Lee Trevino says this is crucial for solid contact on pitch shots

Golf fans might not agree on much these days — technique, equipment, who should make the Ryder Cup teams — but there’s one rule everyone obeys: when Lee Trevino speaks, you listen.

In an industry ripe with competing techniques and schools of thought, Trevino’s words cut through the noise with the authority of someone who’s been there, done that — and done it better than most.

So it’s hard to imagine a world where Trevino, the guy who’s usually doling out golf wisdom, is on the receiving end of a golf tip, let alone one that leaves a lasting impression. But that’s exactly what happened when Trevino got a chipping tip courtesy of Jack Burke Jr., a fellow Hall-of-Famer, two-time major champion and legend in his own right.

Trevino tells the story in a recent video with Parker McLachlin, a GOLF Teacher to Watch, when he’s asked how amateurs can develop a reliable pitch shot. After taking a moment to peruse what I can only imagine is a mental library full of incredible golf knowledge, Trevino sets us up for a simple yet effective piece of golf instruction. 

Jack Burke’s pitching tip

“Jackie Burke, Champions Golf Course,” he says, setting the scene, “he predicated, and he taught to put the club in your left hand.”

According to Trevino, Burke had him set up to his pitch shots with one hand on the club. Holding a wedge in his lead hand, Trevino placed the clubhead behind the ball. Next, he placed his trail hand on the club. When his grip was set, Trevino positioned his feet and was ready to pull the trigger. 

Trevino explains that changing the way he addressed the ball allowed him to set up with a proper ball position and arm position every time. 

“You’ll notice how this [his lead arm and club] is a straight line,” Trevino says. “The big fault with most people is their hands are back.”

As Trevino demonstrates, when your hands start behind the ball at address, it forces you to flip or manipulate your hands through impact to hit the ball. This often creates poor contact and causes you to make a more rigid or stabby motion at the ball.

To ensure his hands are in the right position Trevino uses a simple cue that you can copy.

“My hands should be over my shoe,” he says. 

With Burke’s set up key and Trevino’s easy cue, you can be sure your hands are in the right spot every time. Setting you up for crisper contact inside 50 yards.

ShortGameChef.com, created by PGA Tour winner Parker McLachlin, provides golfers with a comprehensive resource to improve their short game. Through personalized tips, drills, and expert insights, Parker helps players of all levels gain more confidence and a deeper understanding of their short game to lower their scores. You can browse membership options here.