✔️ Hitters, let’s talk about something that might make some of you uncomfortable: FAILURE. Specifically, missing a pitch off the machine during practice. I get it. It feels good to square up every ball, to see that perfect trajectory into the net. But let me tell you something: if you’re not swinging and missing occasionally, you’re not pushing your limits enough to grow. Here’s why: 1️⃣ Game-Like Challenges Build Real Skill • The machine is a tool, but it should replicate what you’ll face in games – speeds, spin, and unpredictability. • If you’re only crushing BP fastballs right down the middle, you’re not preparing for the 0-2 slider that falls off the plate or the high heat at 90 mph. • Growth happens outside your comfort zone. Use the machine to push your timing, adjust to different pitch types, and refine your swing path under pressure. 2️⃣ Swinging and Missing = Progress Missing teaches you what’s working and what isn’t. Every swing is data. If you miss, you’re forced to analyze: • Were you too late? • Was your path off? • Did you lose posture or balance? Those misses are feedback – a necessary step in refining your swing and approach. 3️⃣ Mental Toughness is Built in the Misses • The game is full of failure. Even the best hitters miss more than they connect. The question is: how do you respond? • When you challenge yourself in practice, you’re training your mind to stay calm, stay focused, and make adjustments. Swinging and missing is not failure; it’s an opportunity to build resilience. 4️⃣ Hitting is About Adapting The best hitters are problem solvers. They see a challenge, make adjustments, and execute. • If the machine throws a nasty slider you swing through, don’t get frustrated – figure out how to stay on it next time. • Focus on learning from each pitch instead of avoiding misses. 🏁 Final Thoughts • If you’re never swinging and missing off the machine, you’re playing it too safe. Take the tough reps. Challenge your timing. Miss a few, and then lock in.

When you reach Level 8 you will be granted a FREE LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP to the OK Swings Tribe.

What’s up guys I’m Chance Hafen a junior at Ponca City

✔️ When stepping into the batter’s box, having a plan is your first step toward controlling the at-bat. While pure mechanics and reaction play a role, your approach is what allows you to compete at the highest level. Without a plan, you’re relying on luck—playing defense instead of offense. Here’s why a strong approach and game plan are essential and how to build one that works for you. 1️⃣ Play to Your Strengths Not every pitch is YOUR pitch. It’s easy to want to swing at anything close, especially in high-pressure situations. But the best hitters: • Know their strengths (e.g., what zones they dominate, the pitches they handle best). • Stay disciplined to attack those strengths and avoid chasing pitches they can’t drive. 💡 Actionable Tip: Before your at-bat, visualize the type of pitch you want to hit and commit to it until the pitcher shows you otherwise. 2️⃣ Anticipate the Pitcher’s Plan Every pitcher has a strategy, and every pitch they throw gives you more data. Watching your teammates’ at-bats or studying the pitcher’s tendencies will help you anticipate what might be coming next. • Does the pitcher rely on first-pitch fastballs? Be ready to attack early. • Do they throw breaking balls in 2-strike counts? Adjust your timing and location. • Are they showing a pattern of going away or busting hitters inside? Use that knowledge to anticipate their next move. 💡 Actionable Tip: During the game, track the pitcher’s patterns in your mind or write them in a notebook in the dugout. 3️⃣ Adjust Based on the Game Situation Not all at-bats are created equal. A bases-loaded, two-out situation in the 9th inning isn’t the same as leading off the 3rd. Adjusting your approach based on the situation is critical. • Runner on third with less than two outs? Shorten up and focus on putting the ball in play. • Team down by one in the 9th? Look for something you can drive. 💡 Actionable Tip: Always ask yourself, “What does my team need from me right now?” before stepping into the box.

Lane thinks LeBron is the goat can we settle this? MJ is and will forever be the goat comment your opinion!