Posted by: Phil C. (Procurementman@msn.com) on Thu Dec 16 07:42:33 2004

>>> Let's get back to basics.
> My daughter is just now getting back to hitting after recovering from ACL reconstruction and my focus with her is on the bacis associated with a rotational swing. Using Jack's rotational teachings I have been able to work with her (with positive results) on using a balanaced swing while incorporating both lead shoulder turn, tht, bht etc.
> What I have not worked with her with on is such things as how many inches her thumb is from her shoulder nor have I discussed with her whether a specific swing philosophy has scientific merit.
>
> I would contend that most professional players probably don't focus on the scientific accuracy of their swing. Instead, they focus on the basics and tweek it when necessary to get the optimum results.
>
> So, for those of us out here without a mechanical engineering or physics degree - lets get back to the basics so we can teach our sons and daughters the basics of a rotational swing. Once that is accomplished they will be able to determine what small changes are required to suit their natural ability. <<<
>
> Hi Phil
>
> Glad to hear your daughter is recovering and doing well with her swing. I agree we should state batting principles in terms most coaches and players could understand. However, we must also keep in mind that if a batting principle is based on faulty scientific principles, then the batting principle is flawed. It has been the testing and discussions of these scientific principles that has debunked many faulty batting principles and provided your daughter with sound ones.
>
> From: “The “Absolutes” to good hitting”
> >> Here is a list I found to be "Absolutes" to a good swing and higher batting performance. All good hitters will: (1) Hide their hands at the back-shoulder as rotation starts; <<<
>
> Phil, when I do a swing review analysis (frame-by-frame) of a young hitter, one of the first things I look for (frontal view) is whether or not their hands are visible from the pitcher’s mount. If the batter has a correct inward turn and the hands are close to the shoulder in the launch position, their hands will be hidden. The more of the hands I can see and the farther the hands are away from the back-shoulder when the swing is initiated, the straight the resulting hand-path and the lower the bat speed produced. --- “how many inches her thumb is from her shoulder” is very important.
>
> Jack Mankin
>

>>>>

Jack,
Thanks for the reply.
I did not mean to imply that scientific analysis is not a useful tool in understanding the mechanics of a rotational swing nor do I disagree with the notion of the hands being hidden during loading.

The point I was trying to make was that when teaching rotational mechainics to a young player there is a risk of being to technical. When that happens the player is not allowed to take full advantage of their natural ability because their mind is filled with far too many, swing thoughts.

I truly believe in what you are teaching. My only point is that when working with young players the more we can work with the basics of a rotational swing the simplier the swing will become. This then will increase their level of confidence as their hitting improves.

Keep up the good work Jack. I am hoping that in the near future you will have the opportunity to do a swing analysis of my daughter after which we can talk further.