How to Grip a Forkball

A range of pitches keeps a batter off balance, and the forkball is an off-speed pitch that provides an effective contrast to a fastball. The forkball spins slower than a fastball. The ball's topspin, created by the grip and release, causes the ball to drop steadily toward the plate.

Things You'll Need

  • Baseball
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Instructions

    • 1

      Grab a baseball, and rotate the ball so the two parallel seams are face-up. The parallel seams come together at each side of the ball to form a horseshoe.

    • 2

      Place the index and middle fingers on either side of the parallel seams. The position closely replicates a two-seam fastball -- a pitch with the index and middle fingers placed along the two parallel seams.

    • 3

      Spread the index and middle fingers as wide as possible, away from the seams. In this position, the fingers resemble a fork.

    • 4

      Set your thumb on the underside of the baseball. Use it, as well, to help jam the baseball deeply into the groove between the index and middle fingers. This deep position differentiates the fork ball from the splitter.

    • 5

      Release the ball with a snap of the wrist. The snap adds a forward spin to the ball, causing it to drop.