Blinking: Have the catcher wear a mask and kneel in front of you. Take several balls and softly toss them into the mask. The catcher should concentrate on not blinking during this drill. This often eliminates blinking or flinching when a batter swings at a ball.
Blocking Low Pitches: One catcher should throw at least 25 balls in the dirt to the other (wearing full catching gear), then change positions. Sponge balls can be used until adequate skill and confidence are developed. The coach should supervise this drill until the proper blocking techniques are developed.
Throwing: Allow the catcher to throw to second base at least 10 to 20 times. Make sure the catcher is behind home plate during the drill. Have someone throw the balls to them so that they can also practise their receiving and the adjusting of the grip.
Pop-Ups: This drill can be practised in pairs. The catcher (in full gear) positions themself in the receiving stance while the other catcher or coach throws the ball in the air. The catcher should practise all the proper techniques required for catching foul balls when doing this drill.
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