Posted by: Captain Kim () on Thu Jan 25 14:48:09 2007

> Please excuse the delay in my reply. We are in the process of shooting video for our new “Video Swing Analysis DVD” and that requires most of my time. – In fact, one of your topics, "pulling the knob to the ball" will be covered in the “Debunking linear principles & cues” section we will be shooting. So let us discuss that first.
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> You state, “To be exact, this "pulling the knob to the ball" was the best point on linear mechanic that Mr. Lau has ever made.” – Kim, as with all cues, it depends on how the student (or coach) interprets the cue. If the coach means the lead-elbow maintains a fixed angle during rotation so that the knob is pulled around in an arc, that is fine. Taking the knob (and hands) in a circular path is a “rotational transfer principle” that induces angular acceleration of the bat-head from the “pendulum effect.”
>
> However, when I ask most coaches to demonstrate “Knob to the Ball,” their lead-elbow starts boxed (about a 90-degree angle) and then extends to drive the knob in a straight (linear) path. This leaves the bat-head trailing behind the hands well into the swing (no pendulum effect). This results in the bat-head attaining its maximum angular velocity well after passing through the optimum contact point. Batters with these mechanics exhibit little power to the opposite field and most of their well it balls are pulled foul.
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> Note: George Brett may have taken a long aggressive stride. However, his linear forward movement slowed to a stop and he then rotated around a stationary axis. And even more important, Brett did not extend a “boxed” lead-elbow (a linear principle). He produced a circular-hand-path (CHP) by keeping his elbow at a fixed angle during rotation.
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> Jack Mankin

Thanks for your reply. Actually, there was something that I was trying to post yesterday about my updated swing depth, but the internet lost its connection.

What happened yesterday was that I had another opportunity to hit agianst the fastball machine. I realized that I had some flaws of my practiced rotational swing before (I always forget to take my elbows down after bringing my hands back). I covered the mistake, and was able to make a good contact and power. I still have some questions though:

1. If linear mechanic says 'bring your knob to the ball' to make a good contact, do we have to give an effort to bring the barrel of the bat to the ball on rotational mechanic, or is it okay to bring our knob to the ball while we are rotating?

2. Do you recommend lifting weights for hitters? I'm currently 16, and growing.

3. Can you tell us about “Video Swing Analysis DVD”, and the release date?


Thanks

Sung-Min