Catching is not an easy position to play. A young player attempting to become a good catcher must be willing to master the basic techniques.
Stance
The signal stance and the receiving or ready stance are used in catching.
Receiving Stance
position body directly behind the plate and square to the pitcher
feet are shoulder-width apart and even with each other (not staggered)
distribute weight evenly and on the balls of the feet
thighs are parallel to the ground and back is straight
extend the glove hand comfortably towards the pitcher with arm slightly bent
place the glove hand at a slight angle with the wrist cocked so the glove face is toward the pitcher
position the glove hand in the middle of the plate just above the batters knees
with no runners on base, the catcher will receive the ball with one hand and protect the throwing hand by placing it behind the right leg or back
Signal Stance
should be comfortable and relaxed with body square to the pitcher and weight balanced on the balls of the feet
upper legs rest on the calves with the feet and knees comfortably spread and back straight
once the signal is given then change into the receiving stance
Signs
Signs should be kept simple. Basic signs like one finger for fastball, two for a curve, and three for a change-up are used.
Receiving the Pitch
catch the ball with the arm comfortably extended in a relaxed position
"give" slightly with the pitch
catch the ball as close to the plate as possible watching the ball all the way to the glove
for balls above the waist, catch the ball with the fingers pointing up
balls below the waist the fingers point down
stay low to not obstruct the umpires view
try not to blink when the batter swings at a pitch
Blocking Low Pitches
drop to both knees with body square to the ball
keep hips and rear end down
place the glove and bare hand (palm forward and thumb at side of hand - not pointing forward) between the knees
both arms are slightly bent and pulled into the sides of the body with the chin down and tucked into the chest
cup the body forward to keep the ball in front of the body
keep eyes open and on the ball
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