Posted by: The Hitting Guru () on Mon Dec 18 10:44:52 2006

> >>> And though the rotational technique works more consistently for contact, Schmidt as well as some of the top slow pitch hitters feel the tomohawk level cut is most effective when done correctly as the backspin has the ability to cut through stiff winds. <<<
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> Hi Guru
>
> At - http://www.youthbaseballcoaching.com/swings.html – there are clips of some of the game’s most talented hitters. If the “tomohawk cut” was beneficial, I am sure a good percentage of them would have perfected and incorporated it in their swings. Would you point out those clips that would support Schmidt’s “tomohawk” teachings?
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> You state, “food for thought) It should be noted that George Brett used the tomohawk cut in the pine tar game for a homerun.”
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> Do you have a clip of “the pine tar game” for us to study? -- This clip -http://dmcmillan.topcities.com/GBrett86oppoHR.mpg – definitely shows Brett’s bat on an up-slope through contact. In fact, the bat’s up-slope through contact is about equal to the ball’s exit angle.
>
> Jack Mankin

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Jack. No offense, but it is obvious from your clip you have not seen or recollect the pine tar game. In the pine tar game the homerun pitch that Brett hit was practically over his head. In error you probably mistakenly used the clip from the 1980 playoff game in which Brett uppercutted a low inside fastball from Gossage into the 3rd deck. But in your defense, I do not have access or know how to get clips but when I eventually come accross it I will post it (most likely within the week) But thanks for your response!

With regard to the tomohawk and level cut see the Mike Schmidt Study (book). As far as the clips, I will forward what I can find. I will also see if I can get footage of Albert Belle and Andre Dawson who used the tomohawk cut on occasion. As for the technique itself see www.sportstechnique.com that is on video.