The drop ball, also known as the sinker, is a type of pitch in baseball that is designed to move downward as it approaches the plate. Here are the steps to throw a basic drop ball:
- Begin by gripping the ball with your fingertips across the widest part of the seams, with your thumb underneath the ball providing support.
- As you begin your wind-up, bring your hand behind your head and rotate your wrist slightly so that your palm faces inward. This will cause the ball to spin in a counterclockwise direction (if you are right-handed).
- As you release the ball, apply downward pressure with your fingers to create additional spin on the ball. This will cause the ball to drop downward as it approaches the plate.
- Aim your drop ball by adjusting the angle of your wrist at release. To throw a drop ball that breaks to the right (if you are right-handed), release the ball with your wrist slightly turned to the left. To throw a drop ball that breaks to the left, release the ball with your wrist slightly turned to the right.
It’s important to note that throwing a drop ball can put additional stress on your arm and elbow, so it’s important to use proper technique and to avoid overusing the pitch. It’s also important to build up arm strength gradually, and to warm up thoroughly before pitching in a game.
With practice and proper technique, throwing a drop ball can be a valuable tool for any pitcher looking to induce ground balls and get batters out.
