Tips for Split-Finger Fastballs

A split-fingered fastball, also known as a “splitter,” is one of the more difficult pitches to throw well, in addition to being one of the faster pitches in a pitcher's arsenal. However, it can be especially effective because it has the same spin as a traditional fastball, and it starts out with the same velocity. A good splitter will lose some velocity and drop in the strike zone as it approaches home plate, making it more difficult to hit.

  1. Basic Grip

    • Just as the name implies, a split-fingered fastball is thrown with the forefinger and middle finger spread outside the "horseshoe seam" of the baseball. A pitcher needs large hands and the ability to throw the ball hard with the forefinger and middle finger spread out on either side of the baseball. Keep the palm side of your hand aimed toward the hitter, and your wrist stiff.

    Mix Up Your Pitches

    • Throwing a splitter can put more stress on your wrist, forearm and throwing fingers than many other types of pitches. That stress can mean a loss in velocity on your split-fingered fastball, which in turn can make the pitch easier to hit. If you combine the splitter with a variety of other pitches, you can keep hitters off-balance and take some stress off your pitching arm and hand.

    The Release

    • Throwing the splitter should be done with the same mechanics as a traditional fastball, but at the moment of release, you should flick your wrist downward. You can also try throwing it with your wrist stiffened. Experiment to see which approach gives you the best control and the most effective pitches. A downward flick of the wrist can provide more backspin, but you should try out different releases to see which one lets you throw strikes that dart down and away from hitters.

    Follow-Through

    • Once you work out your release of the splitter, work on finishing the same way you would with a normal fastball. End your pitch with a flat back and let your arm follow through as it would with any other pitch. This is a pitch that requires practice, as well as a mature and developed pitching arm. Younger kids shouldn't try throwing a split-fingered fastball until they reach their late teens.