Posted by: Chris O'Leary (chris@chrisoleary.com) on Fri Mar 2 11:35:54 2007

"I see your point: although Barry Bonds squishes the bug, and opens the foot at 90 degrees, Albert Pujols does not."

In looking at photos of Bonds...

http://www.chrisoleary.com/projects/Baseball/Hitting/Images/BarryBonds_2006_Double_001.jpg

http://www.chrisoleary.com/projects/Baseball/Hitting/Images/BarryBonds_2002_HomeRun_001.jpg

http://www.chrisoleary.com/projects/Baseball/Hitting/Images/BarryBonds_2001_HomeRun_Number73.jpg

...I see what you are describing as squishing the bug. It's definitely different than what Pujols does. However, I'm not convinced that it's exactly what is described as squishing the bug. I don't think there's much weight on the back foot (even though the back toe never comes off the ground).


"Pujols' thigh also does not tilt towards the catcher anywhere near the degree that Bonds does."

I'm not so sure, but I don't think it's that big of a deal.


"On the other hand, though, I agree that teaching Pujol's style of hitting is not a bad one to teach either."

My only question is whether Bonds is doing what you think he is. I think there may be more commonality between Bonds and Pujols.


"I think we both can degree that Pujols back leg is in the form an "L" at contact (even though this image is not stated)."

Yes.

Why do you think this matters?


"My question is that do you think Pujol's rear arm also forms an "L" at contact. To me, this is pretty obvious"

Yes.


"I'm wondering what you have to say about Pujol's upper body mechanics."

He's a little unusual. His torso, while leaning over the plate like most, isn't leaning back toward the pitcher like many do.


"By the way, your site has some well-delineated corollaries on them. I'd be glad to offer advice to strengthen the connections."

Talk to me. ;-)


"P.S. In the clip where you analyze Pujol's home run swing step by step, I would change Pujol's back leg is in a 90 degree angle to Pujol's back leg is in a 90 degree angle L-shaped position. Emphasize the visual."

Good point. I just made the change.