As you may know if you've ever tried, there is and art to throwing a baseball pitch. If you're a pitcher and want to learn how to throw a curveball, try utilizing the tips listed in this guide.

As you may know if you've ever tried, there is and art to throwing a baseball pitch. If you're a pitcher and want to learn how to throw a curveball, try utilizing the tips listed in this guide.

• The baseball seems to be heading straight for the strike zone or is high above it and then, at the last minute, drops unexpectedly. If you've ever seen a pitcher throw a great curveball, you may have been amazed and found yourself wondering how he or she did it. However, once you have perfected the grip and technique behind throwing a curveball, all you'll need is a bit of practice and you'll be throwing curves like the pros.

(Photo by Justin Taylor)

• As is the case with any pitch, you need to have the proper grip to throw a good curveball.

1. Place your index finger along the seam of the baseball
2. Place your middle finger right next to your index finger
3. Place your thumb on the other side of the ball, opposite from your two fingers
4. The force of your grip should be mostly in your middle finger
5. Do not allow the ball to touch your palm
6. Since there is no mistaking the curveball grip, be sure to hide your ball hand in your glove until you are ready to throw the pitch so that you can effectively take the batter by surprise

• Topspin is what makes a curveball perform the way it does. In combination with the grip, the "snap" at the end of your throw is what gives the pitch topspin.
• To effectively throw a curveball:

1. Wind up and throw with the same speed as you would with any other pitch
2. Hold your hand sideways; right-handed pitchers should have the the palm of their hand facing towards the left, while left handed pitchers' palms should be facing right
3. Bring your arm down in a quick, smooth motion
4. Near the end of your pitch, turn and snap your wrist. It will take some practice to discover the right "snapping point," but without the correct snap, the ball won't curve
5. As you release the ball and follow through, the back of your hand should be pointing directly at home plate

• YouTube Video: How to Throw a Curveball (Time: 1:55)

• It may take some practice to perfect your curveball toss, but once you have perfected the grip and discovered how to correctly snap your wrist upon release, you have the basics of the pitch down pat.

• 
  

• Introduction
• Step 1: The Grip
• Step 2: The Throw
• Conclusion