Lecture Notes on Vision and Hitting Techniques in Baseball

Main Concepts

Focal Vision

• Focuses on detail.
• In a vertical focal vision, the hitter focuses on the pitcher up and down before release.
• In a global vision, the hitter might focus on the batter's eye horizontally or vertically and bring focus back to the pitcher’s release.

Vision and Chin Angle

• Vision effectiveness varies by angle:
  • Aerial: Sees better up; lower release requires chin down.
  • Example: Matt Shaw adjusts his chin angle for optimal vision at release.
• Observing how players, even opponents, walk/move can reveal vision preferences:
  • Aerial with left/right motor eye indicates best vision zones.
  • Aerials: Prefer seeing up.
  • Terrestrials: Prefer seeing down.

Vision Dial

• Motor eye determines zone preferences and best vision areas.
• Knowing vision zones eliminates weaknesses, providing athletes confidence.
• Example: Terrestrials and aerials practicing up/down pitches daily, addressing pronation/supination bias.

Player Positioning and Techniques

Examples of Players

• Terrestrial and Anchored: Example, Mike Trout.
• Aerial and not Anchored: Example, Barry Bonds.
• Players may vary in grounding (heels up in rotation) and upper body flexion (large axial, asymmetrical for aerials).

Key Takeaways

• No universal method for vision and hitting; tailor approach to each individual.
• Understanding vision and motor preferences enhances player performance.
• Provide freedom within a structured understanding to find the best individual method.