Steps to Perfecting Your Throws
Executing the Slider
Pull your forearm back behind your body.
Move your arm backward until it feels comfortable, ensuring your forearm stays parallel to the ground for a straight trajectory of the ball.
- If you feel your throws lack force, extend your forearm further backward.
Release the ball as you push it forward past your body.
Swiftly bring your arm forward, releasing the ball after your hand passes your body's line. Roll the ball off your index finger during the throw.
- Avoid snapping your wrist during the motion.
Delivering a 2-Seam Fastball
Grip the ball firmly in your hand.
Hold the ball in your dominant hand or your preferred throwing hand. Securely tuck the ball into your palm and wrap your fingers around it.
Position your index or middle finger on the top seam of the ball.
Place your finger directly over the seam, tracing its curve down the ball. Keep your other finger approximately a finger width away from the seam. Grip the ball evenly with both fingers.
- Experiment with both fingers to determine your comfort preference.
- Practice picking up the ball and positioning your fingers correctly. Repetition will streamline this process.
Hold your thumb firmly on the bottom seam of the ball.
Position your thumb directly over the bottom seam and press it flat onto the ball to ensure a secure grip.
Utilize your ring finger to provide additional support to the ball.
Place your fingers alongside the ball, focusing on bending your ring finger and pinky to find a comfortable position.
- Ensure your thumb and index/middle finger form the primary grip for accurate throwing direction.
Step your opposite foot approximately 2.5 feet (0.76 m) forward.
Position the toes of your non-throwing foot forward, aligning them with your intended throwing direction. Slightly pivot your body towards your throwing hand to aid in generating throw momentum.
- Coordinate stepping forward simultaneously with your throw.
Extend your forearm to the side of your body.
Align your forearm horizontally and perpendicular to your body. Raise your forearm with your wrist facing the desired throwing direction, directing the open face of the ball towards your target.
- Maintain parallel alignment of your hand and forearm with the ground to ensure a straight ball trajectory.
Retract your forearm slightly behind your body.
Draw your arm back to a comfortable position, keeping your forearm level with the ground even as you pull it backward.
- If you notice your throws lacking force, consider pulling your forearm further back.