Posted by: Jack Mankin (mrbatspeed@aol.com) on Mon Feb 16 15:18:21 2004

>>> I would agree with you if the hitter is taught to slide the hands through in a linear motion to do the fence drill. However, if the drill is to be done correctly, both elbows must be bent.

Now please do not get me wrong, I'm not positing that the hitter should push with his arms. I just think a batter should bend both arms as much as possible, and work that lead elbow up to "stop all linear movements in its tracks," and force the body to rotate as soon as the heel drops. Also note that the angle of the elbows neither increase nor decrease during the drill. The front foot is open to at least 45 degrees to afford the hitter a good CHP, and the weathervaning allows the hitter to get tight shoulder rotation, allowing the top hand significant BHT, while the bottom hand acquires good THT. This is the only way to hit a 98 mph low-inside tailing fastball without having the bat sawed off by the pitcher.

Jack believes weathervaning produces an inconsistent swing plane, but your DVD swing proves otherwise. In fact, this month I posted an argument on that very issue--"For John--DVD Swing Analysis"--where I analyze what I see in your swing. Perhaps you can respond it briefly (if you haven't already), and tell me what I might have "erred."

I believe you must keep tight in an arc, then sweep if the pitch is outside (no straight hand path on either one).

But, since we are diametrically opposed to each other on the value of the fence drill, let's just agree to disagree.<<<

Hi BHL

You stated, “I just think a batter should bend both arms as much as possible” and “note that the angle of the elbows neither increase nor decrease.” In another post, I think you referred to both elbows being “chickened winged.” That would mean the angle between the biceps and the forearm of the lead-arm to remain at about 25 to 30 degrees during the swing. Is that about the degree you advocate. If not, what degree would you recommend them to remain at? --- Is this just your recommendation, or is it also advocated by Mike?

Jack Mankin