How to Throw a Knuckle Curveball

Many pitchers feel that no pitch gives them as much spin and movement as the knuckle curve. While this makes it a good pitch to try, the grip can be uncomfortable at first. However, if mastered the knuckle curve will give you a big drop that will be hard to hit.

Instructions

1. Grip the ball by placing your middle finger on top of the seam with the bottom of your finger near the bottom of the seam where it curves.

2. Place your index finger on the seam on the other side of the ball and curl your finger in so that your knuckle is sticking up.

3. Curl your ring finger and place it along the bottom of the ball and support the other side with your straight thumb.

4. Deliver the ball with your arm perpendicular to the ground. Release the ball by rotating your thumb upward and snapping your middle finger downward. As you let go, the knuckle of your index finger should be pointing toward the plate. Think of the pitch like throwing a karate chop with sideways snap of your wrist at the end.

5. Practice bending your knuckle against the seam until it feels natural. It may help to grab a baseball while watching TV or relaxing and apply your knuckle curve grip.

6. Throw the pitch in practice sessions until you establish good control with it. If you are unable to establish control of the pitch, concentrate on a more traditional curveball. Not every pitcher masters the knuckle curve.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not throw curveballs until you are 16 years old. Throwing them when you are younger can damage your arm.

• Never pitch without first properly stretching and warming up your arm.

Resources

• Go to The Complete Pitcher for knuckle curve pictures.