Great hitters don’t just rely on talent — they understand the mechanics of their swing and how to transfer power efficiently through their body.
In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley sits down with Rachel Folden, a Minor League Hitting Coach and Lead Lab Technician with the Chicago Cubs organization. Known for her deep knowledge of swing mechanics and athlete development, Rachel shares how hitters can create more power, improve their approach at the plate, and translate cage work into real game performance.
This conversation blends professional-level hitting insight with practical advice that athletes and coaches can apply immediately.
Creating Ground Force for More Power
One of the key elements Rachel discusses is the importance of generating ground force during the swing.
By learning how to use the lower half effectively, hitters can transfer energy through the body and into the bat. This connection between the ground and the swing is a major factor in producing harder and more consistent contact.
Understanding how power begins from the ground up can dramatically change a hitter’s ability to drive the ball.
The Sequence of an Elite Swing
Rachel also breaks down the sequencing that occurs during a high-level swing.
From the lower body initiating movement to the upper body delivering the barrel through the zone, every part of the body works together in a specific order. When hitters understand this sequence, they can develop more efficient and repeatable swings.
This level of awareness is often what separates good hitters from elite ones.
What to Focus on in the Batter’s Box
While mechanics are important, Rachel emphasizes that hitters also need a clear approach during games.
She shares a few key mental cues athletes can use in the batter’s box to stay focused, confident, and prepared for different pitch situations. When hitters simplify their thoughts and trust their training, they’re more likely to perform naturally in competition.
Translating Cage Work Into Game Performance
One of the biggest challenges hitters face is bringing practice success into games.
Rachel explains how athletes can train with intention so that their cage work translates directly to competition. By focusing on realistic scenarios, building confidence through repetition, and maintaining a competitive mindset, hitters can bridge the gap between practice and performance.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
-
How hitters can generate more power using ground force
Connecting the lower half to the swing. -
The sequence behind an elite-level swing
Understanding how the body works together during contact. -
Key thoughts hitters can use in the batter’s box
Staying focused and confident during games. -
How to translate cage work into real performance
Training with intention and competition in mind. -
How to build a competitive mindset as a hitter
Trusting preparation and attacking opportunities.
About
Rachel Folden
Rachel Folden is a Minor League Hitting Coach and Lead Lab Technician with the Chicago Cubs organization. A former professional softball player and hitting coach, she has built a reputation for her deep understanding of swing mechanics and athlete development.
Through her work in professional baseball and softball, Rachel helps athletes refine their mechanics, understand the science behind hitting, and build the competitive mindset needed to perform at the highest level.
Â
