Posted by: Dave () on Wed Nov 2 07:49:35 2005

> All of this linear vs. rotational argument is garbage, players have found success with both methods. But based on the way that you teach the rotational swing I wanted to know if you would recommend that a player gets the training device being sold on this website.
> http://www.shortstroke.com/

Instead of spending money on a device like this the money would be better spent on quality one on one instruction. Any device that teaches to groove a swing hinders players over all performance because you would not have a pitcher go into a game with just one pitch right? A hitter should not go into battle with just one swing. A hitter needs to be taught how to adjust to how the pitcher is trying to get the hitter out. A hitter needs to know what to do in each situation. Does the team need a fly ball? If he is only taught how to swing down how is he going to hit a fly ball? Does he need to hit the ball the other way? How can he do this if he is not taught how to hit the outside pitch by keeping hands inside the ball?

A good instructor can teach mechanics as well as approach and adjustments that need to be made to the pitch. That is why rotational mechanics are so effective. Rotational hitters have time to make on the fly adjustments. Linear hitters tend to commit early and have to slap at the ball or roll over on the outside pitch producing the inning killing double play.

I would recommend a player buying a tivo and record major leaguers swings and copy their swing mechanics or buy videos from batspeed.com (same swing as the big leaguers). The swing mechanics are only the first part of maximizing bat speed. Anyone can groove a swing and be an all star in the cage or off a machine but can they maintain bat speed with a pitcher throwing 90 mph fastballs mixed in with 75 mph change ups and curve balls.

Quality instruction is the key and there is no device that will do the work for you.