Posted by: Jack Mankin (mrbatspeed@aol.com) on Thu Apr 22 01:09:03 2004

Jack,

In examining the grip required to initiate THT, it appears there are 2 methods to consider. The backward "pull" force can be applied with top hand:

1. Thumb base
2. Fingers.

Which is correct? It occurs to me the thumb base is ideal since it is relatively strong, and situated farthest from spin axis between the hands.

Thanks,
Mike.

Hi Mike

Sorry, but you will have to explain the “Thumb base” grip to me. --- From pre-launch until the elbow lowers to the side, the top-hand is pulling back on the bat with only the fingers. Therefore, the batter does not actually need to grip (close the hand tightly) with the top-hand. Holding the bat loosely in the top-hand while applying THT reduces the occurrence of wrist binds and waves in the swing plane.

Bonds has a grip that allows him to grip the bat fairly tightly with no apparent problems. It does alter his swing plane but it is consistent and obviously works for him. I can not adequately describe his grip with words – only demonstrate it. There are other grips that must also work.

Jack Mankin