12/1/03 - After the catcher receives the pitch and the umpire calls it a strike or ball, it is acceptable for the catcher to relax and go to his knees occasionally. Over the course of a long season this permits him a little rest for his legs. However there are two considerations: he must be able to throw the ball back to his pitcher on a line and hit him in the chest, every time. He may not go to his knees with a runner on base. To do so would be allowing the offense the opportunity to execute a delayed steal.
Catcher’s Conditioning Drill
It is very important that catchers develop good leg strength. This is a great drill. In full the catcher jumps from side to side maintaining a good stance. The coach challenges him to make the jumps as quickly as possible. Keep your hands in place. Don’t use them to provide impetus. Perform 3 sets of 10, 3 times a week in the pre-season. Give them a days rest after each time. Their legs will be sore. It is best to do this at the end of practice.
Fielding Lay-out Drill
Lay Out Drill- the front of a baseball player’s uniform should be dirty at the end of a game. This drill is great for teaching players how to lay out for a fly ball. They must learn to use one hand and they should not use their throwing hand to stop their fall. The player has more extension if he doesn’t use his off-hand to block his fall. Have the player kneel facing the coach. Coach tosses a ball left or right causing the player to “layout” to make the catch.
Take Your Time-It is our observation that many young, inexperienced hitters don’t take enough time during their turn at bat. Suggestion: develop a routine that takes from 10 to 12 seconds. Adjust your gloves; tap the clay off your spikes, whatever is natural for you. This has a two-fold purpose. Gives you time to consider the situation and what you want to accomplish with this at bat and it makes the pitcher wait. It has been theorized that anything over 10 seconds and the pitcher has a tendency to lose his concentration and rhythm.
You should develop this routine at batting practice. Take your time there as well. Don’t let the BP pitcher shotgun pitches to you. Have a plan. What part of your game needs improvement; your balance, stride, etc? Don’t just go up there hacking without an idea of what you want to accomplish.
Baseball Excellence - 2003 report
The Baseball Excellence Report (handout) is a free PDF report on the fundamental techniques of baseball. A real must read. Enjoy!
Baseball Excellence Website
Many of the artlcles displayed on our website come from the Baseball Excellence website. This website offers its readers vast insite to the world of baseball through a coaches eyes. Visit the site today at www.baseball-excellence.com or click on the above link.
