Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Thu May 5 20:07:56 2005

>>> Jack,

This is certainly no new revelation, but I thought of something that has helped me utilize the "hook" in the hand path.

Now you have often stated that hitters who extend their hands toward the pitcher during their swing are "behind the power curve" and they "generate bat speed late in the swing." I have realized that when a hitter disconnects hands from shoulder rotation, he/she still has a hook in the hand path (assuming there is shoulder rotation). The key thing (that I've never actually heard anyone express) is that this particular hitter's hook in the hand path occurs much later after contact, which will have no effect on his/her bat speed by contact. That's why when a hitter with these mechanics begins his/her swing too early for a particular pitch, the ball is often pulled for a well-hit foul ball. That hitter will wonder why he/she can't hit a ball that hard in fair territory...but it's because their hook in the hand path doesn't begin before contact!

Like I said, Jack, I know this is not anything new to you, but I have never really heard it stated as such: the hook in the hand path will usually occur as long as there is shoulder rotation, however when a hitter allows his/her hands to come forward and disconnect from shoulder rotation, this hook will occur too late in the swing to produce any bat speed before contact.

This has helped a few of my little leaguers in understanding the importance of loading inertia during the prelaunch phase of the swing and keeping their hands connected to rotation.

Thank you for your input, Jack. Once again, I appreciate your time and research.<<<

Hi Marcus

I suppose the hook could occur after contact. However, I have found that most batters that use the arms to extend the hands, the lead-hand is not pulled rearward prior to contact. It continues to sweep forward as the top-head is driven past it to accelerate the bat-head.

Marcus, I will review some linear hitters for the hook occurring after contact. Most of my notes are regarding pre-launch to contact mechanics.

Jack Mankin