HELP !!!!! Teams running on us

Darrell,

It sounds to me that your pitchers are not holding runners and your catcher must have a very weak arm.

First your pitchers need to work on varying their routine before going to the plate.To many pitchers make too many throws to first base and not enough variation in their deliveries.Teach your pitchers to vary the number of looks to the bag, vary how long they stay in the set position,sometimes count to 3, sometimes count to 2 and step off, sometimes count to 1 and go to the plate,you HAVE to mix it up.They should never get into a pattern.

Are your pitchers telegraphing their moves for a pick?Their mechanics need to be consistant whether they are going to the plate or attempting the pickoff.This takes a lot of reps in practice to make sure the leg lift is the same going to the plate as it is going to the bag.Their hands need to come set in the same position for both, the must learn to look home and throw to the bag and vice-versa.They must learn to vary the number of looks to the runner before going home.

If you have given up 41 stolen bases in 2 games you need to find a new catcher.
Did you really give up that many stolen bases or are half of them passed balls or wild pitches?If you are convinced you have a catcher that can catch and has a strong enough arm to throw out runners then start working on a pitch out play.Your catcher should be one of your best athletes be quick as a cat and have a strong arm.He is the quarterback of your defense and needs to be a heads up player.He will call your pitchouts, your cut or though plays and he needs to be able to learn how to work with your pitchers.It is a huge job you can not just put anyone back there.There are a nimber of drills you can use to help your catcher, if you would like more help EMAIL me at Dave1000k@aol.com.

Hope this helps,
Seadog