Stick & Ball TV

Todd Coburn, The Catching Guy

Quick hands are essential for a quick release and pop time. Additionally, correctly utilizing the lead arm (mitt arm) during the throwing process will have a huge impact on the accuracy and velocity of the throw.

Being under control and balanced during the blocking process is very important for blocking success. It is especially important at the end of the block and will help in the recovery process.

Being strong from elbows to fingertips is essential for receiving success. We not only need to be quick but also need to be strong to minimize movement during the receiving process.

The pitch location and batter location will dictate what footwork the catcher will use during a throw. The variations you will see utilized are the jab step, the replace method, the Rock & Fire or Load & Throw technique and throwing from the knees.

Being strong from elbows to fingertips is essential for receiving success. We not only need to be quick but also need to be strong to minimize movement during the receiving process.

The catcher's ability to recover from a block and retrieve the ball quickly is essential for controlling the running game. You could be the best blocking catcher in the world but if you’re slow to recover, the good blocks don’t matter.

A common mistake or fault made by catchers when blocking is to either not get their mitt all the way down to the ground or they’ll get their mitt down but lift it when the ball is hitting the ground. This drill will eliminate these bad habits.