Posted by: Jack Mankin (mrbatspeed@aol.com) on Fri Apr 9 02:12:23 2004

>>> The prospect who challenged me to hit his 95+ fastball played in The Mexican League? and, at 6'0," 171 l.b.s., was a native of San Pedro de Marqaruis, Dominican Rebublic. He was 17? at time, and we did not know his real name for the reason that he used various pseudonyms.

Anyway, one day he challenges me to hit his fastballs. Since Doug and Teacherman are right--there is less than .4 of a second to react to such pitches, I made a concerted effort to pull pitches--inside and outside--over the left field fence. And I did!

I was on the plate, but had "armor" underneath me to stand resolute in case of being hit.

Then, he said, take of your "armor" and hit...well, some "got away from him," and one bruised my thigh bone severely. Physically, I could not drag myself through a season of "beatings," meaning that I have the utmost respect for those who can do just that.

Thanks for the support, Herb, et. al.

Sincerely,
BHL
Knight1285@aol.com

P.S. It is amazing how many balls Mac pulled in 1998! <<<

Hi BHL

I think you have more than covered your theory and exploits on pulling all pitches. I am not saying you are right or wrong. It is just time to move on.

Jack Mankin