Ted West's definitions

junkball

In baseball, a pitch that is difficult to hit due to movement rather than velocity or power, such as a breaking ball or a knuckleball. A junkball (or "junk-ball" or "junk ball") will often be caught by the catcher in the dirt. It is often just as difficult for hitter to hit, as it is for a catcher to catch. Bill Lee, Pedro Martinez and Tim Wakefield of the Boston Red Sox are known to be junkball pitchers.

A catcher for a junkball pitcher should have a large glove and a quick eye.

by Ted West April 25, 2007