Definition
A running fastball is a pitch that moves or “tails” into a batter in a “right on right” or a “left on left” matchup. Meaning, the running fastball moves into a right-handed batter when thrown by a right-handed pitcher and into a left-handed batter when thrown by a left-handed pitcher.
Another way to describe this is through the term “arm-side run” meaning the pitch runs to the same side it was thrown from (right to right, etc.). If you were sitting behind home plate as a fan (the best seats at any baseball game) you could witness the movement.
Running Fastball vs. 2-Seam vs. Cutter
The running fastball is most similar to the 2-seam fastball, and can be considered the opposite of a cutter.
To explain, the 2-seam fastball also moves into the batter when released from a pitcher on the same side; so, again, into a right-handed batter from a right-handed pitcher, etc.
However, in terms of pitch movement, the running fastball stays more on the same plane, or even rises, while the 2-seam has more downward movement.
For example, take a look at this awesome graphic from @PitchingNinja on Twitter, which showcases a Kerry Wood running fastball compared to his slider. The difference in motion is breathtaking, but pay close attention to the pitch running up and in to the right-handed Moises Alou.
Kerry Wood, Slider/Running Fastball Overlay pic.twitter.com/nqOey94rxo
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) February 1, 2020
Now, see how that pitch differs from the classic 2-seamer thrown by the best to ever do it, Greg Maddux. Note the difference in the pitch path or plane from Maddux compared to Wood:
Greg Maddux, Two Seamers. #MadduxMonday pic.twitter.com/jrnYnqV0Ln
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) January 25, 2021
Also note that the riser is typically more effective in right on right matchups, where, as Maddux showcases in most of the examples in the video above, 2-seamers are great weapons for right-handed pitchers left-handed batters given the pitch’s ability to look like it’s coming directly at the batter, only to then drop into the strike zone.
Thus, the 2-seamer is usually thrown by “craftier” pitchers while the running fastball is usually fired at higher speeds by harder-throwing pitchers. Either way, it gives you a glimpse into why pitcher is considered one of the most difficult positions in baseball.
The cutter, though, can be considered the opposite of the running fastball in that it cuts across the plate and either into a batter on the other side of the plate or away from a batter on the same side of the plate. Meaning, a right-handed pitcher’s cutter would move away from a right-handed batter and thus into a left-handed batter.
Mariano Rivera breaking Klesko’s bat 3 times in one AB. pic.twitter.com/UTFEoq5On5
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) December 2, 2019
Mariano Rivera was known for his cutter, not only for its movement and his success with the pitch, but also because it was pretty much the only pitch he threw. Everyone knew it was coming, but Rivera is still one of the greatest closers to ever play the game.
All set? Whether it’s as a fan watching a game or playing MLB The Show, or a coach of a young pitcher learning different grips and movements, I hope this clears things up!
