Good hitters get into good counts

Ever notice that the best hitters always seem to be hitting in 1-0, 2-1, and 2-0 counts?  Obviously, that’s not

always the case but there is a lot of truth to the saying that “good hitters get into good counts” more often than poor hitters.

Good hitters are called “good hitters” in part because of their ability to lay off pitchers’ pitches early in the count and be patient enough to find one they like.  Some of the reasons for this are …

1. They tend to wait longer on each pitch which gives them more information about the type of pitch and location.
2. They are comfortable hitting behind in the count so if the pitcher hits the black on pitch #1, they take it.
3. They let the pitch come to them instead of jumping at / lunging forward on the pitch. (See #1)
4. They are “selectively aggressive.”  They are willing to swing early if they get a good pitch to hit but patient enough to wait for a better one.

The best news about the above four items is that none of them take a lot of talent.  Anyone can do them if they start with the correct mindset at the plate.

If you find yourself getting into a string of a lot of bad counts (0-2, 1-2), it could be one or more of the items above. 

Trust your hands (quickness), let the ball get a little deeper, be “selectively aggressive” early, and stay confident!  Better counts will come!