The curveball grip is fairly simple and, unlike other pitches, allows a pitcher to maintain a good grip on the ball, and therefore, control.
The object of the pitch is for the ball to curve as it reaches the plate, breaking below the bat of the hitter.
The key to the pitch is putting topspin on the ball, which generates wind resistance with the laces and causes the pitch to drop.
- Grip the ball with your middle and index fingers together, with the fingers across the seams of the ball at the widest part (the widest distance between the seams). Keep a tight grip on the ball, especially with the middle finger. Don’t let the ball touch the palm of your hand, or you won’t generate enough topspin, which is what allows the ball to drop when it gets close to home plate.
