should-you-try-a-baseball-gripThe vast majority of golfers employ one of two styles of gripping the club: the Vardon grip (also called the overlapping grip) or the interlocking grip.

There is a third, lesson commonly used grip method, simply called the baseball grip. If you have trouble getting comfortable with the Vardon or interlocking grip, or struggle to release the club (rotate the arms and hands) through the ball, it might be worth a try.

As the name implies, the baseball grip is similar to the way a baseball player holds the bat. The difference is, the golfer runs his left thumb down the shaft, between the fingers and palm of the right hand (if he’s right-handed).

To form a baseball grip:

  • Place your open hands on either side of the club’s grip, left above right.

 

  • The palms should face each other directly, with the thumbs extended.

 

  • Wrap your hands around the club, with the left thumb running down the handle and the right thumb across the handle to meet the tip of the index finger.

Make a series of practice swings with this grip and note whether your right forearm rolls easily over the left as you pass the impact area. Hit a few balls with a wedge or short iron, starting with half swings and working up to full swings.


The baseball grip’s primary drawback is that it sometimes allows the hands too much freedom, which can cause hooks and poor contact. But if you’re having difficulty with your current grip, why not give it a shot?

The baseball grip, also known as the 10-finger grip, is an alternative grip style in golf that can be worth trying for some players. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to try the baseball grip:

  1. Comfort and Feel: The baseball grip can feel more natural and comfortable for some golfers, especially those who have a background in baseball or other sports that use a similar grip. It allows for a full hand connection to the club, which can provide a sense of control and stability.
  2. Hand Size and Strength: Golfers with smaller hands or weaker grip strength may find the baseball grip advantageous. It can make it easier to generate clubhead speed and maintain control throughout the swing.
  3. Tendency for a Hook: The baseball grip can help reduce or eliminate a tendency to hook the ball. With both hands in a similar position on the club, it can promote a more neutral or slightly open clubface at impact, minimizing the chances of a hook.
  4. Loss of Finesse: The baseball grip may sacrifice some finesse and touch around the greens. It can be more challenging to execute delicate shots, such as chips and pitches, with the same level of precision as with other grip styles.
  5. Adaptation Period: Switching to the baseball grip requires an adaptation period and practice to become comfortable and consistent with the new grip. It may take time to adjust to the different hand positioning and feel.
  6. Personal Preference: Ultimately, the choice of grip style is a personal preference. Some golfers find success and improvement with the baseball grip, while others prefer the traditional overlapping or interlocking grips. Experimenting with different grips can help you find the one that suits your individual needs and swing mechanics.

Before making any changes to your grip, it is recommended to consult with a golf professional or instructor who can assess your swing and provide personalized guidance. They can help determine if the baseball grip is a suitable option for your game and offer advice on how to make the transition smoothly. Remember, what works for one golfer may not work for another, so it's important to find the grip that allows you to perform your best on the course.