Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Mon Aug 27 09:26:08 2001

>>> It seems the only posts responded to are those related to the video.

As a recreational softball player, I have recently been soaking up all the info on hitting I can from the internet. Over the past two weeks I have posted 2 questions that I tought were intelligent. One regarding if there are any differences in the mechanics described in this site for fast vs. slow pitch ball. The other was regarding the pros/cons of installing a cone taper on a softball bat, for improved grip. Neither has gotten any response from any members or the board owner.

The title at the top of the page says "A frank and open-minded discussion of the baseball and softball swing should be a benefit to all." If this is not the case, please tell me and I will not waste any more of my or your time. <<<

Hi RH

If you would go back and read my post on the site over the past years, you will find that I seldom bring up the subject of my video. My discussions of principles shown in the video are mainly in response to questions from those who have the tape and need more information.

I developed the site because I thought my study of baseball swing mechanics produced findings that could be of great benefit to both baseball and softball players alike. Most of those findings are contained in the 50+ pages I added to the site as a source of reference and study. The study showed that the great hitters used more rotational rather than linear principles in their swings. Therefore, most of the batting principles and mechanics presented on the site are in direct conflict with the batting theories that have been taught for decades.

It was obvious that the material on batting mechanics found on the site would be at odds with what most coaches and players were taught to believe. So, I decided that a discussion board where "A frank and open-minded discussion of the baseball and softball swing” could take place and would allow coaches and players to question my findings and gain a better understanding of them. For the most part, the board has produced excellent results with many lively and constructive discussions. I am proud to be associated with the players and coaches that post here whether they agree or disagree with me. Only now and then will disruptive elements come to the board.

RH, my expertise is most valuable when concentrated on swing mechanics that generate a consistent swing plane with greater bat speed. As time allows, I try to answer most of the questions in that realm. But when someone has questions regarding who makes the best bat - or the type of mechanics needed to hit behind the runner – or how do you work with a kid who is afraid of the ball and etc., I sincerely believe that there are other coaches on the site who have more expertise in those fields than I have. --- One final thought. The topics for discussion on the board come from you and the other coaches - you set the agenda – I mainly respond.

Jack Mankin