When a baseball pitcher is first learning how to play the game, one of the first things they will learn is how to throw the fastball. It is the most basic pitch, and results in the least amount of stress on the body. Throwing the fastball correctly requires knowledge of the proper technique, some experimenting, and most importantly it demands a lot of practice.
The Fastball Grip
There are two ways to grip the fastball. The most basic grip is the four seam fastball. When a baseball player is learning the game, this is typically the grip they are taught. Although simple, the fastball grip needs to be perfected to result in the most effective pitch.
The finger placement is the key to an effective fastball. The index and middle finger should be placed going across the “horseshoe” seams of the baseball, with the thumb placed on the underside of the ball. With the ring and pinky fingers comfortably tucked against the side of the ball, having this grip will ensure the most effective fastball.
Using this grip will cause the ball to roll off the fingers generating backspin. This backspin is responsible for maximum velocity as well as accuracy. If abnormal spin is created, the ball will spin at an awkward angle causing undesired movement on the pitch.
Releasing a Fastball
Since the fastball is usually the first pitch a baseball player learns, the proper release of the pitch may come naturally to some players. It is important to remember a few key steps when releasing the fastball.
A snappy wrist will cause the ball to have good backspin, a necessity for generating velocity and accuracy. When the ball is released, the pitcher should snap his wrist down to generate the most amount of backspin.
Finishing through the baseball is important to get the most velocity from the pitch. To have a good finish, the pitcher should complete his delivery by following through with his throw, finishing with a flat back, and letting his arm complete its motion. Doing this correctly will allow the pitcher to achieve the highest velocity.
When to Use a Fastball
The fastball is a pitcher’s “go to” pitch. If he needs to throw a strike, the fastball is the ideal pitch to deliver. It is typically the most accurate pitch with the highest velocity. If the other pitches in a pitcher’s repertoire are not working on a given day, he can almost always turn to his fastball.
If a batter has a slow swing or is consistently late on the fastball, a pitcher may want to throw it more often. If he is finding success with it, he will want to continue to throw the fastball until it proves ineffective.
Practice Throwing a Fastball
Like almost everything in life, throwing a good fastball takes a lot of practice. It is not enough to just throw the fastball during a bullpen before the game. A pitcher must practice it as much as possible, and since it does not put extra strain on the arm, he can practice it during each practice. Once mastered, a pitcher’s fastball will be his best friend. He will be able to rely on it when he needs a good pitch at that crucial point of the game, and no matter how many times he throws it, the fastball can still be an effective pitch.
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Jeff Moree - I am a student at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois. I am a pitcher on the baseball team and baseball is my passion. I also enjoy ...
