Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Mon May 30 11:23:54 2005

>>> I think it is only fair that you take your turn. I have done what you asked. I will answer any questions you have, <<<

Hi Ray

When I was charting swings, I noted that with some hitters, the sweeping path the back-elbow took as it lowered varied from one swing to another. At first, I thought this was just an inconsistency in their swing. However, after seeing this occur in other good rotational hitters, I decided there must be a reason for the different elbow trajectories.

After taking a few swings, it made sense that on inside pitches my elbow lowered more directly to the side and needed to sweep out wider before lowering on outside pitches. I also noted that to generate a tighter path for inside pitches, I needed to pull the top-hand back more toward the third base dugout. On outside pitches, pulling the forearm (and top-hand) straighter back toward the catcher generated the wider path needed.

This may not be the proof you require but it is the basis for my post.

Jack Mankin