Throwing a baseball over the top, with your hand above your shoulder and forearm perpendicular to the ground, is the method taught to most young pitchers. Throwing sidearm, or a submarine style, is natural for some, but not often encouraged as it may cause undue stress on the elbow. Sidearm pitchers lose some velocity when compared to an over-the-top thrower, but the ball often has more movement. Throwing sidearm takes practice to master.
Step 1
Enter your windup the same as you would if throwing over the top.
Step 2
Dip your shoulder as you step toward the plate and your arm comes through to throw the ball.
Step 3
Point your elbow down toward the ground rather than forward as you throw the ball.
Step 4
Follow through with your hand to your opposite hip after you release the ball. Try to use your arm as a whip to snap the ball toward the plate.
Tips and Warnings
- Experiment with different arm angles to find one that gives you the most velocity and control without any discomfort.
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