How to Throw a Screwball With a Whiffle Ball

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By Thomas Silvers
eHow Contributing Writer

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The screwball is a pitch that is very challenging to master. Thrown exactly opposite of a curve, the screwball can be be very effectively used to surprise a hitter. As a pitcher, being able to surprise your competition is one of your greatest advantages, so learning the screwball with a whiffle ball will prove to be very helpful.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

The screwball is gripped exactly opposite from the curve ball. For a right-hander the holes should be facing left, or to the inside. For a left-hander the holes should be facing right, or to the outside.
Step 2

Your index finger should be on the seem of the whiffle ball, while the middle finger should be placed a couple of inches away (similar to making the "peace" sign with your fingers).
Step 3

Your thumb should be placed on the seem at the bottom of the ball, while the ring and pinky fingers are placed together on the solid side of the ball.
Step 4

Grip the ball loosely and throw with an overhand motion. When thrown correctly, the screwball will break approximately up to three feet.

Tips & Warnings

Because it can be so difficult to throw, much practice can be expected with the screwball.
The loose grip can be very critical to the effectiveness of this pitch.

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