Quality pitching is essential for a winning baseball team. If you or your child is interested in becoming a pitcher, you must learn the basic grips for each type of pitch so you can master your arsenal. There are many options to consider, but here are some of the most popular.

5 Different Types of Pitching Grips

1. Four-Seam Fastball

One of the most popular pitches is one of the most straightforward to learn. To start, place the index and middle finger on the ball so they rest perpendicular to the seams, then place your thumb underneath the ball along the smooth, white portion. When throwing, hold the ball more in your fingertips than in the palm.

2. Two-Seam Fastball

Another type of fastball, this grip allows you to slow down the pitch speed a bit and allow the ball to sink slightly as it moves toward the batter. To achieve this, place the index and middle finger along two of the parallel seems, with your thumb underneath on the leather. This time, hold the ball tighter so it sits more in your palm.

3. Change-Up

A change-up is meant to look like a fastball to the batter, but it moves much slower. To master this pitch, make a small circle with your index finger and place it against your thumb. Then, grip the ball with the other three fingers, and let it rest snugly in your palm.

4. Curveball

A curveball is designed to spin and break down or in as it moves toward the batter. To achieve this, place your index and middle finger together along the seam of the baseball. Then, place your thumb along the seam on the opposite side of the ball.

5. Slider

Sliders are breaking pitches like curveballs, but they’re known to move faster and can break even closer to the plate. If you’re interested in learning this pitch, start with a two-seam fastball grip. Next, move your index finger so that it sits on the leather portion next to the middle finger, and grip the ball mainly with the middle finger and thumb.

If you want to master these pitches, work with experienced baseball coaches who can help you perfect each grip and throwing style. Swing Away Academy in West Palm Beach, FL, offers various baseball and softball training options for those looking to master all aspects of the game. Monthly membership is available, along with batting cages, parties, private instruction, and speed and agility training. The facility is outfitted with the latest technology to help students make the most of their training and improve their skills. Visit the website for more about these options, or call (561) 568-8777 to speak with a team member.