In an effort to close the gap, they began offering live BP sessions at The Facility. Players have the opportunity to get as many at-bats in one hour as they would in two tournaments or more off of a variety of pitch speeds and movement.

The sessions fill up within a couple of hours of being released with players of all ages coming in knowing there’s a “comfort” cage and a “struggle/challenge” cage. They must attempt bunts on each pitcher before getting a game-like at bat with an umpire calling balls and strikes.

“We usually have a machine cage and a virtual reality station as well,” Coach Ken says, “and it is amazing to witness the change for the players who have consistently signed up. It has gone from not having much contact, with it being the off season, to seeing more disciplined at bats with great pitch selection to many, many more hits!”

The coach and facility leader says the reps and practice at The Facility benefits individual player needs not just physically, but in other ways as well.

“Not only does live BP give them live reps to get comfortable in the box, we also heavily focus of the mental side of the game that tends to be overlooked in regular lessons and practices.”

“During our live BP sessions, we constantly ask players in certain situations: ‘What should you be thinking here? What kind of pitch would be best to hit/throw with this count’?”

The Crenshaws stress that The Facility is a safe place, a location for athletes to test their limits, fail without judgement, and see what they are capable of doing!”

“Point blank,” coach Ken concludes, “this just is a place to get better!!!”

— Brentt Eads, Line Drive Softbal