Posted by: Jim (jwelborn@lexcominc.net) on Wed Aug 8 20:49:22 2007

> > > > Hey guys. I havent picked up a bat for awhile but for the past 2 weeks I have been visiting some local Batting Cages.
> > > >
> > > > My question is, if the speed in the cage from 45 feet is 75 MPH can it seem like it is much faster because it is a cage and not coming from an actual pitcher on the mound?
> > > >
> > > > The ball shoots out and it seems like it has to be at least 85 MPH, it is very hard to get around on.
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> > >
> > >
> > > Its coming from a shorter distance so ya it does feel faster and you have less time to react.
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> >
> >
> > 75 MPH from 45 feet equates to the same reaction time as 101 MPH from 60.5 feet. If you have good mechanics, that would be an excellent occasional drill. But I wouldn't do it all the time. It's also not a good situation to be in when trying to correct deficiencies in a swing. Speed drills are useful when you know you're soon going to face a fast pitcher.
> >that is too fast for bp are you sure those #s are correct no need to be in there on that very often or while working on mechanics.



Here's the conversion: 60.5' divided by 45' = 1.3444 ratio 1.3444 x 75 MPH = 100.8 MPH reaction time

The 45' distance only shortens the available reaction time. The ball is of course still traveling 75 through your contact zone.

Live arm batting practice is usually pitched at slower speeds from a closer pitching distance than you'd see in game conditions. This means the ball is traveling through your contact zone slower, making it a little easier to hit (and saving the BP pitcher's arm). Being easier to hit, you can concentrate more on mechanics. At the sme time, reaction time can be maintained at game conditions by doing the calculation and putting the pitcher at the appropriate distance.