How Do I Get a Better Break on a Pitch?

Breaking-ball pitches -- like sliders, curve balls and screwballs -- often fool batters into watching a strike float right over the plate or to swing at pitches that fall far outside the strike zone. Achieving better break on these pitches makes it even more difficult for batters to hit. Knowing how to throw several versions of breaking-ball pitches keeps batters guessing throughout the game, not just during a single at-bat.

Instructions

    • 1

      Hold the ball with a steady but loose grip as you prepare to throw the pitch. This allows the ball to fully rotate as it travels to the plate, giving the ball a better break.

    • 2

      Practice your finger placement for different breaking pitches. The way you grip a curve ball, for example, differs from how you hold a circle change-up. Review the "How to Grip..." link to learn how to grip different pitches. Practice your grip until you are completely comfortable holding the ball. Remember that a poor grip has a negative impact on the break of a pitch.

    • 3

      Allow the ball to roll off your fingers and toward the catcher as you release. This gives the ball added spin, which gives the pitch better break.

    • 4

      Use a chopping motion when releasing the ball, bringing your arm down toward your waist as you follow through after releasing the ball. This gives the pitch movement without you causing damage to your pitching arm.

    • 5

      Throw the ball with less velocity. The slower the pitch, the more arc or break the ball has as it either bends back into the strike zone or dives away from the batter.