The submarine pitch is one of the most mesmerizing and effective tools in a pitcher’s arsenal. Characterized by a release point that skims the dirt, it defies the traditional “downward plane” logic of baseball, instead offering hitters a look that appears to rise or sink heavily from an impossible angle.
However, transitioning to a submarine delivery is not merely about “throwing low.” It requires a complete overhaul of your body’s mechanics, a deep understanding of horizontal rotation, and a strict adherence to safety protocols to protect your arm.
This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of how to master this unique craft using professional insights and biomechanical fundamentals.
Understanding the Submarine Advantage
Unlike traditional overhand pitching, the submarine delivery utilizes a sidearm or underhand release angle that is often just inches from the ground.
The primary advantage of this style is visual deception. Because the ball is released so low and travels on a horizontal axis, it creates a “sweeping” movement that is incredibly difficult for hitters to track.
By aggressively leaning your torso toward your throwing side, you change the hitter’s perspective entirely, making the ball appear as though it is rising as it enters the strike zone.
The Foundation: Grip and Axis
Before you even begin your windup, you must master the grip. While some pitchers experiment with various holds, the standard four-seam grip is the gold standard for the submarine style.
Why the four-seam grip?
- Maximum Backspin: In a submarine delivery, the goal is to maximize backspin to ensure the ball remains stable throughout its flight.
- Stability: This grip helps the ball rotate around a nearly horizontal axis, which is essential for achieving that signature sweeping movement.
Step-by-Step Submarine Mechanics
Mastering the submarine pitch requires a synchronized effort from the entire body. It is a misconception that the movement comes only from the arm; in reality, it is a product of torso positioning and lower-body drive.
1: The Initial Move and Body Alignment
The delivery begins with your path toward the plate. One of the most critical first steps is ensuring you come across your body during the initial phase of the motion. This cross-body movement sets the stage for the deceptive angle the hitter will eventually see.
2: The Aggressive Torso Lean
The “secret sauce” of the submarine pitch is the torso lean. To achieve the necessary release height near the ground, you must lean your torso aggressively forward and toward your throwing side.
- Right-handed pitchers should lean deep toward their right side.
- Left-handed pitchers should lean deep toward their left side.
This lean is what allows your arm to reach that ultra-low slot without forcing the arm itself into an unnatural position relative to your shoulder.
3: The Lower Body Engine
Because the torso lean is so extreme, your legs must work twice as hard to maintain balance and generate power.
- Back Leg Rotation: Your back leg must rotate quickly to compensate for the extreme lean of your upper body.
- Propulsion: Do not rely on your arm to generate speed. Instead, focus on using your lower body to drive forward, effectively propelling your entire frame toward the catcher.
4: The Release Point and the “Elbow Rule”
As you reach the release point, the ball should be let go at a sidearm or underhand angle. However, there is one non-negotiable rule for safety and power: Keep your elbow above your shoulder.
Even though your hand is near the ground, your torso lean should be so significant that your elbow remains positioned higher than your shoulder line. This ensures you are throwing with your whole body rather than placing the entire burden of the pitch on your arm.
Expanding the Arsenal: The Submarine Slider
Once you have mastered the basic submarine delivery, you can begin to add variety. A slider is considered the most effective companion pitch to a submarine delivery.
Because the submarine fastball already has a sweeping motion, the slider can be trained to sweep in the opposite direction, creating a horizontal “X” pattern that leaves hitters guessing. Developing this requires consistent practice to build the necessary muscle memory for such a specialized delivery.
Critical Safety Warnings: Protecting the Arm
Submarine pitching is effective, but it places unique stresses on the human body that traditional pitching does not. To have a long career in this style, you must avoid these common mechanical failures:
- Don’t Drop the Elbow: Dropping the elbow below the shoulder is the leading cause of injury in submarine pitchers. Always maintain that “elbow up” relationship relative to your torso.
- Don’t Drop the Trunk Too Early: If your trunk (torso) drops too early in the delivery, you lose the “whip” effect, which drastically reduces your velocity.
- Engage the Legs: Failing to use your legs forces the arm to do all the work, leading to rapid fatigue and potential ligament damage.
Physical Conditioning for Submarine Pitchers
Because of the “extreme lean” and horizontal rotation, submarine pitchers must prioritize specific areas in the weight room. To stay healthy, focus on strengthening your:
- Lower Back: To support the aggressive torso lean.
- Core: To facilitate the rapid rotation and stability needed during the delivery.
- Shoulders: To stabilize the joint during the unique release path.
Summary: The Path to Submarine Mastery
The submarine pitch is a blend of extreme physics and deceptive artistry. By focusing on an aggressive torso lean, keeping your elbow above your shoulder, and driving through your lower body, you can create a delivery that is both dominant and sustainable.
Remember, the goal is to throw with your whole body, using your unique angle to keep hitters off balance while maintaining the health of your arm.
