Pull Hitter
A batter who predominantly hits the ball to the same side of the field where they stand, left field for right-handed batters, right field for left-handed batters.
Example Usage
“He's a dead pull hitter, so the defense shifted three infielders to the left side.”
Pull Hitter
A pull hitter is a batter who consistently hits the ball to the same side of the field where they stand in the batter's box. Right-handed pull hitters hit to left field; left-handed pull hitters hit to right field.
Characteristics of Pull Hitters
- Early bat speed: Barrel gets to the hitting zone quickly
- Rotational power: Emphasis on hip rotation
- Inside pitch preference: Attack balls on the inner half
- Power focus: Often sacrifice contact for home runs
Advantages of Pull Hitting
- Power potential: Leverages rotational mechanics
- Home run distance: Pull side typically has shorter fences
- Natural strength: Many hitters are naturally pull-dominant
Disadvantages
- Predictable: Easier to defend with shifts
- Vulnerable outside: Struggles with away pitches
- Ground balls: Rolling over leads to 6-4-3 double plays
The Defensive Shift
Teams counter pull hitters with the shift:
- Three infielders on pull side
- Outfielders shaded toward pull side
- Creates holes on opposite field
Becoming More Complete
Pull hitters can improve by:
- Working on opposite field contact
- Letting outside pitches travel deeper
- Using the whole field with two strikes
- Developing an inside-out swing path
Related Terms
Opposite Field
Hitting the ball to the opposite side of the field from where you bat, right field for right-handed hitters, left field for left-handed hitters.
Contact Point
The location in the hitting zone where the bat meets the ball, which varies based on pitch location, inside pitches are hit out front, outside pitches deeper.
6 Hole
The gap between the shortstop and the third baseman, named after the shortstop's position number (6).
Defensive Shift
A strategic repositioning of fielders based on a batter's tendencies, typically moving infielders to the side where the batter most frequently hits the ball.
Ready to Create Your Perfect Lineup?
Now that you know what “Pull Hitter” means, put your knowledge to work with our free lineup generator.
Try Free Lineup Generator