Connection in the Softball Swing 

The most important aspect of "connection" that is seldom fully described means simply that a rigid connection is maintained between the rotating torso to the bat through firm arms and hands, especially during the first half of the swing. As shown in this video, the early part of this hitter's bat path and acceleration is created through rigid connection. The rotating lower body and torso do most of the work. This establishes a natural "inside out" hand path and rapid acceleration of the bat due to the physics of angular acceleration. As the swing passes through bat lag, the necessary adjustments take place to adjust for pitch location. On an inside strike, rigid connection is maintained longer so the bat can accelerate to meet the ball out in front (pull hitting). On an outside strike, the arms and hands adjust, or "disconnect" as necessary a they approach contact so the bat can slow down and be angled properly to allow the ball to travel deeper and send the ball to the opposite field. This is why pulled hits always travel faster and further than opposite field hits. The power of "connection" is what gives good hitters the ability to hit the ball effectively using the same basic swing regardless of pitch location or speed. This concept was a key part of swing discussions that were advanced by Mike Candrea back in the early 2000's as Don Slaught developed his Right View Pro swing analysis software.

This guy is the real deal with his teachings! Hes helped me as a coach big time... just finding the right words and put it into a perspective that makes it so much easier to teach Thank You Coach Antonelli... I'm from Worcester living In FL and Ive changed many lives because of your teachings helping me the right way to help others

do these mechanics also apply to slow pitch softball? I assume they do but I see people crush it using all kinds of swings and not sure. I just want to hit a home run over the fence at least once in my life. I see so many conflicting tips. You're makes the most sense as far as power generation. Ive heard some coaches say you get nothing from your top hand, but practicing your technique, it seems i get more out of the top when i get hand up, palm down and some torque with my hips. I like your rubber band and whip metaphors. I threw shot put in HS and using the glide i always thought it was like using a whip and the crack is the moment the shot left my hand.

"TIS CONFUSION" -Q