Unlocking the Secrets of the Changeup
The changeup is one of the most devastating pitches in baseball when executed correctly. It’s not about raw power; it’s about deception. A well-thrown changeup disrupts a hitter’s timing, making even the best batters look foolish. This post will guide you through the essentials of developing a killer changeup, from grip to delivery, and help you become a more complete pitcher.
Choosing Your Changeup Grip
There are several effective changeup grips, each with its own nuances. Here are a few popular options:
- Circle Change: Form a circle with your thumb and index finger on the side of the ball. The remaining fingers rest comfortably on the leather. This is a common and versatile grip.
- Palm Ball: The ball is held deep in the palm, using all five fingers. This grip naturally takes velocity off the pitch.
- Three-Finger Changeup: Similar to the circle change, but you emphasize using your middle, ring, and pinky fingers to control the ball.
Experiment with these grips to find the one that feels most comfortable and allows you to maintain consistent arm speed.
Maintaining Arm Speed: The Key to Deception
The biggest mistake young pitchers make with the changeup is slowing down their arm. The key to a great changeup is maintaining the same arm speed as your fastball. The difference in velocity comes from the grip, not from decelerating your arm. Think of it as throwing a ‘fastball’ with a changeup grip.
Drills for Changeup Mastery
- Long Toss with the Changeup: Incorporate your changeup grip into your long toss routine. Focus on maintaining arm speed and feeling the release point.
- Dry Runs: Practice your changeup delivery without a ball, focusing on mimicking your fastball arm action. Visualize throwing the pitch.
- Target Practice: Set up a target and practice throwing your changeup for strikes. Focus on consistency and hitting your spots.
- Bullpen Sessions: Dedicate a portion of your bullpen sessions to throwing only changeups. This will help you develop a feel for the pitch and build confidence.
Developing a Feel for the Changeup
The changeup is a “feel” pitch. It takes time and repetition to develop the right touch. Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t click right away. Keep practicing, and you’ll gradually gain a better understanding of how the ball comes out of your hand and how to control its movement.
Integrating the Changeup with other Pitches
A great changeup becomes much better when mixed with a strong fastball. The bigger difference in speed between the two, the more off balance the hitter will become. Consider what other pitches you throw, and work to incorporate the changeup into your arsenal.
Conclusion: The Changeup Advantage
The changeup is a powerful weapon in any pitcher’s arsenal. By mastering the grip, maintaining arm speed, and practicing consistently, you can develop a changeup that will frustrate hitters and elevate your game. So, get out there, start practicing, and become a master of deception on the mound!
