Bordick has an average at the plate of .260 for his career in baseball with 676 runs scored and an OPS of .392. Over the course of his time in the league, he stepped up to the plate 6,484 times and has come through with a hit 1,500 times. His slugging percentage is .069 in addition to earning 2,090 bases. In his career, Bordick has drilled 91 baseballs out of the park while driving in 626 runs. He has been struck out 800 times and has gotten a free base on 500 occasions, which contributes in part to a .323 on-base percentage.
Mike Bordick
Baseball, often referred to as America’s pastime, is a game of strategy, precision, and skill. Among the many players who have graced the MLB with their talent, Mike Bordick stands out as a notable hitter. Known for his discipline and consistency at the plate, Bordick’s career offers valuable insights for aspiring baseball hitters. This article delves into Mike Bordick’s approach to hitting, his journey in the MLB, and essential baseball hitting tips inspired by his career.
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The Journey of Mike Bordick in MLB
Mike Bordick’s professional baseball career is a testament to hard work and perseverance. Born on July 21, 1965, in Marquette, Michigan, Bordick played college baseball at the University of Maine before entering the MLB. He made his MLB debut with the Oakland Athletics in 1990. Over the years, Bordick played for several teams, including the Baltimore Orioles, Toronto Blue Jays, and New York Mets.
A Consistent Performer
Bordick was not known for hitting home runs but rather for his consistent ability to get on base and contribute to his team’s success. His career batting average of .260 reflects his solid performance and reliability as a hitter. Bordick’s approach to hitting focused on fundamentals, discipline, and a keen understanding of the game. His playing style serves as a model for aspiring hitters who aim to improve their batting skills.
Baseball Hitting Tips from Mike Bordick
Learning from accomplished players like Mike Bordick can provide invaluable guidance for improving your hitting technique. Here are some essential baseball hitting tips inspired by Bordick’s career:
1. Master the Fundamentals
Bordick’s success at the plate was largely due to his mastery of the fundamentals. Aspiring hitters should focus on the basics: grip, stance, and swing mechanics. Ensure that your grip on the bat is firm yet relaxed, allowing for maximum control and flexibility. Your stance should be balanced, with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent. A smooth, controlled swing is essential for making consistent contact with the ball.
2. Develop Plate Discipline
One of Bordick’s strengths as a hitter was his plate discipline. He had a keen eye for pitches, which allowed him to lay off bad pitches and wait for the right opportunity to swing. Developing plate discipline involves understanding the strike zone and being patient enough to wait for a pitch you can handle. Practice identifying different pitch types and their trajectories to improve your decision-making at the plate.
3. Focus on Contact Hitting
Instead of swinging for the fences, Bordick focused on making solid contact with the ball. Contact hitting involves aiming for line drives and ground balls rather than home runs. This approach increases your chances of getting on base and contributing to your team’s offense. Work on hitting the ball to all fields, which makes you a more versatile and unpredictable hitter.
4. Use Hitting Drills
Incorporating hitting drills into your practice routine can enhance your skills and overall performance. Here are a few drills that can help:
- Tee Work: Practicing with a tee allows you to focus on your swing mechanics without the pressure of a moving ball. Set the tee at different heights and positions to simulate various pitch locations.
- Soft Toss: A coach or teammate tosses the ball underhand from the side, allowing you to practice timing and hand-eye coordination. Focus on hitting the ball with a level swing.
- Batting Practice: Live batting practice is crucial for developing your ability to hit moving pitches. Concentrate on making solid contact and adjusting to different pitch speeds and locations.
Mike Bordick’s Impact on the Game
Mike Bordick’s influence extends beyond his playing career. After retiring, he transitioned into coaching and broadcasting, sharing his knowledge and passion for the game with a new generation of players. His work as a coach has helped many young athletes develop their skills and understanding of baseball.
Contributions to Baseball as a Coach
Bordick’s coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of fundamentals, discipline, and a positive mindset. He believes that success in baseball, as in life, comes from hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. His experience and insights have made him a respected figure in the baseball community.
Conclusion
Mike Bordick’s career as an MLB baseball hitter offers valuable lessons for aspiring players. His commitment to mastering the fundamentals, developing plate discipline, and focusing on contact hitting are principles that can benefit anyone looking to improve their batting skills. By incorporating these tips and drills into your practice routine, you can enhance your performance and become a more effective and consistent hitter. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, the wisdom of players like Mike Bordick can inspire you to reach new heights in your baseball journey.