Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Wed Jan 3 15:25:25 2007

>>> Jack. I cannot dispute that analysis as it makes sense and applies to the hitters mentioned. But the question comes up as to what are the optimum lower body mechanics for a player? Is it the answer in the leg kick, the long stride, the short stride, the athletic balanced position, or does it involve a transfer of weight? As of now, it seems that some on this site believe the lower body functions as merely a timing mechanism and is simply a matter of personal preference. I simply do not agree (at this time) that that is the case.

Don Mattingly (Yankeeography disc 3) was quoted as saying the leg kick up and back allowed him to regain the (power) form he had during his early career.

For those who remember Don, he had good power for a man of modest size (5'11 185 lbs). Don was rotational but lost power as a debilitating disc limited his rotational turning. But by lifting the front leg with an inward turn got him back on track. It should be noted that Don used CHP to hook many homeruns into Yankee stadium right field seats. His THT and BHT appear evident but not as much as an Aaron, Strawberry, but more of a glide back.

But perhaps we should save the lower body discussion for another time as opinion varies from hitter to hitter. <<<

Hi Guru

You, Jim and I had a good discussion of what contributes to good lower-body mechanics is an earlier thread. You might wish to review from -- http://www.batspeed.com/messageboard/45340.html

Jack Mankin