How to reset after a bad at-bat

You don’t have to pretend you’re happy about making an out. You care, and it’s frustrating. Just be careful about what you do with that frustration.

Put your bat and helmet away safely. Take a comfortable breath. Let your shoulders settle. Tell yourself, “That one’s done.” You’re giving yourself a moment before the next job, not trying to force a good mood.

If you’re still upset, that’s okay. You can listen to your coach, get your glove, and be a good teammate while that feeling settles.

“I’m terrible” doesn’t tell you anything useful. “I swung at a pitch above my hands” gives you something you can work with.

And an out doesn’t always mean a bad at-bat. Maybe you hit a good pitch hard, right at somebody. Give yourself credit for the decision and the swing, even when the result stinks.

Try these two questions when there’s time:

• Did I swing at a pitch I could hit well?
• What’s one thing I want to remember next time?

Don’t walk back to the plate carrying a whole list of corrections. Choose one clear reminder with your coach.

Maybe it’s “let the high pitch go” or “be ready for the first good pitch.” Keep it connected to what actually happened. You don’t need to change your stance, grip, and swing because of one rough turn.

Geoff Miller’s ABCA coaching article recommends simple thoughts about what you want to hit and saving fuller evaluation for after the game.

If the inning’s over, get ready to play defense. Check the outs and runners. Know where the ball needs to go if it comes to you.

If you’re catching, your pitcher still needs a teammate who’s paying attention. Get your gear on, check the situation, and be ready to receive the next pitch.

Still in the dugout? Watch the game and encourage the next hitter. You have ways to help before you pick up a bat again. Don’t make getting a hit the only way you’re allowed to have a useful day.

If you need help, say it plainly: “Coach, I’m having trouble letting that one go.” You don’t need a long speech or a perfect answer. Ask for one reminder, listen, and give yourself a chance to use it.

You don’t need to win back the last out with one huge swing. Take a fresh look at the pitcher and the situation. Decide what you want to hit, then be ready.

In 2024, Kerry Carpenter homered after three strikeouts. He described treating each trip to the plate as a fresh chance.

Your reset doesn’t have to end with a home run to count. Taking a pitch you would’ve chased, following your plan, or staying ready on defense are things worth noticing too.

During your next hitting session, practice the response after a miss or a swing you don’t like:

1. Pause and take a breath.
2. Say one useful reminder.
3. Get ready for the next pitch.

Ask your coach to notice how you respond, along with how you swing. After the game, pick one thing to work on at the next practice. You don’t have to solve it all on the bench.

Try this with a teammate too. When they miss, give them room to reset instead of offering five swing tips. A simple “You’ve got another pitch” is enough. We want practice to include learning how to help each other through the tough swings.