Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Tue Oct 30 11:35:25 2007

>>> Hi jack, how would I explain to someone who looks at a picture of a home run swing and at the point of contact on some bonds photos it looks like the front foot remains closed the whole time during rotation. Is it because the pitch is away from him and there isn't as much need for rotation on and outside pitch? <<<

Hi Mike

Many of the best hitters keep the lead-foot closed and still produce full hip and shoulder rotation. I teach my hitters to have the foot closed at toe-touch but allow the foot to rotate open about 45 degrees as the heel lowers. I feel this provides much less binding stress on the knee during rotation.

The reason I have batters keep the foot closed at toe-touch is to aid in preventing a premature opening of the hips and shoulders. I have noted that many batters who land with the toe pointing more toward the pitcher have a tendency for the hips and shoulders to prematurely creep open before the swing is initiated.

Jack Mankin