Coaching Clinic ... Batting
A Contrast in Styles
Batting has been the most critical and yet inconsistent component of the
Deadwood game. The Deadwoods have always been consistent on defense, but the
team batting is either feast or famine. This was best displayed in the `95
tournament finals, where the `Woods scored nearly thirty runs in the first game
but less than ten in the following game ... on the same night against the same
team! Below are pictures of two Deadwood batters who exhibit markedly different
styles ... and results. The names of the batters will not be revealed for
privacy. Notice the form of the batter on the left. See how the batter doesn't
have a firm foundation. Most of his weight is on his forward foot as he
contacts the ball. Also notice how far behind his arms the bat is, and how he
dips his right shoulder. With this form, the best this batter can hope for is
to consistently hit to right field like ..... Beefmaster for instance. On the
otherhand, the batter on the right has a power stance. Notice how his rear foot
is planted, providing a good foundation for power. His shoulders are level and
he rotates his hips as he contacts the ball. This is a power hitter, kinda like
.... Sledge. This study is provided in an attempt to show a contrast in batting
styles. Be careful not to read too much into it, as neither batting style has
proven to be more consistent than the other.
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