Additionally, goalies don't have to choose which shots they're going to block. They block them all since they aren't limited to the number of times they can stick their arm out to try to stop the puck. Hitters have to be selective and decide what to swing at.
Pucks being slapped by a hockey stick also can't be manipulated the way a pitcher's release can create curveballs, sliders, sinkers, change ups and knuckleballs in addition to the 95 MPH fast ball. All of these pitches have different trajectories and speeds, and are very deceiving on the release and you only have a few milliseconds to decide what's coming at you and if it's a good one to swing at.
In hockey I guess you have to decide whether you want to block that puck coming toward you or if you want the other team to have a free shot on your goal. Tough choice.