Hitting Drill: Knockout Hitting (Baseball & Softball)

Progressive elimination hitting drill where players must complete specific hitting tasks based on skill level or they are "knocked out". Perfect for building competitiveness and improving hitting skills under pressure.

How to Run This Drill

Set up hitting area with tee, soft toss, or live pitching depending
on age and skill level. Ensure all players can see and hear the coach
explaining each round's challenge.
Gather all players and explain the progression of challenges for each
round.
Round 1: Bunt the ball in fair territory - Players must successfully
bunt the ball fair to advance.
Round 2: Hit a fair ball - Players must make contact and hit the ball
into fair territory.
Round 3: Hit the ball into the outfield - Players must hit the ball
past the infield to continue.
Round 4: Ball must land in the outfield - Players must hit a fly ball
or line drive that lands in the outfield grass.
Players who fail their task are "out" and sit to the side (can continue
playing if desired or help coach).
Continue with additional progressive challenges as needed for your
skill level.
Last player remaining wins.
Can restart with all players and vary the challenges based on team
needs.

Coaching Points

Adjust difficulty of each round based on age and skill level
Keep the pace moving - each player gets 2-3 attempts per round
Encourage eliminated players to stay engaged and cheer teammates
Focus on proper mechanics even under competitive pressure
Modify challenges for different skill levels (beginner to advanced)
Make it fun and celebrate successes at each level
For younger players, may need to adjust rounds (example: Round 1 - Hit off tee, Round 2 - Bunt, etc.)
Consider having multiple "lives" for younger age groups