How to Grip a Baseball
A good throw starts with a good grip. In order make good pitches in baseball, it’s very important to know how to grip the ball correctly. Here are a few steps on how to grip a baseball.
Four-seam Fastball
Hold the ball with your index and middle finger across the seams.
Remember not to hold the ball too tight for better release.
Place your thumb beneath the ball across the seams.
The index and middle fingers should be about half an inch away from each other. If you position your fingers close to each other, you’ll have a weak throw. Putting them too far apart will make the ball move slower.
When releasing the ball, make sure to have a small space between your palm and the ball.
Two-seam fastball
Your index and middle finger should be on top of the narrow seams of your baseball.
Place your thumb under the ball in the middle of the narrow seams.
The grip for a two-seam fastball is a bit harder than the grip on a four-seam fastball.
Basic Curveball
This pitching method is advisable for your pitchers
baseball grip
Hold the baseball, while keeping your index finger straight.
Position your middle finger on the seam underneath the ball.
Your thumb should be on the back seam of the ball.
Point your index finger to where you want the ball to be thrown.
When releasing a curveball, turn your thumb upward and your middle finger downward. This will allow your index finger to point to your target area.
More tips on how to throw a curveball
Overhand Curveball
Instead of having your index finger off the ball, place it on the baseball.
Like when throwing a basic curveball, your thumb should turn upward while your middle and index fingers turn downward.
Slider
Hold the outer-third of the ball and position your wrist on the thumb side of your throwing hand.
The long seam of your ball should be between your index and middle finger.
Place your thumb on the opposite seam.
Grip the ball a little bit off- center.
There are various ways to pitch a baseball. To make a decent pitch, learn the different pitching styles and how to hold a ball with each of these styles. However, if you want make your own baseball bat, learn how to make a baseball bat.