Begin With the End In Mind
Copyright Jack Mixner. 714 449 1040. www.mixnerstrategy.com
Kevin Long joined the Yankees this year as batting coach. He has performed remarkably as the Yankee hitters have improved greatly.
Among Long's recommendations for any hitter (Barra, D6):
- "Practice a compact swing ...
- ... go up to the plate with a clear idea of what you're going to do ...
- assume he's going to throw you a fastball and be ready for that ..."
In strategic terms:
- Practice in advance. Make sure your team is trained - and is willing to change at a moments notice.
- Have a plan. For big plans, have alternate scenarios already mapped out.
- If you don't know what going to happen, make sure your plan allows for fall back positions. However, your main plan represents the most likely scenario that you are willing to support.
Reference
Barra, Allen. Long Ball: Yankees' New Hitting Coach Has A-Rod and Team Back in Top Form. Wall Street Journal. 7 August 2007. D6.