How To Develop Hitting IQ & Game Plan Like A D1 Hitting Coach | Ari Adut

Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

In this episode, we welcome back Jacksonville State University Hitting Coach Ari Adut to dive deep into hitting IQ, game planning, and player development. Ari shares insights from his experience in professional baseball, his transition into the college game, and how he builds individualized player plans that blend analytics with practical application.

We discuss:
• The importance of swing decisions, pitch recognition, and approach development.
• How to simplify game plans for college hitters without overloading them.
• The balance between analytics and feel in developing elite hitters.

Key Takeaways from the Episode

1. Hitting IQ is More Than "See Ball, Hit Ball"

Many great hitters in history were analytical in their approach—Barry Bonds, Chipper Jones, and Mike Sweeney all had specific strategies at the plate. Ari explains how players must understand pitch sequencing, pitch recognition, and how to apply their swing path to different shapes of pitches.

2. How to Build a Game Plan That Actually Works

Ari uses a “first-drive” approach, similar to how a football team scripts their first plays. The team starts with a game plan but adjusts based on real-time feedback from at-bats. Hitters must learn to recognize patterns, adapt, and make adjustments on the fly.

3. The Role of Analytics in Player Development

Ari leverages objective data from tools like Blast Motion to track improvements in bat speed, early connection, and swing efficiency. But he also emphasizes that the ultimate test is in-game performance. A perfect swing in practice means nothing if it doesn’t hold up in competition.

Final Thoughts

For hitting coaches looking to balance analytics with practical teaching, Ari Adut provides a blueprint for how to develop hitters in both the college and professional game. His approach is simple, effective, and highly individualized.

Want to learn more? Listen to the full podcast episode here.

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