The sinker pitch is a devastating weapon in the arsenal of any pitcher. It is a pitch that drops suddenly as it approaches the plate, making it very difficult for hitters to square up. The sinker is a great pitch to use against hitters who are looking for a fastball, as it will often fool them into swinging under the ball. It is also a good pitch to use in windy conditions, as the wind will help to keep the ball down in the zone. If you are a pitcher who is looking to add a new pitch to your repertoire, the sinker is a great option.
To throw a sinker, you will need to start by gripping the ball with your index and middle fingers slightly offset to the side of the ball. Your thumb should be placed on the bottom of the ball, and your other fingers should be curled underneath the ball. Once you have a good grip on the ball, you will need to bring your arm back and then bring it forward in a smooth, fluid motion. As you release the ball, you will need to snap your wrist down, which will cause the ball to drop suddenly as it approaches the plate. The key to throwing a good sinker is to keep your wrist straight as you release the ball. If you bend your wrist, the ball will not drop as much, and it will be easier for hitters to hit.
The sinker is a versatile pitch that can be used in a variety of situations. It is a great pitch to use against hitters who are looking for a fastball, as it will often fool them into swinging under the ball. It is also a good pitch to use in windy conditions, as the wind will help to keep the ball down in the zone. If you are a pitcher who is looking to add a new pitch to your repertoire, the sinker is a great option. With a little practice, you can master the sinker and use it to become a more effective pitcher.
Proper Arm Placement
The proper arm placement is critical for throwing a successful sinker pitch. Here’s a detailed guide to help you achieve the optimal arm position:
1. Grip the Ball
Start by gripping the ball with your fingers spread evenly over the seams. Your thumb should be placed directly behind the ball, parallel to your fingers.
2. Positioning the Arm
Bring your arm up and back, keeping your elbow slightly bent. Position your upper arm roughly parallel to the ground, with your forearm angled slightly upward.
Your forearm should be externally rotated, meaning that your palm faces slightly outward. This rotation allows the ball to be released with a downward trajectory.
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
 |
 |
Wrist Action
The wrist action is crucial for generating the sinking motion. When throwing a sinker, the wrist should be slightly cupped, as if you were holding a cup of water. As the ball is released, the wrist should snap downward, causing the fingers to roll over the ball from the top to the bottom. This downward motion creates backspin on the ball, which causes it to drop as it travels through the air.
Grip
|
Pitch Type |
Grip |
|---|---|
|
Two-Seam Fastball |
Grip the ball with your index and middle fingers on the top seam and your thumb on the bottom seam. |
|
Four-Seam Fastball |
Grip the ball with your middle and ring fingers on the top seam and your thumb and index finger on the bottom seam. |
|
Sinker |
Grip the ball with your index and middle fingers on the top seam and your thumb on the bottom seam. Position your fingers slightly closer to the bottom seam than you would for a two-seam fastball. |
Motion
The motion for a sinker is similar to that of a two-seam fastball. Start by bringing the ball up to your chest, then swing your arm forward and down. As you release the ball, snap your wrist downward to create backspin. The ball should be released at a lower arm angle than a two-seam fastball, typically between 3/4 and sidearm. This lower release angle helps to keep the ball down in the zone.
Pitch Release Point
The release point of a sinker pitch is lower than that of a traditional fastball. This is because the pitcher releases the ball from a point closer to the ground, giving it a downward trajectory. The release point for a sinker is typically around the belt buckle or slightly lower. This gives the ball more time to sink before it reaches the plate.
Grip
The grip for a sinker pitch is similar to that of a four-seam fastball. However, the pitcher places their index and middle fingers slightly closer together on the ball. This helps to create more spin on the ball, which causes it to sink.
Arm Action
The arm action for a sinker pitch is also similar to that of a four-seam fastball. However, the pitcher brings their arm down at a slightly sharper angle. This helps to create the downward trajectory of the ball.
Release
The release for a sinker pitch is slightly different from that of a four-seam fastball. The pitcher releases the ball from a point closer to the ground, giving it a downward trajectory. The release point for a sinker is typically around the belt buckle or slightly lower.
| Pitch | Release Point |
|---|---|
| Sinker | Belt buckle or slightly lower |
| Four-seam fastball | Mid-chest |
Target Placement
The location of your target will directly affect the trajectory and effectiveness of your sinker pitch. Here are some key considerations:
1. Low in the Strike Zone
Aiming low in the strike zone forces the batter to swing up or risk striking out. The downward motion of the sinker will cause the ball to drop below the bat, making it difficult to make solid contact.
2. Outside Corner
Throwing a sinker to the outside corner of the plate forces the batter to reach across their body to hit it. This can lead to weak contact or even a strikeout looking.
3. Down and Away
Moving your target slightly down and away from the batter’s bat path can make it even more difficult to hit the ball. The sinker will drop and move away from the batter, resulting in a weak grounder or a strikeout.
4. Back Foot
Aiming a sinker at the hitter’s back foot places them in a uncomfortable position for hitting. They will have to stride forward and reach backward to make contact, often leading to a pop-up or a groundout.
5. Velocity and Movement
The velocity and movement of your sinker will also influence its target placement. A faster sinker can be thrown higher in the strike zone and still have enough downward motion to fool the batter. A sinker with more movement can be thrown further outside the plate while still remaining effective.
Here is a table summarizing the key target placements for a sinker pitch:
| Target | Effect |
|---|---|
| Low in the Strike Zone | Forces batter to swing up, increasing likelihood of strikeouts |
| Outside Corner | Forces batter to reach across, leading to weak contact or strikeouts looking |
| Down and Away | Moves away from batter’s bat path, making it difficult to hit |
| Back Foot | Forces batter into an uncomfortable position, resulting in pop-ups or groundouts |
Breaking Velocity
The sinker’s downward motion is significantly influenced by its velocity. A sinker thrown with a higher velocity will exhibit a sharper and more pronounced break. To achieve optimal breaking velocity, pitchers must generate significant arm speed while maintaining control over the pitch’s release point. This requires a strong and flexible arm, as well as proper mechanics and technique.
Deception
The sinker’s deceptive nature is one of its most valuable assets. By disguising the pitch as a fastball until the late stages of its flight, pitchers can induce batters to swing early or off-balance. This deception is facilitated by the sinker’s similar arm action and release point to a fastball. Additionally, the downward trajectory of the sinker makes it difficult for batters to track its path, further enhancing its deceptive qualities.
Grip and Release
The sinker’s grip and release are crucial in achieving both breaking velocity and deception. To grip the sinker, the pitcher places their thumb on the top seam of the ball, with their middle and ring fingers resting on the opposite side. The index finger is extended slightly to the side, creating a gap between the middle finger and the ball. Upon release, the pitcher applies downward pressure with their middle and ring fingers, imparting a clockwise spin (for right-handed pitchers) on the ball. This spin causes the ball to drop sharply as it approaches the plate.
Extension and Follow-Through
Proper extension and follow-through are essential for generating breaking velocity and achieving a tight spin on the sinker. As the pitcher extends their arm, they should maintain a strong wrist position and a firm grip on the ball. The follow-through motion should be fluid and continuous, with the pitcher’s arm extended fully towards the target. This extension and follow-through help generate the necessary arm speed and spin to create a sharp and effective sinker.
Arm Strength and Flexibility
Throwing a sinker effectively requires significant arm strength and flexibility. The pitcher must possess the ability to generate a high velocity while also controlling the pitch’s movement. This requires a strong and well-conditioned rotator cuff, forearm, and wrist. Additionally, the pitcher must have sufficient flexibility in their shoulder and elbow joints to achieve the proper arm extension and follow-through.
Resistance and Control
Resistance
Creating resistance is crucial for executing an effective sinker. The grip plays a vital role in generating resistance. By placing the index and middle fingers underneath the ball and the thumb slightly on top, you create a firm and stable grip that enhances your ability to hold back the ball during the delivery.
Positioning
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight evenly distributed. Position the ball deep in your hand and behind your pitching arm. This positioning allows you to generate maximum resistance and control when releasing the ball.
Control
Control is paramount when throwing a sinker. Maintaining a smooth and controlled delivery is essential for achieving the desired downward movement. Here are three key factors that contribute to controlling a sinker:
Arm Action
Keep your arm relaxed and extended throughout the delivery. Avoid excessive arm movement, as it can compromise control and velocity. Maintain a smooth and controlled arm swing that generates downward momentum on the ball.
Wrist Snap
As you release the ball, snap your wrist slightly downward. This motion imparts a downward spin on the ball, which is the primary factor responsible for the sinker’s downward movement. Ensure that your wrist snap is controlled and fluid to avoid overspinning the ball.
Body Balance
Maintaining proper body balance during the delivery is essential for controlling a sinker. Keep your head up, shoulders square, and back straight throughout the pitch. Good body balance allows you to generate consistent velocity and control the ball’s trajectory effectively.
Pitch Count and Strategy
The number of sinkers a pitcher throws in a game depends on several factors, including their stamina, the effectiveness of the pitch, and the opposing team’s batting order. A pitcher may throw a higher number of sinkers if they are early in the game and have not yet tired. They may also use the pitch more frequently against batters who are weak against it or who have a tendency to hit ground balls.
Additionally, a pitcher’s strategy may influence their pitch count. A pitcher who relies heavily on the sinker may throw it more often than one who uses it as a complementary pitch. The number of sinkers thrown in a game can also vary depending on the situation, such as whether there are runners on base or if the pitcher is facing a tough batter.
Table: Sinker Pitch Count by Game Situation
| Situation | Average Sinker Pitch Count |
|---|---|
| Early in the game | 25-35 |
| Middle of the game | 20-30 |
| Late in the game | 15-25 |
| With runners on base | 25-35 |
| Facing a tough batter | 30-40 |
Advanced Technique Variations
9. Ball Placement and Angle
The ball’s placement and angle significantly impact the pitch’s sinking motion. Aiming low in the zone, below the batter’s belt, positions the ball on a downward trajectory from the outset. Additionally, releasing the ball with a steep downward angle enhances its downward momentum, causing it to plummet rapidly towards the plate. Mastering this technique requires exceptional wrist flexibility and coordinated release mechanics.
Table: Ball Placement and Angle for Enhanced Sinking Action
| Ball Placement | Angle |
|---|---|
| Low in the zone (below the belt) | Steep downward angle |
By adhering to these principles, pitchers can induce a pronounced sinking action that confounds batters, making it challenging to connect solidly and elevate the ball.
Grip
To throw a sinker, place your middle and index fingers across the horseshoe-shaped seam of the ball, with your thumb resting underneath. Your fingertips should be slightly behind the seam, and your grip should be firm but not too tight.
Arm Action
The arm action for a sinker is similar to that of other pitches, such as the four-seam fastball. Start by bringing your arm back and up, keeping your elbow bent. As you stride forward, drive your arm forward and release the ball at the top of your motion.
Release Point
The release point for a sinker is slightly lower than that of a four-seam fastball. Aim to release the ball about waist-high, and keep your wrist straight as you release it.
Spin
The sinker gets its name from the downward movement it creates as it approaches the plate. To achieve this movement, the ball must be spinning from right to left (for a right-handed pitcher). This is achieved by pronating your forearm as you release the ball.
Velocity
Sinkers are typically thrown slower than four-seam fastballs, ranging from 85-90 mph. The reduced velocity helps to create the sinker’s downward movement.
Pitching Motion
When pitching a sinker, keep your mechanics consistent. Your grip, arm action, release point, and spin should all be the same for each pitch. This will help you to develop consistency and control over your sinker.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Releasing the Ball Too High
If you release the ball too high, it will not have enough time to sink before it reaches the plate. This will result in a flat pitch that is easier for the hitter to hit. To avoid this, focus on keeping your wrist straight and releasing the ball at waist-high.
Not Pronating Your Forearm
If you do not pronate your forearm as you release the ball, it will not spin from right to left. This will result in a pitch that does not sink. To avoid this, make sure to pronate your forearm as you release the ball.
Throwing the Ball Too Hard
Sinkers are typically thrown slower than four-seam fastballs. If you throw the ball too hard, it will not sink as much. To avoid this, focus on keeping your velocity in the 85-90 mph range.
| Mistake | Correction |
|—|—|
| Releasing the ball too high | Keep your wrist straight and release the ball at waist-high. |
| Not pronating your forearm | Pronate your forearm as you release the ball. |
| Throwing the ball too hard | Keep your velocity in the 85-90 mph range. |
| Not following through with your arm | Follow through with your arm after you release the ball. |
| Not keeping your wrist straight | Keep your wrist straight as you release the ball. |
| Not keeping your elbow up | Keep your elbow up as you release the ball. |
How to Throw a Sinker Pitch
The sinker pitch is a great pitch to use when you want to get a ground ball. It’s a relatively easy pitch to throw, and it can be very effective. Here are the steps on how to throw a sinker pitch:
- Start with a good grip. The grip for a sinker pitch is similar to the grip for a fastball, but your thumb should be placed a little lower on the ball. This will help you to get more downward movement on the pitch.
- Bring your arm back in a smooth motion. As you bring your arm back, keep your elbow up and your wrist straight. This will help you to generate power and control.
- Release the ball with a slight downward motion. As you release the ball, your wrist should snap forward and your fingers should roll over the ball. This will give the ball a downward trajectory.
Practice is key to mastering the sinker pitch. The more you practice, the better you will become at throwing it. With a little practice, you can learn to throw a sinker pitch that is both effective and difficult to hit.
People Also Ask About How to Throw a Sinker Pitch
How do you grip a sinker pitch?
The grip for a sinker pitch is similar to the grip for a fastball, but your thumb should be placed a little lower on the ball. This will help you to get more downward movement on the pitch.
What is the best way to release a sinker pitch?
The best way to release a sinker pitch is with a slight downward motion. As you release the ball, your wrist should snap forward and your fingers should roll over the ball. This will give the ball a downward trajectory.
How can I practice throwing a sinker pitch?
The best way to practice throwing a sinker pitch is to find a partner and pitch to them. You can also practice by throwing against a wall or into a net. With a little practice, you can learn to throw a sinker pitch that is both effective and difficult to hit.
