Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Sat May 26 15:09:24 2001

>>> Would you suggest I rather take a small step towards the pitcher, rather than towards the plate? Or would you suggest no stride at all? I think when I step into the plate it is a good way to get jammed on an inside pitch. <<<

Hi

I would say that in most cases, a small step toward the pitcher is best. To keep your coach happy you might try starting with a slightly open stance and taking a small step back to straight-away with your stride. If you allow your whole body to rotate (inward turn) with the step it could rotate your hands to a good launch position and maybe also satisfy your coach.

Jack Mankin