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When Should a Batter Shorten His Swing?

Sometimes making contact matters more than hitting far.

A batter often shortens the swing when contact is more important than power. Two-strike counts and run-producing situations are common examples.

A full swing can generate more power, but it also creates more opportunities to miss. By shortening the swing, a hitter reduces movement and increases the chance of putting the ball in play.

Two-strike counts are the most common situation for this adjustment. Many hitters become more defensive because another strike ends the at-bat.

The approach is also useful when a runner is on third base and a simple ground ball or fly ball could produce a run. In those situations, contact may provide more value than attempting a home run.

The choice reflects game context. A team trailing by one run late in the game may prioritize a productive ball in play, while a team seeking a comeback from several runs down may continue swinging aggressively for extra-base power.

When should a batter shorten his swing?

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