Posted by: Nick (rvphog44@yahoo.com) on Wed Feb 15 17:49:32 2006

I think we should empahasize the loading of the hands a hips into the power position for youngsters. When done w/ rhythm (the pitcher shows his rear you show yours), a hitter will be more inclined to start his swing by a slight lift of his back foot,, which initiates the back hip, which starts the hands. I think it's important to emphasize getting up on the toes of your back foot (the power position), especially for young hitters, to keep the barrel from dropping/lagging during the start of the swing. It makes controlling the barrell head much easier for hitters, and also allows them to stay short to the ball and extend through it towards the center field.