On-Deck Circle Routines
You must go through your on-deck ritual before entering the box. It may be as simple as taking a few practice swings for some golfers. Others find it as difficult as a sequence of intricate stretches, movements, and mental gymnastics. In any case, you must be ready when the umpire calls Batter Up!
We’ll share a few of our favorite on-deck practices with you to help you develop your own routine. We’ll also look at the best on-deck circle training bats, as well as a couple of the game’s most memorable on-deck routines. We hope you’ve enjoyed this comprehensive look at the art of the on-deck hitter. Let’s get this party started.
Establishing Your On-Deck Routine
You’ll want to prepare both your head and your body before attempting to hit a 90+ mph fastball or a knee-buckling curveball. Take a few practice swings to get the hang of it. Before focusing on the pitcher, have a feel for your swing. Keep an eye on the pitcher and try to timing your swing to their pitches. This will allow you to be ready to hit as soon as you step into the box, regardless of how hard (or soft) they are throwing.
[Note: Some batters choose to put a bat donut (or weight) in the on-deck circle to make a heavier swing. This is a good exercise, but keep in mind that it will not improve your swing speed during your at-bat.]
The following suggestions will help you psychologically prepare for your at-bat:
- Set your mind at ease.
- Keep your breathing in check.
- Create a routine.
- Prepare for the worst.
- Make a collection of actions that can be repeated.
On-Deck Circle Routines
On-Deck Circle Dimensions
According to Major League Baseball, the official on deck circle dimensions are 5 feet in diameter, 74 feet apart, and a straight line drawn from the center of each circle would pass 10 feet past home plate.
When it comes to kids baseball, the on-deck circles have no fixed rules. The leadoff hitter for both teams often draws the circle in the dirt. If the on-deck hitter is in a safe area, the umpire has the final say. Coaches in the dugout can also assist in determining the right placement of the awaiting batter.
Where did the term on deck come from?
On deck and in the hole are baseball terms that come from idioms that describe life on a ship. “On deck” meant a boat hand who was ready to help as soon as he or she was needed or the cargo was ready to be offloaded. The expression “in the hold” (later modified to “in the hole”) referred to the cargo compartment of a ship.
Hunter Pence’s On-Deck Routine
We’ve seen a variety of various routines employed by players to prepare for their at-bats over the years. Nothing has ever perplexed the human mind more than the renowned Hunter Pence’s on-deck ritual. Before you take a look at one of baseball’s most cherished anomalies, remember that Pence was a four-time All-Star, two-time World Series Champion, and the Robin to Madison Bumgarner’s Batman-like performance in the 2014 World Series (hit.444 in seven games). All of this is to set the stage for the craziest on-deck routine in baseball history. There aren’t many words to explain it, so have a look for yourself…
On-Deck Circle Routines
FAQ
What do you do in a circle deck?
Loosen your muscles physically.
The on-deck circle allows you to warm up your muscles and get your swing ready for the batter’s box after sitting in the dugout or standing in the field. This usually entails a warm-up regimen followed by some practice swings.
Who is the on deck circle reserved for?
The batter who is on deck in a professional game generally waits at the on deck circle, which is located in foul area.
Where is the on deck circle located?
According to the rule book, the on-deck circles, which are five feet in diameter, are 74 feet apart, behind and on either side of home plate. Pitchers have the option of asking the batter to relocate, but there are no set restrictions.