How to Throw a 12-6 Curve

As a baseball pitcher, there is no better feeling than seeing a batter walk back to the dugout shaking his heard in amazement after you dropped a curveball in for a called strike three. A "drop curve," also called a 12-6 curve because the rotation makes the ball drop straight down, is a good pitch for a pitcher to use to compliment his fastball and changeup. The drop curve puts a lot of stress on your arm, so there are a few prerequisites before a you should try to throw a curveball. You shouldn't throw a drop curve -- or any curveball -- until you are around 15 years old, and until you have learned the proper throwing techniques.

Instructions

    • 1
      When throwing a drop curve, place your index and middle finger along the narrow seams.

      Place your index and middle finger along the right side (for a right handed pitcher; left side for a left handed pitcher) of the narrow seams. The middle finger is used as the trigger of rotation of the drop curve ball.

    • 2
      Upon delivery of a drop curveball, your hand should be in a "gun" position.

      Slide your thumb directly underneath the baseball. Then tuck your ring and pinky finger along the edge of the ball out of the way. According to Dr. John Bagonzi (former professional pitcher and college coach), the thumb assists with the rotation of the curveball by pushing up. Your hand should be in a "gun" position upon release of the ball. and when you follow through your fingers should be pointing up.

    • 3
      Your forearm should come straight down like you are hammering something.

      Throw the drop curve with the same arm speed as your fastball using an overhand delivery. The grip and release of the ball is what causes the ball to curve.

    • 4
      It is important when throwing a drop curve to keep your elbow at least at shoulder height.

      Keep your elbow as high or higher than your shoulder. Your forearm should be vertical, 90 degrees or more, which will enable you to produce a straight trajectory before the ball abruptly breaks away, according to Bagonzi. Dr. Bagonzi has also advised pitchers to bring their forearm straight down like they are hammering something while keeping their hand on top of the ball.

    • 5
      As the ball is released. it should roll of your finger with a forward spin.

      Turn your hand in toward your body so when you release the ball, your hand comes down like a karate chop. As you release the ball, it should roll off your fingers, spinning forward. According to Jeff Moree: "the more spin you can generate on the ball, the more break the pitch will have."