Posted by: Jack Mankin (Mrbatspeed@aol.com) on Sun Apr 20 23:45:17 2003

>>> Jack wouldnt a hybrid hitter, incorporating the best of both worlds ( rotational and linear ) be ideal? Taking the hand path (torque etc..) and body rotation of the rotational swing and incorporating the leg drive of the linear swing. Its just a thought, what would be the flaws of it ? <<<

Hi Dave

I have absolutely no problem with a batter taking a linear stride to set up the swing. There have been good arguments presented that linear momentum can be used to generate greater hip rotation. But there have also been good arguments against that position. In either case, the stride is a pre-launch mechanic. All forward movement of the body comes to rest before rotation begins. During the swing there is no productive linear movement that adds to (in fact it would subtract from) the rate of angular displacement of the bat.

Dave, I would contend that the power from a linear stride would be more productive while propelling and object in a linear direction – like throwing a baseball or pushing a shot. Accelerating the bat-head in an arc requires rotational principles – torque and a circular hand-path.

Jack Mankin