In Episode 10 of Inside the Game, Australian baseball coach Matt Redman breaks down a simple, effective hitting approach for young baseball and T-ball players. Drawing on decades of grassroots coaching experience through RBI Australia, Matt explains how simplifying game-day thinking helps young hitters stay relaxed, confident, and ready to hit the ball hard.

Welcome to Episode 10 of Inside the Game, hosted by Matt Redman of RBI Australia, baseball and softball retail and training hubs in Smeaton Grange and Rouse Hill.

When it comes to hitting, young players are often given too much information at the wrong time. Mechanics, drills, and technical cues are important, but game day is not the time for over-coaching.

In this episode, Matt shares a clear, age-appropriate hitting approach for youngsters that keeps things simple, builds confidence, and helps kids perform at their best when it matters.

About Matt Redman and RBI Australia

Matt Redman is the founder of RBI Australia and the host of Inside the Game. With over 25 years of experience coaching t-ball, junior baseball, representative teams, and senior leagues, Matt has helped thousands of young players develop strong fundamentals and a love for the game.

RBI Australia was founded in 2019 to support players, coaches, clubs, and families through quality gear, professional training facilities, and practical coaching education.

What to Expect in This Episode

Keep Game Day Simple

One of Matt’s strongest messages is this:
Game day is not training day.

Training sessions are where mechanics, drills, and detailed instruction belong. On game day, young players need to be relaxed, confident, and free to swing.

The simpler the message, the better the result.

Hitting Approach for T-Ballers

For T-ballers and very young players, Matt keeps the approach extremely simple.

On game day, the only things he reminds them are:

• Start with a strong stance
• Focus on the middle of the ball
• Hit the ball hard and flat

That’s it.

There is no need to overload young players with cues. If they miss the ball, Matt repeats the same message calmly and consistently. Keeping language simple helps kids stay focused and confident.

Hitting Approach for Older Beginners

As players grow and start hitting pitched balls, more work is done at training. Swing mechanics, timing, and power development all happen away from game day.

But when players step into the batter’s box, the mindset stays the same.

The intention is always to hit the ball hard.

Matt encourages a “yes, yes, yes” mindset. Players should prepare to hit every pitch, loading and getting ready each time. The decision not to swing happens at the very last moment.

This approach:

• Keeps timing consistent
• Prevents hesitation
• Helps players stay aggressive without chasing bad pitches

Young hitters should be ready to hit every pitch and only decide not to swing late.

Why This Approach Works

Young players perform best when they are relaxed and having fun. Overthinking leads to hesitation, tension, and missed opportunities.

By simplifying the hitting approach:

• Players stay confident
• Movements stay consistent
• Timing improves naturally
• Enjoyment stays high

Confidence and intent matter more than perfect mechanics on game day.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

• Game day is not the time for technical coaching
• Keep hitting cues simple and consistent
• Focus on intent: hit the ball hard
• Young hitters should prepare to hit every pitch
• Simplicity builds confidence and better performance

Subscribe and Stay Connected

If you’re a parent, coach, or player looking for simple, practical ways to improve and enjoy the game, Inside the Game is here to help.

👉 Listen Now: YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts
👉 Visit RBI Australia: rbiaustralia.com.au

Stay Tuned for More

New to the podcast? Start with Episode 01: Introduction to Matt Redman and RBI Australia.

Listen to the previous episode, Episode 09: The #1 Thing Parents Can Do to Help Their Kids Improve

Future episodes of Inside the Game will continue to break down hitting, throwing, fielding, and mindset in a way that helps young players grow and enjoy the game.

Train smart. Play hard. Keep growing the game.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best hitting approach for young baseball players?

The best approach is a simple one. On game day, young players should focus on a strong stance, watching the ball, and hitting it hard, rather than thinking about mechanics.

Should coaches give hitting instruction during games?

Minimal instruction is best. Game day is for playing. Technical teaching should happen during training sessions, not during at-bats.

What does “yes, yes, yes” mean when hitting?

It means the hitter prepares to swing at every pitch. The decision not to swing is made late, helping timing and confidence stay consistent.

Is this approach suitable for T-ball and beginner leagues?

Yes. Simplifying the mental approach is especially important for T-ballers and beginner players, helping them stay relaxed and enjoy hitting.

What should parents say to their kids before an at-bat?

Parents can reinforce simple cues like “watch the ball” or “hit it hard” and focus on encouragement rather than correction.