Posted by: The Hitting Guru () on Tue Jan 2 17:09:29 2007

Jack. If you have the opportunity, take a look at Yankeeography volume one which shows Babe Ruth's mechanics. You will see concrete proof that linear movement contributes to power. Babe Ruth starts with his weight back, but takes a dramatic linear movement with all his weight going forward. As such it almost appears he is going to fall over. After his linear movement comes forward, linear energy is transfered to his front leg. At this point the linear energy is transferred into a rotational pulling/upswing from which he finishes his upperbody mechanics and rotational swing. This study of Ruth indicates that just because the body does not fall over/forward, does not mean that the linear contribution ceases. What it does mean is that because of excellent balance, strength, and coordination the hitter is able to maintain his form and use both linear energy coupled with a rotational upswing/torque to produce maximum power.