It seems that many players and coaches recognize how little
time is allocated during practices for catchers to work on their
catching skills. Blocking, Exchange drills, Pickoff throws, Proper
Handling of pass balls with throw to pitcher covering plate, just
to name a few.
Often times it has been said to me that there just isn't enough time to fit it in a practice. I would like to challenge that idea by pointing out the most wasted 20 minutes in a catcher’s life.
The time is called "Infield Practice". I've lost count how many practices I have observed where a coach is hitting infield practice with often times the starting catcher standing beside them taking the throw from the fielders and then handing the ball back to the coach. WHAT A WASTE!!!
Now I know that some of the items covered during infield practice do require the catchers involvement in a true game situation play. However I have seen at least 20 minutes go by when all they do is catch the ball and hand it to the coach.
I suggest that at the beginning of infield practice another player fill that role, and even maybe rotate with other infielders. During that time the catchers, all of the catchers if possible, are off to the side working on blocking, throwing etc.
When it is time to do the plays that involve the catcher, call them back over and run them all at one time.
I saw this next quote on a web site baseballcatchers.com about how much we depend on catchers to get it right, but how little time we provide for them to practice the skills they will need to get it right in a game: "It will take a dozen outstanding plays by the catcher to make teammates forget a single disastrous E-2 that could have been prevented by practicing catcher skills."
I know that scheduling a meaningful practice is always a challenge. But here is any easy fix that will provide at least 20 minutes every practice for your catchers to work on their skills.
Dave Weaver founded The New England Catching Camp in 1994 after realizing that instruction for the toughest position on the diamond was generally unavailable. Weaver teaches at numerous facilities throughout New England and conducts group clinics, team workshops, coaches clinics, and private sessions with catchers of all ages. Dave has coached athletes in a variety of sports for over 30 years, and has been a coach for catchers from youth through professional levels.
The Baseball Observer - Nov/ Dec 2015
The Most Wasted 20 Minutes in a Catcher's Life
By Dave Weaver hittingworld.com
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