Baseball Catchers Guide
Baseball Catchers Guide
Courtesy of
Baseball-Catcher.com
Index
3 3-6 3,4 5,6 6-9 6 7 7 7 7,8 8 8 9 9,10 9 9 10 10,11 11 11 11 11-13 12 12,13 13 14-19 14 14,15 14 15 15 16 16,17 17 17 17 18 18 Intro Catchers Stance Relaxed Stance Ready Stance Catchers Set Up Relation to Hitter When to Set Up Count and Pitch Type - Fastballs - Breaking Balls - Change Ups - 0-2 Count - Wild Pitches Receiving Stick the Strike Beat Pitch to Spot High and Low Pitches Framing Get Around Ball Obvious Balls Dont Show Up Umpire Blocking Technique Pitches to the Side Breaking Balls Throwing Grip Throws to Second - Jab Step - Rock and Throw - Replacement - Hitter Falls Across Third Base - Move Around Other Throws - Pickups/Fielding - Clearing Runner - Pitch Out 14-19 18,19 19 20 21-23 21,22 22,23 24-27 24 24 25 25 26 26 27 27-31 32 33 34 35,36 36-42 36 37 37,38 38,39 39 39 40 40 41 41 41 42 43-44 Throws Contd - Pick Offs - Back to Pitcher Leadership Relays, Cut Offs, Plays at Home Relays and Cuts Plays at Home Signals Communicate Vision Problems Common Pitch Signs Type and Location Methods of Giving Runner on 2nd Other Signals Calling A Game Catching Bullpens Covering Bases Pre-Game Routine Umpire Rapport Misc. Plays and Sit. Signaling Plays Bunt Coverage Squeeze Plays Run Downs Pick Offs Pitcher Pass Ball/Wild Pitch Pop Ups Double Steals Dropped 3rd Strike Intentional Walks Game Pace Stealing Home Glossary 2
Guide Intro
One area in baseball that receives little attention from coaches is teaching proper catching techniques. In general, there is not enough practice time devoted to it and the result is a lack of quality catchers at all levels. The reasons for this can be attributed to a number of things, but mainly, the blame falls on coaches for not setting aside practice time and a coach's lack of catching knowledge. The following guide is for beginning and experienced catchers and coaches. Visual aids are provided to clarify key concepts and provide examples of correct techniques. A list of key terms and phrases is also provided at the end of each section to review the important points covered in that section. You will find some advanced tips here as well.
Catchers Stance
A proper stance is fundamentally important to being a good catcher. There are two basic stances to learn, a relaxed stance and a ready stance.
Relaxed Stance
A general stance most catchers use with the bases empty and less than two strikes is called a "relaxed" stance. The relaxed stance begins by squatting with your feet shoulder-width apart. Your hips and shoulders should be square to the pitcher and your feet straight across or slightly (an inch or two) staggered. In other words, when looking down at home plate your feet should be parallel with the front edge of the plate (i.e. straight across). Your weight should be on the insides of your feet and you must be balanced. Balance is key. You should not be falling over and it should be difficult for someone to push you over. Get as low as comfortably possible while still being in an athletic position ready to react to anything. The purpose of getting low is to allow the umpire to clearly see and call
pitches in the lower half of the zone. Every catcher is different so you should experiment and find a stance that is comfortable and balanced. Setting a proper arm position and arm angle are important. Your receiving arm (mitt hand) should be relaxed (somewhere near the middle of being completely straight and being completely bent toward your chest) and your palm should be pointed at the pitcher. DO NOT set up with your receiving arm straight or you may interfere with the batter's swing (catcher's interference). DO NOT have your arm totally bent, as this will slow your ability to react to wild pitches. Being extended or completely bent will also hamper your ability to receive and frame pitches. Your elbow should be below your mitt. This helps in framing pitches that are low and to the left side of your body (your elbow has less distance to travel to get around the pitch). For right-handed catchers (most catchers are right handed), your throwing hand should be behind your right shoe to avoid being hit by a fouled pitch. I even like to stick my thumb in the back of my shoe.
Ready Stance
The ready stance is used when there are runners on base and/or two strikes on the batter. In both cases you need to be ready to block a wild pitch or quickly throw out a base runner. The ready stance is simply a raised squat where the weight is now on the balls of your feet instead of the instep and your butt is slightly raised. This allows for quick reactions. Even though you are raised, keep low in your stance. Remember the umpire. Give your pitcher as much help as possible by allowing the umpire to see the entire zone. The distance between your feet will probably increase in a raised squat position. This is fine and expected.
Catchers Set Up
Now that you have a solid stance, you need to learn where to position yourself in the catchers box in relation to the hitter. The catchers box is 8' long by 43" wide and is located directly behind home plate. The rules of baseball state that the catcher must have both feet inside or on the line of this box at the time of a pitch.
When to Set Up
Do not set up too early after giving your sign. This gives away pitch location. Opposing coaches will relay this information to the hitter or the hitter may peek back to see where you are sitting. Knowing pitch location helps a hitter. If the pitcher is in the windup, set up just as the pitcher is starting his windup. If the pitcher is in a stretch position use your judgment. You should move just before the pitcher is delivering the ball to the plate. KEYS: Be Forward, Catcher's Interference, Know the Hitter, Never Down the Middle, Off the Plate, Umpire's Zone
Fastballs
Fastball can be thrown in any part of the strike zone in any count. Very rarely do you want to see a fastball thrown down the MIDDLE of the plate. As a hitter, you should know most hitters have a high success rate hitting fastballs down the middle of the plate. This is why you should work the corners of the plate when throwing fastballs. Get to know the umpire's strike zone. Most umpires will expand the true strike zone a few inches. By the end of the first inning, you should have a good idea of an umpire's zone. Use this to your advantage when setting up. If an umpire is calling strikes on pitches that are 6 inches out of the zone, set up to take advantage of this. Remember the general ruleif the pitcher is behind in the count, set up to cover more of the plate. If the pitcher is equal or ahead in the count, work further from the middle or even off the plate.
Breaking Balls
When a pitcher is throwing a breaking ball early in the count he is most likely trying to get that pitch over for a strike. It is important for the pitcher to get ahead of the hitter. As a catcher you need set up to cover more of the plate to allow the pitch a greater chance of catching part of the strike zone. If your pitcher is ahead
in the count, he may want to throw a breaking pitch that starts in the zone and then drop/curves out of it. On these occasions you should set up more to the corners and/or be ready to block a pitch in the dirt with two strikes on the hitter or with runners on base. On occasions where a right-handed pitcher is facing a lefthanded hitter (or vice versa), a breaking ball may be thrown down and in. Again though, the object is to get the hitter to chase a pitch out of the zone and you need to be ready to block it.
Change Ups
Change Ups are one of the most effective pitches in a pitcher's arsenal. Hitting is timing and changing speeds throws off a hitter's timing. This does not mean you can set up down the middle or near the middle of the plate with this pitch. It is easier for hitters to recognize a change up that is UP in the hitting zone and the results are usually not good for the pitcher. Change ups should be thrown on the corners or off the plate and low in the zone. Most change ups will be thrown away from a hitter meaning to the outside. Set up on the corner or off the plate and provide your pitcher with a good low target. On rare occasions change ups will be thrown down and in on a hitter if the pitcher has a good sinking action to the pitch.
A Wild Pitcher
Pitchers sometimes have off days where nothing they throw is near the plate. Sometimes they might be having trouble throwing one of their pitches for strikes. In these situations it is sometimes necessary for the catcher to set up more toward the middle of the plate no matter what the count. Once a pitcher reestablishes his control (if he does) you can start moving further from the middle or off the plate. KEYS: Be Forward, Catcher's Interference, Know the Hitter, Never Down the Middle, Off the Plate, Umpire's Zone
Receiving
Proper Receiving Techniques for a Catcher
Receiving is simply catching the ball. A good catcher will make receiving look effortless. You need to have soft hands, but at the same time be firm with your wrist and arm as you catch the ball. Look the pitch all the way into your mitt. Your glove should not move unless you want to move it.
Framing
Framing is the art of making a pitch that is near (border line strike/ball) the zone appear to be a strike when in fact it may not be. A catcher, who can frame well, can be extremely helpful to a pitcher working the corners of the plate. Framing correctly is a difficult task and one that should be practiced during bullpen sessions and in drills. Framing is a subtle movement of the wrist that drags the ball toward the strike zone. This slight movement occurs just as you catch the ball. The keyword here is slight. Do not frame a pitch more than a few inches or partial movement of the wrist. Umpires are not stupid or blind and will not be swayed to call a strike by some miraculous ball that changed direction and moved a foot to the right. The framing motion is smooth and should not be done in a jerking motion. For a pitch that is down in the zone and you are attempting to frame, catch it in the normal overhand position and then absorb or funnel it toward your stomach in a motion that is backward and up. Use your entire arm for this and not just your wrist. DO NOT flick your wrist up or catch it underhand if you are attempting to frame the low pitch. The reasoning from an umpire's perspective is that a ball that is caught underhand crossed the plate too low in the zone for it to be called a strike. It looks like a ball if you catch it underhand. In a perfect world, the way you catch a pitch should not matter, only where the pitch crosses through the strike zone. Catch the low pitch overhand.
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Obvious Balls
There is no reason to frame a pitch that is an obvious ball. Catch the ball and throw it back to the pitcher.
Blocking
Besides receiving and communication, the most important skill for a catcher to develop is the ability to block pitches in the dirt. Teams will take advantage of a catcher who is a poor blocker. Catchers who can block well keep base runners from advancing and instill confidence in their pitchers. A confident pitcher is a better pitcher. Blocking is simply defined as using whatever means available to knock down and control a pitch that bounces. The key term is control. I may be able to get in front
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of the ball with my body, but if that ball bounces too far away from me (i.e. I don't control it) a good base runner will still advance. The following basic technique should be used when blocking and controlling pitches in the dirt.
Technique
The catcher should already be in the ready stance when attempting to block. Your hips and shoulders should be square to the pitcher. Recognize the pitch and quickly thrust your knees to the ground while remaining square to the pitcher. Clear your feet by moving them back and to the side, with your toes pointed away from your body. Your knees should almost land where your feet were located and be spread apart just past shoulder width. Do not just fall forward to your knees, as this takes too long. You need to get down quickly. Clear your feet and thrust your knees down. Your glove should move from your target position to directly between your legs with your palm up, facing the pitcher and your throwing hand positioned behind the glove. The web of the glove should be against the ground and both arms should be snug with your body. This hand and arm position keeps a ball from going through your five hole. Tuck both elbows against your body to provide a greater surface area for blocking. The upper body position is critical to controlling the deflection of the ball. Keeping your shoulders square to the pitcher, round your shoulders and bend at the waist so your upper body is leaning forward over your thighs. This creates a down angle that will deflect a ball down in front of you and at a controlled distance. Tuck your chin to your chest so you do not get hit in the throat. DO NOT try and scoop a pitch in the dirt with your glove. This is a bad habit to get into and most of the time you will fail. ADVANCED TIP: For the advanced catcher, you can slightly give with the pitch as it hits your body. This helps your ability to control the ball even more.
and keep it directly in front of you. Remember to keep your shoulders square to the pitcher. The key word is pitcher. If you were to walk around the pitcher in a 360-degree arc, keeping your shoulders square to the pitcher, the angle of your shoulders changes as you move. This is important to know for balls that are thrown to the sides of a catcher. The best way to illustrate this point is to imagine throwing a ball against a wall. If the wall is square to you and you throw it directly at it, the ball will come back to you. If you throw the ball from an angle at the wall the ball will bounce to the side. If you throw the ball from an angle and the wall suddenly squares up to you, the ball will return back to you. From a birds-eye view and looking directly down at the catcherif you slide to your right, your right shoulder should be slightly in front of the left. In other words you are angling your body so the ball will bounce back toward the pitcher. The same is true if you slide in the other direction. This is a SLIGHT angling of the shoulders. Do not angle too much or the ball will deflect too far away. *On a pitch that is extremely wide, you will not have an opportunity to get into the proper position to block the pitch. Get to it any way you can and knock it down using whatever means available (i.e. glove, bare hand).
Breaking Balls
Blocking breaking balls requires you to be aware of the spin of the pitch and how the ball is going to react once it hits the ground. A pitcher throwing a curve ball or slider will cause the ball to bounce in the opposite direction. For example, a righthanded pitcher throws a slider. From the catcher's perspective, the ball in flight is moving down and to the right. However, if the ball hits the dirt it will bounce back to the left or in most cases, straighten out. You need to account for this change of direction. Usually, the movement in the opposite direction is minimal. So, do not over compensate when attempting to block these pitches. With enough practice and game experience, you will develop a feel for how certain pitches will react to hitting the ground. It also helps to know your pitcher and how much spin or break he generates on the ball, which will affect how far the ball changes direction. ADVANCED TIP: A pitcher throws a curve ball or slider that bounces 10 feet in front of home plate. If you drop to your blocking position, the ball will either bounce over your head or hit your mask or shoulders. Stay low and read the bounce. If it bounces up shift into a crouched standing position, attempting to block the ball with your body. KEYS: Knock Down, Control, Thrust Knees, Glove Position, Tuck Elbows, Bend Waist, Round Shoulders, Tuck Chin, Slide to Location, Square to Pitcher, Breaking Ball Spin
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Throwing
Throwing out potential base stealers is a fundamental skill that separates a good catcher from a great catcher. Professional scouts consider throwing ability (SAQ - strength, accuracy, and quickness) when determining which catchers to follow and potentially draft. Proper throwing technique enhances a player's chances for success when throwing out base runners.
Grip
A proper grip is essential for accurate throws. Grip the ball across the seams as if you were a pitcher throwing a four-seam fastball. Ideally, every throw you make should be with a four-seam grip. A good time to work on your grip is when you are warming up before practice or a game. With enough practice, you will automatically start gripping the ball in this manner. It will become second nature.
Stealing
A catcher's ability to throw out runners attempting to steal is a huge defensive asset. Not only do you keep runners out of scoring position, but also you force the other team to play station to station (base to base), hit and run, or bunt a runner into scoring position. A good throwing catcher at the Major League level only throws out roughly 35% of all attempted base stealers. The main reason for this low success rate is that bases are mostly stolen off pitchers and not catchers. To have success throwing out runners, you need to be quick and have a strong accurate throw.
1. Jab Step
The first style is the Jab Step. To perform the jab step, assume the ready stance. Just as you are about to catch the ball take a small step, a "jab step," toward second base with your throwing side leg. For a right-handed catcher, this means jabbing with your right leg. The inside of your ankle should be pointed in the direction of second base. This step is very small and meant to get your
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momentum moving toward your target. Catchers with weaker arms should consider using this method. As you take this step STAY LOW. Do not stand up straight. After receiving the ball rake the ball into the throwing position. Rake quickly, taking your mitt from the receiving position or where you caught the ball to your ear or upper shoulder area (right ear for a right handed catcher). As you are raking the pitch, you should be transferring the ball to your throwing hand. Your throwing hand should have been behind the glove in the ready stance. This positioning facilitates a quick transfer and proper grip on the ball. Your front shoulder should now be pointed at second base; the ball in your throwing hand, and you should be striding with your left leg toward your target. Now, make a short quick throw to second, transferring the weight from your backside to your front. Stay low, stay on top of your throw (don't drop your elbow), throw through the target, and keep your momentum moving toward the target. Do not let your momentum fall off line or away from your target. The target is a two-by-two foot square from the middle of the bag toward the second base side. Your follow through should be low and your throwing hand should almost hit your left knee. If you stand up too early or do not follow through, your throw will most likely be off-line and sail into the outfield.
3. Replacement
The final throwing style is Replacement or Jump Pivot. Replacement is the quickest style and demands a strong arm to use properly. A strong arm is needed because there is little forward body momentum toward your target. Your legs start parallel with home plate and you "hop" into throwing position perpendicular to home. For a better picture, think of a clock. The feet in the ready stance start at the 3 and 9 positions. Simultaneously, you move both feet or "hop" into the 6 and 12 position. The back foot should actually be moving and planted a little sooner than the front to facilitate a proper backside load. Make sure to rotate the hips and shoulders. You should be raking to the throwing position as you perform the "hop." Now, deliver a strong accurate throw to second. Be quick! Remember, to throw through your target and stay low.
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Side Note: The hop is NOT a jump. You must stay low and quickly shift your feet to the 6 and 12 position.
Final Thoughts
Pitch location often determines the style of throw you use. For pitches directly at you, use any of the three methods. For a pitch to your backhand side, use any of the three methods, with Rock and Throw being the most effective for an extreme backhand. For a pitch to the forehand side you can use any of the three styles, however Replacement and Jab Step are most effective. For any extremely outside pitch, you need to adjust you body and get behind the ball. Stay low and make sure your momentum is toward second base. Do not fall off to the side. You will also have to adjust what style you use depending on whether the hitter is right or left hand. A pitch inside to a lefty (your backhand) will make it more difficult to Rock and Throw because the hitter may be in your throwing lane. Experiment and practice each style so you will be able to use them without thinking. KEYS: Three Styles of Throwing: Jab Step, Rock and Throw, Replacement or Jump Pivot, Load the Backside, Rake to Throwing Position, Proper Grip, Short Quick Release, Accuracy Matters, Throw Through the Target, Follow Through to Target
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Other Throws
Throughout the course of a game, other throwing situations may arise:
and shoulders toward your target. Balls down the third base line should be fielded with your butt facing first base. Again, scoop the ball with your mitt and bare hand working together. You will have to reset yourself after you field the ball to make your throw. The other method is bare hand and is used for balls that are stationary. Create a fork with all of your fingers and pluck the ball from the ground. Get around the ball the same way you did using the scoop method. If you have time, readjust your grip. Set yourself and then throw. For a ball down the third base line, aim your butt toward first and after fielding the ball, reset to throw. *I recommend using the scoop method for all fielded balls. The only time I allow my catchers to use a bare hand is in a do-or-die situation where the play needs to be made very quickly. Use the scoop method in inclement weather or when the grass is wet.
Pitch Out
Occasionally, your coach may call for a pitch out. The purpose of the pitch out is to give the catcher a greater chance of throwing out a runner attempting to steal. You will give the pitcher a special signal so he knows where to throw the pitch. The pitch will be delivered to middle of the batter's box that does not contain a hitter. Expect the ball about chest high if you are standing. Assume your regular catching stance and only move to that location (batter's box) after the pitcher has delivered the pitch. Using one of the 3 throwing methods, make a quick strong throw to the base. The Jab Step works best.
secondary leads and retiring base runners. You can attempt a pick at any base. Be careful with throws to third as you are throwing into the runner. To attempt a pick you can use any of the three throwing methods discussed earlier. Make sure you clear the hitter and have a clear throwing lane. There is a fourth throwing style that is useful for pick off attempts at first base, the snap throw. The snap throw, if done properly, can be quite effective. After receiving the pitch quickly rotate the upper body while staying in a squatting position. Make the throw with your shoulders pointed at your target and your lower body still in a squat or kneel. Be quick and accurate. The most effective pitch to perform the snap throw is a pitch to the right side of your body (right handed catcher).
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Leadership
From calling pitches and defenses to working with pitchers and umpires, catchers have a wide range of responsibilities that require intelligence, tact, baseball sense, and above all, leadership. One of the most important qualities for a catcher to posses is the ability to lead. A coach needs to develop a catcher's leadership ability and a catcher needs to accept his role as a leader and work on those skills.
Emotional Stability
Focus on your defensive responsibilities. You need to have the mentality of leaving the bat on the rack when you're catching. Forget the weak ground ball to short your last at-batit's over. Forget what Sally was telling you about Suzie during lunch. That is only a distraction and you can take care of that after the game. Your responsibility to the team is to focus on the present.
Confidence
Take charge of the situation. Be vocal. Make decisions with confidence. Confidence comes from the knowledge that the decisions you make are correct. Learn the game and the reasons you or your coaches are making certain decisions. If you are calling pitches, be confident. Everyone makes mistakes. Face up to those mistakes and learn from them.
Command Respect
Leaders command the respect of their peers. Respect is earned. As a catcher you must earn the respect of your battery mates. What do the pitchers want from you? The pitching staff has to respect your work ethic and your intelligence, your ability to call a game, and your ability to help them be a better pitcher. They have to feel you're helping them to be the very best pitcher they can be. The pitcher must feel as confident and comfortable with you as possible. Get to know the pitching staff. The only way a catcher can know the members of his pitching staff is to catch them...all of them. Be able to relate to different types of personalities.
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confidence. Leadership from the catcher can be the difference between a 5-10 team and a 10-5 team.
Relays to Home
Before a throw to home can even take place, position your cutoff man. The cutoff man should know how far out (toward the outfielder) he needs to go. The arm strength of the outfielder and the length of the throw determine the infielder's positioning. Your job is to align the cut off man with home. Simply use "left" and "right" commands to make adjustments. Depending on where the ball is hit and the system you use, the cut off man could be the third baseman, pitcher, or first baseman on base hits. For extra base hits, expect the shortstop or second baseman to be the relay. The catcher should know who is the relay in every situation. This should be covered in your pre-season practices. As a catcher you have the entire field in front of you. You are able to determine where a ball needs to be thrown or held once it reaches the cutoff man. Remember, the cutoff man may have his back to the infield and will have to rely on your communication to quickly relay to the correct base or hold the ball. There are two phrases I use with my catchers to help them communicate with the infielders. The infielders use the same two phrases when there are plays at other bases, so there is a common language and no confusion. The first phrase is "cut" and the base. So, if there was a play at home the catcher should yell, "cut four". This tells the relay man to catch and quickly relay the ball to the plate. The catcher could also yell, "cut two" if there is no chance at getting the runner at home and a play can be made on a runner at second base. The second phrase is just plain "cut". A catcher who yells this is telling the cutoff man to cut and hold the ball. If you say nothing, the cutoff man should let the ball go and you will field the throw. The cutoff man should know to let the ball go through ahead of time.
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One area that takes some practice is using your judgment as whether to cut throws to the plate. Some coaches have the cutoff man; relay everything, taking away the catcher's decision. I don't like this method. You are not teaching the catcher to make decisions and his leadership ability while the ball is in play and that is his job. As a catcher, you need to be aware of the following things before you decide to cut or relay the throw. For beginners: Is the ball dying in flight or does it have enough velocity to get to you? Is the throw online (too far left or right)? For experienced catchers: Many outfielders throw a ball that tails and you need to know how it's going to bounce. How good is the outfielder's arm? How thick is the grass on the infield, which will slow down a throw? How fast is the runner? What is the situation? Is it do-or-die? Depending on the score, should you cut the throw and get the hitter who's trying to advance to second?
Plays at Home
One of the most exciting plays in baseball is a close play at the plate. A catcher is expected to block the plate and apply a tag on the runner attempting to score.
Position
The main idea is to position your body to block the plate. Correct positioning is important to avoid injury and be in the best possible position to make a tag on a runner. Position your left heel a foot off the front left corner of the plate. Angle your left foot toes and knee toward third base and position your other leg pen to accept the throw. Allow the runner the very back portion of the plate. Assume an athletic stance so you are able to react to a throw or bounce. LEAVE YOUR MASK ON! This will protect your head and face in leagues that allow collisions. It will also protect you on throws that may bounce up. *The angle of your left foot is very important. DO NOT angle your foot or knee in any other direction than directly at the third base bag. Ideally, you want your foot and knee to align directly with the on-coming runner. An improper angle and a runner sliding into your leg could cause knee and ankle injuries. Also, your catcher's gear mainly protects the front of your shin. This front protection should be toward the oncoming base runner.
the plate. If there is a force at home, make sure you are touching home with one foot (preferably your right foot) and give a good target for your fielder to throw to. After catching the ball, quickly come off of the plate to avoid the runner sliding and be ready to make a play elsewhere. You may even be able to double up the hitter at first.
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Signals
The information in this section deals exclusively with communication between the pitcher and the catcher. Other types of signals, such as signals between the catcher and infielders, will be discussed in the Misc. Situations section.
Communicate!
Clear communication between the pitcher and catcher is vitally important to successful baseball. Obviously the catcher and pitcher cannot verbally communicate, so, they must communicate through a series of hand signals. The most common way for the catcher to relay a sign to the pitcher, or call a pitch, is using the fingers of his throwing hand. The signal is given from the squatting position and the hand should be positioned between the legs and be back up against or close to your cup. Watch that your hand is not too low or your signs will be visible under your body. The signal should be given with deliberate finger movements to allow the pitcher to see the signs. Do not give your sign too quickly or you will confuse your pitcher. The catcher's legs should be opened wide enough so only the pitcher and middle infielders can see what pitch is being called. Do not open your legs too far or the coaches from the opposing team can see your signs and relay the pitch to the hitter. Your glove hand should be positioned to the outside and just below the knee of your left leg (for right-handed catchers) to aid in blocking your signs.
Take Note:
Make sure the hitter is not peaking at your signs! The signal for a pitch should only be given while the pitcher is on the pitching rubber. Allow the hitter a brief moment to get set in the box before you give your sign.
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One Finger = Fast Ball Two Fingers = Curve Ball Three Fingers = Slider Four Fingers and/or Wiggle Fingers = Change Up
The number of fingers for a certain pitch is arbitrary and can change. For example you could use: One Finger = Fast Ball, Two Fingers = Curve Ball, and Three Fingers = Change Up. In fact, the signs may be different for each pitcher. The types of pitches a pitcher throws could determine the signs. Just make sure that both the pitcher and catcher are on the same page. Make the signs easy to remember! Talk to your pitcher in the pen before the game. Find out what pitches is he throwing and what signs are you going to use for each pitch. In the event of a relief pitcher, make a quick visit to the mound after his warm-up pitches and get on the same page.
Answer: 1. Curveball Away 2. Fastball Inside 3. Change Up Away Call for a pitch high in the zone or a ball in the dirt using a couple of basic signals. One way to signal this change in height is with glove and through body language. Briefly show the pitcher where you expect the pitch to go using your glove hand. Another way is to signal the pitcher using your signal hand before or after you give him the type of pitch. Maybe flatten out your hand for down and flick a thumb up for a pitch up in the zone. It's up to you.
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With a runner on second base the catcher and pitcher will have to disguise the pitch and location to keep the runner from relaying that information to the hitter. See the section below With Runners on 2nd for more info.
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Other Signals
Other signals that are relayed to the pitcher through signals from the catcher include: pitch outs; pick offs, holding runners close, and the shake off. Most of these decisions and signals will be made by your coach or infielders and given to you for you to relay to the pitcher. See these sections for more info: Misc. Situations and Plays, Throwing, and Glossary. KEYS: Hand Signals, Protect Signs, Easy To Read, Easy To Remember, Communicate With Pitcher, Methods, Disguise Signs, Type/Location
Calling a Game
Calling your own game requires you to pay attention to details. Keep mental notes on hitters, runners, pitchers, as well as opposing team tendencies. Before attempting to call your own game, pay attention to how your pitching coach calls pitches during other games. Why is he calling for certain pitches in certain counts? What is he trying to accomplish? What is the game situation? If you don't understand something, ask the coach after the inning why he is calling that pitch in that situation. *This is assuming the coach has a clue. Once, you understand the reasoning for calling certain pitches; incorporate this knowledge as you call your own game.
A pitch up in the zone will be hit in the air. A pitch down in the zone will be hit on the ground. A pitch with downward movement will be hit on the ground. A hitter has a tendency to roll over (wrists) change ups and will hit them on the ground or hit weak fly balls. A hitter may pull off or be out in front of a curve ball or slider causing him to hit a weak ground ball or pop-up. A hitter who strides into the plate will have trouble hitting hard inside pitches. He will get jammed. A hitter who strides open will have trouble with change ups and breaking balls away. An overly aggressive hitter will chase bad pitches. Stick with the pitch that is working. Mix, Mix, Mix!!!
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Research!!!
Gather as much information as possible and apply it to the current situation.
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Going At Hitters
Going at a hitter means you are forcing the batter to swing the bat. The pitcher is throwing strikes and not nibbling at the corners of the plate. Usually, when this term is used, the pitcher is throwing fastballs. This is a very aggressive approach and works well in a lot of situations. You're saying to the hitter, here's my best fastball. Let's see if you can hit it.
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Different Counts
The count during an at bat, along with the game situation, may determine whether you pitch carefully to a hitter or go right at him. In other words, you may change strategies during the at-bat. Maybe you start off calling two sliders and both are balls. The count is two balls and zero strikes. Now, you can challenge the hitter or decide to stay careful and throw a change up or another slider. Most hitters are looking for a fastball 2-0. The game situation and information you know about the hitter's tendencies determines what you call. Though unlikely, the hitter may always take with a 2-0 count. If you know the hitter's taking, throw the fastball. It's your job and your coach's job to know this information.
Pitching Backwards
Pitching backwards is a term used to describe a certain pitching sequence that is the opposite of conventional wisdom. In other words, if most pitchers use the fastball to get ahead of hitters and then throw a curve ball ahead in the count, you would do the opposite. Throw curve balls to get ahead and fastballs when you are ahead. This style of pitch calling can be a useful tool to use when a hitter has seen a pitcher multiple times during a game or a pitcher has outstanding control of his breaking pitch/es.
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to get out on his front foot or pull off a pitch away (especially if it's off speed). A good catcher will use the set-up pitch to his advantage.
Waste Pitches
Waste pitches are almost exactly the same as a set-up pitch. If fact, they are exactly the same with one slight difference. Both set-up pitches and waste pitches have the same purpose, to set-up the next pitch. Where they differ is that a waste pitch is not meant to be anywhere near the strike zone. The purpose is to get the hitter to chase a bad pitch out of the zone and to set up the next pitch. The most frequent count for a waste pitch is with zero balls and two strikes. A cardinal rule in pitching is to never give up a 0-2 hit. The catcher will therefore call a waste pitch that will set up the next pitch. KEYS: Mix Pitches, Gather Information, Know: Your Pitcher, the Other Team, the Other Hitter, the Situation, Adjust to Whats Working, Different Ways to Pitch to Hitters, Waste Pitches, Setup Pitches *For an outstanding article on calling your own game, check out "Calling Catchers" by R.J. Anderson. This article appeared in Coaching Management, September 2005
Catching Bullpens
Catching bullpens is certainly not the most glorious job a catcher performs. Bullpens usually consist of long hours of squatting in the pen while pitchers use YOU to work on THEIR game. Actually, catching bullpens, if taken seriously, is one of the most underutilized times during practice where catchers can actually work on their game. Catchers working in the bullpen should be in full gear at all times. All catchers, even the starters, should spend time working in the bullpen.
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side of the plate (working inside and out to a right handed batter) in a series of pitches. Usually, you will receive two or more pitches in one location and then be asked to move. If your coach asks you to set up right down the middle, DO IT, but remember to off-set an inch or two from the exact middle. Many times the pitching coach may ask you to set down the middle if the pitchers are working on throwing breaking balls for strikes.
Work on Blocking.
Pitchers are not perfect even though they sometimes tend to think so. Occasionally, they will bounce pitches in the dirt. Here is your chance to work on those blocking skills. In-season, set aside at least two bullpen sessions a week to work on your blocking. Out of season or before your in-season schedule begins; you should work on blocking almost every day if you want to be good. KEYS: Work on Your Game, Blocking, Receiving, Framing,
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Covering Bases
The catching position is not for lazy players. You are involved in every play either through communication or through action. Besides the catching basics such as receiving, blocking, framing, and throwing, the catcher has other responsibilities that require movement from the home plate area.
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Pre-game Routine
Before every game, there is a pre-game routine catchers need to perform to learn more about the nuances of the field they are about to play on.
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Umpire Rapport
Umpire - catcher interaction can best be described as a political dance. The object is to get the most from the umpire through the exchange of information in a manner that does not offend the ump. This interaction will help the catcher and pitcher determine the called strike zone. Your purpose is to get as many called strikes for your pitcher as possible. This area of catching knowledge and the techniques for talking to umpires develop over time. The following information is an excerpt from "Catcher in the Raw" by Dennis Read. The article appears in the February 2000 issue of Coaching Management. Coaches interviewed for this article include: Mike Lane, Head Coach at the University of North Alabama, Ed Cheff, Head Coach at Lewis-Clark State College, and Mickey McMurtry, Head Coach at Lassiter High School in Marietta, Ga. Another notable aspect of the catchers leadership role is interacting with umpires. Thats something you have to nurture and develop, [Mike] Lane says. We tell our guys, You have to be a diplomat back there, you have to be a politician. If an umpire misses a curve that was right there, and the catcher knows its a strike and says, Blue, that was there, wasnt it?, hes telling the umpire he thinks he missed the call. A lot of umpires dont take well to that. But if the catcher says to the umpire, Blue, was that a little low?, then hes giving him an opportunity to say Yes, or You know, I might have missed that one. Then the catcher can say, Thats OK, well get the next one. Your catchers should also find out if theyre doing anything to block the umpires view, preferably early in the game before he has to call any close pitches. We teach our catchers to always start out asking the umpire, Blue, am I giving you enough room to see the ball? Lane says. Dont ask him after hes missed a pitch, but start out the game like that. Blue, let me know if Im getting in your way or moving too quickly, because I want to help you out. Its important for catchers to feel as if every pitch is on display, even in the bullpen or during practice. They should get the feeling all the time that theyre trying to sell that pitch, [Ed] Cheff says. I want my catchers to have the mentality that, Theres always an umpire behind me and this guy is going to make a call on this pitch and Im trying to make it easy 35
for him. A lot of catchers are sloppy with this in drills and in the bullpen. Then they try to clean it up when they get in the game, and they cant. It also helps to remind your catcher that its a good idea to block every ball for the umpire. A ball doesnt hurt any less just because no one is on base. You might be calling him Joe and thinking hes your best friend, Cheff says, but the first time you wont block a ball for him, hes going to start to tighten down and I guarantee you his strike zone will change. At least one coach has found that simply removing himself from the catcherumpire equation works best. I used to put my catchers in an adversarial role because Id ask Was that pitch in there? Was that a strike? [Mickey] McMurtry says. I was constantly putting the kid in between me and the umpire. And I think thats wrong. The umpire and catcher have a natural, cooperative relationship back there and theyre going to take care of each other. I dont know what is shared between our catchers and the umpires, but they seem to get along since I got off the umpires. Dennis Read - Assistant Editor at Coaching Management KEYS: Respect the umpire!
Signaling Plays
The catcher is responsible in most cases for calling plays in bunt situations as well as first and third situations. Before the pitcher steps on the rubber, get the play from your coach. Step out in front of home plate so your teammates can see and give the correct signals. The signals can be verbal, a series of signs (hand or body), or both. The purpose is to disguise the defensive play and put pressure on the offense to execute.
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Bunts/Coverage
In bunt situations, the catcher is the eyes of the defense and the decision maker because the play is happening in front of him. The catcher's job is to signal the play to the infielders and communicate while the play is unfolding. The fielders need to know if the third baseman is crashing or holding? Is the first baseman crashing or holding? What side does the pitcher cover? These plays should be worked out in practice. Everyone on the field should know what play is on and their responsibilities. The catcher must be decisive and communicate loud enough for his teammates to hear. On a properly executed bunt, your only play will be to first base. However, if the bunt is too hard or right at the pitcher, and depending on how quickly your teammate fields it, you may have a play on the lead runner. Take into account whether or not the play is a force out. If it's not a force, get the out a first. Stay out of the big inning. However, if the play is a force, the bunt was hard, and fielded cleanly, don't be afraid to get that lead runner. Make the call early and loud. Keep repeating the call until the play is made. If the fielder bobbles the ball, the play is at first. The fielder should know ahead of time to go to first on a bobble. Be ready to react to a poorly bunted ball in front of the plate. You may be able to get the lead runner if you're quick. If you feel the play will be too close, take the out at first. Stay out of the big inning. Remember to clear the runner before throwing to first. *See the section on throwing for more info. A situation may arise where the opposing team is trying to bunt a runner on first to second base. Cover third if your third baseman fields the ball. Depending on your coach's philosophy, the pitcher may cover instead. I don't like a pitcher covering any base, as there is a potential for injury on a close play. So, unless your coach tells you not to cover third, get there as soon as the third baseman communicates he is making the play on the bunt.
Squeeze Plays
A squeeze play is a unique play during a game where the runner from third scores on a bunt by the batter. There are two main kinds of squeeze plays, the suicide and safety squeeze. The suicide squeeze gets its name because the runner breaks from third at the start of the pitcher's windup or on first movement in the stretch. If the batter fails to make contact with the pitch, the runner is dead at home, hence the suicide squeeze. A safety squeeze relies on the runner's ability to anticipate and read a successful bunt and then attempt to score. A safety squeeze is difficult to combat and your only chance to get the runner at the plate is if your corner defense is up, the pitcher is a great athlete, the batter's bunt is poor, or the pitcher reads the break. If the batter executes correctly, make the play at first and get an out. 37
The suicide play is easier to detect because the runner from third gives away the play. If the pitcher doesn't see the runner break or hear his teammates' communication, then the best you can hope for is the batter to miss or pop up the pitch. If the pitcher does see the suicide attempt, he should throw the pitch up and in on a right-handed hitter or in the right-handed batters box. Even if you are set up away, expect the pitch up and in (to a right-hander). The purpose is to make the pitch impossible to bunt. Most players won't stand there and let the ball hit them in the head. One of two things will probably happen if the pitch is in the right location, the batter gets out of the way and the runner is dead at home or the batter attempts to bunt the pitch and is unsuccessful. If the hitter misses the pitch, catch the ball and run at the base runner. Make the tag or start a run down. Remember, to chase him back toward third. If the attempt is successful, get the out at first.
Run Downs
A correctly executed rundown should take no more than two throws once the rundown begins. A catcher is at a disadvantage during a rundown because of his shin guards. Here are guidelines for rundowns.
Never run a player toward the next base. Always force him back to the base he came from. Stand to your teammate's throwing side and never directly behind the runner. This provides a clear throwing lane. If your teammate running at you is right handed, stand to the left of the runner, so your teammate doesn't have to throw across the runner. As the runner approaches, use a one word verbal command like "now" and step toward the runner as you say it. Your momentum should be moving toward the runner as you say the command. The ball should be delivered by your teammate on that command. Catch the ball with both hands and immediately remove the ball with your bare hand. Show the ball above your head and run at the runner. The ball should be in a position where you can throw it at a moments notice. Stay to the right side so you have a clear throwing lane if you need to make another throw. DO NOT pump fake. Many times this will fake out your teammates as well. Run hard at the runner and apply the tag or wait for a "now" command from your teammate. Give up the ball when you hear the command. Throw the ball to your teammates chest. Peel off out of the baseline. This way you will not interfere with the runner. Be in position at the other bag if the rundown continues.
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If another runner occupies the base where the base runner came from (for example: a runner occupies 3rd base and you have a runner caught between home and 3rd), run him back to the base and tag both runners. The runner that was in the run down is out. The other runner is safe, but you might get him to step off the base.
you should be able to slide, stand, and throw to first for the out. Remember to get on the wild pitch as quickly as possible.
Pop Ups/Fouls
Situation: a batter hits a popup around the home plate area. Solution: immediately stand up, remove your mask, and locate the ball. Make sure to keep the mask in you throwing hand so you do not trip over it. Turn your back to the infield, as this makes it easier to field the popup. The physics of a popup dictate that the ball will always come back toward the field of play. Do not stand directly under the popup or it will land behind you. Stand so it looks like the ball will land a few yards in front of you. Read and react to the ball. It is easier to move forward on a ball than to backpedal. Once you are set, discard your mask by throwing it hard and to the right. Make sure it is far enough away as to not interfere with the play. Using both hands, catch the ball above your head. If there are runners on base, quickly turn and find them.
Double Steals
There are two common situations where an opposing team might try to double steal. The first situation is with runners on first and second. The catcher has the option of throwing to either base. Know your base runners and the situation. Ideally, you want to get the lead runner at third. However, there are some advantages to throwing through to second for the trailing runner. First, he might not run as hard if he thinks the play is on the lead runner. Second, trailing runners will not have as good a jump. Third, you do not have to worry about throwing around a right-handed hitter. The other situation where a double steal is most likely to occur is with a runner on first and third base. The offense as well as the defense has a lot of options. The offense may try and score the runner from third on a throw through to second. The defense, knowing this may try and cut down that runner at the plate or allow the throw through to second, get an out, and give up the run. Your coach should make the decision as to how to defend this situation. Your main options as a catcher:
Hold the ball and allow the runner to reach second. Throw through to second to get that runner. Fake to second and throw to third. Throw to third. Throw to a cut man (pitcher, 2nd baseman, Shortstop). Some teams will incorporate a cut play that involves a throw through to second base. It is up to the cut man (usually shortstop or 2nd baseman) to decide to cut the ball and make a play on the runner at third or let the ball go through to second base. 40
Intentional Walks
Throughout the course of a game, your coach may decide to intentionally walk a hitter. This is done for a number of reasons. Instead of squatting in your ready stance, stand up in the catcher's box. Depending on whether the hitter is in the left or right batters box, put out your opposite arm out to the side of your body. Be ready to move to the box you were pointing to. You do not have to give a sign other than extending your arm. The pitcher should know what is expected of him. As soon as the pitcher releases the ball, slide out to the side. The pitcher should deliver the pitch chest high and in the middle to outside of the opposite batters box (the box where you're at). The pitch should be far enough outside that the batter does not have a chance of hitting it. Catch the ball using both hands and return it to the pitcher. Repeat this process three more times.
Game Pace
It is the job of the catcher to influence the pace of the game. Ideally, you want your pitcher to work quickly and throw as few pitches as possible. Some pitchers prefer to work slowly; you should know this ahead of time. If your pitcher is throwing well and hitting his spots, keep the game moving. Call your pitches as soon as the hitter steps in the box. If your pitcher is struggling, slow the pace down. Let him catch his breath and maybe call time and go have a talk with him. Help him build his confidence and get back into a rhythm.
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Stealing Home
This is a rare situation that you might never see in a game. When it does happen, the pitcher will be in the wind up and the runner will break on first movement by the pitcher. As the catcher, you will probably not see the runner break especially with a right-handed hitter at the plate. Listen to your teammates, they should be yelling. Receive the ball and quickly move to the left side of the plate, leading with your glove. Find the runner and apply the tag.
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Out Pitch - usually the best pitch in a pitchers arsenal. It is the hardest pitch for the batter to hit hard. Overhand Position - refers to the correct way to frame and catch a pitch low in the zone with the wrist pointed at the ground. More low pitches are called strikes when caught in the overhand position. Pick Off - an attempt by either the pitcher or catcher to throw out a base runner that has too big a lead or too large a secondary lead. Pop Fouls - pitches hit into the air that will land in foul territory. This term usually refers to balls hit around the infield. Ready Stance - the position a catcher takes with runners on base and/or two strikes on the hitter. A raised squat. Receiving - catching the ball Relaxed Stance - the position a catcher takes with the bases empty and less than two strikes on the hitter. Replacement - one of the three methods of throwing out base runners. See the throwing section for detailed info. Rock and Throw - one of the three methods of throwing out base runners. See the throwing section for detailed info. Run Downs - when a base runner gets caught up in-between two bases and the defense is trying to tag him out. Secondary Lead - a secondary lead occurs after a runner has taken his normal lead and the pitcher delivers the ball to the plate. The runner then shuffles out a few steps and reacts to the result of the pitch. Shin Guards - equipment worn by the catcher to protect the lower legs, knees, ankles, and feet. Made of a hard plastic and padded on the inside. Signs - an important part of the communication between the catcher and pitcher. Pitch and location are usually given through the use of finger or body signals. Also, signals are given by the catcher to fielders for various defensive situations. Slide - blocking - the term used to describe the actions of a catcher attempting to block a pitch to the side. Square to Pitcher - an important concept to remember for blocking, receiving, and framing pitches. It involves keeping your shoulders and hips parallel to the pitcher. Stance - term used to describe the catchers positioning when catching a pitcher. There are two variations: ready and relaxed. Sticking Strikes - an important part of receiving. This refers to catching a pitch that is a strike and keeping the strike where you caught it, not moving the glove. Umpire's Zone - the strike zone an umpire is calling. This usually differs from a rulebook-defined strike zone. Underhand Position - the improper way of catching a borderline pitch low in the zone. Your palm is facing up in this position. Waste Pitch - the purpose is to set up the next pitch or series of pitches. A waste pitch is out of the strike zone.
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