Posted by: Major Dan (markj89@charter.net) on Thu Aug 23 10:52:39 2001

>>> interesting observations. I have come to similar conclusions regarding tht and 'pre-launch torque'. Have you found that those using what you refer to as 'pre-launch' tht have better results, ie, is that a superior method or is this just an individual variation? <<<
>
> Hi Major Dan
>
> There is a definite advantage to overcoming inertia and having bat velocity as the swing is initiated – if, the direction of that velocity is directed into the swing’s plane. Less resistance due to inertia (as opposed to starting from a static position) means the amount of force required to attain a higher bat-head velocity (bat speed) will be proportionally lower. But cocking the bat-head forward past vertical takes the bat out of the swing plane. This requires a constant pulling adjustment of the top-hand to loop the bat-head down and into the swing plane before rotation and full initiation begins. --- Failure in timing or direction of bat-head velocity can result in waves in the plane and reduced bat speed.
>
> Note (1): Very few batters who cock the bat to, or past vertical, in their ready position will actually apply useful pre-launch torque. Nearly all will bring the bat to a near, or full, stop in their launch position before they initiate the swing. Regardless of how much they wave or accelerate the bat-head in pre- launch, nothing is gained if the bat-head becomes static in the launch position.
>
> Note (2): Many weaker hitters will start extending the hands while the bat-head is cocked vertical or forward. The bat-head remains near motionless as the hands zip underneath. – I call this “the pendulum” swing.
>
> Jack Mankin
>

Jack-
its taken a while for me to come to understand what you have been talking about but what you said (above) is, to me, the essence of top hand torque - to get the bat barrel moving to overcome inertia prior to launching the bat into the swingplane.
By starting the barrel without starting the swing (shoulder turn) the barrel picks up more speed more quickly than if it started from a standing start.
By starting the barrel earlier than the launch, you also get to apply the forces longer, thus building up more velocity by contact time.
It makes more and more sense all the time.
Is it your opinion that hitters like McGuire don't use pre-launch but do use tht? If so, isn't this less effective? I assume he makes up for it with his greater strength and mass, overcoming inertia by shear size and strength. Is this what you see happening?