Nick Punto Makes Mechanical Adjustment at the Plate, Envisions Better Results Going Forward

by abournenesn

May 5, 2012

Nick Punto Makes Mechanical Adjustment at the Plate, Envisions Better Results Going ForwardBOSTON –– In April, Nick Punto struggled at the plate, collecting just two hits and drawing three walks.

On May 1, the utility man matched the latter total, earning three straight free passes in a 5-3 loss to the Athletics. With that appearance, he elevated his on-base percentage from .269 to .333.

And the slight jump in results wasn't by accident. Before the game against Oakland, Red Sox hitting coach Dave Magadan made a mechanical adjustment to Punto's approach at the plate.

"To put [the change] in easy terms –– I think I had too much of a forward lean," Punto said. "So I just stood up a little taller."

It may be a minute adjustment, but it's one that Punto is wholeheartedly embracing after hitting .182 in 11 April games with seven strikeouts.

"I feel really good at the plate and I feel I'm seeing the ball really well," Punto said. "It made a huge difference for me [Wednesday]. Hopefully, I can continue that."

Punto has tallied three RBIs this season.

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