How to Hit a Wiffleball
Being a good consistent hitter in wiffleball is arguably tougher than being a consistent pitcher, especially when you get to higher and higher levels of competitions. Pitchers have an arsenal of 8 or more pitchers with accompanying off speed pitches. This guide isn’t an end all be all because you still need to have some raw skill, but I think this hits all of the major points all elite hitters have.
2. Pitch Recognition
This is up there with timing in fast pitch games, being able to know what each release point and arm angle does to each pitch is huge. Some elite pitchers will maintain the same arm angle for multiple pitches making it even tougher but the good thing about wiffleball is that you have many at bats to learn a pattern. Pitchers have tendencies to throw pitches in a sequence. First pitch riser. Slurve, Fastball, Changeup. Each pitcher is different and tips their stuff in various way. Is he up 0-2? Watch for the slider you looked at the first strike. Pitcher behind in the count? Learn what his safe strike pitch is and sit on it.
3. Patience
This is different for each player. The already elite batters exhibit patience because they are fear and know pitchers have to be careful. For an up-and-comer or rookie it could be even tougher. With pitches coming in from every angle, it’s extremely important to know your weaknesses and sit on a “hittable” pitch. Even though a pitch hits the board does not make it hittable, taking a strike isn’t a bad thing. Learn the pitchers go to pitch and put him behind so he has to throw it. You’ll get one pitch an at bat and sometimes that’s it so be ready for the pitch when you see it.
4.Bat Speed
Once again this becomes more prevalent in higher skill level when pitchers throw more off-speed pitches or are consistently hitting 90 on the gun. If a pitcher has you on your heels but you still know what’s coming, having quick hands through the zone is a game changer. All of the elite hitters can look lost during an entire at bat but pull out a hit because they get through the zone so fast, even when you’re off balance of an off-speed pitch.
5. Stance
Don’t have a closed stance. Really just don’t. I don’t care if you’re a “slap” hitter or trying to go the other way. This is wiffleball, not rec league softball. Not only will you never effectively hit a slider, slurve or all of the other pitches that cover the inside part of the plate, you’ll literally only see those pitches because every smart pitcher sees that weakness immediately. Have a slightly open stance and stand a foot off the plate at least. This give you a better feel for the strike board and lets you cover every pitch thrown your way.
Jimmy Cole
The Commish
6/7/2017
- Timing
2. Pitch Recognition
This is up there with timing in fast pitch games, being able to know what each release point and arm angle does to each pitch is huge. Some elite pitchers will maintain the same arm angle for multiple pitches making it even tougher but the good thing about wiffleball is that you have many at bats to learn a pattern. Pitchers have tendencies to throw pitches in a sequence. First pitch riser. Slurve, Fastball, Changeup. Each pitcher is different and tips their stuff in various way. Is he up 0-2? Watch for the slider you looked at the first strike. Pitcher behind in the count? Learn what his safe strike pitch is and sit on it.
3. Patience
This is different for each player. The already elite batters exhibit patience because they are fear and know pitchers have to be careful. For an up-and-comer or rookie it could be even tougher. With pitches coming in from every angle, it’s extremely important to know your weaknesses and sit on a “hittable” pitch. Even though a pitch hits the board does not make it hittable, taking a strike isn’t a bad thing. Learn the pitchers go to pitch and put him behind so he has to throw it. You’ll get one pitch an at bat and sometimes that’s it so be ready for the pitch when you see it.
4.Bat Speed
Once again this becomes more prevalent in higher skill level when pitchers throw more off-speed pitches or are consistently hitting 90 on the gun. If a pitcher has you on your heels but you still know what’s coming, having quick hands through the zone is a game changer. All of the elite hitters can look lost during an entire at bat but pull out a hit because they get through the zone so fast, even when you’re off balance of an off-speed pitch.
5. Stance
Don’t have a closed stance. Really just don’t. I don’t care if you’re a “slap” hitter or trying to go the other way. This is wiffleball, not rec league softball. Not only will you never effectively hit a slider, slurve or all of the other pitches that cover the inside part of the plate, you’ll literally only see those pitches because every smart pitcher sees that weakness immediately. Have a slightly open stance and stand a foot off the plate at least. This give you a better feel for the strike board and lets you cover every pitch thrown your way.
Jimmy Cole
The Commish
6/7/2017
VERMONT VENOM SEEK TO EXTRACT REVENGE ON THE ENTIRE AWAA
When Rob Mix assembled his team he had all the intentions of seeking a championship. Although his ferocious competitiveness has not gone away, Mix finds pleasure in playing alongside his teammates. Mix states: “These guys want to win and want to have fun but they also want to leave a mark in the Wiffle community.”
With the Venom being a classy organization that abides by all the AWAA by-laws, the Venom seek to fly under the radar this year and win some tough games on the diamond. The Venom as a team are stacked with pitchers and capable fielders all throughout their line-up. When asking Mix about the make-up of his roster he was quoted saying: “I have got Myself Rob Mix, infielder/pitcher. Craig Barney outfielder/pitcher. Dakota King Infielder/Pitcher. Skylar Odell outfielder. Josh Camp Outfielder/pitcher.
With the wide assortment of pitching capabilities on this team, Mix and other Venom pitchers will be able to give opposing wifflers fits. Giving hitters different looks in terms of who will be pitching on which occasion is enough to leave any wiffler frustrated and left guessing while at the plate.
Mix knows he has talent on this Venom team and really wants to see it flourish this season, when asked about his expectations going into the season not only for his team but also for himself, Mix responded by saying: “My expectations for the team is to come out, play hard and have fun. Any team that I have put together notices how laid back it is, that in itself makes this crew very powerful. As for individual expectations, these guys are awesome, most of us have been playing for a long time. Just keep plugging away, the whole team knows what to do and where we should be at the end of the year.”
The care-free relaxed demeanor could play in the Venom’s favor as fellow wifflers on opposing teams (namely Mike VanNostrand) may take the game too competitively which could get in the way of their performance. A relaxed state for his team could bring about a certain confidence within one another that could be what makes this team ready to strike when it is least expected.
Mix feels that there are certain players on this Venom roster that he feels are ready to burst out and take the AWAA by storm. “I actually think 3 of us will go over the top this year. Once things get real we get competitive…Myself Dakota and Josh”.
With confidence not only lying within himself, the potential production that Mix expects from King (no relation) and Camp could strike fear into some of the AWAA pitchers. This is a talented and experienced bunch that knows what it takes to be successful in the upcoming season.
However, as with every team going into a season, there is always a hurdle that must be leapt on the path towards a championship. I asked Mix what his biggest obstacle would be heading into the season, he responded by stating: “Making sure we stay consistent as a ball team. Team work is key that's how you win ball games. You win as a team you lose as one too. We have to make sure everyone stays on the same page.”
To get a better understanding of what would be a successful season for the Venom, I asked Mix what he thinks would be one for the Venom, to which he responded by stating: “To have a winning one. Simple!” Throughout the entire interview with Mix, a positive and confident vibe regarding his team was felt. He does not feel any pressure from opposing teams in the AWAA. Rather, he is more focused on his team being the best they can be and all working together towards a common goal – winning the AWAA title.
Randy King
AWAA Junior Columnist
March 24th, 2017
With the Venom being a classy organization that abides by all the AWAA by-laws, the Venom seek to fly under the radar this year and win some tough games on the diamond. The Venom as a team are stacked with pitchers and capable fielders all throughout their line-up. When asking Mix about the make-up of his roster he was quoted saying: “I have got Myself Rob Mix, infielder/pitcher. Craig Barney outfielder/pitcher. Dakota King Infielder/Pitcher. Skylar Odell outfielder. Josh Camp Outfielder/pitcher.
With the wide assortment of pitching capabilities on this team, Mix and other Venom pitchers will be able to give opposing wifflers fits. Giving hitters different looks in terms of who will be pitching on which occasion is enough to leave any wiffler frustrated and left guessing while at the plate.
Mix knows he has talent on this Venom team and really wants to see it flourish this season, when asked about his expectations going into the season not only for his team but also for himself, Mix responded by saying: “My expectations for the team is to come out, play hard and have fun. Any team that I have put together notices how laid back it is, that in itself makes this crew very powerful. As for individual expectations, these guys are awesome, most of us have been playing for a long time. Just keep plugging away, the whole team knows what to do and where we should be at the end of the year.”
The care-free relaxed demeanor could play in the Venom’s favor as fellow wifflers on opposing teams (namely Mike VanNostrand) may take the game too competitively which could get in the way of their performance. A relaxed state for his team could bring about a certain confidence within one another that could be what makes this team ready to strike when it is least expected.
Mix feels that there are certain players on this Venom roster that he feels are ready to burst out and take the AWAA by storm. “I actually think 3 of us will go over the top this year. Once things get real we get competitive…Myself Dakota and Josh”.
With confidence not only lying within himself, the potential production that Mix expects from King (no relation) and Camp could strike fear into some of the AWAA pitchers. This is a talented and experienced bunch that knows what it takes to be successful in the upcoming season.
However, as with every team going into a season, there is always a hurdle that must be leapt on the path towards a championship. I asked Mix what his biggest obstacle would be heading into the season, he responded by stating: “Making sure we stay consistent as a ball team. Team work is key that's how you win ball games. You win as a team you lose as one too. We have to make sure everyone stays on the same page.”
To get a better understanding of what would be a successful season for the Venom, I asked Mix what he thinks would be one for the Venom, to which he responded by stating: “To have a winning one. Simple!” Throughout the entire interview with Mix, a positive and confident vibe regarding his team was felt. He does not feel any pressure from opposing teams in the AWAA. Rather, he is more focused on his team being the best they can be and all working together towards a common goal – winning the AWAA title.
Randy King
AWAA Junior Columnist
March 24th, 2017
A Team of Mystery and Bravado
Floyd Mayweather. Alex Rodriguez. You can add Michael VanNostrand. The walking embodiment of confidence and swagger. I sat down with the outspoken whiffler about the upcoming season and he did not disappoint.
First, there has been rumors swirling that the name of the team might not be completely clear and there are question marks about the roster itself. When asked to comment on this Michael played his cards close to his chest. In terms of team name, he had this to say. "Co-captain Ron "powerbar" West and I have not come to a conclusion. We feel we need a name that embodies our standing in the league as the gold standard." He was even more enigmatic when asked to comment on the roster makeup. "Our roster is currently made up of Ron West and myself. I believe that is all we need but Jimmy Cole created rules against that because he is afraid to face just the two of us." This would not be the only time that he would criticize the Super Strokers team captain and AWAA commissioner. He did go on to say that the roster was still being finalized. "The roster isn't complete but I have received endless phone calls from players trying to win a title. The roster will be filled with dynasty type talent."
As the interview continued VanNostrand seemed to grow more confident in his team while at the same time becoming more critical of the commissioner Jimmy Cole. There definitely seems to be an intense rivalry set up this year between their respective teams. When asked what he expects out of the rivalry this year VanNostrand didn't pull any punches. "It will play out the same way it has since the last AWAA season"(VanNostrands team defeated the Super Strokers in the World Series and VanNostrand took home the league MVP award. Cole finished second.) "Cole will try to take all the glory." VanNostrand added. "Our teams hard work will beat Cole and his talk. That's all he is, talk." These were strong words for two players who have been teammates in the past. VanNostrand doesn't seem to have a soft spot for a former teammate either. He commented on his time sharing the field with Cole on the same team. "I feel like he held the team back. I can't decide if his constant injuries or need to on be the hero are what tore the team apart more." He went on to give a heads up to Coles current team. "It's unfortunate for his teammates that they have to deal with it, but that's why they won't call themselves champions." Clearly, any time these two teams meet this season it will be worth watching.
VanNostrand did take some time to talk about the goals and expectations of his team this year and not surprisingly, they were ambitious to say the least. "My individual goals line up with my team goals. Win a title. It's title or bust for this team every single year." Even when talking about his own team VanNostrand could not resist taking another shot at Cole. "Cole and I are carved from a different stone. I am all about the team, Cole is about his individual awards. There is no "I" in this team...His team fails becaise he doesn't allow anyone else to support it."
With all of this bravado and arrogance, it is easy to come to the conclusion that a certain drug may be enhancing not only the attitude, but the only field performance of this team. VanNostrand has come under fire recently due to these rumors as well as comments from Cole saying that he is not the team first player he says he is. VanNostrand addressed both of these issues in a way only he can. "Of course there is steroids on my locker room. What locker room doesn't have it... As for Cole and his comments about me not being a team first player... maybe he should be more concerned about his mechanics rounding third and less worried about me being team first."
As the interview drew to a close VanNostrands attitude did not let up for a second. He bristled when asked if he had a nickname similar to his teammate Ron "powerbar" West. "I like to operate with a no nonsense attitude." VanNostrand exclaimed, before adding "I don't need a nickname. I'll let my team do the talking." When asked to give one word to sum up this season for his team VanNostrand again seemed frustrated and answered in his own way. "I don't think I can give just one word to describe a dynasty such as the one Ron and I are creating." He did however offer up a phrase to sum it up. "Down with Cole."
There certainly seems to be an air of mystery and intrigue with this team that VanNostrand and West are putting together and there certainly appears to be substance behind all the talk but we both know with all of that arrogance it can go one of two ways. They could end up being the Floyd Mayweather Jr's of this league, dominating and trash talking all the way to the top of the league, or they could end up as the Ryan Leafs, all talk and no substance. The only way to find out is to play the games. All I can say is let's get it started
Donnie King
AWAA Lead Columnist
March 17th, 2017
First, there has been rumors swirling that the name of the team might not be completely clear and there are question marks about the roster itself. When asked to comment on this Michael played his cards close to his chest. In terms of team name, he had this to say. "Co-captain Ron "powerbar" West and I have not come to a conclusion. We feel we need a name that embodies our standing in the league as the gold standard." He was even more enigmatic when asked to comment on the roster makeup. "Our roster is currently made up of Ron West and myself. I believe that is all we need but Jimmy Cole created rules against that because he is afraid to face just the two of us." This would not be the only time that he would criticize the Super Strokers team captain and AWAA commissioner. He did go on to say that the roster was still being finalized. "The roster isn't complete but I have received endless phone calls from players trying to win a title. The roster will be filled with dynasty type talent."
As the interview continued VanNostrand seemed to grow more confident in his team while at the same time becoming more critical of the commissioner Jimmy Cole. There definitely seems to be an intense rivalry set up this year between their respective teams. When asked what he expects out of the rivalry this year VanNostrand didn't pull any punches. "It will play out the same way it has since the last AWAA season"(VanNostrands team defeated the Super Strokers in the World Series and VanNostrand took home the league MVP award. Cole finished second.) "Cole will try to take all the glory." VanNostrand added. "Our teams hard work will beat Cole and his talk. That's all he is, talk." These were strong words for two players who have been teammates in the past. VanNostrand doesn't seem to have a soft spot for a former teammate either. He commented on his time sharing the field with Cole on the same team. "I feel like he held the team back. I can't decide if his constant injuries or need to on be the hero are what tore the team apart more." He went on to give a heads up to Coles current team. "It's unfortunate for his teammates that they have to deal with it, but that's why they won't call themselves champions." Clearly, any time these two teams meet this season it will be worth watching.
VanNostrand did take some time to talk about the goals and expectations of his team this year and not surprisingly, they were ambitious to say the least. "My individual goals line up with my team goals. Win a title. It's title or bust for this team every single year." Even when talking about his own team VanNostrand could not resist taking another shot at Cole. "Cole and I are carved from a different stone. I am all about the team, Cole is about his individual awards. There is no "I" in this team...His team fails becaise he doesn't allow anyone else to support it."
With all of this bravado and arrogance, it is easy to come to the conclusion that a certain drug may be enhancing not only the attitude, but the only field performance of this team. VanNostrand has come under fire recently due to these rumors as well as comments from Cole saying that he is not the team first player he says he is. VanNostrand addressed both of these issues in a way only he can. "Of course there is steroids on my locker room. What locker room doesn't have it... As for Cole and his comments about me not being a team first player... maybe he should be more concerned about his mechanics rounding third and less worried about me being team first."
As the interview drew to a close VanNostrands attitude did not let up for a second. He bristled when asked if he had a nickname similar to his teammate Ron "powerbar" West. "I like to operate with a no nonsense attitude." VanNostrand exclaimed, before adding "I don't need a nickname. I'll let my team do the talking." When asked to give one word to sum up this season for his team VanNostrand again seemed frustrated and answered in his own way. "I don't think I can give just one word to describe a dynasty such as the one Ron and I are creating." He did however offer up a phrase to sum it up. "Down with Cole."
There certainly seems to be an air of mystery and intrigue with this team that VanNostrand and West are putting together and there certainly appears to be substance behind all the talk but we both know with all of that arrogance it can go one of two ways. They could end up being the Floyd Mayweather Jr's of this league, dominating and trash talking all the way to the top of the league, or they could end up as the Ryan Leafs, all talk and no substance. The only way to find out is to play the games. All I can say is let's get it started
Donnie King
AWAA Lead Columnist
March 17th, 2017
AWAA SEASON PREVIEW: ‘SCARED HITLESS’
As the April 22nd season opener get closer, there is much hype and excitement built around the American Wiffleball Association of America (AWAA) this season. However, no player is feeling as confident going into the season as Scared Hitless captain Anthony LaValley.
LaValley is expecting big things from his team and believes that the potential is there for a successful season. With the comradery that this team has, it is hard to imagine that chemistry amongst them will be anything but spectacular. “I expect a really solid season out of my squad. I've played wiffle with these guys for a few years so I know what they can do. Aside from performance, I just expect a really enjoyable year of wiffle with the guys.” LaValley said.
With all that the AWAA schedule has to offer with its mixture of pick-up games, league games, and tournaments, the schedule can be exhausting on the average wiffler. However, the schedule length is not the biggest obstacle for LaValley and the Scared Hitless side.
“The biggest obstacle for my team is going to be getting our 2nd starter, Casey Schoonmaker, back into throwing shape.”, LaValley stated. A hopeful full rotation going forward has Scared Hitless feeling that they are the team to beat.
LaValley has been known to nurse his arm throughout the season and giving it plenty of rest in between his pitching outings. The training LaValley puts his arm through is one that many may not be able to succumb to and he relies on others to pick-up the slack where he falters. “I play in multiple leagues so arm endurance has always been a factor, so Casey’s production could play a big part in that.”
The success of this team hinges on the arm of LaValley. LaValley even states that he feels fatigue often throughout the season. LaValley states: “Wiffle can take a toll on any arm, let alone an arm with a couple years off. For me personally it's the same story every year, how will my arm hold up throughout a long season.”
Wiffleball has meant a lot to many involved in the AWAA and all of which have fond memories of their wiffle experiences. When asking LaValley about his best wiffleball experience he pointed towards one particular opportunity he got. “My best wiffle ball experience easily was the Nationals tournament I played under Hess field wiffle ball. It brought back some nostalgia from the days of playing all day baseball tournaments. 2 long days of nothing but wiffle ball against some of the best this country has to offer, it doesn't get any better than that in my eyes.” LaValley said.
LaValley wishes to get back to Nationals to experience that yet again. I mean you can’t blame him for making that his best experience. What beats two days of playing wiffle ball and getting to be around fellow wifflers? Almost nothing!
So, for those young wifflers out there who aspire to take the diamond and wonder what part of the game to focus on to compete in the AWAA, LaValley offers this advice: “Good Pitching for sure. Pitching to me has always been the hardest part to teach people just picking up the game and for good reason, it's difficult. Having an ace or 2-3 guys who are legitimate starters to me can win you a series alone. Scratching across 2-3 runs for these guys isn't as difficult to me as tossing a hollow plastic ball 85 mph into the strike zone for 5-6 innings.”
We all hope to aspire to be the greatest in the field of work in which we participate and Scared Hitless and Anthony LaValley strive for this feat each day. With anticipation and optimism growing each day, the AWAA lingers around the corner with hopes from each player to sit atop the throne of wifflers.
Randy King
AWAA Junior Columnist
March 9th, 2017
LaValley is expecting big things from his team and believes that the potential is there for a successful season. With the comradery that this team has, it is hard to imagine that chemistry amongst them will be anything but spectacular. “I expect a really solid season out of my squad. I've played wiffle with these guys for a few years so I know what they can do. Aside from performance, I just expect a really enjoyable year of wiffle with the guys.” LaValley said.
With all that the AWAA schedule has to offer with its mixture of pick-up games, league games, and tournaments, the schedule can be exhausting on the average wiffler. However, the schedule length is not the biggest obstacle for LaValley and the Scared Hitless side.
“The biggest obstacle for my team is going to be getting our 2nd starter, Casey Schoonmaker, back into throwing shape.”, LaValley stated. A hopeful full rotation going forward has Scared Hitless feeling that they are the team to beat.
LaValley has been known to nurse his arm throughout the season and giving it plenty of rest in between his pitching outings. The training LaValley puts his arm through is one that many may not be able to succumb to and he relies on others to pick-up the slack where he falters. “I play in multiple leagues so arm endurance has always been a factor, so Casey’s production could play a big part in that.”
The success of this team hinges on the arm of LaValley. LaValley even states that he feels fatigue often throughout the season. LaValley states: “Wiffle can take a toll on any arm, let alone an arm with a couple years off. For me personally it's the same story every year, how will my arm hold up throughout a long season.”
Wiffleball has meant a lot to many involved in the AWAA and all of which have fond memories of their wiffle experiences. When asking LaValley about his best wiffleball experience he pointed towards one particular opportunity he got. “My best wiffle ball experience easily was the Nationals tournament I played under Hess field wiffle ball. It brought back some nostalgia from the days of playing all day baseball tournaments. 2 long days of nothing but wiffle ball against some of the best this country has to offer, it doesn't get any better than that in my eyes.” LaValley said.
LaValley wishes to get back to Nationals to experience that yet again. I mean you can’t blame him for making that his best experience. What beats two days of playing wiffle ball and getting to be around fellow wifflers? Almost nothing!
So, for those young wifflers out there who aspire to take the diamond and wonder what part of the game to focus on to compete in the AWAA, LaValley offers this advice: “Good Pitching for sure. Pitching to me has always been the hardest part to teach people just picking up the game and for good reason, it's difficult. Having an ace or 2-3 guys who are legitimate starters to me can win you a series alone. Scratching across 2-3 runs for these guys isn't as difficult to me as tossing a hollow plastic ball 85 mph into the strike zone for 5-6 innings.”
We all hope to aspire to be the greatest in the field of work in which we participate and Scared Hitless and Anthony LaValley strive for this feat each day. With anticipation and optimism growing each day, the AWAA lingers around the corner with hopes from each player to sit atop the throne of wifflers.
Randy King
AWAA Junior Columnist
March 9th, 2017