As for where to hold the bat, I feel strongly that it is something that is up to the individual. Where you hold the bat during the stance has little to do with where it is once you get to the “launch” position. Most coaches teach keeping the bat near that launch position because it simplifies things, but everyone is different — whatever works is what’s best.

The angle of the bat is similar. Ted Williams liked to hold the bat completely vertical / perpendicular to the ground because the bat feels lighter that way (and it does!). In contrast, Don Mattingly preaches that you should rest the bat on your shoulder for a moment prior to getting to the launch position. Others, like Rod Carew, held the bat almost completely in parallel to the ground. So again, it’s up to the individual — whatever is most comfortable, as long as you get to the launch in time.

Have you ever read (sure you have) that Mike Schmidt hitting book?
Just wondered where you thought it ranked in terms of theory with the other ‘guides’.

I have it (could do with re-reading it as it’s been a while), one of the things I seem to remember most was advice to hold the bat more horizontal above the shoulder, so the bat is more level through the zone.

I understand that comfort for the hitter may dictate where the bat is held – but looking at say Jeter and his high stick makes me question the actual contact. Jeter always seems to me to be really digging the ball out, quite an exaggerated swing, I think Pujols and Bagwell were similar (except they both have an excruciating looking crouch stance).
Can’t argue with the product of course! They have attained some heights for sure.

Any thoughts on that level bat advice?

Sheffield is an obvious example, and many power hitters do have similar — though less pronounced — “triggers” to get their bat going. In the article above Dan talks about turning the top hand toward the head in a “cocking” position at the launch — this would be a “trigger”. I don’t think you necessarily have to cock your hands that way to start the swing — too much could promote a loop — but many great hitters do exactly that. Watch most MLB hitters and you’ll notice that their bat head tilts slightly forward toward the pitcher just before the start of the swing / at the launch.

And finally, yes — if Havens incorporated a small trigger it might help keep those hands back just a fraction of a second longer, which in turn might keep that front side from committing too early. Good eye, DZA!