Pitching Strategy: How To Read Batting Stances

As a general rule, a baseball pitcher will want to throw more fastballs to a hitter who positions himself in the front part of the batter's box, and throw more breaking balls to a hitter who stands toward the back of the box. That fastball will get to the hitter quicker when he's in the front part of the box, and thus, he will have to have a quick bat to make good contact.

Are there exceptions? Yes. Some hitters who want the fastball will move up in the batter's box on purpose (Chase Utley did this against me when I faced him in college ball), but you usually won't run into a guy that does this until you reach the college or pro levels because it takes a lot more strength, better bat control and a good eye.

Also, some poor curve ball hitters move up in the box on purpose in an effort to hit the ball before it breaks down. Again, a good fastball on the hands can be real effective. Try it.