Catcher Blocking Drill

A Drill to Help Catchers Master Blocking Pitches in the Dirt and Prevent Runners from Advancing

The Catcher Blocking Drill trains catchers to drop and block pitches in the dirt effectively. By learning to stay in front of the ball, catchers can prevent passed balls, keeping runners from advancing and protecting crucial game situations.

This drill is a fundamental part of catcher training that builds confidence, skill, and control over pitches in the dirt. With regular practice, catchers will enhance their blocking skills, providing a strong defense against advancing runners.

Difficulty Rating: ★★★★☆ (Challenging)
Time Estimate: 10-12 minutes

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • Catcher’s gear (mask, chest protector, shin guards, mitt)
  • A bucket of baseballs
  • Pitching machine (optional) or a coach to throw short-distance pitches
  • Flat space on the field or in a bullpen area
  1. Player Positioning:
  • The catcher sets up in their primary stance behind the plate, about 5-8 feet from the coach or pitching machine.
  • The coach or machine should be close enough to allow easy control over the ball direction while simulating in-the-dirt pitches.
  1. Area Setup:
  • Use an open area on the field or in the bullpen. Ideally, ensure the surface is flat, and there is enough space for the catcher to move forward and sideways for lateral blocks.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Coach Positioning:
  • The coach or pitching machine should be directly in front of the catcher, about 5-8 feet away. Coaches can adjust the distance depending on the catcher’s age and experience.
  1. Drill Execution:
  • The coach or machine pitches the ball into the dirt in front of the catcher, simulating a low pitch that requires blocking.
  • As the pitch comes in, the catcher should quickly drop to their knees, using their body to create a wide, stable blocking position. The glove should be down, forming a wall with the chest protector to ensure the ball bounces straight down in front of them.
  • Catchers should keep their chin tucked to prevent foul balls from hitting their face mask, while their body stays balanced and square to the plate.
  • After the block, the catcher should gather the ball, prepare for a throw if needed, and reset.
  1. Repetitions:
  • Aim for 10-15 blocks per set, focusing on mechanics, then rest. Multiple sets can be completed within a 10-12 minute drill session.
  1. Adjustments:
  • For beginners, start with slower, softer tosses. For more advanced players, vary the ball’s speed and location to simulate different pitch types and depths.

Why You Run This Drill:

The Catcher Blocking Drill is essential for developing a catcher’s ability to control pitches in the dirt. This skill is critical to prevent wild pitches and passed balls, which could allow runners to advance. By mastering blocking techniques, catchers build confidence, reaction time, and control, helping maintain defensive stability behind the plate.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Blocking Technique: Teaches catchers proper form and technique for dropping quickly and positioning themselves to block low pitches.
  • Reaction Time: Sharpens reflexes and timing, which are crucial for handling unpredictable pitches.
  • Ball Control and Recovery: The drill helps catchers understand how to keep blocked balls close and quickly recover them to prevent runners from advancing.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Game Situational Training: Simulates real game situations, giving catchers valuable experience in handling pitches in the dirt.
  • Skill Building: Enhances essential catcher skills like blocking, reaction time, and recovery.
  • Improves Confidence: Increases a catcher’s confidence in stopping pitches in the dirt, helping them trust their ability to control the plate.

Cons:

  • Physical Intensity: This drill can be physically demanding, especially on the knees and lower body, so catchers may need breaks between sets.
  • Risk of Injury: Misjudged blocks can result in bruises or minor injuries, so proper equipment and technique are essential.
  • Requires Attention to Technique: This drill requires close supervision to ensure the catcher is executing blocks correctly, or it can reinforce bad habits.

Coaching Notes & FAQs

Coaching Tips:

  • Focus on Form First: Start with slower pitches to focus on the basics. Emphasize proper form, body positioning, and glove placement.
  • Encourage Recovery Practice: After the block, have catchers quickly gather the ball to reinforce the importance of controlling the rebound and being prepared for the next play.
  • Reinforce Confidence: Young catchers may hesitate to drop to their knees. Remind them that blocking is one of their greatest assets on the field, and confidence grows with practice.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What if my catcher struggles with timing on the drop?
  • Slow the tosses down and start closer to build comfort. As they improve, gradually increase speed and distance, reinforcing the proper timing of the block.
  1. Can this drill be used with younger players?
  • Yes, but start with softer balls (like tennis balls) to help them build confidence. Ensure they have the right gear and go slowly to focus on form.
  1. How can I increase the difficulty of the drill for more advanced catchers?
  • Use faster, more varied pitches and move slightly farther away. For a real challenge, add lateral blocks, where the catcher must shift side to side to cover different areas of the strike zone.
  1. How often should I run this drill?
  • Aim to incorporate this drill at least 2-3 times per week. Consistent practice is key, especially in the early stages of catcher development, to build comfort and muscle memory.