Posted by: () on Wed Jun 21 08:02:23 2000

Jack,

I see your point. Although I believe Clemente could hit with only one leg, very good hands and torso. :)

Alex and Edgar stabilize the axis, there is no forward movement of the torso while torque is applied (middle in)

Maybe I'm looking for/at individuality. Edgar and Alex are hitters that show different techniques with the same principle (mechanics) that Barry Bonds uses. No shoulder rotation problems with either of them, both can pull the ball with the best of them!

Let me ask you this, do you think it is more productive to maintain the axis (Bonds), to learn torque?

And then let individuals be individuals (Bonds, Alex, Edgar), instead of striding into a stabilization of the axis while learning how to apply torque?.

Here's some simple insights from a players perspective,

Alex thinks the "pull" (lead arm) is the most important thing in hitting.

Edgar believes you must hit against a firm front leg (stabilize the axis).

Sheffield believes you should load the backside, keep the front arm firm (connected to the shoulders) and the top hand/arm relaxed. Where ever the lead arm/elbow goes, the swing follows.

Thanks,
Shawn