Playing catcher is the most physically demanding position on the baseball field. The catcher is involved in every pitch that is thrown and he is in the direct line of fire. Catchers wear significant protective equipment, but when a player lines up behind the plate on a regular basis, he will get hit with foul tips from head to toe. In addition to the physical grind, the catcher must take charge of the game from a mental standpoint. He will call pitches, position fielders and must block the plate on close plays.
Step 1
Know the pitcher who will be taking the mound for your team. In order to call pitches effectively, you have to know what are his best and worst pitches. You also have to know something about his makeup. For example, some pitchers need a pat on the back when they let runners get on base and the opponent is threatening to score. Other pitchers don't want to be bothered with an arm around the shoulder or any other show of support. You have to know who you are dealing with.
Step 2
Provide the pitcher with an excellent target behind home plate. As you extend your glove, make sure you move to the proper location. If you are trying to pitch a particular hitter low and outside, move your glove in that direction. If you want a pitch that is low and high and inside, rise up out of your crouch a bit, then give a prominent target.
Step 3
Get rid of the ball quickly when a runner is trying to steal second or third base. The pitcher is responsible for keeping the runner close, but the ultimate responsibility for stopping the runner falls on the catcher. Step toward the base with your left foot and snap the throw to the base with a quick downward motion once you have the ball at ear level.
Step 4
Position fielders as each batter comes to the plate. If a power hitter is coming up, signal outfielders to move deep. If you have an opposite-field hitter coming to the plate, make sure infielders and outfielders move so they are in a position to make a play.
Step 5
Block the plate on any close play at home. Once you have the ball, you can get in front of the plate and physically stop the runner from touching the plate and scoring a run. However, you can't block the plate if you don't have the ball. Brace yourself for a collision and move your body toward the runner so you create as much impact and you are not just absorbing the collision yourself.
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