Posted by: BB. () on Sun Sep 4 11:16:51 2005

> Hi BB
>
> First of all, I do not encourage my students to use pre-launch torque. I have found that applying THT at initiation from the normal launch position produces great bat speed. I also found many pitfalls could occur while attempting to sweep the bat-head from a cocked forward position cleanly into the swing plain.
>
> With that being said, I have often asked myself – then why are so many of today’s best hitters cocking the bat-head forward out of the swing plane and using PLT?
>
> I think the key to answering my question is to remember that none of these hitters were ever taught to first accelerate the bat-head rearward by pulling back with the forearm and top-hand. Their normal instincts and what they were taught would have the top-hand driving forward. However, if they cocked the bat-head forward, before they could initiate the swing, they must first pull the bat head rearward to the launch position.
>
> Probably through trial-and-error, a few discovered that continuing to pull the top-hand rearward during initiation (shoulders starting to rotate) produced the greatest results. Therefore, I have concluded that probably the greatest benefit of hitters practicing PLT is that it has led some to effectively apply THT in their swings.
>
> Jack Mankin

OK, Jack, but my question remains unanswered. Where is McGwire applying this "THT"?