Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Tue May 7 00:18:30 2002

>>> I went to a clinic and they suggested that a common fault with kids (my kids are 11-12 year olds)is having a long swing. We were told that the kids should develop a compact swing and that a fence drill would accomplish this. They showed us how to teach this drill, but before I invest a lot of time in this drill I was hoping for some opinions as to how effective the drill is in overcoming the long swing. Also, any other hints as to how to develop a short swing? I don't believe everything I hear at these clinics, but this one was conducted by an ex-AAA minor leaguer, so I'm sure he's right in emphasizing a short swing.

Thanking you in advance, Coach Rob <<<

Hi Coach Rob

Welcome to the site. --- It would be useful if coaches would define the mechanics that would produce what they refer to as a “long” and “short” swing. Many, if not most, coaches say a “short” swing requires a straighter extension of the hands (alas, the fence drill). They will also contend that the bat-head should come through later in the swing at full extension.

These same coaches refer to a batter with a circular hand-path (rotational mechanics) as having a long swing. But a batter with good rotational mechanics accelerates the bat to contact long before his back-arm is fully extended. The back-elbow is still in the “L” position. His hands move forward about 18 to 22 inches to contact. The hands move around 26 to 30 inches with linear extension mechanics. So I often ask coaches who say linear mechanics produces a “short - compact” swing this question. --- As the hands are extending out farther and farther toward full extension – is the swing getting shorter and more compact?

As far as the “fence drill” is concerned, why don’t you test it out for yourself. – Stand so the bat will reach from your bellybutton to the fence. Now, without moving back, have someone throw you some balls and see how well you can hit.

Barry Bonds develops great bat speed early in his swing and would rip-down the fence on inside or outside pitches.

Jack Mankin