Pitching backwards is a common term used in baseball to describe the act of throwing a ball with a backwards spin. This technique is used to deceive hitters and create a greater level of difficulty for them. In this article, we’ll discuss what pitching backwards means, why pitchers use it, and how to do it.
Definition of Pitching Backwards
Pitching backwards refers to a pitching technique in which a pitcher throws a ball with an unusual spin. This spin is called a “backward spin” because it goes in the opposite direction of a normal pitch. It is commonly used in baseball to deceive hitters, as it can cause them to misread the pitch, resulting in a swing and miss or a weak hit.
Why Pitchers Use Pitching Backwards
Pitchers often use pitching backwards as a way to keep the batter guessing. By throwing a pitch with a backwards spin, the batter doesn’t know whether it will move or stay straight. This can cause them to swing earlier than they should, resulting in a weak hit or a strikeout.
In addition, pitching backwards can also help to create more movement on the pitch. This is especially true when the pitcher throws a breaking ball with a backwards spin. The spin can cause the pitch to move in unexpected ways, making it more difficult for the batter to make contact.
How to Pitch Backwards
Pitching backwards is not an easy skill to master, and requires a lot of practice and patience. Here are some tips on how to do it.
1. Grip the Ball Correctly
The key to successful pitching backwards is the grip. You should grip the ball with your index and middle fingers on the outside of the horseshoe, and your thumb and pinky on the inside. This grip will help you create the correct spin on the pitch.
2. Position Your Arm
The next step is to position your arm correctly. You should hold the ball with your arm at a 90-degree angle from your body. This will help you create the correct spin on the pitch.
3. Rotate Your Wrist
Once you’ve positioned your arm correctly, you can then rotate your wrist. This is the key to creating the correct spin on the pitch. As you rotate your wrist, your hand should move in a circular motion, creating a backwards spin.
4. Follow Through
Finally, you should follow through on your pitch. This is important to ensure that you create the correct spin on the pitch. As you follow through, your arm should move in a straight line, and your hand should remain in the same position.
Benefits of Pitching Backwards
Pitching backwards has many benefits for pitchers. It can help them deceive hitters and create more movement on the pitch. It can also help them create more spin on the ball, allowing them to throw harder pitches. Finally, it can help them to keep their opponents guessing, making them more effective pitchers.
Drawbacks of Pitching Backwards
One of the main drawbacks of pitching backwards is that it can be difficult to control. If a pitcher doesn’t grip the ball correctly or follow through correctly, the pitch can be unpredictable and difficult to locate. This can result in wild pitches and walks, which can be costly for a pitcher.
Conclusion
Pitching backwards is an important skill for any pitcher to master. It can help them create more movement on the pitch, deceive hitters, and keep their opponents guessing. However, it can also be difficult to control, and can result in wild pitches and walks. With practice and patience, any pitcher can learn how to pitch backwards and become a more effective pitcher.