How To Pitch A Slider

Understanding how to pitch a slider can be one of the best ways to improve the effectiveness of a pitcher. The slider is the second fastest thrown pitch next to the fastball. The slider is a very good strikeout pitch. It is thrown very hard and has a late break on the pitch, often causing batters to swing and miss.

1. Grip the ball with the middle and index fingers, much like you would a two seam fastball. Place the middle finger along the seam with the index finger placed next to it. The thumb should be positioned under the ball just beyond the seam.
2. The motion of the slider must be just like the fastball. It is imperative to maintain the same arm speed and tempo.
3. As the ball is released from your hand, apply pressure with your middle finger as if you want to push your finger through the baseball. As you let go of the ball, the last point of contact should be with the ball touching your index finger. The pressure you apply with your middle finger will generate the spin needed to make the ball cut as it nears the batter.

When pitching the slider, be certain not to snap the wrist to generate the spin. This snapping movement will be ineffective and can cause an injury. The most effective slider will maintain a straight path toward the plate at a high rate of speed, and then it will break sharply at the last moment. Thrown from a right handed pitcher, the ball will move down and away to a right handed hitter and down and in to a left handed hitter.