changeup

Definitions

noun A pitch thrown with the arm motion of a fastball but traveling at a slower speed so as to cause the batter to swing prematurely.

[Alteration of change-of-pace.]

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And the changeup is an odd pitch for a closer to have.

USATODAY.com - Foulke provides Athletics with the finishing touch 2003
Habyan also makes the point that the changeup is a valuable pitch for young pitchers to develop before attempting to throw a breaking pitch.

USATODAY.com - Ripkens help coaches help youngsters learn basics 2002
The breaking ball was inconsistent and my changeup is the worst I ever remember having.

Major League Baseball - Blue Jays vs. Expos 2001
He's learning with conviction because he knows his changeup is going to be a friend to him.

Rays' Price shines as Minor League Player of the Year 2008
Hamels 'changeup is a major reason he has already taken a spot alongside the elite postseason pitchers of the past 20 years.

Hamels alters Series, confounds hitters with changeup 2008
Weaknesses: His changeup is still a work in progress.

USATODAY.com - American League All-Star capsules 2006
His changeup is back and his breaking ball is good.

USATODAY.com 2005
His changeup is in the 88 - to 89-mph range, but it takes a break and looks like a split-finger.

USATODAY.com - Angels have favored status in AL West 2005
That changeup is nasty and hard to stay back on, even if you look for it.

USATODAY.com - Padres lean on Hoffman for the ride 2005
My changeup is usually a pitch that never fails me, but it wasn't that good today.

USATODAY.com 2004