Posted by: Major Dan (markj89@charter.net) on Wed Jan 29 13:02:28 2003

A-Rod takes 5 BP sessions a day, from tee, live pitching, soft-toss (machine and coach), pitching machine that throws curves, etc. I imagine Bonds has at least that much. It's his life's goal to be the best at this, and he invests many hours into it. Not to mention his strength, quickness, and selective eye.
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> > What impresses me most about Bonds (other than his picture-perfect tight, quick swing) is his supreme confidence at the plate. He always has a slight grin on his face, like he is absolutely in control of the pitcher-hitter battle. With his arm armored, he has no fear of the inside fastball, which is the last weapon a pitcher has. His demeanor suggests that hitting HR's is purely at his discretion, whenever he wants to. I can't even muster that kind of confidence hitting BP off a tee!
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> Sandy Alderson's oversight has changed the strike zone much in favor of Bonds.No more national league way outside strike.Bonds is super confident that the pitcher will try to be too fine and make a mistake(just an inch or two) that will give him what he is looking for.It's a great combo of ability,mechanics and strategy.

His swing mechanics are such that he is usually 4 to 4 1/2 frames (each frame is 1/30th second) from launch to contact. This is extremely fast swing quickness. Yet he generates 90+ mph batspeed.
The swing quickness allows him an extra 1/2 to 1 frame (1/60th to 1/30th of a second) to read the pitch. Most MLB players are in the 4 1/2 to 5 frame range.
IMO that is his 'secret'. Add the pedigree, years of experience, strike zone, etc. and his drive to be exceptional, great focus each at-bat, excellent approach to each at-bat, time after time and you get a great hitter.