Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Mon Jun 11 08:50:35 2007

>>> I have read your position on rotation and translation not occuring simultaneously.

However, I will offer proof to the contrary. Jack, take a baseball, and toss it to a partner at a short distance, throwing the ball as straight as possible. After a few tosses, asks your partner whether or not the ball spins.

When performed, you will discover that the ball travels in a line, or possesses a linear component to it. Yet, the ball also spins, or displays a propensity to gyrate. Moreover, the ball travels in a line and spins simultaneously, showing that linear and rotational activity can be concomitant.

On these grounds, I reject your premise that linear and rotational movement cannot occur at the same time.<<<

Hi All

My actual statement was: “Lateral and rotational movements of the body do not occur at the same time.” Below is the context for the statement. You can judge for yourself the worth of BHL’s objection.

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“The batter has rotated (inward turn) to the launch position and completed his timing step. The inward turn leaves his hips leading the shoulders by about 20 to 30 degrees in the launch position. His front toe has been planted and forward motion has slowed to a stop -- he is ready to initiate the swing. Now, assume that a stake has been driven down through the batter's head and body, out the butt and into 6 feet of concrete. This will be the axis the batter will rotate on.

Many coaches do not understand that there is a clear distinction between the body's forward movements to prepare the launch position and the body’s rotational movement during the actual swing. Most hitters will stride forward as they prepare to swing. However, before the actual swing is initiated (hand acceleration and body rotation begins) the batter will come to full balance and there is no further forward movement of the body. Lateral and rotational movements of the body do not occur at the same time.”
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Jack Mankin