The Basic Structure of BP
NPB pre-game batting practice typically begins 2-3 hours before game time. The visiting team bats first, followed by the home team. Each team's BP lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour, with players entering the batting cage in groups organized by batting order or position. BP pitchers are specialized staff who throw during practice. They sometimes mimic opposing pitchers' velocity and repertoire, serving as more than mere ball feeders. Batters use BP to assess their physical condition and fine-tune swings. Some veterans strictly manage their BP pitch count, deciding to 'stop after 20 pitches.' BP functions simultaneously as game preparation and as part of each player's individual routine.
Find books about batting techniques on Amazon
Information Gleaned from BP
Observing the opposing team's BP is valued as part of scouting. Coaches and scouts carefully watch opposing batters' swing paths, hit directions, and body mechanics during BP. A batter consistently pulling balls in BP likely shows pull-hitting tendencies in games. BP ball flight distance and angle can also indicate batter condition - shorter-than-usual distances may suggest physical issues. However, some argue BP hitting and game hitting are fundamentally different, since BP pitchers throw softer pitches that do not directly predict game performance. Nevertheless, teams continue observing opponents' BP, reflecting the professional world's reality where even marginal information can influence outcomes.
The Psychological Effects of BP
Batting practice methodology varies by team. The Yakult Swallows emphasize first-pitch aggressiveness, drilling full swings on the first pitch during practice. DeNA BayStars actively integrate data analysis, measuring exit velocity and launch angle in real-time during sessions. MLB has standardized tracking systems in batting cages providing instant feedback on distance and spin rate. NPB teams increasingly adopted similar systems in the 2020s, though not yet universal. Another critical factor is batting practice pitcher quality. BP pitchers must throw fastballs, breaking balls, inside and outside pitches on demand, requiring command rivaling active pitchers. The presence of skilled BP pitchers contributes meaningfully to team batting performance improvement.
The Craftsmen Called BP Pitchers
BP pitchers supporting batting practice are indispensable behind-the-scenes figures in NPB. Their job is accurately and repeatedly throwing hittable pitches. The skill of consistently delivering specific speeds to specific zones is more demanding than it appears. Many former professional players transition to BP pitcher roles, leveraging their pitching experience. While BP pitcher salaries are lower than players', their contribution to teams is immeasurable. BP quality, which influences batter condition, depends on BP pitcher skill. Although pitching machine performance has improved, enabling reproduction of specific pitches and speeds, most batters feel 'human pitching is closer to game conditions,' maintaining strong demand for BP pitchers.
Books about NPB behind-the-scenes staff are also helpful