How to Throw a Curveball

Knowing how to throw a curveball is a great skill for any pitcher. The curveball, with its drastic change of speed and enhanced movement, can create confusion in the batter. Many players have trouble making the neuromuscular adjustments to hit a curveball in the short time available.

Getting The Curveball Right

Learning how to throw a curveball means understanding that the pitching mechanics are different from a fastball. Improper mechanics can lead to damage to the pitching arm over time. Getting it right includes understanding several key concepts, including:

• The middle finger. A proper curveball grip involves having the middle finger in contact with a seam on the ball. The index and middle finger should lie along and slightly across the ball seam away from your body, with the thumb directly underneath. The ring and little finger should rest below and behind the ball.
• Elbow north. Your throwing elbow should remain above your throwing shoulder. Letting the elbow drift south will put more stress on the joint. The elbow should form a 90-degree angle with the forearm perpendicular to the ground.
• Letting go. A good release is the key to a successful curveball. The release should be close to the body, giving you a short arm throw. Your wrist should be slightly cocked and, as the ball leaves your hand, the middle finger should pull down on the seam, causing the ball to spin.
• Maintain your speed. It is crucial that you maintain your arm speed during a curveball for two reasons. First, batters will see a slower arm speed as a signal that a curveball is coming. Second, the faster your arm speed, the more movement a curveball will have after it's released.
• Take it in stride. A shorter pitching stride (2 to 4 inches) can help give you more control on your curveball, keeping the pitch lower throughout its arc.