If you’ve spent any time around a batting cage, you’ve seen a batting tee. It’s that simple stand that holds a baseball in place so you can work on your swing — no pitcher, no pressure, just you and the ball.
Every good hitter uses one. Why? Because it strips the game down to the basics. When the ball isn’t moving, you can see what your body’s really doing — how you load, where your hands go, when you make contact. It’s how great hitters build consistency.
So, What Exactly Is a Batting Tee?
A batting tee is a sturdy base with an adjustable stem holding a baseball. You can move it up or down to work on different pitch zones. The best tees are weighted, so they don’t fall over when you connect cleanly.
It’s a small piece of gear, but it teaches big things — control, contact, and confidence. When you hit off a tee, you can slow things down and fix small details before stepping into a live batting session. That’s why you’ll still see pros using them during pregame warmups.
How to Use a Batting Tee Like a Pro
You don’t need a fancy setup. You just need to do it right.
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Find the right height.
Start with the ball around waist level. Raise or lower it depending on the type of pitch you want to simulate. High pitch? Move it up. Low and away? Drop it down. -
Line it up.
Place the tee just in front of your front foot. You want to make contact slightly out in front of your body, not right on top of the plate. -
Move it around.
Work different locations — inside, outside, middle. It helps you learn to drive the ball wherever it’s pitched. -
Use gear that feels right.
A solid, balanced tee makes a difference. The GOAThletic Batting Tee holds steady through every swing and adjusts easily for different drills. Pair it with GOAThletic Batting Gloves so you can keep your grip firm and your hands fresh. -
Keep it simple.
Don’t swing for the fences. Focus on clean contact. Ten focused swings that feel right are worth more than fifty rushed ones.
Pro Tip
Start every session with tee work. Even five to ten swings can help you loosen up, find your rhythm, and build confidence before you move into toss or live pitching.
FAQs
What height should the tee be?
Usually around your belt line, but adjust it for different pitch zones.
Does tee work really help against live pitching?
Absolutely. It builds the muscle memory that helps you repeat your best swing under pressure.
How often should I use it?
A few minutes before every hitting session is plenty. Quality beats quantity.
Which tee should I buy?
Go for one that’s solid and adjustable. The GOAThletic Batting Tee is built to handle daily use and real swings.
Do I need batting gloves for tee work?
It’s a good idea. The GOAThletic Batting Gloves keep your grip steady and your hands from tearing up during longer sessions.
