What is a Screwball?
A screwball is a type of baseball pitch that breaks sharply downward and away from the batter. It is thrown with a similar motion to a fastball, but the pitcher releases the ball with a slight inward twist. This causes the ball to spin backward, which creates the downward break. The screwball is a difficult pitch to master, but it can be a devastating weapon for pitchers who can throw it effectively.
The screwball was first developed in the late 19th century by a pitcher named Fred Goldsmith. Goldsmith was a submarine pitcher, which means that he threw the ball from a very low arm angle. This gave his screwball even more downward break than usual. Goldsmith’s screwball was so effective that he was able to lead the National League in strikeouts three times.
The screwball became less popular in the early 20th century as pitchers began to throw harder fastballs. However, it has made a resurgence in recent years, as more pitchers have learned to throw it effectively. Some of the most famous pitchers to throw the screwball include Carl Hubbell, Juan Marichal, and Gaylord Perry.
How to Throw a Screwball
The screwball is a difficult pitch to throw, but it can be mastered with practice. Here are the steps on how to throw a screwball:
- Start with a fastball grip.
- As you bring your arm forward, keep your wrist straight.
- As you release the ball, turn your wrist slightly inward.
- Follow through with your arm as if you were throwing a fastball.
The key to throwing a screwball is to get the right amount of spin on the ball. If you turn your wrist too much, the ball will not break enough. If you turn your wrist too little, the ball will not break at all.
Benefits of Throwing a Screwball
Throwing a screwball can provide several advantages for pitchers, including:
Enhanced Pitch Variety and Unpredictability: The screwball’s unique side-to-side movement makes it difficult for batters to predict and hit consistently, giving the pitcher a strategic advantage.
Reduced Bat Speed: The sharp, downward break of the screwball can slow down batters’ swings, preventing them from generating maximum power and contact with the ball.
Increased Ground Balls: The downward trajectory of the screwball increases the chances of batters hitting ground balls due to its lack of elevation, which can lead to easy outs for the defense.
Arm Health: Contrary to the misconception that screwballs are harmful to pitchers’ arms, studies have shown that the stress on the elbow joint during the release is comparable to other pitches. With proper mechanics, screwballs can be thrown without undue strain.
Improved Control: The downward movement of the screwball gives pitchers better control over the ball, allowing them to locate it precisely in the strike zone or outside of batters’ reach.
Deceptive Movement: The screwball’s unusual side-to-side break can deceive batters, causing them to swing late or pull off the ball, resulting in weak contact or strikeouts.
| Attribute | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Pitch Variety | Improved unpredictability |
| Bat Speed Reduction | Decreased hitting power |
| Ground Ball Increase | Enhanced defensive opportunities |
| Arm Health | Comparable to other pitches with proper mechanics |
| Control Improvement | Increased accuracy and precision |
| Deception | Difficulty for batters to anticipate |
How to Master the Grip
Step 3: Position Your Fingers Horizontally
Once the pad of your middle finger is settled, it’s time to position your other two fingers. Place your index finger on top of your middle finger, making sure that it’s slightly angled towards the outside of the ball. Your pinky should then naturally fall into place on top of your index finger, with its tip resting gently on the opposite side of the seam. This “stacked” finger positioning will help you create the necessary topspin and lateral movement.
It’s important to note that the precise placement of your index and pinky fingers will vary depending on the size and shape of your hand. Experiment with different finger adjustments until you find the grip that feels most comfortable and allows you to generate the desired movement on the ball.
To further enhance the screwball grip, many pitchers also incorporate a “split-finger” technique. This involves slightly separating the index and middle fingers, creating a small gap that allows airflow between the fingers and the ball’s surface. This split-finger grip can help improve fingertip pressure and generate more topspin, resulting in a sharper screwball with better downward break.
| Finger | Position |
|---|---|
| Middle finger | Pad resting on the bottom half of the seam behind the ball |
| Index finger | Top of the middle finger, angled slightly to the outside |
| Pinky finger | Top of the index finger, resting on the opposite side of the seam |
| Thumb | Hooked over the top of the middle finger, for support |
Generating Arm Action
The key to throwing a screwball is generating the proper arm action. Unlike other pitches, the screwball requires a unique motion to create the necessary spin and movement. Follow these steps to develop the correct arm action:
1. Grip the Ball
Hold the ball with your thumb positioned directly behind the top seam and your fingers spread evenly across the other seams. Grip the ball firmly with your middle three fingers, using your index finger to apply pressure for control.
2. Wind Up
As you begin your wind-up, keep your elbow pointed toward the ground and your wrist slightly bent. Your arm should resemble an “L” shape. Rotate your hips and drive your back leg forward while bringing your throwing arm up and across your body.
3. Supinate Your Wrist
As you rotate forward, pronate your wrist toward the ground. By turning your wrist outward, you create the necessary spin for the screwball. Simultaneously, release the ball from your fingers with a flicking motion.
4. Wrist Action and Follow-Through
This is the crucial step in generating the screwball’s unique movement. As you release the ball, you must rapidly supinate your wrist back toward your body, creating a “rolling” motion with the thumb. This action creates the backspin necessary to cause the ball to break sharply downward and away from the batter. Extend your arm fully through your follow-through to complete the pitch.
Variations
| Pitch Type | Grip | Spin |
|---|---|---|
| High Screwball | Lower on the ball, closer to the pinky finger | Right-handed pitcher: Left-to-right break |
| Low Screwball | Higher on the ball, closer to the thumb | Right-handed pitcher: Right-to-left break |
| Reverse Screwball | Grip a four-seam fastball | Right-handed pitcher: Right-to-left break |
Release and Extension
The release and extension are crucial for throwing a proper screwball. As the pitcher releases the ball, they should pronate their forearm and externally rotate their wrist. This pronation and external rotation causes the ball to spin in a clockwise direction for right-handed pitchers and a counterclockwise direction for left-handed pitchers.
The extension refers to the pitcher’s arm moving forward after the release. The pitcher should extend their arm fully, following through with their motion. This extension helps propel the ball forward and creates more spin on the pitch.
Here are some additional tips for the release and extension:
- Keep your elbow tucked in close to your body.
- Pronate your forearm and externally rotate your wrist at the same time.
- Extend your arm fully after the release.
- Follow through with your motion by bringing your hand down towards the ground.
- Practice your release and extension to develop a consistent and effective motion.
| Release: | Pronate forearm, externally rotate wrist. |
|---|---|
| Extension: | Extend arm fully after release, follow through. |
Pitching Mechanics
Grip
Place your index and middle fingers across the horseshoe seam and your thumb underneath the baseball. Position your ring finger and pinky along the side of the ball.
Wind-Up
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your weight balanced evenly. Bring your throwing arm up to your head and keep your elbow bent.
Stride
As you start to stride forward, push off with your back foot and land on your front foot in line with your target.
Arm Action
As you stride, swing your arm forward and rotate it so that your palm faces down. Keep your elbow slightly bent.
Delivery
As you release the ball, pronate your forearm and snap your wrist. This will cause the ball to spin sideways and produce the screwball effect.
Rotating Your Wrist
Pronating your wrist is crucial for throwing a screwball. Here’s how to do it:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | As you deliver the ball, turn your palm inward so that your fingertips point toward your target. |
| 2 | Snap your wrist forward, rotating it clockwise if you’re right-handed or counterclockwise if you’re left-handed. |
Improving Screwball Movement
Perfecting the screwball’s deceptive movement requires meticulous attention to technique. Here’s a comprehensive guide to enhance your screwball’s effectiveness:
1. Grip Placement
Position your index and middle fingers along the laces, slightly toward the baseball’s inside. Create a small gap between your fingers to allow for wrist pronation.
2. Arm Angle
Your arm angle should be slightly lower than a fastball, approximately three-quarters overhead. This lower arm slot enhances the downward force on the ball.
3. Wrist Pronation
As you release the ball, pronate your wrist forcefully. This inward rotation of your wrist imparts downward and clockwise spin on the ball, creating the signature drop.
4. Finger Pressure
Apply more pressure with your index finger than your middle finger during the release. This uneven pressure contributes to the sideways movement of the screwball.
5. Arm Speed
Throw the screwball with sufficient arm speed. A slower delivery will allow the ball to drop more, while a faster one will result in a flatter trajectory.
6. Release Point
Aim to release the screwball slightly toward the first-base side. This will help the ball break down and away from right-handed batters.
7. Advanced Techniques
To further enhance the screwball’s movement, consider the following techniques:
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Knuckle Curve Grip | Adjust your grip slightly, placing your knuckles on the seams, for more spin and a sharper break. |
| Slider Grip | Use a slider grip, with your middle finger extended beyond the ball, to add horizontal movement. |
| Change Arm Slot | Vary your arm angle to alter the trajectory and deception of the screwball. |
| Use a Two-Seam Fastball | Throw a two-seam fastball with a screwball grip to create a subtle but effective drop. |
Training Exercises for Screwball Mastery
Mastering the screwball requires targeted exercises to develop wrist flexibility, finger strength, and overall control. Here are some effective drills to enhance your screwball technique:
1. Wrist Rolls
Roll your wrist clockwise and counterclockwise, holding a small weight or baseball glove in your hand. This exercise improves wrist flexibility, essential for pronating your hand during the screwball release.
2. Finger Extensions
Use a rubber band or finger resistance exerciser to perform finger extensions. Hold the band or exerciser between your fingers and pull it apart. This strengthens your fingers, enabling you to grip the ball securely and control its release.
3. Wall Throws
Practice throwing against a wall from short distances. Focus on pronating your hand at the release point to create a side-to-side movement. The wall provides feedback on your release and allows you to adjust your technique.
4. Grip Strengthener
Use a grip strengthener or squeeze ball to improve your overall hand strength. This is crucial for controlling the ball during the screwball delivery.
5. Wrist Flexors/Extensors
Perform wrist flexion and extension exercises using dumbbells or resistance bands. Flex your wrist back towards your forearm and extend it forward to enhance wrist range of motion.
6. Side Arm Toss
Practice throwing sidearm to mimic the release point of a screwball. This helps you develop the arm slot and pronation needed for effective screwball delivery.
7. Arm Circles
Make large arm circles, keeping your elbow extended and your wrist pronated. This exercise promotes proper arm swing and improves wrist flexibility.
8. Screwball Drills with a Partner
Have a partner stand 20-30 feet away. Practice throwing screwballs to your partner, focusing on hitting specific targets. The partner provides feedback on release point, hand pronation, and ball flight. Gradually increase the distance and frequency of throws to improve consistency and control.
| Drill | Target |
|---|---|
| Short Toss | Target small square or cone |
| Medium Toss | Target zone or specific point |
| Long Toss | Work on distance and flight path |
| In-Game Simulation | Throw screwballs in live batting practice or games |
9. Long Toss
Gradually increase your throwing distance to improve arm strength, stamina, and screwball control. Start with short throws and gradually extend the distance to increase your throwing velocity and accuracy.
10. Pitching Mechanics
Ensure proper pitching mechanics to reduce injury risk and enhance screwball effectiveness. Focus on a smooth and balanced delivery, appropriate leg drive, and a strong follow-through.
Practicing and Refining Technique
Mastering the screwball requires consistent practice and technique refinement. Here are some tips to improve your skills:
1. Warm-up Properly
Begin with dynamic stretches to prepare your arm and wrist for the mechanics of the screwball.
2. Start with a Fastball
Build a solid foundation by practicing your fastball regularly. The screwball grip and motion originate from the fastball.
3. Adjust Your Grip
Hold the ball with your fingertips slightly to the side, creating a “V” shape with your thumb and middle finger.
4. Rotate Your Wrist
As you release the ball, pronate your forearm and rotate your wrist inward. This imparts the spinning motion that gives the screwball its unique trajectory.
5. Keep Your Elbow Up
Maintain a high elbow throughout the throwing motion, similar to a changeup.
6. Practice on Slopes
Throwing on slight down-slopes or inclines can enhance your feel for the screwball’s downward movement.
7. Use a Mirror or Video
Record yourself throwing the screwball to analyze your technique and identify areas for improvement.
8. Play Long Toss Regularly
Increase your arm strength and distance by playing regular long toss sessions.
9. **Develop Variations**
To enhance your control and deception, practice throwing different variations of the screwball, including:
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Circle Change | Pronate your wrist more than a traditional screwball, creating a more pronounced downward movement. |
| Spiked Screwball | Rotate your wrist inward and down sharply at release, causing the ball to spike towards the ground before rising. |
| Slow Screwball | Reduce the velocity of your screwball while maintaining the same spinning motion, creating a deceptive pitch for batters. |
Experiment with these variations to expand your pitching arsenal.
Using the Screwball in a Baseball Game
The screwball is a challenging pitch to master, but when thrown effectively, it can be devastating to hitters. Here are some tips on how to use the screwball in a baseball game:
- Throw the screwball early in the count. This will keep hitters off balance and make them less likely to sit on the fastball.
- Throw the screwball to both righties and lefties. The screwball is an effective pitch against both types of hitters.
- Mix up the speed and location of the screwball. This will keep hitters guessing and make it more difficult for them to hit.
- Don’t overuse the screwball. The screwball is a high-stress pitch, and throwing it too often can lead to arm fatigue.
Throwing the Screwball in Different Situations
The screwball can be an effective pitch in a variety of situations, including:
- With two strikes. The screwball can be a strikeout pitch when hitters are looking for a fastball.
- Against hitters who are hitting fastballs well. The screwball can be a good change of pace against hitters who are timing the fastball well.
- With runners on base. The screwball can be an effective pitch to get ground balls and double plays.
| Situation | Pitch Type |
|---|---|
| With two strikes | Strikeout pitch |
| Against hitters who are hitting fastballs well | Change of pace |
| With runners on base | Ground ball and double play |
How To Throw A Screwball Baseball
The screwball is a type of baseball pitch that breaks sharply away from the batter. It is thrown with a similar motion to a fastball, but with a slightly different grip and release point. The screwball is a very effective pitch when thrown correctly, but it can also be difficult to control.
To throw a screwball, start by gripping the ball with your middle and ring fingers on the top of the ball and your thumb and index finger on the bottom. Your grip should be slightly looser than your fastball grip.
Next, bring your hand up to your ear and extend your arm out in front of you. Your elbow should be bent at a 90-degree angle and your wrist should be cocked back.
As you release the ball, snap your wrist forward and pronate your forearm. This will cause the ball to spin clockwise (for a right-handed pitcher) and break away from the batter.
The screwball can be a very difficult pitch to master, but with practice it can be a very effective weapon for any pitcher.
People Also Ask
What is a screwball baseball?
A screwball is a type of baseball pitch that breaks sharply away from the batter. It is thrown with a similar motion to a fastball, but with a slightly different grip and release point.
How do I throw a screwball baseball?
To throw a screwball, start by gripping the ball with your middle and ring fingers on the top of the ball and your thumb and index finger on the bottom. Your grip should be slightly looser than your fastball grip. Next, bring your hand up to your ear and extend your arm out in front of you. Your elbow should be bent at a 90-degree angle and your wrist should be cocked back. As you release the ball, snap your wrist forward and pronate your forearm. This will cause the ball to spin clockwise (for a right-handed pitcher) and break away from the batter.
What is the difference between a screwball and a changeup?
A screwball is a pitch that breaks sharply away from the batter, while a changeup is a pitch that is thrown with less velocity than a fastball. A screwball is typically thrown with a pronated forearm, while a changeup is thrown with a supinated forearm.
