How 2 Do Things

Throwing a sharp-breaking curveball at the high school level can turn a good pitcher into an elite pitcher. This article introduces you to the mechanics of throwing a 12-to-6 curveball.

Hold the ball in front of you so that the laces form the letter C. (if you are left-handed, you should have the laces make a backwards C).

Place the middle finger parallel against the top of the C so that it is pressed up against the laces.

Place your index finger right next to your middle finger so that they are touching and forming one unit.

Place your thumb on the opposite side of the baseball directly underneath your middle and index fingers, making sure that there is no space at all between the ball and your hand in your grip.

Your ring and pinky fingers should remain tucked under the ball just as if you were throwing any other pitch.

Use your motion as you would with any other pitch; however, when you reach the top the palm of your hand should be facing inward such that you are throwing the ball to the plate like a karate chop. (i.e., your hand position throwing the ball to the plate should look like a backward C).

Make sure your elbow stays above your shoulder on the release to avoid any unneeded stress on the elbow.
When releasing the ball in a “karate chop” type motion, let the ball roll off your middle and index fingers creating sharp forward spin.

Ideally, the pitch should break straight down, on a 12-to-6 path making the pitch harder for the batter to recognize. If your curveball is breaking more right-to-left, adjust your hand position and release accordingly.
 
Importantly, do not attempt throw a curveball until you are fifteen (15) or sixteen (16) years old, and your doctor provides approval to start throwing curveballs. Throwing them before your arm is mature can result in injury.