Posted by: Jim (jwelborn@lexcominc.net) on Wed Dec 20 22:41:51 2006

> Hi All
>
> We are currently developing subjects to be covered in our Video Analysis DVD & Program. One of the topics is “Debunking Linear Cues”. So far, I have listed 12 linear batting cues that have stalled batter’s progress for decades. In order to be as accurate as possible, it would be helpful to have your input on the “intent” of these linear cues.
>
> As an example, the linear cue that I am presently addressing is; “Don’t hit around the ball.” – What is the intend of this cue? – Since the bat only moves forward less than ¾ inch while in contact with the ball, we know the bat is not rapping around the ball. Therefore, I assume the cue is intended to have the bat hit the “inside” part of the ball rather than the “outside.”
>
> If the bat strikes the inside of the ball, it will be driven to the “opposite field.” Hitting the outside of the ball will drive it to the “pull” side. -- Is there a difference between telling a batter – “Don’t hit around the ball” than there is telling him - “Don’t pull the ball?”
>
> Your input would be appreciated.
>
> Jack Mankin


Jack,

I believe this cue is addressing the same issues as the terms “casting”, and “keeping the hands inside the ball”. In the Bonds clip (http://www.youthbaseballcoaching.com/mpg/Bonds01.mpeg) I believe Bonds is not hitting around the ball, nor casting, and is keeping his hands inside the ball. This is evidenced by the relationship of the bat, hands and front elbow throughout rotation and especially in the last 6 frames ending at contact. The front elbow maintains its bend the entire time it is visible in this clip.

Also note the bend in the back elbow that is maintained until the bat lag position (3 frames from contact) where it begins to extend. This bend or flex in the elbows is not a disconnection from core rotation.

When I count frames in this clip, it appears to me that appreciable hand torque doesn’t become noticeable until the hands are about 6 frames from contact. Prior to this point the hands appear to be moving as a unit with the arms. This supports the idea that hand torque and therefore bat speed builds slowly at first and more rapidly as rotation nears contact (exponential increase on a graph) as opposed to even acceleration from the onset of rotation to contact (linear increase on a graph).

If Bonds WAS hitting around the ball, or casting, or not keeping his hands inside the ball, the angle of his bat head would be much further advanced much earlier in his swing. He would also be prone to pull all pitches, even those that should be hit straight away or to the opposite field.

The same ultimate bat speed would probably be achieved either way. But hitting around the ball (or casting, or not keeping the hands inside the ball), reduces the batters ability to control the direction the ball is hit. It also can reduce the time the bat head is on the line of the pitch (hitting through a short zone).

I will use which ever of these terms creates a favorable response from the student. I also never rely on a term to get a point across without demonstrating what it means. Discussion of these cues is exactly what is needed.

Jim