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This article, written by Bobby Humphrey, discusses essential catching drills, emphasizing purpose and effectiveness over mere aesthetics. He highlights the “Big Three” aspects of catching: receiving, blocking, and throwing, providing specific drills for each. These drills are designed to improve technique and build good habits for catchers of all levels.
Baseball Catching Drills: The Big Three
Key Takeaways and Drills:
- Receiving:
- Weighted Ball Drill: Use weighted balls for immediate feedback on receiving technique, focusing on meeting the ball correctly. This drill helps catchers understand how to properly receive pitches, especially low ones.
- Pitching Machine Drill: Utilize a pitching machine for repetitive receiving practice, working on various locations and pitch types.
- Blocking:
- Line Drill (Left/Right Blocking): Practice blocking balls thrown to the left and right, emphasizing proper technique and recovery.
- Monkey in the Middle: With two throwers, the catcher blocks balls from alternating sides, enhancing reaction and stamina.
- Throwing:
- Walking Line Drill: Focus on quickness and directional alignment, using a bare-hand pickup to throwing progression.
- Bounce Drill: Promotes catching before throwing by having the catcher receive a bounced ball, then go through the throwing motion.
These drills emphasize the importance of technique, leg use, and quick transfers. Coaches should adapt drills to individual strengths and weaknesses, focusing on the “why” over the “way” to build effective habits.
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