What is a Good Spin Rate for? Understanding the Connection between RPM and Pitch Movement
Are you a baseball fan curious about the impact of spin rate on pitching? Spin rate has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its significant impact on pitch movement. In this blog post, we'll delve into the topic of spin rate in baseball and its crucial connection to pitch movement.
Firstly, we'll define spin rate and explore the various measurement techniques used to analyze it. Secondly, we'll discuss the ideal spin rates for different pitches, such as what is a good spin rate for a slider or fastball. Lastly, we'll provide valuable insights on how pitchers can leverage spin rate data to enhance their performance on the mound. With our comprehensive understanding of spin rate in baseball, you'll be able to improve your pitching skills and take your game to the next level.
I. Defining Spin Rate
Spin rate is an essential measure that shows the speed at which a baseball rotates while moving through the air. RPM (revolutions per minute) is the standard unit of spin rate measurement. The measurement is acquired by examining the movements of the seams on a baseball as they revolve surrounding the core, usually through Trackman or Rhapsodo. For fastball, a good spin rate is between 2,200 to 2,600 RPM, and for sliders, it ranges from 2,500 to 2,900 RPM
II. Relationship Between Spin Rate and Pitch Movement.
Spin rate has a direct correlation with pitch movement. Generally, the higher the spin rate, the more movement a pitch will have. This is because a higher spin rate creates more air resistance, which causes the ball to move in a certain direction.
For example, a fastball with a high spin rate will typically have a rising effect, while a fastball with a low spin rate will sink. Similarly, a slider with a high spin rate will have later break, while a slider with a lower spin rate will be loopier.
Alek Manoah shown, on the left with a lower velocity lower spinrate (1800 rpm) slider and on the right higher velocity higher spin (2300 rpm) (MLB.com)
III. How Can Pitchers Use Spin Rate to Throw Better Pitches?
Pitchers can use spin rate to their advantage by understanding how it affects the movement of their pitches. High spin rate pitches generally have a later, more aggressive break, while low spin rate pitches are often more "loopy." Here are a few examples of how spin rate can impact specific pitches:
High spin rate overhand fastballs have a rising effect. Low spin rate have sinking movement.
High spin rate sliders are typically later breaking. Low Spin rate Sliders are more frisbee like. (refer to the video of Alek Manoah above)
Lower spin rate changeups/splitters drop more due to air resistance. Higher spin rate moves as well but cuts through the air
(These are just general rules of thumbs, there are outliners to all these cases.)
By understanding how spin rate affects their pitches, pitchers can adjust improve their performance on the mound. They can experiment with different grips or focus on generating more spin to create the desired movement on their pitches.
My Opinion
I do think spin rate has become a fun buzz word because it is automatically measured by Trackman, and Rhapsodo. I do not think it is an end all be all like prep baseball has made it out to be. It can be used to your advantage if you understand how your spin rates work with your pitches, and you play with it to develop your pitch action by getting reps and testing it.
IV. Common Questions About Spin Rate
What is a good spin rate for a fastball?
A good spin rate for a 93 mph fastball is typically around 2200 RPM. Given that’s the MLB average from 2022.
How does spin rate affect pitch movement?
As discussed in section III, spin rate has a direct correlation with pitch movement. Generally, the higher the spin rate, the later movement a pitch will have.
Can a pitcher improve their spin rate?
There are several ways a pitcher can improve their spin rate. One of the most well-known methods is using sticky substances on the ball, as demonstrated by Trevor Bauer’s sticky stuff experiment in 2018 where he used foreign substances. Pitchers can also experiment with different grips to alter their spin rate.
What other factors impact pitch movement?
In addition to spin rate, other factors that can impact pitch movement include velocity, release point, and arm angle.
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