Posted by: Joe Hernandez (coach2hit@yahoo.com) on Wed Jun 14 09:34:47 2006

> If I start with my hands low and my back elbow down, but as I load I bring them to a proper load position, it would be fine right? It doesnt matter how low I start them, as long as I load them to the right position. I just want to have them low because I feel comfortable. I feel like my hands are locked when I have them high. I just want to know if this is ok.

Yanks,

As long as you are successful in getting your hands up and into the launch position well before the pitcher releases the ball you will be fine. For most, it's better to be in "ready" position during the pre-launch phase.

What you want to be careful is not to develop a "hitch"...that is, bringing your hands downward prior to the release of the pitch and failing to move back up into the launch position in time for the short, backward separation that accompanies the stride. Otherwise, you are fine.

Some pretty good hitters have dropped their hands prior to moving the bat into the launch position...Hall of Famer Rod Carew comes to mind as well as Tony Batista and Barry Bonds. So you are in good company.

Good Luck!

Joe Hernandez