Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael Schatz
Baseball’s most devastating curveballs have left batters baffled and fans amazed for generations. From Sandy Koufax’s “Lord Charles” to Clayton Kershaw’s “Public Enemy No. 1,” these breaking balls have defined careers and changed the game. Here are the 11 most memorable curveballs in baseball history.
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1. Sandy Koufax’s “Lord Charles”
Koufax’s curveball dropped an astounding 12-15 inches, earning its royal nickname. His unusually long fingers created exceptional spin rates, and when paired with his 100-mph fastball, batters stood little chance. During his final four seasons, this devastating combination helped him achieve a remarkable 1.86 ERA and three Cy Young Awards.
2. Bert Blyleven’s Two-Foot Drop
Known as baseball’s curveball gold standard, Blyleven’s breaking ball had an unprecedented two-foot drop. His ability to throw it from multiple arm angles made it unpredictable and nearly impossible to hit. This devastating pitch helped him accumulate 3,701 strikeouts and earned him a well-deserved place in the Hall of Fame.
3. Clayton Kershaw’s “Public Enemy No. 1”
Modern baseball’s premier curve specialist, Kershaw’s 73-mph breaking ball generates more vertical movement than any other in MLB history. This pitch has helped him maintain the lowest ERA (2.48) among starters in the live-ball era with at least 1,500 innings pitched, earning its intimidating nickname.
4. Dwight Gooden’s “Dr. K” Special
Gooden’s mid-80s curveball featured a sharp 12-6 break that perfectly complemented his blazing fastball. During his remarkable 1985 Cy Young season, this combination helped him achieve a 1.53 ERA and 268 strikeouts. The tight spin and late break of his curve made it nearly impossible for batters to track.
5. Adam Wainwright’s “Uncle Charlie”
Wainwright’s curveball, featuring a remarkable 2,900 RPM spin rate, was among MLB’s most effective breaking balls. His ability to throw it for strikes in any count made it particularly devastating, helping him accumulate 2,202 career strikeouts and earn three All-Star selections.
6. Barry Zito’s “Captain Hook”
Zito’s signature curveball featured exceptional vertical drop and varied speeds between 69-75 mph. This pitch was instrumental in his 2002 Cy Young Award victory and became one of baseball’s most recognizable breaking balls. Its high arc and sharp late break left batters guessing throughout his career.
7. Nolan Ryan’s Power Curve
While renowned for his fastball, Ryan’s mid-80s curve was equally formidable. The pitch featured sharp downward movement and helped him achieve his MLB-record 5,714 strikeouts. His ability to throw it for strikes consistently made it the perfect complement to his power arsenal.
8. Roy Halladay’s Knuckle-Curve
“Doc’s” knuckle-curve combined sharp break with pinpoint control, helping him achieve numerous milestones including a perfect game and playoff no-hitter in 2010. This devastating pitch contributed to his career 3.38 ERA and two Cy Young Awards.
9. Dennis Martinez’s “El Presidente” Curve
Martinez’s curveball was known for its consistency and late movement, helping him achieve numerous career highlights including a perfect game in 1991. His precise location and movement helped him accumulate 2,149 career strikeouts, establishing him as one of the game’s most reliable pitchers.
10. Justin Verlander’s Power Curve
Verlander’s power curve, thrown between 80-83 mph, features a sharp 12-6 break and high spin rate. This pitch has been crucial in his three Cy Young Awards and 3,342 career strikeouts. Its effectiveness comes from perfectly matching his fastball’s arm slot, making it nearly impossible to distinguish.
11. Camilo Pascual’s Classic Curve
Praised by Ted Williams as baseball’s best curve, Pascual’s breaking ball featured exceptional movement and control. This pitch helped him lead the AL in strikeouts from 1961-1963 and earned high praise from baseball historian Bill James, who ranked it among the greatest curves ever thrown.