Free guide
Four-Seam Fastball Grip for Kids: The First Pitch to Learn
How to hold a four-seam fastball, in plain steps, and why the fastball is the foundation for every other pitch.
- Beginner series
- Ages 8–16
- Free
Short answer: Put your index and middle fingers across the horseshoe seams, thumb underneath, and hold the ball firm but relaxed. Then throw it like you're playing catch. Less is more, and the fastball is the foundation for every pitch that comes after it.
This is part 6 of our Beginner Pitching Series. It's the grip every beginner learns first.
Why the fastball comes first
The fastball is the foundation. It's the pitch you'll throw most, and it's the one you learn to throw strikes with. Fastball command first, changeup second.
The four-seam grip, step by step
- Find the horseshoe. Turn the ball until the seams make a horseshoe (a "U") shape.
- Fingers across the seams. Lay your index and middle fingers across the horseshoe seams, with a little space between them.
- Thumb underneath. Put your thumb under the ball, roughly between your two top fingers.
- Firm but relaxed. Hold it like you mean it, but don't squeeze it tight.
Throw it like you're playing catch
Once the grip is set, don't overthink it. Throw it like a normal game of catch. Less is more. Trying to do extra with your hand or wrist usually makes the ball harder to control.
Practice ideas
- Pick up a ball and find the grip without looking, a few times a day.
- Play easy catch using only the four-seam grip.
- Then aim it: aim small, miss small has a partner target game.
Warm up first with our pre-catch warmup.
What comes after the fastball
Once fastball strikes feel normal, the next pitch is the changeup. See the beginner changeup section of our changeup guide.
FAQ
What pitch should a kid learn first?
The four-seam fastball. It's the foundation, and it's the easiest pitch to learn to throw for strikes.
How do you hold a four-seam fastball?
Index and middle fingers across the horseshoe seams, thumb underneath, firm but relaxed.
Should my child squeeze the ball tight?
No. Firm but relaxed. A tight squeeze usually makes control harder.
When should they learn another pitch?
After the fastball goes for strikes consistently. Fastball command first, changeup second.
Want help with grips and command?
Send your child's age and goals through the contact page. Private lessons in Naples and around Collier County.