Posted by: Tom Waz (sluggoking@msn.com) on Tue May 11 12:15:50 2004

Since getting drilled twice last year my son
> has had a problem with fear. When he is in the
> batters box he is jumping out with his back
> foot very early. Sometimes he doesn't jump but
> his swing is weak because he is still afraid.
>
> Is there anything I can do to help him overcome this
> fear. I have though of having him stand in the batters box in the ready position and not swing but
> follow the ball all the way in. It has become a bad habit.

There are a few drills that can help. Throwing tennis balls at him might give him the confidence to know that he'll have time to get out of the way should a pitch come at him. Bottom line - he has to decide if he wants to hit or worry about being hit as he can't get into the box and do both at the same time. I hope he gets over his fear. - Tom Waz