Proper “Batter to Machine” Positioning is Vital when Using the Hurricane

·         Shown are the proper angles and positions for each of the various drills.  Batters should always locate at an angle that directs the ball rod toward the batters back leg.  This angle ensures proper ball contact is made without hitting the shaft.

·         Special attention should always be given to making sure each practice swing is performed correctly.  The batter should read each swing’s contact to access the swing quality and power.  Correction should be made when needed.  It is better to work at a slower pace with quality swings than to work too fast and to have poor swing quality.  The batter should always take time to assume proper stance and use correct mechanics.

·         Batters should practice hitting all possible strike locations.  The hurricane allows you to choose a precise location to practice hitting.

·         The machine rotates in an 8.5 ft. circle.  Make sure your safety zone is clear.  Always check each component of the machine before use to assure each is in proper working condition.

·         Before using the Hurricane read the safety rules.  Always follow those rules during assembly and use.

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Regular Strike Contact

The batter assumes a stance and position that allows the batter to hit the ball over the middle third of the plate.

The batter is at a proper distance from the ball to insure that proper contact is made with the ball component and not the shaft.

The batter should assess the quality of each swing by observing the reaction of the ball upon contact.  The batter should be able to determine if a ground ball, fly ball, or line drive was hit.  The batter can also assess the power by observing how many times the ball rotates upon contact.  Notice the angle of the batters feet and body.

Each time the ball returns, the batter will hit the ball.  The ball may be hit while moving or from a still position like hitting off a tee.

Inside Strike Contact

The batter assumes a stance and position that allows the batter to hit the ball on the inner third of the plate.  The batter will practice “pulling the ball”.  The batter makes sure to get maximum lower-body involvement by using good hip rotation.

The batter is at a proper distance from the ball to insure that proper contact is made with the ball component and not the shaft.

The batter should assess the quality of each swing by observing the reaction of the ball upon contact.  The batter should be able to determine if a ground ball, fly ball, or line drive was hit.  The batter can also assess the power by observing how many times the ball rotates upon contact.  Notice the angle of the batters feet and body allow the batter to practice “turning on the inside pitch”.

Each time the ball returns, the batter will hit the ball.  The ball may be hit while moving or from a still position like hitting off a tee.

Away Strike Contact

The batter assumes a stance and position that allows the batter to hit the ball on the outer third of the plate.  The batter will practice “hitting the ball to the opposite field”.  This is the exact same location that the batter should attack the off-speed pitch.

The batter is at a proper distance from the ball to insure that proper contact is made with the ball component and not the shaft.

The batter should assess the quality of each swing by observing the reaction of the ball upon contact.  The batter should be able to determine if a ground ball, fly ball, or line drive was hit.  The batter can also assess the power by observing how many times the ball rotates upon contact.  Notice the angle of the batters feet and body allow the batter to practice “hitting to the opposite field”.

Each time the ball returns, the batter will hit the ball.  The ball may be hit while moving or from a still position like hitting off a tee.

Hip-Turner Drill 

“Hip-turn” is a vital part of power hitting.  Hitters can generate incredible power by learning to “incorporate” the lower-half of their body into their swing.

The batter assumes a position that places the body and feet at an angle facing away from the Hurricane Machine.  The ball unit is directed at the batter’s “hip pocket”.  Many people call this drill the “hip pocket” hitting drill.  The batter must take a step, turn and drive the hips through, in order to make strong contact with the ball.

The batter is at a proper distance from the ball to insure that proper contact is made with the ball component and not the shaft.

The batter should assess the quality of each swing by observing the reaction of the ball upon contact.  The batter should be able to determine if a ground ball, fly ball, or line drive was hit.  The batter can also assess the power by observing how many times the ball rotates upon contact.

Each time the ball returns, the batter will hit the ball.  The ball may be hit while moving or from a still position like hitting off a tee.