Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Wed Dec 12 22:36:12 2001

>>> can i reverse the question?
in order for the contact point to occur at the center of the plate on the front edge of the plate, what would the batter's length of stride and point of foot-plant be in relation to the plate? <<<

Hi Ray

With an average stride and body lean, the batter’s lead-knee is about 10 to 12 inches farther back than the lead-toe. The rotation swing should bring the bat to contact (perpendicular to ball flight) about even with the lead-knee. Therefore, the batter’s foot-plant would need to be 10 to 12 inches in front of the plate for the contact point to be on the front edge of the plate. A couple of inches in front of the plate should place the contact point around the middle of the plate (for hits to center-field).

Ray, this contact point is probable much farther back than taught with linear mechanics. This is because both arms are not at full extension as with linear teaching. With rotational mechanics, the back arm still forms the “L” position as the bat becomes perpendicular. --- Isn’t it odd they refer to a linear swing as “short & compact” when actually the batter extends 8 to 12 inches farther out.

Jack Mankin