Posted by: SBB () on Sun Nov 19 19:55:14 2006

I disagree with Dennis W. Most elite hitters do not take mechanical thoughts to the plate. The most baggage they carry is a simple cue such as "let the ball travel" or "see the ball". Thinking mechanics during an at bat is the best way to divide your attention and hinder pitch recognition. Is the goal of hitting to take a mechanically sound swing or to hit the baseball? Having talked with various MLB hitters, I can assure you that there are several perennial all stars that cannot break down the mechanics of the swing to save their lives.

Hitters must bring with them the confidence that their mechanics will be ok so they can focus on the ball. This is accomplished through preparation. When the best hitter's swings are off, they go to the plate looking to compete with the pitcher.

Most elite hitters sit on pitches during an at bat. If they didn't there would be no need for the advanced scouting that happens in the big leagues. It has also been proven that club head velocity can improve by 15-20% when a hitter anticipates a pitch and swinigs at it, opposed to just reacting. Sitting on a pitch will narrow your focus and increase the chances that you do something with it if you get it.

I do feel that there is a time an a place for being a reactive hitter though.