At Kova Sports, we are always looking for new and innovative ways to help develop the pitch arsenals of high school, college, and professional baseball athletes. That's why we closely follow advancements in the physics and biomechanics behind different pitches. One area that has seen significant progress in recent years is the theory of "seam-shifted wake."
What is Seam-Shifted Wake?
Seam-shifted wake refers to the airflow patterns that are created as specific pitches, like fastballs, curveballs, sliders, etc., travel from the pitcher's hand toward home plate. The orientation of the baseball's seams, combined with the spin applied by the pitcher, shifts the wake (turbulent airflow) around the ball in particular directions. This shift causes the ball to move unexpectedly, making it much more challenging for hitters to square up.
Understanding the physics here allows us to help pitchers optimize spin efficiency. We can help them identify ideal release points, grips, and throwing motions to generate desired wake shifts and pitch movement. Those with extraordinary wrist flexibility and supination or pronation bias can take further advantage of oriented spin.
Trackman and Other Cutting-Edge Technology
Here at Kova Sports, we utilize industry-leading equipment like Trackman to analyze pitcher's repertoires. Trackman uses military-grade 3D Doppler radar to measure detailed pitch metrics like spin axis, spin rate, release height, and velocity.
With this data, our coaches can provide feedback on each athlete's signature pitches and how to leverage their natural physical abilities best. We can help pitchers shape their arsenal based on their talent and goals, whether aiming to baffle hitters with heavy two-seam sinkers or snap nasty 12-6 curveballs.
Proven Development for All Levels
Our coaches have successfully utilized our knowledge of seam-shifted wake and technologies like Trackman across high school, college, amateur, and professional levels. We've helped many young pitchers gain velocity on their fastballs, sharpen their breaking balls, and add cutters, sinkers, and other specialty pitches.
With science on our side, the future is bright for pitchers who train with Kova Sports. The foundations of their success lie in the physics behind the seam-shifted wake. So, if you're a pitcher looking to take your game to the next level, come see us today!