Francisco Alvarez’s Power Outage Sparks No Worries for Mets Hitting Coach as Team Eyes Strong Comeback..
Francisco Alvarez’s power outage is not a concern for Mets hitting coach Eric Chavez. On August 17, 2024, Chavez emphasized the importance of focusing on hitting rather than just home runs. Alvarez, who has struggled recently, is encouraged to develop his overall batting skills.
Key takeaways:
- Chavez believes Alvarez can be a top offensive catcher.
- Alvarez has struggled since a strong return in June.
- Focus on consistent contact is crucial for Alvarez.
- Chavez compares Alvarez’s potential to a Ferrari engine.
Chavez’s Guidance for Alvarez: Focusing on Hitting, Not Home Runs
Eric Chavez, the Mets hitting coach, is guiding Francisco Alvarez through a challenging period. Alvarez had a strong comeback in June but has faced difficulties since then. Chavez emphasizes that home runs should not be the primary focus. Instead, he wants Alvarez to concentrate on becoming a better hitter overall. This approach aims to help Alvarez regain his confidence and improve his performance at the plate.
Understanding Alvarez’s Slump: A Shift in Focus Needed
Francisco Alvarez’s slump has been notable since his impressive return from injury. After a strong June, his performance dipped significantly in July. Chavez believes that Alvarez is too focused on hitting home runs instead of making consistent contact. This shift in focus is essential for his development as a hitter. By learning to use all fields and not just pull the ball, Alvarez can improve his batting average and power numbers over time.
Key Factors Contributing to Alvarez’s Struggles
Several factors have contributed to Alvarez’s recent struggles:
- Injury recovery has affected his timing.
- Pressure to hit home runs may be impacting his approach.
- Inconsistent contact has led to lower batting averages.
- Focus on pulling the ball rather than using the whole field.
Chavez’s Strategy: Building a Stronger Hitter
Chavez’s strategy for Alvarez involves patience and skill development. He encourages Alvarez to focus on making solid contact first. As Alvarez improves his hitting fundamentals, the home runs will naturally follow. Chavez believes that once Alvarez learns to control his body and approach, he will excel as a hitter in the league.
