Posted by: Coach C () on Sun Feb 22 20:54:15 2004

>>> This is where I think Tom has made some strong contributions with regard to "scapula loading". <<<
>
> Hi Coach C
>
> I have often asked Tom if "scapula loading" applied any different force to the bat than the mechanic I defined as Top-Hand-Torque in 1991. To my knowledge, he has never replied. I see "scapula loading" as just naming one of the muscle groups used in THT.
>
> Most of the students I review have our instructional video. They normally keep the lead-arm fairly close to their chest so I seldom see the “long looping swing” you discribed.
>
> Jack Mankin
>

I agree that "Scapula Loading" is in fact the THT you describe, however for the purposes of feel...describing the correct muscle groups can go a long way in activating the right mechanics. In other words feel "The pinch". It may not work for all, but many players have benefited from it. Let me say for the record that I do not think "Scapula Loading is evident in all great swings, so coaches need to be aware of what they are changing and what works for one hitter, does not work for another. A-rod is not Bonds, Bonds is not Vlad Guerrerro, Vlad is not Palmeiro, Palmerio is not Griffey, Griffey is not Berkman, etc. There is more to it than one approach as evident with the spray charts of all these fine hitters. Each create similar forces in the bathead, but how they release the energy is a matter of opinion.

I actually think that most hitting woes are caused by trying not to get beat at the plate, instead of having the perception that the ball is coming to us. To prove my point.....try stepping into an 80 mph cage and hitting, then move over to a 50 mph cage, if the adjustment isn't made swifly after taking one pitch, the hitter has not learned how to let the ball come to him. I guess that's another issue for debate.

Coach C