There are a variety of pitches in the game of baseball. The number and types of pitches in a pitcher's arsenal can contribute significantly to performance on the mound. Each pitch is unique and can be used in combination with other pitches to dominate opposing hitters. Use the following guide to get a basic understanding of the most popular pitches in the game of baseball.
Fast balls
1. Four-seam fastball: The four-seam fastball is the most com mon fastball. The four-seam fastball generally has little side-to-side movement and maximizes a pitcher's speed. To throw a four-seam fastball, the pitcher grasps the ball with his index and middle fingers with the seams perpendicular to his fingers.
2. Two-seam fastball: The two-seam fastball is slightly less popular than the four-seam fastball, but it is still a very common pitch. The two-seam fastball is slower than a four-seam fastball and has a slight downward motion. To throw a two-seam fastball, the pitcher grasps the ball with his index and middle fingers on the ball where the seams are closest together.
3. Fastball Cutter: This throw is used when a pitcher wishes to have a little more movement than a two-seam fastball. The cutter has a short break just before reaching home plate that can often result in a ground ball if the attacker makes contact. To throw this pitch, the pitcher grabs the ball similar to a two-seam fastball, but applies light pressure with his middle finger during the pitch.
4. Split Finger Fastball (Divider): The divider is a fastball that is thrown to maximize the movement of the fastball. When thrown, this pitch appears to be a normal fastball for the batter. However, as this pitch gets closer to the plate, it has a big, sudden downward movement. To throw this pitch, the pitcher grasps the ball with his index and middle fingers on either side of the ball, "splitting" them. The ball is thrown with great force, but due to the grip, the speed is slower than a two- or four-seam fastball.
Changes
1. Circle change: Circle change is the most common exchange rate. This pitch has left-to-right motion with a right-handed pitcher. To throw this pitch, the pitcher grabs the ball with his middle, ring and little fingers, and makes a "circle" with his index finger and thumb on the side of the ball. This throw is done with the same arm movement as a fastball, but by removing the index finger from the ball, the speed is significantly reduced.
2. Knuckle Ball - The Knuckle Ball is a pitch that really is in a category of its own, but I put it in the category of change because it has relatively low velocity compared to straights. This pitch has little or no effect and creates a "test" effect for the batter. To throw this pitch, grasp the ball with your fingertips and use the tip of your thumb for balance. The idea is to throw a throw with as little twist as possible to get a true knuckle "flap".
Breaking Releases
1. Curveball - The curveball is one of the first break shots many pitchers learn. This throw has a great downward movement and is typically one of the slowest break throws. To throw a curve ball, a pitcher grabs the ball with his middle finger at one of the long seams and his thumb on the opposite side of the ball creating a C shape. The pitcher then releases the artificial pitches in such a way as to create a rotation. forward significant as the ball approaches home plate.
2. Slider: The slider is a breaking throw that has more speed than a curve ball. The movement is lateral and downward. It is similar to a cutting fastball, although the speed is slower and it has a stronger break. To launch a slider, the pitcher grabs the ball like a cut fastball. However, when throwing the ball, you put more pressure on the ball with your middle finger to create more spin and more movement.
3. Forkball: The forkball is a breaking throw very similar to a split finger fastball. It grabs like a divider, but the ball gets stuck even more between the index and middle fingers. This results in a slower pitch with a much lower "somersault" motion. To launch this pitch, the pitcher must move his wrist down when released.
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