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breaking pitch

baseball
Also known as: breaking ball

Quick Summary

In baseball, a "breaking ball" is a pitch that curves. This type of pitch is thrown with the intention of deceiving the batter by changing direction as it approaches home plate. The curve is achieved through specific spinning techniques applied by the pitcher.1

A "pitchout" is a different type of pitch, deliberately thrown wide of the batter. Its purpose is to allow the catcher to throw out a base runner.2

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. breaking ball
  2. pitchout

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