MMV #061: How to Throw a Nasty Sinker

Read time: 3 minutes 

I am happy to announce that I am starting a podcast with Texas Rangers pitcher, Josh Gessner.

This will provide a unique perspective with me being a coach and Josh being a current player.

If you are a fan of this newsletter, you will definitely love our podcast!

Join the waitlist here to find out when we'll release our first episode. 

If you would like to watch the video version of this newsletter, click here.

When it comes to grips, there are numerous ways to throw pitches.

But there is likely a specific way that will work for you.

Today, I want to give you two sinker grips.

One will work well for pitchers that have lower efficiency (<85%) and one will work well for higher efficiency (>85%).

Lower efficiency means you are "cutting" the ball more, while higher efficiency means the ball is spinning more true.

The purpose of both grips is to use the seams to your advantage and to get late, unexpected movement.

Let's begin.

Grip #1 - Traditional 2 Seam Grip

This grip is best for lower spin efficiency sinkers.

Feel the ball rip through both of your fingers at the same time.

The problem higher efficiency 2 seams can have with this grip is it will run, but not sink.

Grip #2 - 1 Seam Grip

This grip is best for higher spin efficiency sinkers.

Have your fingers going at an angle across the seams.

You should feel your middle finger right on top of the seam.

When you throw this pitch, feel it rip through the middle finger.

Because of the way the seams interact with the air, you will be able to catch seam effects and get the sink you are looking for.

Additional Notes

The first thing to note is to NOT manipulate the pitch.

This is a fastball and mechanics should not be altered to get movement. If you have the right grip, it will move the way you want.

There are slight iterations for both of these grips.

Play with thumb placement (lower or higher).

Also experiment with how close your index and middle finger are together.

There are multiple ways to throw both of these pitches. 

Remember, it takes time to master a pitch. Don't get frustrated if you don't pick it up right away.

The dot balls can be helpful to tell you what grip adjustment you might need to make.

Also, checkout my grip database for 75+ grips and edger video of all pitch types.

That's all for today.

See you next week!

Whenever you are ready, there are 3 ways I can help you:

1. Remote Training: a personalized throwing and lifting program built for you and your goals.

2. In-Person Training: Work with me in Scottsdale, Arizona. Personalized training program to help you reach your goals. Trackman and edgertronic for bullpen sessions.

3. Trackman and Edgertronic camera bullpen: Get objective feedback on how your pitches are moving. I'll send you video and movement report after bullpen.