Coach Pitch Hitting Progression
Once your kid can hit off a tee and soft toss, they’re ready for coach pitch. This is the bridge between controlled practice and game-speed hitting.
How to pitch to your kid
| Approach | Distance | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lob toss | 20–25 ft | Slow arc | Ages 5–7, first time seeing live pitching |
| Medium toss | 30–35 ft | Moderate, slight arc | Ages 7–9, building timing |
| Flat pitch | 35–40 ft | Game-like speed | Ages 9–12, preparing for kid pitch |
Dad mechanics
Kneel on one knee for younger kids (gets the ball on a downward plane into the zone). Stand for older kids. Aim for the middle of the strike zone every time — this is practice, not competition.
Common problems and fixes
| Problem | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Swinging and missing | Swinging too early or late | Slow down the pitch, let them track it longer |
| Pop-ups | Swinging under the ball | Lower the tee or toss height, focus on level swing path |
| Weak grounders | Chopping down | Work on tee drills — swing through the zone, not into the ground |
| Stepping out (pulling away) | Fear of the ball or bad habit | Use softer balls, toss from the side first, rebuild confidence |
20 good swings is a great session. When your kid starts lunging, dropping the hands, or getting frustrated — stop. Come back tomorrow.