On the Ball

Describes the science of baseball, such as the aerodynamics of pitching fastballs, curveballs, screwballs, and sliders. Also described is the neurobiology behind the rapid-fire perception and response--measured in thousandths of a second--required of the hitter. The materials and construction used in bats, balls, and gloves are explored, and changes over the years, responding to advances in materials science and players' experimentation with design and materials, are tracked.