Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Sun Apr 7 12:27:03 2002

>>> Thanks for all the great information on this board. I have a question about the timing step. If you are using rotational mechanics, should the timing step take place right before the counter rotation to the launch position, at the same time as the counterrotation to the launch postion, or should you move to the launch position, hold that position, then take the timing step before initiating the swing? thanks for any insight on the "timing" of the timing step.
Joe H <<<

Hi Joe H:

Welcome to the site. -- It seems to be a matter of preference as to when counter-rotation of the shoulders occurs (either before or during the timing step). I have observed good hitters using both approaches. However, what is common to all great hitters is the counter-rotation of the hands (especially the top-hand), which occurs during pre-launch (Bonds) and as the hitter fully initiates the swing (Big Mac). Whether great hitters start with their hands high (A-Rod) or low and forward (Bonds), they initiate their swing by the pulling back of the top-hand. This will then pull both hands toward the back-shoulder. It also creates the torque action because the top hand is moving/pulling at a faster rate. --- This is a (if not the) key component to a great swing. --- Counter-rotation of the hands (top-hand-torque) prior to, and during, full initiation of the swing creates circular trajectories of both the bat-head and the hands. It is important to remember that the initial action of the swing will determine the mechanics for the balance of the swing.

Jack Mankin