Fast-Track Your Game: How to Make the Biggest Improvements Before Season Starts

High school baseball and softball season is almost here — and if you haven’t looked at the calendar lately, tryouts kick off February 23rd, with games following just a week later. That means right now is go time.

Whether you’ve been grinding all winter or feel like you’re behind, the good news is this: You can make meaningful improvements FAST with intentional work.

At Tenth Inning Sports, we’ve helped athletes level up quickly — from exiting winter with new PRs to earning roster spots at every level. Here’s how you can build momentum and show up ready.

1. Focus on Quality Reps at the Plate

It’s not just about swings — it’s about purposeful swings.

Make your practice count by locking in on:

• Consistent contact points

• Improving bat path

• Driving the ball to all fields

• Tracking and recognizing pitches

If you only have 20 minutes a day, choose:

• Tee work (10 min) — slow, controlled, quality contact

• Short bat/front toss (10 min) — timing and barrel control

A focused approach beats 200 unfocused hacks every time.

2. Sharpen Your Defensive Fundamentals

Coaches LOVE players they trust on defense.You don’t need fancy drills — just repeat the essentials with intensity.

Infielders/outfielders should lock in on:

• Glove angles

• Footwork before and after contact

• Clean transfers

• Quick release throws

Catchers:

Work receiving, blocking angles, and short-area pop time movements.

Ten minutes a day of reps can completely change your confidence.

3. Build Your Physical Engine

Games get won in the 6th and 7th inning — not the 1st.That means now is the time to build strength, speed, and explosiveness.

Try this weekly focus:

• Sprints & acceleration

• Rotational power (med balls, jumps, plyos)

• Core stability

• Shoulder care & mobility

You don’t need hours in the gym — just consistency and intensity.

4. Master Your Mindset Now

Talent helps you get noticed. Consistent work and confidence help you stay on the field.

Practice:

• A pre-at-bat routine

• Positive self-talk

• Focusing on process over outcome

Step into tryouts knowing:

“I’ve put in the work. I belong here.”

5. Be Coachable — It’s the Biggest Competitive Edge

Players who grow most are the ones who:

• Ask questions

• Make adjustments

• Take feedback without excuses

• Bring energy every single rep

Coaches notice effort, attitude, and hustle just as much as speed or power.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a full offseason to transform —you just need the next few weeks of committed work.

Even small daily improvements stack up FAST.

If you need structure, accountability, and coaching to get your game locked in before February 23rd, Tenth Inning Sports is here to help — whether you train with us in person or remotely.

Because when you walk onto the field, we want you walking in with confidence, purpose, and preparation.

Achieve Greatness — One Day, One Rep at a Time.

Ready to Level Up? Let’s Train.

➡️ Book your next session or grab a training spot at:👉 TenthInningSports.com

Spots fill fast — especially before tryouts. Don’t wait. Your season starts now.