Dustin May’s Pitching Mastery: A Breakdown of His Two-Seamer and Breaking Ball

In the world of baseball, few things are as captivating as the art of pitching. Among the standout pitchers in Major League Baseball (MLB) today is Dustin May, known for his impressive repertoire of pitches. Recently, a tweet by Rob Friedman, popularly known as Pitching Ninja, showcased a fascinating overlay of May’s two-seam fastball and breaking ball, highlighting the unique challenges he presents to hitters. This summary will delve into the details of Dustin May’s pitching technique, his pitch types, and their impact on the game.

Understanding Dustin May’s Pitching Style

Dustin May, a right-handed pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has gained considerable attention for his exceptional skills on the mound. His ability to combine speed with movement makes him a formidable opponent for any batter. According to the information shared by Pitching Ninja on Twitter, May’s two-seamer reaches speeds of up to 95 mph, while his breaking ball hovers around 86 mph.

The Two-Seam Fastball: A Pitcher’s Secret Weapon

The two-seam fastball is one of the most effective pitches in a pitcher’s arsenal. Unlike a four-seam fastball, which is designed for maximum speed and straight trajectory, the two-seamer is thrown with a grip that causes the ball to have lateral movement. This results in a pitch that can tail in on right-handed batters or away from left-handed batters, making it difficult to hit. Dustin May’s two-seamer, clocking in at 95 mph, showcases not only speed but also the ability to induce weak contact or swings and misses.

The effectiveness of May’s two-seam fastball can be attributed to his unique release point and arm angle. By leveraging his height and long limbs, he creates a deceptive delivery that keeps hitters off balance. The combination of speed and movement makes the two-seamer an essential part of his pitching strategy.

The Breaking Ball: A Pitch That Keeps Hitters Guessing

Complementing his two-seamer is May’s breaking ball, which he throws at a speed of 86 mph. This pitch, often characterized by its sharp downward break, serves as a critical tool for keeping hitters guessing. When executed correctly, the breaking ball can result in swings and misses or weak contact, leading to easy outs for the defense.

Dustin May’s breaking ball is particularly effective due to its late movement. Batters often struggle to recognize the pitch until it’s too late, resulting in a significant advantage for May. The overlay shared by Pitching Ninja illustrates how the two pitches work in tandem, creating a challenging scenario for any hitter facing him.

The Importance of Pitch Overlays in Baseball Analysis

The use of pitch overlays, like the one shared in the tweet, has become increasingly popular among analysts, coaches, and fans alike. By visually comparing different pitches, observers can gain valuable insights into a pitcher’s mechanics and strategy. In May’s case, the overlay highlights the contrast in speed and movement between his two-seam fastball and breaking ball.

This type of analysis is crucial for understanding a pitcher’s effectiveness and how they can exploit the weaknesses of opposing hitters. Coaches can use this information to refine a pitcher’s mechanics, while hitters can study the overlays to better prepare for their matchups against specific pitchers.

Dustin May’s Impact on the Game

Dustin May’s pitching prowess has made him a key player for the Dodgers and a fan favorite. His ability to generate strikeouts and induce ground balls makes him a valuable asset in high-pressure situations. As a young pitcher, May has already demonstrated the potential to become one of the elite starters in the league.

In addition to his on-field performance, May’s approach to pitching reflects a broader trend in baseball toward an emphasis on analytics and data-driven decision-making. Pitchers are now more aware of their pitch types, movement profiles, and the specific tendencies of opposing batters. This shift has led to a new era of pitching, where precision and strategy are paramount.

Conclusion

Dustin May’s two-seam fastball and breaking ball are not just pitches; they are tools that exemplify the complexity and artistry of baseball pitching. The recent tweet from Rob Friedman encapsulates the essence of what makes May a compelling player to watch. His ability to combine speed with movement challenges hitters and keeps them guessing, making him a standout pitcher in Major League Baseball.

As fans and analysts continue to dissect the nuances of pitching, understanding the mechanics and strategies behind pitches like May’s will only enhance the appreciation for the game. With his promising career ahead, Dustin May is undoubtedly a name to watch in the coming seasons, as he continues to refine his craft and dominate on the mound. For those interested in the intricacies of baseball, May’s pitching style serves as a perfect case study in the evolution of the game, showcasing how talent, technique, and analytical insight come together to create a formidable force on the field.

To see the original overlay shared by Pitching Ninja, check out the tweet here.

Dustin May, 95mph Two Seamer and 86mph Breaking Ball, Overlay.

Good luck. pic.twitter.com/P4cZ3qxzyk

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) April 15, 2025

Dustin May, 95mph Two Seamer and 86mph Breaking Ball, Overlay

When it comes to the game of baseball, few things are as thrilling as the art of pitching. The sheer power and finesse displayed by pitchers can leave even the most seasoned fans in awe. One pitcher who has been turning heads recently is Dustin May. Known for his electric performances on the mound, May’s arsenal features a blistering 95mph two-seamer and an 86mph breaking ball, showcased brilliantly in an overlay that has fans buzzing. Let’s dive deeper into what makes Dustin May such a remarkable talent.

Dustin May’s Unique Pitching Style

Dustin May, a right-handed pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has quickly established himself as one of the rising stars in Major League Baseball. His unique pitching style combines a powerful two-seamer with a sharp breaking ball, making it incredibly challenging for batters to find their rhythm at the plate. The overlay of his pitches, as shared by [Pitching Ninja](https://twitter.com/PitchingNinja/status/1911972204490764551?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw), highlights the contrast in speed and movement, showcasing the skill and precision that May brings to each game.

The two-seamer, which clocks in at an impressive 95mph, is not just about speed; it’s about movement. This pitch typically breaks in on right-handed batters, making it difficult for them to make solid contact. The combination of velocity and lateral movement can lead to weak ground balls or swings and misses, which is precisely what any pitcher hopes for.

Breaking Down the 86mph Breaking Ball

Now, let’s talk about that 86mph breaking ball. This pitch is what sets May apart from many other pitchers. While the two-seamer is impressive, the breaking ball adds another layer of complexity to his pitching repertoire. It drops sharply, making it a nightmare for hitters who are expecting a fastball. The combination of the two-seamer and breaking ball creates a dynamic that keeps batters guessing. They have to choose whether to swing early at the fastball or wait for the breaking ball, which can lead to indecision and ultimately, poor contact.

The overlay shared by [Rob Friedman](https://twitter.com/PitchingNinja/status/1911972204490764551?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) demonstrates just how effective these two pitches can be when used in tandem. The visual representation of the pitch movement helps fans and aspiring pitchers alike understand the importance of pitch selection and execution.

Strategies for Success on the Mound

Dustin May’s success isn’t merely due to his physical abilities; it’s also about his mental game. Pitchers must not only focus on their delivery but also on their strategy against each batter. May often analyzes the tendencies of his opponents, allowing him to adjust his pitch selection accordingly. This strategic mindset is crucial in high-pressure situations, especially in late-game scenarios where every pitch counts.

Moreover, May’s ability to maintain composure on the mound is a significant asset. He understands that with speed comes responsibility. Rushing pitches can lead to mistakes, and May’s calm demeanor allows him to focus on executing his game plan. It’s a skill that many young pitchers strive to develop, and May showcases how vital it is for success at the highest level.

The Impact of High-velocity Pitches in Modern Baseball

In recent years, baseball has seen an increase in the velocity of pitches across the league. More and more pitchers are throwing in the 90s, making it essential for hitters to adapt quickly. The rise of analytics has also changed the way teams approach pitching and hitting, with a focus on maximizing exit velocities and launch angles. In this context, having a pitcher like Dustin May, who can throw a 95mph two-seamer while also possessing an effective breaking ball, is invaluable for a team’s success.

As teams continue to prioritize high-velocity arms, it’s fascinating to watch how pitchers like May evolve their games. They need to stay ahead of the curve, adapting to new strategies and technologies while maintaining their identity on the mound.

Fan Engagement and the Future of Dustin May

Fans love to rally behind players who show promise, and Dustin May is no exception. His vibrant personality and exciting pitching style have earned him a dedicated following. Social media platforms have allowed fans to engage with players like never before, and May’s highlights frequently make their rounds online. The overlay of his pitches, shared by Pitching Ninja, is a perfect example of how technology can enhance the fan experience. It allows fans to appreciate the intricacies of pitching in a way that was not possible before.

As May continues to develop and refine his skills, the excitement surrounding his career only grows. Fans eagerly anticipate each outing, hoping to see him deliver another stellar performance. The combination of his electric fastball and breaking ball makes him a must-watch, and he has the potential to become one of the league’s premier pitchers.

The Importance of Training and Development

Behind every successful pitcher like Dustin May lies a rigorous training regimen. Developing a 95mph two-seamer and an effective breaking ball doesn’t happen overnight. It requires countless hours of practice, dedication, and a willingness to learn. May likely spends significant time in the gym, working on strength and conditioning, as well as on the field, fine-tuning his mechanics.

Moreover, collaboration with coaches and analysts plays a crucial role in a pitcher’s development. They help identify areas for improvement and suggest adjustments that can enhance performance. May’s ability to embrace feedback and adapt his training is a testament to his work ethic and commitment to excellence.

Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for Dustin May?

As we look ahead, the future seems bright for Dustin May. With a potent combination of a 95mph two-seamer and an 86mph breaking ball, he has positioned himself as one of the exciting young talents in baseball. The overlay showcasing his pitches is more than just a visual; it’s a glimpse into the hard work and strategy that define his game.

For fans and aspiring pitchers, May serves as an inspiration. His journey emphasizes the importance of skill, strategy, and dedication in achieving success on the mound. As he continues to hone his craft and adapt to the evolving game of baseball, there’s no telling how far Dustin May can go. So, let’s keep our eyes peeled for what’s next in his career, because if his current trajectory is any indication, it’s bound to be an exhilarating ride.