I have read some very interesting and instructive advice here. There is still Too much enfasis put on Fancy Schmany Terms.
The smartest movie character of all time may be Will Hunting. But his psych proved that his was all theory and limited experience. We gain experience by teaching, coaching, playing, scouting and being around others who have done it and taught it longer and better.
Short to the ball: Hands coming to the hitting zone in the shortest, quickest and most direct fashion.
Long through the ball: Extending arms after the swing creates more forward motion, does not slow the swing down as quickly and provides a longer hitting plane, which can compensate for off speed pitches, after the hitter has made the choice to get his hands in the hitting zone. The longer the hitting plane, the more likely there will be contact.
All who have decided to share their opinions and not insist their's is the only way, are greatly appreciated by me.
#1 hitter and Manny are also sliding their back foot forward during contact, also known as the blast system or leverage type hitting. This is a great power stride and has been a successful approach for those who already have hitting experience.
Did most of you notice that both #2 and 3 were opening there shoulders so much that their head was abandoning the hitting zone early? Not #1 or Manny though.