Throwing a baseball
requires athleticism and technique, with proper arm mechanics necessary
for a strong, accurate toss. Whether throwing the ball as a fielder or
hurling it towards the plate as a pitcher, you need to have a consistent
release point in order to throw the ball with conviction. Practicing
proper mechanics can help develop a feel for the correct release.
Timing
To
throw a baseball with accuracy, you need to release the ball from your
hand with perfect timing. Releasing the ball too early will cause it to
sail high, while holding the ball too long before letting go will cause
it to drift low. Ideally, you’d like to release the ball when your arm
is out in front of you and pointed toward the target.
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Fingers
When
throwing, you release the baseball off your index and middle fingers.
Keeping the same amount of pressure on both fingers at the time of
release will place an equal backspin on the ball, allowing it to travel
in a straight line. Placing more pressure on one finger over the other
will cause the ball to spin erratically and dart to one side or the
other. Although such movement can be beneficial when pitching, it’s not
what you want when throwing to a base.
Thumb
The
thumb can get in the way at times when throwing a baseball. Many
players make the mistake of keeping their thumb on the side of the ball.
You actually want to place your thumb beneath the baseball and against a
seam, providing a steady launching pad for the release.
Hand
The
ball’s location in your hand can also disrupt your release point. Keep
the ball out on your fingertips and not wedged deep against the palm of
your hand. Holding the ball against your palm will often delay the
ball’s release, costing both power
and accuracy. Again, this can be beneficial for pitchers throwing
change-ups to batters, but holding the ball deep in your hand can lead
to wildly inaccurate throws to fellow fielders.
Arm
Not
everyone throws a baseball with the same arm angle. Many fielders, and
even some pitchers, prefer to throw with a sidearm delivery as opposed
to the traditional over-the-top arm motion. This lower arm position will
change the general location of the release point. Yet the same basic
principles of timing and finger pressure will dictate an accurate throw.
Even side-armers should release the ball when the throwing arm is out
in front of them and pointed toward the target.
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