What makes a two seam fastball different from a four seam fastball? To put it simply, movement. A proper two seam fastball thrown from a right handed pitcher should move in towards a right handed hitter. This extra movement is what gives the pitcher a step up on the hitter. The velocity on a two seam fastball may be a bit slower than the four seam, but the extra movement can make the two seamer a great extra pitch.
The Grip
The two seam fastball grip is slightly different than that of a four seam fastball. The pitcher should place his index and middle finger along the two narrow seams of the baseball, with his thumb place on the underside of the ball. His ring and pinky fingers should be tucked comfortably against the side of the baseball, out of the way.
The Release
When the pitcher is releasing the two seam fastball, he should apply a bit of extra pressure to his index finger towards the inner half of the baseball. This extra force should cause the ball to "tail" into a right handed hitter, for a righty pitcher, and vice versa for a left handed pitcher. The more pressure applied to the inside of the ball, the more movement that will be generated with the pitch.
The Finish
To finish the two seam fastball, the pitcher should follow through like he would throwing a four seam fastball. Snapping the wrist downwards at the end of the pitch will create more backspin, which will result in more movement.
When to Throw
The two seam fastball should not be overthrown. A general rule of thumb is for right handed pitchers to throw the two seam fastball inside to right handed hitters. This will cause the ball to run in on their hands and will jam them up, most likely resulting in a ground out. If a pitcher is seeing an exceptional amount of movement on his two seamer, he may be able to "back door" the hitter by placing the pitch on the outside corner.
Practice Is Necessary
Practicing the two seam fastball is necessary for a pitcher to have good command with it. With the amount of movement it can generate, the pitcher needs to know how much movement will result from the pitch. Practicing it during bullpen sessions, or even just playing catch can help the pitcher get the proper feel of the pitch.
Take Caution
Use caution when applying pressure to the inner half of the ball. Any rotation of the wrist or elbow can result in injuries and arm pain. Ensure that pressure is only being applied to the ball, and no inward twisting of the wrist or elbow is involved.
Mix It Up
Being able to throw the two and four seam fastball accurately is a deadly combination for a pitcher to wield. If he can locate his four seamer on the outside corner, and jam the hitters on the inside with his two seamer, the opposing team will have a long game ahead of them.
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