How to Hit a Curveball
The curveball is one of the three most common pitches thrown in baseball. Pitchers start throwing curveballs in high school and continue all the way to the pros. So if you're playing baseball at an upper level, you're going to have to get used to it. Here are some tips on how to hit a curveball.
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Instructions
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Look for the tight rotation on the baseball. As a curveball is coming toward you, it looks distinctly different from a fastball or change-up. There is a tight spin on the ball as it leaves the pitcher's hand. The best way to differentiate this spin is to face the pitch. Have your friends throw you curveballs or set the pitching machine in a batting cage to throw them. Once you recognize the tight spin, you'll be ready to face it in a game.
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Stay back with your hands and feet. One of the toughest things about hitting a curveball is that it is slower than the fastball. Many people have a propensity to lunge at the ball. This means they prematurely step forward with their front foot and begin to drop their hands into the swinging position. If this happens and you do hit a curve, the chances of you getting on base are slim. Most likely, you will foul the pitch off, ground out or pop up. So once you recognize the curve coming your way, stay back.
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Anticipate the break of the pitch. A curveball is tough to hit because it travels at you on one plane, then breaks down or out onto another plane. As you recognize the pitch, stay back and wait for the pitch to begin to break.
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Swing your bat and hit the ball. The most important piece of this step is to keep your eye on the ball. Many people pull their head off the ball as they swing. Keep your head down and watch the ball hit the bat right after it breaks. By catching the pitch after it moves, you will be hit the ball as it crosses its final traveling plane. At this point, the axis of the pitch has leveled, an advantage for the hitter.
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Tips & Warnings
Move up in the batter's box and try to make contact before the pitch breaks. This is exceptionally tough to do, but worth a shot.
