SHOCKING REVELATION: Braves’ Tim Hyers Sparks Heated Debate, Says Power Isn’t Everything in Hitting

Braves Hitting Coach Tim Hyers Shares Refreshing Take on Situational Hitting

As the Atlanta Braves prepare for another championship push, hitting coach Tim Hyers is placing a renewed emphasis on the fundamentals of situational hitting. While home runs and exit velocity dominate modern baseball, Hyers believes there’s still immense value in the art of putting the ball in play with purpose.

Speaking to reporters in spring training, Hyers emphasized that elite offenses aren’t just built on power but also on adaptability at the plate.

“In today’s game, everyone wants to talk about launch angle and slugging percentage, and those things are important,” Hyers said. “But the best offenses also know how to move runners, take the extra base, and execute in key moments.”

Hyers, who has been with the Braves since 2022, played a key role in refining Atlanta’s offensive approach last season. The Braves led the league in multiple power categories, but Hyers sees an opportunity to fine-tune their approach in high-pressure situations.

“I’m not saying we take the power out of our game,” Hyers continued. “We just want to make sure we’re not missing chances to drive in runs when a simple ground ball to the right side or a sacrifice fly can make a difference.”

Players have taken notice of Hyers’ philosophy. Braves star Matt Olson, who led MLB in home runs last season, acknowledged that a more balanced approach could elevate the team’s already elite offense.

“There are times when you just have to shorten up and make contact,” Olson said. “That’s what separates good lineups from great ones.”

The Braves’ ability to blend power with situational awareness could be a game-changer, especially in the postseason when small-ball execution often makes the difference between a deep run and an early exit.

As the 2025 season approaches, Hyers’ perspective offers a refreshing counterpoint to baseball’s power-heavy era. If the Braves can master situational hitting alongside their home run prowess, they could be even more dangerous at the plate this year.