By: Mike Evans,
Several factors come into play. A 'comfortable' squat, with the back straight is important. Catcher's position needs to be balanced, so they can move to the ball that is off the plate, or pop up to make a throw. Ideally the back/shoulders should be directly above the feet. This will allow that balanced position for quickness of movement. Leg muscles should be 'pre-loaded' as much as is comfortable for the individual, meaning they should raise their rear end up a few inches, if leg strength allows and keep their weight on the balls of their feet, all again for balance and quickness. The hand-behind-the-back is a good way to start out new, young catchers, to help prevent throwing hand injuries until they learn more about the position. Later, beside or behind the throwing-side thigh will offer sufficient protection while keeping their hand closer to the mitt for quicker throwing and fielding of the low pitch. For the low pitch, stress having them go to their knees, then get the mitt down. Getting the knees down puts the gear-protected body in the best blocking position as quickly as possible. Then the mitt comes down to attempt to catch the ball, but if not caught, at least the chances are good that the ball will be blocked by the body and stay in front of the catcher.
Date: March 28, 1998 at 09:39