split-fingered fastball

American  

[split-fing-gerd fast-bawl] / ˈsplɪtˌfɪŋ gərd ˈfæstˌbɔl /

noun

Baseball.

1. a pitch, similar to the forkball but thrown with the same arm speed as a fastball, that drops suddenly as it nears the batter.

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Etymology

Origin of split-fingered fastball

First recorded in 1975–80; split ( def. ) (in the sense “parted lengthwise”) + fingered ( def. ) + fastball ( def. )

Example Sentences

The velocity of his secondary pitches were also down Saturday, his curve by 2.4 mph and his split-fingered fastball by 2.9 mph.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 16, 2024

Miller is breaking in a new split-fingered fastball that has shown some exciting potential.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 7, 2024

Unable to throw as hard as he could previously, Sutter had the good fortune to learn the split-fingered fastball from Cubs minor league pitching instructor Fred Martin at spring training in 1973.

From Washington Times • Oct. 14, 2022

Gausman admitted he has lacked command of his split-fingered fastball in his last two performances.

From Fox News • Jul. 25, 2021

Though he had a 7.88 ERA in three starts, he struck out 14 and walked five in eight innings, his fastball touching 102 mph and his split-fingered fastball nasty at times.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2021