How to Set Pitch Curves

Throwing a good curveball is becoming a lost art. According to former Red Sox pitcher, Dick Mills, pitchers today are more likely to be fastball/slider or fastball/splitter specialists. This gives curveballers a distinct advantage: Since curveballs are 15 to 20 mph slower than fastballs, hitters who are unused to seeing them have a difficult time recognizing and reacting to them; hitting a curveball requires a skill set they do not possess. Throwing a curve is not easy. Variables involving fingering, stride, release and arm speed all effect the speed and curve of the pitch. Working through many configurations with a coach is the best way to set your perfect curve.

Instructions

    • 1

      Place your thumb along the seam, with your middle finger along the seam on the opposite side and your index finger alongside it for additional control. The middle finger is the key to the curveball. You should find a grip where the seam will offer the maximum amount of resistance against the middle finger; the more resistance, the tighter the curve.

    • 2

      Lift the knee opposite of your throwing arm, rotate your hips, and slightly bend the knee remaining on the ground for balance. A short stride works best with a curveball.

    • 3

      Keep your throwing elbow above your shoulders as you enter the pitching motion. Keep the palm of your throwing arm facing inward toward the ear as it passes your head. Be careful that your throwing elbow is equal to or slightly above your pitching shoulder. If the angle of your throwing elbow is greater than 90 degrees, you are putting too much stress on the throwing shoulder.

    • 4

      Snap your wrist down as you release the ball, causing it to break. Release the ball close to your body, as this builds greater resistance against the middle finger. Throwing a curve too far from your body can cause the ball to spin or hang.