How to Throw a Cut Fastball
Start off by gripping the ball as you would a two-seam fastball., Instead of leaving your fingers there, move your two fingers over to the right., Move your thumb over so that it's diametrically opposed to your top two fingers., Turn in your wrist...
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: Start off by gripping the ball as you would a two-seam fastball.
A two-seam fastball is gripped with the index and middle fingers on the two narrow seams of the baseball. -
Step 2: Instead of leaving your fingers there
Make sure your fingers are relatively close together.
Your fingers can either be positioned so that your middle finger runs along the seam, or so that the seam runs directly in the middle of both fingers.
Experiment with what works best for you. , Diametrically opposed just means that if you extended both fingers in the same direction, they would eventually form a perfect circle.
Think of the ball like a clock.
If your thumb on a normal two-seam grip is at 6 o'clock, your thumb now should be at a 4 o'clock or 5 o'clock position. , For right-handed pitchers, this means turning your wrist slightly to the left.
For left-handed pitchers, this means turning your wrist slightly to the right. , When throwing a two-seam fastball, put extra pressure on your middle finger.
This will create a natural spin on the ball that will help it cut. -
Step 3: move your two fingers over to the right.
-
Step 4: Move your thumb over so that it's diametrically opposed to your top two fingers.
-
Step 5: Turn in your wrist slightly in the direction of your thumb.
-
Step 6: Lead with the middle finger.
Detailed Guide
A two-seam fastball is gripped with the index and middle fingers on the two narrow seams of the baseball.
Make sure your fingers are relatively close together.
Your fingers can either be positioned so that your middle finger runs along the seam, or so that the seam runs directly in the middle of both fingers.
Experiment with what works best for you. , Diametrically opposed just means that if you extended both fingers in the same direction, they would eventually form a perfect circle.
Think of the ball like a clock.
If your thumb on a normal two-seam grip is at 6 o'clock, your thumb now should be at a 4 o'clock or 5 o'clock position. , For right-handed pitchers, this means turning your wrist slightly to the left.
For left-handed pitchers, this means turning your wrist slightly to the right. , When throwing a two-seam fastball, put extra pressure on your middle finger.
This will create a natural spin on the ball that will help it cut.
About the Author
Kelly Edwards
Specializes in breaking down complex practical skills topics into simple steps.
Rate This Guide
How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: