I am no major leaguer, but gear makes a huge difference. My three year average prior to 2005 (Park League, about 60 games per season, with playoffs) was 5 homers a season.
This year I hit 12, as well top ten in slugging. I am not a power guy, either. I hit leadoff or second in the lineup.
I was cranking on test from mid-June to the end of the season. It made a difference to me.
Bluesman