Posted by: Marv () on Wed May 5 08:52:46 2004

7 out of 7 Trenton Thunder players (asked) denied any understanding whatsoever of torque as applied/encountered to/with the baseball swing. They agree/understand that the shoulder/hip coiling type effect generally gets them into the load/pre-launch position, but some (3) insisted that their swing is initiated by an inward kick of the lead knee...which then starts the shoulder turn, which then moves the bat handle almost straight back (towards 3B if RH hitter) not back towards catcher. The back movement varies, but roughly 5 inches on average. All agree that the lead/lower arm/hand brings the bat into position...with the top/right hand/arm/bicep taking over just before contact. All 7 players demonstrated very good swings, with 3/4 speed tempo driving the ball clear of wall, and into parking lot. In closing all 7 also agreed that OS FB is generally hit to opposite field...with substantially more reach.
> > > > > > > Jeff M
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Hi Jeff M,
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I saw clips of professional players pulling outside pitches for home runs. I am sure that if hits were directed towards any other fields, they would have registered as an out. Yet, if hitting to all fields is successful for some individuals, they should continue to do so.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > BHL
> > > > > >
> > > > > > P.S. I still advocate attempting to pull every pitch.
> > > > >
> > > > > Don't let the facts get in the way of your opinion.
> > > >
> > > > At least he backs up his opinions with logic. I never see you express an opinion other than to say you disagree with everyone and everything. No facts or logic, you just growl at everyone until you manage to get in the last insult. I have an idea, Teacherman, why don't you make just ONE post articulating a concept pertaining to hitting a baseball and let's see how good you are in defending your ideas (if you have any).
> > >
> > > Maybe you folks would like to hear it directly from someone who knows the game (I played at the major league level): a hitter is much better off pulling all pitches, inside and out.The hitter does not have time to make this adjustment or that adjustment. The hitter has to REACT and react fast, or the pitch will be in the catcher's glove.Obviously a hitter can and will be late and hit to the opposite field at times, but of course all hitters do make mistakes. But if the question is the mindset and how to practice, then yes, trying to pull will pay off in the long run.I hope this settles the issue once and for all.
> >
> > More poppeycock under the disquise of "a former major leaguer". A mlb hitter can not cover both sides of the plate on any given pitch. The good hitters have an educated guess on how the pitcher is pitching them and where they expect the ball. Based on their expectation, the reality of where the pitch is and their skill level they then put the appropriate swing on it. Trying to pull every pitch assures a trip to AAA.
>
> Teacherman I won't waste my time arguing with someone such as yourself who has never made a positive post.Always bashing someone.That's your right since Jack obviously allows it.I will set the records straight, though. Whereas your post is based on nothing except what you may have picked up in the lower rungs of youth baseball, my post was based on major league experience.And yes, not only did I make it to AAA but I made it to the majors!I certainly do not intend to suggest that mlb experience is a requirement to express one's opinion. Mine is no better than anyone else's. My intent was only to point out my experiences, and I refuse to get bogged down in silly discussions with you.Now, if any other mlb player has a differing experience I am sure we would all welcome his insight.

I made it to AA before I hurt my knee. I agree with Rob it seemed like all the power hitters were pull hitters and all the singles hitters went the other way all the time.I see the same thing at the major league level.Teacherman, if you get ESPN in your area you might watch Baseball Tonight.They always have highlights and if you study them you might learn something that might help your understanding. It really is a great show.