Throwing a screwball is a challenging yet effective pitch in baseball.
It is a pitch that moves in the opposite direction of a traditional curveball, making it difficult for batters to anticipate and hit.
Mastering the screwball requires proper technique, practice, and understanding of the physics behind the pitch.
Here we look at the mechanics of throwing a screwball, provide step-by-step instructions, and offer tips to improve your screwball pitch.
The Mechanics of a Screwball
Before diving into the technique, it is essential to understand the mechanics behind a screwball pitch.
A screwball is a breaking ball that moves from the pitcher’s throwing arm side to the opposite side.
For right-handed pitchers, it moves from right to left, while for left-handed pitchers, it moves from left to right.
The movement of a screwball is primarily due to the grip and arm action used during the pitch.
Unlike other pitches, the screwball relies on pronation, which is the inward rotation of the forearm.
This pronation creates a torque on the ball, causing it to spin in a specific direction and move accordingly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Throwing a Screwball
Now that we understand the mechanics, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of throwing a screwball:
- Choose the right grip: The grip is crucial for throwing a successful screwball. For right-handed pitchers, place your middle and index fingers across the seams of the ball, with the thumb resting on the bottom seam. For left-handed pitchers, reverse the grip.
- Position your hand: Hold the ball deep in your hand, closer to the palm, rather than the fingertips. This grip will allow you to generate the necessary spin and movement.
- Align your wrist: Keep your wrist aligned with your forearm, ensuring that it is not tilted or cocked to either side. This alignment will help maintain control and accuracy.
- Start your windup: Begin your windup with a smooth and controlled motion. Keep your body balanced and maintain a consistent arm slot throughout the pitch.
- Focus on pronation: As you release the ball, focus on pronating your forearm. This inward rotation will create the necessary spin and movement for the screwball.
- Follow through: After releasing the ball, continue your arm motion towards the target. A proper follow-through will help maintain accuracy and control.
Tips to Improve Your Screwball Pitch
Mastering the screwball pitch takes time and practice.
Here are some tips to help you improve your screwball:
- Develop finger strength: Strengthening your fingers and forearm muscles will improve your grip and control over the ball.
- Focus on arm speed: Increasing your arm speed will generate more spin and movement on the screwball.
- Experiment with grip pressure: Adjusting the pressure on the ball can alter the movement of the screwball. Experiment with different grip pressures to find what works best for you.
- Study professional pitchers: Watch videos of professional pitchers who excel at throwing screwballs. Observe their technique, grip, and arm action to gain insights and incorporate them into your own pitching style.
- Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to mastering any pitch. Set aside dedicated time to work on your screwball and focus on refining your technique.
Why We Don’t See This Physics Defying Pitch Anymore – The Mythical Screwball
Screwball vs. Curveball
A screwball and a curveball are both types of pitches in baseball that are known for their movement, but the motion and the grip used to throw each pitch is different.
Screwball
A screwball is thrown with similar arm motion to a fastball, but the grip and wrist action are adjusted to cause the ball to have a different spin, and thus, different movement.
When thrown by a right-handed pitcher, a screwball breaks from left to right from the pitcher’s perspective, which is the opposite direction of a curveball.
For a left-handed pitcher, the break is from right to left.
To throw a screwball, the pitcher grips the ball much like a two-seam fastball, but with the middle and ring fingers along the seams.
As the ball is released, the pitcher pronates their wrist and forearm, turning the thumb downward and causing the ball to spin in the opposite direction of a curveball.
This spin is what causes the characteristic break of a screwball.
Curveball
A curveball, as mentioned, is thrown with the pitcher’s middle finger along the seam of the baseball and the index finger resting next to it, with the thumb underneath the ball on the seam.
The motion of the pitch involves a hard snap or twist of the wrist at release, imparting forward spin on the ball.
When thrown correctly, a curveball breaks downward and to the left (for a right-handed pitcher) or to the right (for a left-handed pitcher).
This movement is due to the forward spin placed on the ball during the release, causing the ball to dip down and to the side because of the Magnus effect.
In terms of average speed, both pitches are usually slower than a pitcher’s fastball.
A curveball is typically thrown in the low to mid-70s to low 80s mph, while a screwball is often thrown at similar speeds.
However, these speeds can vary based on the individual pitcher’s skill and style.
It’s also worth noting that the screwball is less commonly used in modern baseball, partially because it’s a difficult pitch to master and partially due to concerns about the potential for increased risk of injury due to the unusual arm and wrist motion required to throw it.
Related
- How to Throw a Splitter Pitch
- How to Throw a Changeup Pitch
- How to Throw a Forkball Pitch
- How to Throw a Knuckleball Pitch
- How to Throw a Curveball Pitch
- Can an Average Guy Hit an Major League Pitch?
- What It Takes to Become an MLB Player
FAQs – How to Throw a Screwball
1. What is a screwball pitch?
A screwball pitch is a breaking ball that moves in the opposite direction of a traditional curveball.
It moves from the pitcher’s throwing arm side to the opposite side, making it difficult for batters to anticipate and hit.
2. How does a screwball pitch move?
A screwball pitch moves due to the grip and arm action used during the pitch.
The pitcher’s pronation, which is the inward rotation of the forearm, creates a torque on the ball, causing it to spin in a specific direction and move accordingly.
3. What is the proper grip for a screwball?
The proper grip for a screwball involves placing the middle and index fingers across the seams of the ball, with the thumb resting on the bottom seam.
The ball should be held deep in the hand, closer to the palm, rather than the fingertips.
4. Can anyone throw a screwball?
While anyone can attempt to throw a screwball, it requires proper technique, practice, and understanding of the mechanics behind the pitch.
It may take time and effort to master the screwball.
5. Are there any risks associated with throwing a screwball?
Throwing a screwball can put additional stress on the arm and elbow due to the pronation involved.
It is important to ensure proper conditioning, warm-up, and technique to minimize the risk of injury.
6. How can I improve the movement of my screwball?
To improve the movement of your screwball, focus on developing finger strength, increasing arm speed, and experimenting with grip pressure.
Additionally, studying professional pitchers who excel at throwing screwballs can provide valuable insights.
7. Can a screwball be thrown by left-handed pitchers?
Yes, left-handed pitchers can throw a screwball.
The grip and mechanics are reversed for left-handed pitchers, with the ball moving from left to right.
8. How long does it take to master the screwball pitch?
The time it takes to master the screwball pitch varies for each individual.
It depends on factors such as natural ability, dedication to practice, and previous pitching experience.
Consistent practice and a focus on refining technique are key to improving.
9. Can a screwball be used as a strikeout pitch?
Yes, the screwball can be an effective strikeout pitch due to its movement and the difficulty batters face in anticipating and hitting it.
However, its success also depends on the pitcher’s ability to locate the pitch accurately.
10. Are there any famous pitchers known for their screwball?
Yes, several famous pitchers have been known for their exceptional screwball pitches.
Some notable examples include Fernando Valenzuela, Tug McGraw, and Carl Hubbell.
11. Can a screwball be thrown at different speeds?
Yes, a screwball can be thrown at different speeds depending on the pitcher’s arm speed and intent.
Varying the speed of the pitch can add deception and make it more challenging for batters to time their swing.
12. Is the screwball a commonly used pitch in baseball?
The screwball is not as commonly used as other pitches such as fastballs or curveballs.
However, it is still employed by pitchers who have mastered the technique and find success with its movement.
13. Can a screwball be thrown by softball pitchers?
Yes, softball pitchers can also throw a screwball.
The mechanics and grip are similar to baseball, with the ball moving in the opposite direction for right-handed and left-handed pitchers.
14. Can a screwball be thrown with other pitches in a pitcher’s repertoire?
Yes, a screwball can be combined with other pitches in a pitcher’s repertoire to add variation and keep batters off balance.
It can be particularly effective when used alongside a fastball or changeup.
15. Are there any drills to help improve the screwball pitch?
Yes, there are several drills that can help improve the screwball pitch.
Some common drills include grip strengthening exercises, forearm pronation drills, and practicing the pitch against live batters or in simulated game situations.
Summary
Throwing a screwball requires proper technique, practice, and understanding of the mechanics behind the pitch.
By following the step-by-step guide and incorporating the provided tips, you can improve your screwball pitch and add a valuable weapon to your pitching arsenal.
Remember to focus on grip, arm action, and pronation to generate the desired movement.
With dedication and consistent practice, you can master the art of throwing a screwball and become a more effective pitcher.
