How to Grip a Sweeping Curve

A sweeping curve ball, sometimes called a "12-6 curve," is a pitch that either curves back into the strike zone at the right moment or deceives the batter and dips out of the zone. When properly thrown, the pitch has a large, majestic hook that makes the pitch appear like a floater. It is important that you properly grip the ball before throwing your pitch, or else the ball moves more like a slider or sits right out over the heart of the plate.

Instructions

    • 1

      Turn the baseball so that the seams are running perpendicular to the ground.

    • 2

      Place your index and middle fingers together.

    • 3

      Hold the ball so your middle finger is over the laces found on the right side of the ball. Your index finger also makes contact with the laces if your fingers are small.

    • 4

      Place your thumb underneath the ball so that it is opposite of your middle finger.

    • 5

      Put more pressure on both the thumb and middle finger than the index finger. According to "The Complete Pitcher," this gives the ball its spin during the pitch.