Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Tue Sep 12 23:28:05 2000

>>>I assume contact with the bag is where one would make contact with the ball.<<<

Hi Lar

Yes, the bag is at the contact point. But as I mentioned in a post above, the contact point for the rotation swing is 8 to 12 inches farther back than with extension mechanics. The back arm should be in the "L" position with the elbow at the batters side - not inward toward the bellybutton. The back forearm will be pointing at the pitcher - not the second-baseman. The lead shoulder should have fully rotated and pulling the lead arm back toward the pitcher.

It will take good mechanics at initiation to gain the correct position at contact. You (or the batter) can't evaluate these mechanics in the batting cage or with dry swings. I seldom find good rotational mechanics from those that tried. --- The bag can be a very helpful tool to a knowledgeable coach.

Jack Mankin