Definition

A four-seam fastball is almost always the fastest and straightest pitch a pitcher throws. It is also generally the most frequently utilized.

The four-seam fastball is typically one of the easiest pitches for a pitcher to place, because of the lack of movement on the pitch. It is often used to overpower hitters, with the goal being for the pitch to get to the strike zone faster than the hitter can handle, thus creating a swing and miss or weak contact because of a late swing. The pitch derives its name because upon being released, four seams come into view on the ball with each rotation.