Master the Flying Saucer Pitch: A Step-by-Step Baseball Pitching Tutorial

Want to add a deceptive and unique pitch to your baseball arsenal? The flying saucer pitch, known for its intriguing side-to-side movement, can be a game-changer. This tutorial breaks down the technique into simple, actionable steps, perfect for pitchers of all levels aiming to baffle hitters.

Understanding the Flying Saucer Pitch

The flying saucer pitch, at its core, is about side spin. Unlike a fastball that relies on backspin for lift or a curveball with topspin for a downward break, the flying saucer pitch is all about creating spin on the side of the ball. This side spin is what causes the ball to move horizontally as it approaches the plate, mimicking the erratic flight of a flying disc, hence the name.

This pitch is particularly effective because many hitters are accustomed to pitches with vertical movement. The horizontal movement of the flying saucer pitch can disrupt their timing and throw off their swing, leading to weaker contact or missed swings altogether.

Step-by-Step Guide to Throwing a Flying Saucer Pitch

Let’s get into the specifics of how to execute this pitch. You’ll be surprised at how straightforward it is once you understand the key principles.

1. The Baseball Preparation: The Sharpie Line

The first visual aid to help you understand and execute the side spin is drawing a straight line around the baseball. Grab a Sharpie or any marker and carefully draw a line directly around the circumference of the baseball. This line will be your visual guide during your throwing motion.

• Why this works: The straight line acts as instant feedback. As you throw, you can observe the line and see if it’s spinning straight (incorrect) or tilted (correct side spin).

2. Grip and Hand Position

There isn’t one single ‘correct’ grip for the flying saucer pitch, and it’s where personal experimentation comes into play. However, the fundamental idea is to facilitate side spin.

• Basic Grip: Start with a grip similar to a four-seam fastball, but slightly off-center. Instead of placing your index and middle fingers directly on top of the seams, shift them slightly to the side of the ball.
• Thumb Placement: Your thumb will likely be positioned more on the side of the ball, contributing to the side rotation.
• Grip Pressure: Don’t squeeze the ball too tightly. A relaxed grip allows for more natural movement and spin. Experiment with different pressure points on the ball to find what gives you the most comfortable side spin.

3. Visualizing the Straight Line During Your Throw

This is crucial! As you go through your pitching motion, focus intently on the Sharpie line you drew. Your goal is NOT to keep the line perfectly straight. Instead…

• Tilt the Line: Imagine tilting the straight line to the side as you release the ball. This mental image helps translate into physical action. You’re essentially trying to make the line spin at an angle, rather than perfectly perpendicular to the direction of the throw.

4. Creating Side Spin Motion

The ’tilt’ visualization is key to generating side spin. Now, let’s talk about the physical motion.

• Arm Slot Adjustment: You might find that a slightly lower or sidearm arm slot naturally encourages side spin. Experiment with subtle adjustments to your arm angle to see what feels most effective.
• Wrist Action: Your wrist plays a significant role. Instead of snapping down (like a curveball) or back (like a fastball), think about a more sideways wrist action. Imagine you’re trying to ‘wipe’ or ‘brush’ the side of the ball as you release it.
• Follow-Through: Your follow-through should be consistent with the side spin motion. Allow your arm to naturally finish across your body, emphasizing the sideways rotation.

5. Practice and Refinement: Seeing the Movement

Consistency is king in pitching. Here’s how to make your practice sessions effective:

• Watch the Line: During practice throws, keep your eyes glued to the Sharpie line. Are you seeing it tilt? Is it wobbling excessively (which indicates inconsistent spin)?
• Observe the Ball Flight: Throw into a net or have a catcher. Watch the trajectory of the ball. Are you getting that horizontal movement? Does it resemble a ‘flying saucer’ in its flight path?
• Adjust Your Grip and Motion: Based on what you observe, make small adjustments to your grip, arm slot, and wrist action. Pitching is about constant feedback and refinement.
• Start Slow: Don’t try to throw with maximum velocity initially. Focus on getting the spin and movement down at a comfortable pace. Velocity can be increased later.

Pro Tips and Tricks for Mastering the Flying Saucer Pitch

Once you’ve grasped the fundamentals, these advanced tips can help you elevate your flying saucer pitch to the next level:

• Vary Grip Pressure: Subtle changes in grip pressure can alter the amount of side spin and the pitch’s movement. Experiment with applying slightly more pressure with your index or middle finger to influence the direction and sharpness of the break.
• Explore Different Grips: Don’t be afraid to deviate from the basic grip. Some pitchers find success with a more split-finger style grip for this pitch, or by placing their fingers more directly on the side of the ball. Personalize your grip to maximize your comfort and spin generation.
• Body Posture and Alignment: Your entire body contributes to the pitch. Ensure you have good posture and alignment towards your target. A balanced stance and consistent stride are crucial for repeatable mechanics and consistent side spin.
• Drills for Side Spin Control: Incorporate drills that specifically target side spin. One effective drill is to throw against a wall, focusing solely on making the Sharpie line tilt consistently. Another is practicing in front of a mirror to visually monitor your arm slot and wrist action.
• Troubleshooting Inconsistent Movement: If your flying saucer pitch isn’t moving as expected, analyze these common issues:
  • Wobbly Spin: Indicates uneven pressure or an inconsistent release. Focus on a smoother, more deliberate throwing motion.
  • Too Much Vertical Movement: You might be inadvertently adding topspin or backspin. Ensure you are truly focusing on the side spin and not tilting your hand forward or backward excessively.
  • Lack of Speed: Side spin pitches are often slower, but too little velocity can make them less effective. Gradually increase your arm speed while maintaining the side spin, as your technique improves.
• The Benefit of Surprise: The flying saucer pitch is effective precisely because it’s not a commonly thrown pitch. Hitters are often unprepared for the horizontal movement. Use it strategically to disrupt their rhythm, especially against hitters who are expecting more traditional fastballs or breaking balls.
• Using it in Different Counts: Don’t just use it as a novelty pitch. The flying saucer can be effective in various counts:
  • Early Counts: To get ahead and show the hitter something different early.
  • 2-Strike Counts: As a deceptive pitch to induce weak contact or a swing-and-miss.
  • Runners On Base: To potentially induce ground balls or disrupt the hitter’s focus on stealing.
• Strength and Conditioning: While not requiring brute force, developing forearm and wrist strength can aid in spin consistency and control. Incorporate exercises like wrist curls and forearm rotations into your training routine.
• Warm-Up Properly: Never attempt new pitches without a proper warm-up. Gradually prepare your arm and shoulder muscles before practicing the flying saucer pitch to prevent injuries.
• Safety First: Listen to your body. If you experience any pain or discomfort in your shoulder or elbow, stop and rest. Proper technique and gradual progression are key to avoiding injuries.
• Advanced Movement Techniques: As you become more proficient, you can explore subtle variations to the pitch, such as slightly altering the angle of tilt for different movement patterns. Mastering the basic side spin is the foundation for these advanced techniques.
• Mental Game: Pitching is as much mental as physical. Approach practicing the flying saucer pitch with confidence and patience. Visualize success and trust your ability to execute the pitch.
• Reading Hitters’ Reactions: Pay attention to how hitters react to the pitch in games or practice. Are they swinging and missing? Are they making weak contact? Adjust your pitch location and frequency based on these observations to optimize its effectiveness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overthinking the Grip: Keep the grip relatively simple and focus more on the throwing motion and visualization. Don’t get bogged down in overly complex grip adjustments early on.
• Forcing the Movement: Trying too hard to create side spin can lead to tension and inconsistent mechanics. Let the side spin develop naturally through proper technique and visualization.
• Ignoring Visual Feedback: Not paying attention to the Sharpie line or the ball flight and just throwing blindly is counterproductive. Use visual cues to guide your adjustments.
• Lack of Patience: Mastering a new pitch takes time. Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t click immediately. Consistent practice and refinement are essential.

Conclusion: Add the Flying Saucer to Your Arsenal

The flying saucer pitch is a fantastic addition to any pitcher’s repertoire. It’s relatively easy to learn, offers unique movement, and can be a highly effective tool for disrupting hitters. By following these steps, practicing diligently, and incorporating the tips provided, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this intriguing pitch.

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