Core Training

3 Ways Catchers Can Improve Their Craft Outside of Games

There are nine positions on the softball field. The pitcher is guaranteed to touch the ball every single pitch. The next position that sees the most action is the catcher behind the plate. The pitcher and the catcher are often referred to as the battery in softball. When a pitcher and a catcher step on the field together, they play an essential role. All eyes will be on them, from the fans to the opposing players in the dugout, to their teammates behind them on the field. Pitchers and catchers must be in sync and work together when they step on the field.

The relationship between a pitcher and a catcher is based on trust. This trust is developed on the field in games, in the bullpen, at team practices, as well as off the field. Just as pitchers are expected to put in additional practice outside of with the team, catchers are expected to do the same. The battery works best when both units put in time, energy, and additional practice to perfect their craft. After all, they will see the most live action on game days.

Below are three ways catchers can improve their craft outside of games.

Get Instruction: Just like pitchers and hitters, it’s important for catchers to receive proper catching instruction from an expert. Catching instruction could mean a catcher attends a group clinic or takes part in an individual catching lesson. The role of a catcher is just as important as the role of a pitcher on the field. Catchers have so much to focus on; from learning how to call the game, to framing the pitch, to throwing out runners, to communicating with the defense, just to name a few. This can be overwhelming, especially for the young self-taught catchers. Do some research, reach out to an instructor or a clinician, and get in as soon as you can. Catchers who put in the time and work in the off-season to perfect their craft will always improve.

Practice: Becoming a great catcher doesn’t just happen overnight after attending a clinic or an individual lesson. The same thing can be said about pitching. In order to perfect the craft, catchers need to put additional time and practice in on their own. Catchers have multiple responsibilities when they step on the field. Throwing is a huge piece of the behind the plate game that should frequently be practiced. Blocking drills may not be the most enjoyable way to spend time, but they are necessary to build and maintain leg strength. Framing and glove work drills if practiced, will get the pitchers extra strike calls on game days. It’s important that catchers practice the small details because those are what will win over the ump on game days.

Catch Your Pitchers: It’s crucial that catchers get together with their pitchers to throw bullpens or practice together outside of the playing field. When catchers catch pitchers in bullpens, clinics, or lessons, they get the chance to get to know their pitcher and what her pitches do. This is where the trust is formed because the battery mates will build a bond and develop a comfort level with one another. Sometimes pitches get away from pitchers when they deliver them. The more the catcher has a chance to practice catching for the pitcher, the possibility of that catcher missing a pitch will decrease because she will learn to adjust. Pitchers and catchers must work harder and put more time into their position than anyone on the field. Working together off the field will increase the chance of success when they step on the field.

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