Posted by: Jack Mankin (mrbatspeed@aol.com) on Sun Dec 14 02:09:18 2003

>>> After watching the clips, I do agree that the front foot pivots eventually on its heel. But, if you notice closely with all hitters, the front foot starts on the ball of the foot. I think that it is a natural reflex (of pivoting on the heel) caused by landing on the ball of the foot. I don't think anyone should concentrate on pivoting on their heel. I think it should flow naturally from landing on the ball of the foot. <<<

Hi Kajun Coach

I agree with your observation and assessment. Bonds (as with most good hitters) clearly has his heel up at toe plant. The lowering of his heel triggers his hip rotation. The lead-toe does not come off the ground until the hips are almost fully open. This means that his rotation on the heel occurred late in the swing and therefore had little or nothing to do with initiating hip rotation. --- Hitters with longer strides tend to have their heel and toe plant sequence closer togather.

Jack Mankin