Posted by: Alan (alanmcnulty@bigpond.com.au) on Fri May 20 16:21:01 2005

> My son aligns his 2nd and 3rd hand knucles. His coach has recommended that he lines up his 2nd knuckles (knocker knuckles). He is uncomfortable with this, and has done well with the grip he presently uses. I think it's important that he be comfortable and if it aint broke, don't fix it.
>
> I understand my son's grip is called a "box grip" and is used by quite a few Major League players.
>
> Does lining up the knocker (2nd) knuckles make a difference or should he do just as well with his box grip? Thanks.


Hi Ralphie,

I believe it all depends on the type of hitter you are. If you are or aiming to be a power hitter do NOT line up your door knocking knuckles. This type of grip promotes a very wristy swing which helps batspeed AFTER extending your arms.

If you are teaching hands to the ball and slapping, bunting and are a singles type hitter then this grip will work for you.

Depending on the type of swing I see with a young hitter I adjust the knuckle alignment as the "box" grip is sometimes too restrictive and can lead to locking the wrists (try lining up the punching knuckles and swing)


Experiment with your own students and find thier own grip

Alan