Coaches-
Wondering what method you prefer to teach your outfielders when they are running back for a ball that changes direction (maybe wind, natural slice, bad jump causes it).
The "swivel your head while still running back" method or the "rotate your body around" method where they still keep their eyes on the ball the whole time?
I know it is hard to explain without video but I hope some of you on here know what I am referring to. I've heard many coaches say the prefer either one; it may ultimately depend on the level of talent and athletic ability.
Pros for the head swivel is that your not giving yourself the chance of tangling your feet up and ultimately not losing momentum/ground while running. Con is that your are taking your eyes off the ball for a split second while you turn your head and body to the other direction.
With the body rotation method I've seen alot of kids (HS, even some college) get their feet tangled up. To me, this also immediately slows them down a bit. But, I think we've all seen it work perfectly too. What are your thoughts on this?
For the younger, less skilled player, it would be preferable to keep your eye on the ball the whole time. The more skilled player may be able to spin and re-establish eye contact once he gets going in the right direction.
