Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Sun Apr 3 22:15:45 2005

>>> Took some new videos last night and reviewed some old ones. His rear elbow never gets any further forward than his rear hip.

When he is ready to start his swing his front arm is tight against his chest, back elbow parallel to ground and his top hand is behind his top elbow towards the catcher. His top elbow is open more than 90 degrees at this point. IMO this does not allow him to pull back with his top hand towards the catcher. In fact, any movement of the top hand towards the catcher would have to be a push type movement rather than a pull. Because his hand is behind his elbow, slotting the elbow seems to cause the bat head to drop directly behind his back rather than back and towards the catcher.

If I can convert the video to a still frame I'll send it Jim (with his permission) to see if he agrees with my description. <<<

Hi Tom

Your son making contact with the back-elbow still at his side (“L” position) indicates he is making efficient use of the lead-side (BHT). I would need to see clips of his swing to make recommendations regarding his top-hand mechanics. Your input to this board is appreciated and if you would like me to analyze his mechanics, e-mail me at MrBatspeed@aol.com for a mailing address.

Jack Mankin