The Lost Art of the Screwball: A Forgotten Pitch in Baseball

🔄The screwball, also known as the fadeaway, was a pitch once favored by legendary pitchers like Carl Hubbell, Fernando Valenzuela, and Christy Mathewson.

⚾Contrary to popular belief, studies have shown that the screwball does not cause more stress on a pitcher's arm than a standard fastball.

📚The screwball requires exceptional control and does not break as sharply as a curveball or slider, making it easier for hitters to anticipate and handle.

🔍Scouting reports and increased knowledge among hitters have made it more difficult for pitchers to surprise batters with the screwball.

🔙Despite its decline in usage, the screwball can still be effective as a surprise weapon in certain situations.

Does throwing a screwball put extra strain on a pitcher's arm?

—No, studies have shown that the screwball does not cause more stress on a pitcher's arm than a standard fastball.

Why has the screwball become less common in modern baseball?

—The screwball requires exceptional control and does not break as sharply as other pitches, making it easier for hitters to anticipate and handle. Scouting reports and increased knowledge among hitters have further diminished its effectiveness.

Who were some of the pitchers known for throwing the screwball?

—Legendary pitchers like Carl Hubbell, Fernando Valenzuela, and Christy Mathewson were known for their mastery of the screwball.

Is there any pitcher currently using the screwball?

—While the usage of the screwball has declined significantly, some pitchers like Yu Darvish and Hector Santiago still incorporate it into their repertoire.

Could the screwball make a comeback in the future?

—Although the screwball has become a rarity in modern baseball, it can still be effective as a surprise weapon in certain situations. It may make a comeback as hitters become less familiar with the pitch.

00:00The screwball, also known as the fadeaway, was once a favored pitch in baseball and used by legendary pitchers like Carl Hubbell and Fernando Valenzuela.

01:18Contrary to popular belief, studies have shown that the screwball does not put extra strain on a pitcher's arm compared to a standard fastball.

01:41The screwball requires exceptional control and does not break as sharply as curves or sliders, making it easier for hitters to anticipate and handle.

03:00Scouting reports and increased knowledge among hitters have made it more difficult for pitchers to surprise batters with the screwball.

04:44Despite its decline in usage, the screwball can still be effective as a surprise weapon in certain situations.