In baseball, the catcher plays a primary role in directing the defense on the field. A catcher must relay signs from the coaches to his teammates on the field, put down signs for the pitcher telling him which pitches to throw and use techniques to help the game move along in his team's favor. Framing pitches is one specific skill catchers use to help expand the strike zone.
What It Is
Framing a pitch refers to a subtle movement of the catcher's wrist that moves a ball into the strike zone, when it is actually off the plate. The movement has to occur at the moment the ball is caught, and should be no more than an inch or two. Umpires will not give strike calls to obvious movements, and may even make calls that aren't in your favor later in the game.
Reason for Framing
The corners of the plate are an important element for any pitcher. Framing pitches can help you get calls on the corners you may not have gotten otherwise. Framing pitches that are obviously outside may also give the umpire the perception that the pitcher is just missing and has good control. This may influence close calls later in the game. Pitching to the corners also keeps the hitters off balance.
Technique
When you frame a pitch, it is a good idea to sway your body slightly with the glove. This will enable you to use less arm movement and makes the movement less obvious. It is also wise to catch the ball out in front of your body with your elbow slightly bent, so the umpire has a clear view and the call is more likely to go your way. Once you catch the ball, the sway takes place toward the center of the plate.
Tips
If you choose to adopt the sway technique of framing pitches, it is wise to use it throughout the game and not only on pitches that are outside. This helps to give the impression the pitcher has good control, and won't tip the umpire off that you are trying to frame pitches. Try your best to stay balanced as you receive the pitch, and position your body behind where you want the pitch to be to minimize reaching.
Member Comments