Introduction
In Major League Baseball (MLB), the ability to throw both a dominant four-seam and two-seam fastball can make a pitcher nearly unhittable. While the four-seam fastball is known for its straight-line speed and rising effect, the two-seam fastball (or sinker) offers late movement that can fool hitters and generate weak contact.
This article explores some of the top MLB pitchers who have mastered both types of fastballs, the advantages of incorporating both into a pitching arsenal, and how these pitchers use them strategically to dominate the game.
What Are the Four-Seam and Two-Seam Fastballs?
The Four-Seam Fastball
Grip: Held with fingers across the seams, providing backspin.
Speed: Typically the fastest pitch in a pitcher’s arsenal, often ranging from 95-100 mph.
Movement: Minimal, often appearing to "rise" due to its high backspin.
Usage: Best used for overpowering hitters and inducing swing-and-miss strikes.
The Two-Seam Fastball
Grip: Fingers placed along the seams, resulting in a slight downward and horizontal movement.
Speed: Slightly slower than the four-seam fastball, usually in the low to mid-90s.
Movement: More arm-side run and sink, making it harder for hitters to square up.
Usage: Effective for inducing ground balls and keeping hitters off balance.
Top MLB Pitchers Who Excel with Both Fastballs
1. Kodai Senga (New York Mets)
Senga has become a vital pitcher for the Mets, using both a high-velocity four-seam fastball and an improved sinker to keep hitters guessing. His ability to combine these with his devastating ghost forkball makes him a nightmare for batters.
2. Robbie Ray (San Francisco Giants)
Ray has been developing a new changeup but remains dominant due to his ability to mix a rising four-seamer with a sharp two-seamer. This mix allows him to attack batters at different eye levels, making his breaking pitches even more effective.
3. Camilo Doval (San Francisco Giants)
Doval is a rare case who throws a sinker (two-seam fastball) and a cutter at elite speeds. His fastball combination allows him to challenge hitters with different movements, keeping them off balance.
4. Josh Hader (San Diego Padres)
Hader’s fastball is unique—his two-seam fastball moves like a four-seamer, making it extremely deceptive. His delivery and arm slot make it even tougher for hitters to recognize the difference between his fastball variations.
5. Aroldis Chapman (Kansas City Royals)
Chapman has always been known for his blistering 100+ mph four-seam fastball, but he has also incorporated a two-seam fastball to add depth and movement, making him even more effective against hitters sitting on his heat.
6. Jordan Hicks (St. Louis Cardinals)
Hicks is one of the hardest throwers in the league, regularly hitting 100 mph with both his four-seam and two-seam fastballs. His two-seamer, in particular, is a devastating weapon with late movement that induces a high number of ground balls.
Why Mixing Both Fastballs is Essential in MLB
1. Deception Against Hitters
Using both fastballs effectively forces hitters to guess what’s coming. A straight four-seamer at the top of the zone contrasts perfectly with a two-seamer that runs in on their hands.
2. Inducing Weak Contact
The two-seamer is excellent for generating ground balls, reducing home run susceptibility. The four-seamer, on the other hand, can be used for strikeouts.
3. Maximizing Pitch Efficiency
Having both fastballs allows pitchers to extend their outings. Two-seamers can generate quick outs, while four-seamers can be used strategically in strikeout situations.
Questions & Answers
Q1: How does a pitcher decide when to use a four-seam or two-seam fastball?
A: Typically, four-seam fastballs are used in high-strikeout situations or up in the zone, while two-seamers are used to induce ground balls or jam hitters.
Q2: Can every pitcher throw both a four-seam and a two-seam fastball effectively?
A: Not necessarily. Some pitchers naturally excel at one over the other based on their arm angle and grip comfort. However, many elite pitchers develop both to increase their effectiveness.
Q3: Why do some pitchers abandon the two-seam fastball?
A: Some pitchers struggle with command or movement consistency. Additionally, modern analytics favor high-spin four-seam fastballs for inducing more swings and misses.
Q4: Who is the best example of a pitcher using both fastballs effectively?
A: Jacob deGrom, when healthy, uses both pitches effectively, combining elite velocity with precision control.
Q5: How can young pitchers learn to master both pitches?
A: By focusing on proper grip, release point, and mechanics while regularly experimenting with both pitches in different game situations.
Best MLB pitchers with four-seam and two-seam fastballs
Four-seam vs. two-seam fastball differences
How to throw a two-seam fastball
Top fastball pitchers in MLB
How to develop a dominant fastball
Best two-seam fastball pitchers
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Conclusion
The ability to throw both a four-seam and a two-seam fastball is a valuable skill in MLB. Pitchers who master both can deceive hitters, induce weak contact, and maximize their effectiveness on the mound. As analytics evolve, pitchers continue to refine their fastballs to gain an edge in the game.
Who do you think has the best fastball in the MLB today? Comment below!
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