Posted by: jima (andyii@cox.net) on Sat Aug 26 10:58:12 2006

Jack, you and I have discussed my feeling that great hitters need to have some lateral move to adjust to changeups, curves, etc. You also know that I agree with you that some rotational mechanics must also be involved in order to increase bat speed....I just don't like labels, since I don't think they always fit. Anyway, I do trust your judgement. Maybe you can help me with my 13yo. He's developed a horrible habit of "wrapping" the bat when loading...it causes his timing to be off and his swing is way too long. It also causes his first move to be the opening of his lead shoulder as a response to the "wrap". I'd prefer that he load using his hands to push the bat directly back, with a little shoulder turn...I don't care how much we work on it, as soon as he sees live pitching he goes right back to "wrapping". He says that he can't feel it although he sees himself doing it on video. What do you think? Drills? Right now we just work on the tee. Thanks. jima