Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Sun Mar 11 15:32:17 2001

Question/Comment:

>>>Jack, Don't make linear and rotational hitting so confusing.
The vast majority of good hitters display the same axis to produce not only hip rotation but also weight transfer that depends on the location of the pitch. Mark McGwire, Jeff Bagwell,Dante Bichette and a few others are bigger and stronger than the vast majority of todays' sluggers and can get away without displaying full hip rotation and weight transfer. Instead of perpetuating the problem, why dont you simplify it by saying your front leg should firm up at contact which keeps you from being to linear and too rotational? My father said that 20 yrs ago.
Respectfully, <<<

Jack Mankin's reply:

Hi Charley:

Welcome back to the site. -- I would hope that everyone who has read my material knows that I stress the importance of extending the lead leg before contact. It is the extension of the leg that allows the batter to rotate around a stationary axis. It also assists in getting the lead shoulder to pull back toward the catcher. So I am quite aware of the importance of the lead leg in generating rotation around a stationary axis.

You asked: "why don't you simplify it by saying your front leg should firm up at contact which keeps you from being to linear and too rotational? My father said that 20 yrs ago." -- Charley, your dad did not say the front leg should "firm up at contact." He gave no indication he believed the lead leg had any role in driving hip rotation. His writings maintained the front leg should be "rigid and firm" before hip rotation begins.

Here is what he stated on page 73 of his book,"THE WINNING HITTER":

"Your stride begins by stepping and placing your lead foot on the ball of the foot. You bring the bat to the launching position as you plant your front leg firmly and shift your weight forward from your back leg to your front leg. The internal movement you had in the stance makes this weight shift easier and more effective. In fact, it's so effective it makes your rear foot start to leave the ground. Your hips remain closed, which means you avoid pulling this powerful trigger until just the right moment. The entire motion is positive and aggressive. With your front leg rigid and firm and most of your weight now on top of this 'platform,' your hips start to open as you bring the bat through."

Charley, I sincerely believe your dad was a great man. But if what I read above is what you mean by "simplify it," I will continue teaching principles that may require more thought.

Respectfully,

Jack Mankin