Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatSpeed@aol.com) on Sun Oct 10 23:07:15 2004

>>> Hi Jack,
I just don't agree with this theory that the uppercut, is the only way to approach hitting for all levels .I have had plenty of players approach hitting starting down and leveling out and they have produced.I have been successful as an instructor and I have paid very close attention to their approaches.I have used the ultimate batting tee with different types of hitters and I must say it has done miracles for players that needed to eliminate extreme uppercuts.I have also had great results with helping hitters create power using the ultimate batting tee.I would say that the angle adjustment has really helped players to develope the slight uppercut ,and work slightly down .With this in mind I couldn't change my direction because of the success and results.Why try to fix something that works?I hope someday that you can give the ultimate batting tee the credit it deserves ,this device has helped thousands of players produce.The testimonies support this !! ERIK LASEKE <<<

Hi Erik

First of all, I did not seek this controversy. You came to the site and asked for my opinion. For the most part, I left the discussion to you and other board participants. I did not respond until your post asked me directly. I would have preferred to give you my recommendation in private.

You stated, “I have had plenty of players approach hitting starting down and leveling out and they have produced.” – All hitters approach hitting by starting the bat-head on a downward path. However, your first model did not result in the bat “leveling out” at contact. The bat stayed on a downward path through the contact zone. And, as I pointed out earlier, altering this swing path at the end by changing the final angle (to level or up-slope) is not the correct solution.

I am glad you brought this discussion to the board. Reading both sides of this controversy should be beneficial to all.

Jack Mankin