Pitching Techniques: What is a sinker? Why do pitchers use it to get ground balls?

Introduction to Our Baseball Series

Welcome to our series on baseball techniques! In these articles, we delve into various positions, skills, and strategies that contribute to the excitement of this sport. Whether you're a young athlete eager to grasp the fundamentals or a fan seeking deeper insight into the game, we’re here to elucidate baseball concepts in a clear manner. Today, our spotlight is on a notable pitch called the sinker!

What Is a Sinker?

A sinker is a type of pitch in baseball that resembles a fastball but exhibits a distinct downward trajectory as it approaches home plate. Unlike a standard fastball, which tends to travel in a straight line, a sinker "sinks," or drops, abruptly. This descending movement makes it exceptionally challenging for batters to make solid contact and hit the ball into the air.

To execute a sinker, the pitcher utilizes a specific grip. They position their fingers along the seams of the baseball in such a way that facilitates downward motion upon release. When thrown effectively, it can appear as if the ball is plummeting off a table as it nears the batter!

Why Do Pitchers Use Sinkers?

Getting Ground Balls

The primary reason pitchers favor sinkers is their propensity to induce ground balls. When a batter makes contact with a sinker, the downward action of the pitch hinders their ability to elevate the ball. Instead, batters frequently strike the top half of the ball, resulting in a ground ball that bounces towards the infield.

Ground balls present less difficulty for the defense in comparison to fly balls or line drives. They often lead to double plays—an advantageous situation wherein the defense registers two outs in a single play—enabling pitchers to escape challenging situations with efficiency.

Saving Energy

Pitchers who specialize in throwing sinkers do not necessarily aim to strike out every batter they face. Rather, they allow batters to make contact, guiding the ball in a manner that facilitates easier plays for their teammates. This strategy can ultimately assist pitchers in conserving energy by reducing the number of pitches they throw, thus enabling them to remain in the game longer.

Real-Life Sinker Stars

Numerous accomplished pitchers have leveraged sinkers to achieve remarkable careers. Marcus Stroman is renowned for his exceptional sinker that generates a multitude of ground balls. Similarly, Zack Britton has earned a reputation as one of the most formidable relief pitchers by relying heavily on his sinker.

Historical figures like Roy Halladay and Derek Lowe also prominently featured sinkers in their arsenals, leading to numerous victories and earning the admiration of batters throughout the league.

A Day in the Life of a Sinker

Consider a pitcher named Jack participating in a crucial game. The bases are loaded with only one out remaining. Jack knows he must induce the batter into a ground ball to escape the inning without conceding any runs. He confidently decides to unleash his best pitch—the sinker.

As Jack delivers the ball, it appears to be a standard fastball heading confidently down the middle. However, just before reaching home plate, the ball drops unexpectedly. The batter makes a desperate swing and connects with the upper portion of the ball, causing it to bounce toward the shortstop. The shortstop swiftly fields the ball, steps on second base for the force out, and fires it to first base for a double play. Jack's sinker has just saved the inning!

Learning to Throw a Sinker

Aspiring young pitchers typically begin their journey by mastering basic fastballs before attempting a sinker. Throwing a sinker requires precise control and an appropriate grip to achieve the desired motion. Coaches generally advise players to first excel at their regular fastball before progressing to work with a pitching coach to develop their sinker as they mature in their skills.

Conclusion

The sinker stands out as a vital pitch that aids pitchers in their quest for success by compelling batters to strike ground balls. Its unique downward motion distinguishes it from other pitches, presenting a formidable challenge for batters. The next time you watch a baseball game, pay attention to the pitchers as they utilize their sinkers to secure those vital ground ball outs!