4-SEAM FASTBALL

Instructional content created in collaboration with an elite baseball coach who serves as the pitching coach and director of player development for an NCAA Division I program:

The four-seamer travels the most direct route to the plate making it the fastest pitch in baseball.

The pitch is less susceptible to movement, making it easier to control and throw strikes.

A strong fastball presence sets up other pitches that use a deceptively similar arm motion, like the 2-seam fastball, curveball, and changeup.

The four horizontal seams catch air as they rotate forward and up from the bottom of the ball.

This creates lift that counteracts gravity and causes the ball to travel in a straight line.

Release the ball with a snap of your forearm and wrist to generate additional velocity. Imagine pushing your fingernails into the ball at release to maximize the spin-rate of the ball.

Finish by aiming your middle finger at the target.