Yellow Hammer

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A nickname for an exceptional curveball. The term is derived from the similarity between a sharp 12-to-6 downward breaking curve and the manner in which the Yellowhammer bird dives towards its insect prey. Slow curves or curves with progressive, arcing breaks would not be identified by this term. Active MLB pitchers who have been known to throw curves of Yellow Hammer quality include David Wells, Ben Sheets, Kerry Wood, Tom Gordon, John Lackey, and Barry Zito. Former pitchers who were known to possess this pitch include Sandy Koufax, Nolan Ryan, Dwight Gooden, Bert Blyleven, and Rick Ankiel (retired from pitching but now active as a major-league outfielder).