How to Pitch a Screw Ball

Major league pitchers have mastered numerous throwing techniques, including the fastball, changeup, slider and curve ball. An often overlooked pitch, known as the screwball, rotates in the opposite direction as the curveball. The key to throwing a screwball involves the proper finger placement. Former Chicago Cubs pitching pro Steven Ellis, on his Web site, recommends rotating your pitching hand in a counterclockwise motion to allow the ball to spin. Master this challenging pitching technique to strike out unsuspecting batters.

Instructions

    • 1

      Hold the baseball in your dominant hand. Rotate the ball until the seams point in a vertical direction. Align your index and middle finger over the opposing seams of the baseball.

    • 2

      Slide your middle finger towards the left seam until it touches your index finger. Extend your thumb underneath the baseball to maintain your finger placement. Place the ball into your baseball mitt to conceal it from the batter.

    • 3

      Extend your pitching hand backwards while stepping forward with your non-dominant foot. Propel the ball forward while rotating your wrist in a counterclockwise motion. Release the baseball to throw a screwball to the catcher.