Reading spin & movement for better pitch recognition starts with understanding EXACTLY what each pitch typically type does after the pitcher releases the ball.

Once a hitter understands the spin, shade and overall movement of each pitch type, then it's about having the instincts to showcase elite level pitch recognition.

A solid reddish/brownish shade. Tighter spin. Typically is the pitch with the least amount of movement. Occasionally a pitcher with a three-quarters release or a left-handed pitch will have some natural movement on their four-seam fastball.

Slight horizontal, looser spin with a lighter shade. The Pitch cuts towards the pitcher's throwing side.

The movement is similar to a left-handed four-seam or a three-quarters release.

A Light shade. The Pitch pops out of pitcher's hands at the release point. Occasionally breaks 12 to 6 o'clock. Occasionally, you can also pick up the curveball from the angle of the wrist.

The wrist will seem wider as the pitcher's fingers are placed on the side of the ball.

A beginner's curveball will occasionally have the index finger up and off the ball.

A darker shade than a breaking ball. Resembles the fastball

The slider breaks toward the pitcher's glove side. There's also a "red dot" at two o'clock.

The lightest shade of all the pitches. An off-white tint. The spin direction is the opposite of the breaking ball. When thrown right, the pitch seems to "drop off the table."

There you have it. Reading spin & movement for better pitch Recognition on these five pitches is one of the quickest ways to sharpen the tools in your toolbox to develop elite-level pitch recognition and baseball vision.