Step-by-Step: Basic Hitting

Uppercut Or Not?

Albert Pujols hits a ground ball against the Colorado Rockies on May 28, 2007.

Doug Pensinger/Getty Images

Many young hitters who don't know any better will always end their swing with what's called an uppercut, meaning the bat starts low and ends high. A beginner should always focus on a level swing, because that gives a better chance of making contact. When a hitter becomes more advanced, the uppercut can come back (a little) to add a lifting action to the ball for power. But that shouldn't come until later.

• Take It Slow, Because It Might Be Tough
• Batting Gloves And Bats
• Getting In The Box
• Getting A Good Grip
• Eyes On The Ball
• Stride And Connect
• Uppercut Or Not?
• Following Through
• Ready To Run