I've never used a torch to get a ball joint out, just a really long prybar
One of the big $200 Snap-On ones too... (Worth every penny, my huge arse Harbor Freight prybar bent the first time I used it! This Snap-On one, is actually my co-workers, but him and I have both hung from it trying to get things loose before! It just sprung, didn't bend lol)