Hitting Drill: Homerun Derby (Baseball & Softball)
Fun competitive hitting game rewarding line drives and hard contact. Pop-ups and high fly balls are outs even if they go far.

How to Run This Drill
- Set up in the outfield or large open space, hitting toward a fence using soft or wiffle balls for safety.
- Coach pitches to batters - can throw overhand or underhand depending on player skill level.
- Scoring: hard ground balls = 1 point, line drives = 2 points, line drive home runs = 5 points.
- Outs: high fly balls are OUTS even if they travel over the fence. Swings and misses, pop-ups, and foul balls are also outs.
- Each batter gets 3 outs. Track who scores the most points.
- Can also use a pitching machine for consistent pitches.
Coaching Points
- Rewards proper swing mechanics - line drives score
- Punishes uppercut swings - pop-ups are outs
- Great for teaching to drive through the ball
- Fun competition that reinforces good habits
- Use soft balls for safety in open spaces
Quick Actions
At a Glance
Equipment Needed
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