As a curve ball pitcher with Dr. Jobe’s Tommy John scar to show, I can tell you: do not let a kid throw curve balls until he’s at least sixteen years old – their bodies are not ready for the strain. It’s especially true for kids serious about the game. It’s not worth the risk of career-stopping injury.

Besides risking injury, it’s better to work on fast ball pitches and change ups anyway. These need to be learned and perfected first. A pitcher needs to be able to place fast balls and change ups when and where he wants. Every time. The ability to do that comes from practicing good pitching  mechanics.

4 seam fastball grip

The four seam fastball is the first pitch you should learn. It is the easiest pitch to control. Thrown correctly, the ball has a straight movement. It should be thrown when you need a strike. 

4 seam fastball grip - angle 2

  The ball should come off your fingertips. 

4 seam fastball grip - angle 3

Don’t squeeze too hard: the ball should sit relaxed in your hand.