Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Sat Jan 22 10:32:30 2005

Hi,

>>> When you are watching a Major League game a lot of players take two steps, usually a small stride towards the back foot and then a little bigger one towards the pitcher. Can you please tell me the reason for this and also when it should be done during your swing. <<<

Hi Dan

Timing and rhythm is key to good hitting. Great hitters use a variety of styles to match the rhythm of their swing to the rhythm of the pitcher and the incoming ball. Taking a stride, short or long, forward or back, is part of that rhythmic movement. But regardless of which style great hitters are inclined to use, they will all arrive at about the same launch position and will power their swings by rotating around the same stationary axis.

Jack Mankin