How to Throw a Straight Curveball

Throwing a breaking ball can be one of the more challenging parts of baseball to master. Many pitchers must have some sort of breaking pitch to use to keep opposing batters guessing. When a pitcher only throws straight or hard balls, batters will quickly become accustomed and start hitting everything the pitcher throws. Learn to master the straight curveball and baffle your opponents.

Instructions

1. Hold the baseball so that the laces on the top of the ball appear to be making a horseshoe.

2. Put your middle finger against the bottom seam of the ball, and put your thumb along the back seam of the ball. Your index finger should be on the ball next to your middle finger in the center of the top of the ball.

3. Throw the straight curveball; your thumb should rotate in an upward direction while your index and middle fingers should rotate in the opposite direction, downward.

4. Follow-through. Your follow-through should be shorter than most pitches. Instead of your throwing elbow finishing outside your knee, it should stop at your waist or hip. This shorter throwing motion and follow-through provides the snap that is extremely important to the straight curveball.

5. Keep practicing! When you think you have the pitch mastered, practice some more.

Tips & Warnings

• Never start throwing breaking balls at too young of an age. Consult a coach or professional if the pitcher is younger than high school age.