An Easy Way To Gain An Edge Over Your Baseball Opponent

            This edge that I'm talking about is your own personnel scouting report. To be successful in the game of baseball, you always have to be a step ahead of your opponent. You have to know how they are going to try to get you out, what pitches the pitcher likes to throw, where hitters tend to hit the ball, and more. 

            Your report shouldn’t be extremely in depth, just little things that you can pick up before and throughout the game. If you’re a pitcher you should notice where certain batters like the ball, if they’re sitting on a certain pitch. You should also know what players are able to steal bases as well. As a pitcher you should always try and change your pitch sequences up as well, because hitters start to recognize if you like to throw your fastball for a first pitch strike and then throw your curveball to try and get the strikeout.

            As a fielder you should try and understand each opposing hitter’s timing of swing. What I mean by this is if a guy grounds out to third base two times in a row, he’s probably going to hit it to the left side of the field again. You can use this information to help position yourself and to make sure that you’re ready to field the ball. You should also know who the fast and slow players on the opposing team are so you know how much time you have when you field the ball. You should also recognize that fast players always have the opportunity to bunt for hits, so be sure you aren’t back on your heels. On the other hand, with slow players you can maybe back up a bit, and you don’t have to be in a hurry to get the ball to first base or to get the ball back into the infield. This doesn’t mean that you should lob the ball to its destination; it means you should take your time and set your feet before giving a strong throw of the ball.

            As a hitter, every ounce of your focus should be on the opposing pitcher, obviously. You need to watch how the ball comes out of his hand, know his move to first base, and any other things you notice. You should take your first couple at bats against the pitcher to help you with your third and fourth. You should remember how he tried to attack you, like if he started you off with a first pitch change up and then tried to blow you away with a fastball. Only the elite pitchers will remember their pitch sequences to each batter so they generally will attack you the same way each time.

            Every game you should make it your goal to try and have at least a few things on your scouting report, no matter how small. You never know when those things will come in handy. Thank you for reading, it is very much appreciated, and be sure to check out my other posts for ways to improve your overall baseball game.

-Brandon