changeup

A changeup is a type of off-speed pitch used in baseball. It is designed to resemble a pitcher’s fastball in release and arm action, but arrives noticeably slower, typically 8 to 15 miles per hour slower than the pitcher’s fastball. The goal is to disrupt the hitter’s timing.

Effective changeups rely on deception. A pitcher uses the same throwing motion as a fastball, but alters the grip and release to reduce velocity and often create slight downward or tailing action. Proper command is crucial; poor control can lead to walks or hittable contact.

Common grips include circle change, palm-change, and straight-change. The circle change uses the thumb and index finger to form a circle on the ball, with the middle finger near the seam to stabilize the release. The straight-change uses a firmer grip across the seams to reduce spin and velocity. The palm-change places more of the ball in the palm for a different release timing. Each grip can affect velocity, movement, and sink.

Usage and strategy involve pairing the changeup with a fastball to disrupt the hitter’s timing. It is often thrown in fastball counts or with two strikes to generate swings and misses or weak contact. The effectiveness depends on consistent arm speed, precise location, and the ability to mimic a fastball’s rhythm.

History and scope: The changeup emerged in the early 20th century as pitchers sought to counter fastball hitters and remains a central component of many pitching repertoires at all levels.