How to Throw a One-Finger Changeup

Baseball is one of America's most popular sports, and players seek to gain a competitive advantage, no matter the level. A one-finger changeup, or a ring-finger changeup, is a common pitch used to keep batters off-balance. Even accomplished hitters are left trying to guess the correct speed of the pitch. A changeup is useful if a batter is expecting a fastball, and throwing the one-finger changeup can lead to strikeouts, fly outs and ground outs.

Things You'll Need

  • Baseball
  • Baseball glove
  • Pitcher's mound
  • Rosin bag (optional for better grip)
  • Catcher
Show More

Instructions

  1. Throwing a one-finger changeup

    • 1

      Grip the ball against the palm of your hand with your middle finger extended as far around the ball as possible.

    • 2

      Support the grip with your index finger, thumb and pinky finger. The majority of the power in this pitch will come from a fast wrist snap, and the action of the ring finger will take off speed.

    • 3

      Rest the ball on the palm of your hand and prepare to wind up. The majority of pressure should come from the middle and ring fingers.

    • 4

      Maintain a stiff wrist and do not let the grip show outside your glove. This will indicate "pitch tipping," which means the batter can recognize the intended type of pitch you are about to throw.

    • 5

      Wind up by folding your arms over your head, pivoting away from home plate, and turning your arms and torso to create torque.

    • 6

      Drive your legs toward home plate and release the pitch by whipping your arm toward home plate. To correctly execute the one-finger changeup, you should feel the ring finger imparting the final spin from slightly off-center. This will give the ball movement and make it difficult to hit despite its slower speed.

    • 7

      Follow through completely, with your body weight carrying you off the pitching rubber and toward home plate. This will ensure you execute the pitch properly.