by Brandon Merrill

Created on: November 07, 2009

Hitting with runners in scoring position is a make or break factor in defining a clutch player. These situations require the hitter to have an intelligent approach and the ability to make adjustments in order to be successful. For example, with a runner on third base and less than two outs, there are several scenarios that can produce a run. A right-handed power hitter would attempt to elevate the ball, generating a sacrifice fly. A left-handed hitter would normally look for an inside pitch, as pulling the ball to the right side, in the air or on the ground, would result in an R.B.I. A right-handed hitter with below average power may shorten his stroke, or take an inside out approach in order to hit the ball on the ground to the opposite field. In this situation it would be beneficial to look for an outside pitch, perhaps taking a strike on the inner third of the plate.

With runners in scoring position it is important for the hitter to know what they're looking for in terms of pitch and pitch location. Good hitters will visualize pitches, and at-bats while they are in the on deck circle. A smart approach is detrimental to having quality, and successful at-bats.

Hitting with two outs, and runners in scoring position is defined as a clutch situation, and is often the difference in close ballgames. If a pitcher is close to escaping a jam by leaving runners stranded in scoring position, then surrenders a two out, run scoring base hit, it can be demoralizing.

Players who deliver such disheartening blows are often the feistiest of hitters who, if nothing else, put the bat on the ball. A strikeout accomplishes nothing, and by putting the ball in play, the pressure is transferred to the defense.

Hitting with runners in scoring position is a huge factor for evaluating the quality of a player. A player with a good batting average, who fails to produce in clutch situations, may not be as valuable to the team as a player with less talent, that gets the job done when called upon.

A player must be able to analyze each situation and know their strengths as a hitter in order to succeed as a run producer. Players who transfer their approach from the on deck circle into the batters box, are more likely to drive in runs on a consistent basis. These are the players whom are labeled as clutch, and are the most feared among pitchers.

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