Curveball – Fast-Pitch
Also known as: curve, breaking ball
A curveball is a fast-pitch pitch thrown with lateral spin that causes the ball to break sharply to one side as it reaches the plate, disrupting a hitter's timing and eye-line.
Unlike the vertical break of a rise or drop ball, the curve moves horizontally — a right-handed pitcher typically throws it away from a right-handed batter, or in on a left-handed batter. The spin is generated by a wrist-snap turned outward at release during the windmill motion. Its value lies in taking the ball out of the hitter's expected path and setting up vertical pitches by changing the eye-line.
Example
A pitcher throws a curveball that starts at the inside corner and breaks off the plate away, getting the right-handed hitter to pull off the ball for a weak swing.
Why it matters
Combining a curveball with a rise ball creates two planes of movement that multiply each pitch's effectiveness. SwingVantage identifies when hitters lose their barrel angle chasing lateral breaks.
Related terms
- WindmillThe windmill is the underhand fast-pitch delivery in which the arm makes a full circle before release, generating the velocity that defines the game.
- ScrewballA screwball is a fast-pitch pitch that breaks in the opposite direction of a curveball — moving in on same-side hitters — generated by an inward wrist twist at release.
- Pitch SequencingPitch sequencing is the deliberate ordering of pitches across an at-bat — using pitch type, speed, location, and movement to set up and exploit a hitter's reactions.
Related guides & benchmarks
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