How to Grip a Fastball

Since the earliest days of baseball, pitchers have developed variations in the way they pitch the ball. Out of these variations came the two- and four-seam fastballs. The speed of a fastball is often directly affected by the way the pitcher grips the ball while throwing it. An individual can throw the different types of fastball pitches by properly placing his fingers around the appropriate areas to create a grip on the ball.

Things You'll Need

  • Baseball
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Instructions

  1. Four-Seam Fastball

    • 1

      Turn the baseball on its side in your pitching hand so that the seams create a sideways "U" shape.

    • 2

      Place both your index and middle finger over what is known as the "cross seam." This is the topmost seam that runs horizontally across the ball. The last finger joint before your fingertip should rest directly on top of the seam.

    • 3

      Place your thumb under the ball. The center of your thumb should rest upon the smooth leather. Use your thumb to push the ball up into your index and middle fingers.

    • 4

      Arc your hand to create a gap between your palm and the ball.

    Two-Seam Fastball

    • 5

      Position the baseball in an upright stance so that the seams create an upright "U" shape.

    • 6

      Place your index and middle fingers directly on top of the narrow seams that create the walls of the "U."

    • 7

      Place your thumb directly under the ball. The center of your thumb should rest between the two seams on the smooth leather portion of the ball.

    • 8

      Arc your hand to create a gap between your palm and the ball.