lew Drill. Pay attention to your stance, hand positioning, and swing mechanics. Make adjustments as needed to ensure continuous improvement. By tracking your progress, you can identify areas for improvement and celebrate your successes, keeping you motivated and engaged in your training. Use video recordings or feedback from coaches to gain additional insights into your performance.
Seek Feedback
If possible, work with a coach or experienced player who can provide feedback on your performance. They can offer valuable insights and help you refine your technique. Constructive feedback is essential for growth, as it allows you to identify and address weaknesses in your swing. Coaches can also provide guidance on how to modify the Lew Drill to suit your specific needs, ensuring that you get the most out of your practice sessions.
Real-World Success Stories
The Lew Drill has been embraced by many successful baseball hitters. MLB players credit this drill with helping them refine their skills and achieve greater success on the field. The drill’s focus on mechanics and fundamentals has made it a go-to tool for players looking to elevate their game. Youth baseball coaches also report significant improvements in their players’ performance after incorporating the Lew Drill into their training programs. These success stories highlight the drill’s effectiveness and its potential to transform hitters of all levels.
Conclusion
The Lew Drill is a powerful tool for any baseball hitter looking to improve their skills. By focusing on key components such as stance, hand positioning, and swing mechanics, players can enhance their hand-eye coordination, timing, and power. Whether you’re playing in the MLB or just starting out in youth baseball, the Lew Drill can help you become a more consistent and successful hitter. With dedication and regular practice, you can harness the benefits of the Lew Drill to take your hitting to new heights. So, grab your bat, hit the field, and start practicing the Lew Drill today!