Two Things Rebels Hitters Can Do For More Success at the Plate
Ole Miss Rebels hitters have struggled at the plate so far this season, but hitting is an art form that can take a while to reach a strong level of production.
The Rebs are hoping to find their stroke at the plate in this weekend's series against the High Point Panthers, and here are two ways Ole Miss hitters can find more success.
Ole Miss Athletics
Having Quality At-Bats
Rebel hitters need to fight in at-bats. Fouling off pitches and having a strong understanding of the strike zone are two ways to improve at-bats.
With two strikes, it is crucial to understand the zone. Battling and spitting on non-competitive pitches can get into a pitcher's head, and that could be the difference in a shutdown inning or an inning that provides run support. I want to see the Rebels have better at-bats this weekend and strengthen their two-strike approaches going forward.
Maybe more small ball?
The past couple of games have seen the Rebs leave large amounts of runners on base. Ole Miss has done a great job of getting on base, but it has lacked the big hit to drive in runs in crucial spots in the game.
Over the years, we haven't seen Mike Bianco turn to small ball often, but is now a chance to start? Without a proven power hitter, maybe trying to provide a spark in another way offensively could be an option.
Bunting adds pressure on the defense as they have to field the ball cleanly and make a strong throw. Most of the time, aggressive pitchers will field bunts and make unorthodox throws to first, causing a sense of panic in the defense.
Bianco has (most of the time) stuck to his guns and plays with a more guerrilla ball approach, but this could be something to look at in the future if the offense continues to struggle.