by Jack Maloof (Author) Youth baseball players learn the secrets of hitting smart and batting big Batting is more than just making contact; it is about the swing, the stance, the follow-through. Majorleague hitting coordinator Jack Maloof--who has fixed the mechanics of such explosive hitters as Tony Gwynn, Roberto Alomar, and Cliff Floyd--shares the same techniques he used with these big leaguers to help players in senior youth leagues and up hone their individual hitting form and make the most of every atbat. Hit Like a Big Leaguer is a compendium of how-to hitting, including preseason drills, on-deck mental game strategies, and the ultimate skills to make every appearance at the plate count. Back Jacket "During my professional career I never forgot the people who helped me. . . . For my hitting technique, it was Jack. His book will do the same for you." --Ozzie Guillen, manager, Chicago White Sox, 2005 World Series Champions "When I signed a minor-league contract in 1981, I was an OK hitter. In 1982 and 1983, I got a chance to work with Jack Maloof on my hitting--not only the fundamentals but the mental part [as well]. Without his help, not only do I not become a three-time All-Star; I don't even make the major leagues." --John Kruk, ESPN baseball analyst "Whether you are in Little League or pro ball, Hit like a Big Leaguer will help you. It's excellent advice for anyone wanting to learn more about hitting a baseball." --Roberto Alomar, 12-time American League All-Star "This book is so fundamentally sound that I would advise anyone considering picking up a bat to read it first." --Bobby Cox, Three-time National League Manager of the Year, Atlanta Braves Hitting instructor Jack Maloof has tweaked the swings and increased the averages of major league baseball's biggest leaguers, including Tony Gwynn, Roberto Alomar, Cliff Floyd, and more. You'll go from bush league to big league as Maloof shows you how to: * Improve your average * Overcome slumps and make adjustments * Master a fearless approach at the plate * Speed up your response to the ball * Recognize your pitch and take advantage of it * Capitalize on the pitcher's mistakes * Swing for the fences and make the most of every at-bat Author Biography Jack Maloof is the hitting coordinator for the Atlanta Braves and has been a major-league hitting coach with the San Diego Padres and Florida Marlins. He lives in Chandler, Arizona. Number of Pages: 176 Dimensions: 0.43 x 9.12 x 7.38 IN Illustrated: Yes Publication Date: March 16, 2006