What is a breaking ball in baseball?

n baseball, a breaking ball is a pitch that is thrown by a pitcher with the intention of breaking or curving as it approaches the plate. Breaking balls are typically slower than fastballs and are designed to deceive the batter by changing direction or movement as it approaches the strike zone.

There are several different types of breaking balls, each with their own unique characteristics and movements. Some of the most common types of breaking balls include the curveball, slider, and knuckleball.

The curveball is a pitch that is thrown with a high degree of spin, which causes the ball to curve downward as it approaches the plate. The slider is a pitch that is thrown with a side-to-side movement, causing the ball to move away from the batter as it approaches the plate. The knuckleball is a pitch that is thrown with minimal spin, causing the ball to flutter and move unpredictably as it approaches the plate.

Breaking balls can be difficult for batters to hit, as they require quick reflexes and good timing to make solid contact. However, they can also be difficult for pitchers to control, as they require a high degree of skill and accuracy to throw consistently.

Overall, a breaking ball is a pitch in baseball that is thrown with the intention of breaking or curving as it approaches the plate. There are several different types of breaking balls, each with their own unique characteristics and movements, and they can be difficult for batters to hit and for pitchers to control.