slurve
A slurve is a breaking pitch that sits between a curveball and a slider.
It starts on a slightly lower, arcing trajectory than a curveball, then breaks diagonally downward in a way similar to a slider.
Compared to a slider, it has lower velocity, which results in greater vertical movement.
Overall, it can be thought of as a slider that is closer to a curveball in shape and movement.
Because it does not have the sharp break of a slider or the strong “braking” action of a curveball, the slurve can sometimes become an in-between pitch without a clear advantage.
Using only a fastball and a slurve may lack both velocity contrast and sharp movement.
The slurve is often more effective when combined with harder pitches such as a slider or cutter, which help create better pitch separation.
Sometimes, a slurve can occur unintentionally—for example, when a curveball is not fully “taken off,” or when a slider is released too loosely.
The distinction between a slurve, curveball, and slider is often ambiguous.
Even the pitcher and observers may not always agree on how to classify it.
In recent years, however, Major League Baseball has increasingly recognized pitches like the slurve and sweeper as distinct from traditional sliders.
Grip and Release
The grip is generally the same as a standard slider.
The release is similar to a slider, using a chopping wrist action.
By increasing the outward angle of the wrist slightly, you can make it easier to “take something off” the pitch and reduce how strongly the wrist and fingers apply force at release.
This helps create a softer pitch with more vertical break.
Although this explanation is based on a slider foundation, a similar movement can also be achieved by using a curveball grip and throwing it without fully “taking something off.”
Experiment with both approaches to find what feels most natural.
The more you “take something off” the pitch, the closer it becomes to a curveball.
Adjust the balance between velocity and movement to develop the slurve that best suits your style.