Chipping

Question
I'm usually pretty good with short chips, but when I get into bad lies (like a buried ball in rough), how should I change my approach? I've tried to make my normal swing at it but I usually end up chunking it or feeling like I got under it, resulting in it coming up way short.

Thanks!

Answer
Hi Jeff:

The best way to hit short pitch shots around the green from a buried ball in rough lie is to use your lob wedge, take the club up in the backswing abruptly using your hands and wrists to set an angle, then simply let the clubhead drop behind the ball into the grass.  Don't try to make a follow through, just leave it in the grass.  Keep the clubface open...hang on firmly in the last 3 fingers of the left hand...do not let the clubface turn over.  You actually will be hitting the ball fat (an inch or two behind the ball). You'll need to practice to see how big of a swing you'll need to get it out the distance you need, but again, allow the club to simply drop behind the ball.  Keep the face open.  With the heavier grass, the momentum of the clubhead will pop the ball out of the tall grass and with practice, you can usually get it to be pretty soft.  It will roll some when it hits, but you should be able to control it.  Don't follow through, drop the club behind the ball and leave that face open.  Good luck.  

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member