Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Thu Aug 17 12:08:16 2000

>>>If the arms don't supply the power for this type of swing, than is it a waste of time to do arm curls, triceps extension and any other arm exercise? <<<

Hi Tommy

In my reply (Aug. 13) to Joe's post, I pointed out that the hands should not be accelerated forward by the muscles of the arms. The arms are mainly used to apply torque to the bat. So the strength of the arms is important in developing bat speed. But I should also point out that an athlete of average strength using efficient mechanics will out perform a much stronger player with weight shift and extension mechanics.

>>>Another question. Does Chipper Jones use circular hand path? If not, where does his power come from? Thanks, I really appreciate alot of help!<<<

I would need to ask - which Chipper Jones are you referring to - the one I saw earlier in the season, or the one I observe now? A month or so ago, Chipper had a good circular hand-path. But now his stride take the lead foot away from the plate (stepping in the bucket). This forces his hands into a more direct toward the pitcher path. A more direct hand-path also restricts his ability to apply torque. His bat-head is lagging and he slices the ball on many of his swings.

Jack Mankin