COACH WORKBOOK Context: Competition Development Module: Pitching and Catching 1
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Unless otherwise indicated, images and pictures contained in this document are the property of BASEBALL CANADA. They are used under license and are copyrighted. Some images contained in this document have been obtained through Major League Baseball and are copyrighted. This document is copyrighted by the Baseball Canada (2011) and its licensors. All rights reserved. 3
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Section 1. Teaching Pitching Spending time developing our pitchers is essential. We have all heard good pitching beats good hitting and many coaches say pitching can be 70 percent of the game. Some of the most memorable games in baseball are the ones where a pitcher dominates the opposing hitters. It requires a great deal of mental and physical skills. Our goal as coaches is to develop these skills and get the most out of our pitchers. Teaching and developing pitchers has been a hotly debated topic. There have been many theories and discussion about the mechanics of pitching. With a partner or in groups look at the list of pitching terminology and phrases that you may or may not have heard within your baseball circle. Discuss within your group what each means and whether or not this term is relevant. Be prepared to discuss with your LF and the rest of the participants. Tall and Fall Drop and Drive Stay Tall Pull your glove side Don t drag your back foot Stay on top Reach back Lead with your butt Thumbs down Goal post position Don t rush your balance point 6
Section 2. Phases of Pitching Mechanics of Pitching Group Activity #1 : With a partner describe and list the important features of each phase of the pitching delivery. Be sure to use the pictures as reference. Along with list of the features include a common flaw with each phase. Set up full wind up (drop step) / set position Leg lift and Gather 7
Stride Phase / Early cocking phase 8
Late Cocking Phase Shoulder / Hip Separation 9
Acceleration elbow extension Release Point Follow Through 10
Reflection: Answer the following questions with a partner or discuss as a group. 1. In the full wind up can the hands go behind the head as the pitcher gets into the gather position? 2. Is it ok to drag your back toe as a pitcher rotates and delivers the baseball? 3. When does a pitcher start going forward in their delivery? 4. Can you change the arm slot of a pitcher? 11
Section 3. Pitching Drills Participants will be divided into 3 groups. One of the following drills below will be assigned to your group. Discuss the drill and variances of each drill. Be prepared to do the following: Demonstrate the drill in an open area Discuss the drill and what it is enforcing Have the other participants practice the drill and provide feedback a. Two Knee Drill get on both knees and play catch with a partner 30 45 feet. The glove side knee is slightly forward to allow your shoulders to rotate while keeping your head to stay upright. b. Towel Drill / Rocker Drill using a towel or throwing a baseball the pitcher should have feet spread in a comfortable stride and baseball is held in the glove. The pitcher will take the baseball out of their glove and rock back into an early / late cocking phase and then deliver the baseball or snap the towel. c. Cross Over Drill in the stretch position cross the glove side foot over the throwing side foot. Lift and throw. Group Discussion As a group discuss other drills you or others have used over the years that promote good pitching mechanics. What are the drills enforcing? 12
Video Analysis and Providing Feedback The use of video has been a valuable tool for assessing and analysing the mechanics of pitching. It is important to provide pitchers feedback by allowing themselves to see themselves and then provide them with drill or method to correct their flaw. In the teaching profession it is often mentioned I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand. Be sure to get different angles and views front side of the mound, back side of the mound, and a view from the batter s box. You will be able to evaluate the balance and direction of the pitcher. If possible use visuals such as line in the dirt or on an indoor mound use a taped line or chalk in order to evaluate a pitchers mechanics. The use of software such as Dartfish is very valuable in analyzing mechanics http://www.dartfish.com/en/sports/team sports/index.htm Take video of your pitchers as the season or your training progresses. Often players achieve physical strength and the results will show on video as stride length, balance and release point improve due to strength. Video Analysis Group Activity As a group analyze video of professional and amateur players keeping in mind the phases of the delivery. Compare and contrast some of the deliveries. Video #1 Video #2 Video #3 13
Complimenting the Pitchers Repertoire The key to getting hitters out is keeping them off balance and guessing. Pitchers can get hitters out by disrupting their timing and rhythm, locating the baseball, movement, using deception or simply overpowering the hitter by spotting his or her weakness. Furthermore, getting ahead in the count will enhance the ability to get hitters out command of our pitches is essential. Activity #3 Divide into groups of three. Group 1 is FB group, Group #2 is CB, SL group, Group #3 is CH group. Read the info in the workbook and do the following. Everyone should have a baseball in their hand. Each group must complete the following: discuss how to teach the pitch within your group teach the other groups the grip, the release, and other important features describe the action of the pitch highlight any other important info such as how to teach and develop the pitch(es) have the group you are teaching to toss the ball to a partner provide participants feedback Basic Pitches Fastball 4 seam fastball this type of fastball has a 6 12 rotation and stays flatter or has little movement than the 2 seam fastball. Usually pitchers that are hard throwers use this type of fastball for its rising effect which really means the ball stays flat rather than sink. Used when pitchers want to throw up in the strike zone or spot their fastball pitchers behind in the count will go back to the 4 seam fastball as it has less movement. 2 seam fastball pitchers who want their fastball to sink or run tend to use this type of fastball. When throwing the above fastballs it is important to note that the index and middle finger should not be too far apart or too close together. When the fingers are too far apart the wrist is not as loose and when the fingers are too close together commanding the fastball will be challenging. It is important for individual pitchers to find their feel for their fastball by experimenting. Variations of the Fastball Sinking fastball thrown with 2 seam grip 14
usually pitchers with a ¾ or side arm arm slot are more effective in mastering this fastball putting pressure on the index finger as the ball is released will allow the fastball to be turned over in the hand. ideal pitch to throw in situations where the defense needs a ground ball for a double play. Cut Fastball thrown with a 4 seam grip putting pressure on the middle finger as the ball is released will not allow the fastball to spin at 6 12 rotation and rather have the action of cutting or tailing away from a right handed hitter if thrown from a RHP. Other Pitches Curveball is thrown to fool the hitter and disrupt his timing. middle finger needs to grip the ball at either the narrowest point of the seams on the baseball or at the widest point of the seams. The index finger rests loosely on the ball while there is firm pressure between the middle finger and thumb. when following through on the curveball, the back of the fingers are towards the hitter.this enables the pitcher to get on top of the ball and create a 12 6 rotation. Some coaches refer to this as a karate chop or shutting off a light switch. It is important to note that the pitch is pulled down to create downward spin. there is usually a 10 15 mph difference between the fastball and curveball. Teaching points on the curveball: It is important that pitchers visualize themselves releasing the curveball out in front of their body. Gripping the curveball too tight will have a negative effect on the spin. Keep the index finger on top of the ball when coming to the release point Don t hook the wrist when coming to the release point. When learning this pitch spin the ball at close distance. As you get the feel of the spin and the karate chop action, gradually begin increasing the distance and throwing the ball at more velocity. This pitch is most effective when the ball starts at the plate and then breaks down and away from the hitter. It is also effective when thrown back door meaning starting away from the hitter and then breaking towards the outside corner for a strike. Slider if the fastball is released with the palm facing towards the hitter and the curveball is released like a karate chop then the slider would fall half way between the karate chop of the curveball and the release of the fastball. Some coaches refer to throwing the slider liking throwing a dart. grip the pitch as if you are throwing a 4 seam fastball. 15
most pitchers who throw the slider have a tendency to put more pressure on the middle finger as the middle finger will generate the spin during the release. the slider will look like a fastball but will take a late break from the hitter. this pitch is generally 5 7 mph slower than the fastball and some pitchers may find they have more command of the slider rather than their curve due to the smaller break in the pitch. if a pitcher has a slider with little depth or downward movement then it is very important that this pitcher keep the pitch down if it is up in the strike zone it will be hit easily. hitters often describe the tight spin as the slider dot that is seen as it approaches the hitter Changeup extremely effective pitch when kept down and facing good hitters as it disrupts their timing. may not be as effective against weaker hitters who don t possess good bat speed. the most common characteristic of the changeup is that the grip does the work and the arm speed is the same as the fastball the changeup is usually 12 15 mph slower than the fastball and can make an average fastball explode upon a hitters hands. the changeup is very effective when thrown when a good hitter expects a fastball if the pitcher is behind in the count such as a 2 0, 2 1 count the hitter will look and expect a fastball but his timing will be disrupted when a good changeup is thrown and the result will be a weakly hit baseball. one of the most challenging pitches to learn as it takes time and patience for the feel of the pitch but most young pitchers are reluctant to throw it due to lack of confidence in it. Types of changeups Straight change this changeup is held deeper in the hand or choking the ball spin will be same as fastball when thrown some players take their fingers off the ball when releasing it as the wrist kept fairly stiff either 2 seam or 4 seam grip can be used Palm Ball thrown similar to the straight change as the ball is placed deep in the palm all 4 fingers are used when throwing the ball Circle Change or OK Change one of the tougher pitches to get a good feel for as the grip is unusual but the spin is very effective as the grip allows the arm to pronate early causing good fade and sink along with slower velocity. the thumb and the index finger are held to the inside of the baseball much like an OK sign or in the shape of a circle the middle and the ring finger are on top of the ball and the little finger is held to the outside of the ball. the released ball rolls off the middle, ring and little finger as the hand pronates causing the ball to spin down and away from lefthanded hitter when thrown by a right handed pitcher. very effective pitch when a pitcher struggles and often hangs his or her curveball to a lefthanded power hitter, this pitch is a great alternative. 16
Forkball the ball is placed or jammed between the index and middle finger and the thumb is underneath, some pitchers place extra pressure on the thumb in order to allow the ball to slide out of the hand between the spread fingers the wrist is fairly stiff when released the ball has little rotation when thrown and will have a sharp break down that will be difficult for the batter to consistently make contact with relievers have made good careers with this pitch as it induces a lot of strikeouts and weakly hit ground balls the cousin of the forkball is the split fingered fastball which isn t jammed as deeply between the fingers and is easier to control than the forkball Other Pitches you have seen not mentioned above: Other methods of disrupting the Hitter 1. Locating outside/ inside and elevating the pitch A pitcher can never afford to always throw to the outside corner on a hitter if that is what scouting reports indicate. Eventually a good hitter will make adjustments and dive at the pitch on the outside corner and drive it. Spotting the ball on both sides of the plate and changing the eye level of the hitter by elevating the baseball can be effective. 2. Varying the timing In the stretch position a pitcher can simply hold on to the ball longer or deliver the baseball with a shorter pause (be careful not to quick pitch and cause a balk.) 3. Shake Have your catcher give the shake sign to have the pitcher to shake his head 2 3 times or swipe his jersey. This may put additional thoughts in the hitter s head. List any other methods: 17
Creating Confidence in Your Pitchers Group Activity - Read the scenarios below - With a partner discuss the situation. If you were this individuals pitching coach what would your plan of action be in consulting with this player. - Record your plan below and be ready to discuss. Scenario #1 You have a pitcher that has spent the last three years training hard every day in order to be the best he can be. In practice throwing to a catcher with no one watching he throws like he belongs in the pros, but when in a game he can t perform. This player gets a tense and nervous feeling in his stomach and loses concentration. He knows what he has to do, get ahead of hitters, spot the fastball etc but he just can t get it done in a game. He feels like he doesn t want to put all of this hard work to waste. He looks nervous and stressed on his game days. Scenario #2 You have a pitcher with a live arm, good movement and throws with great velocity. He struggles with control not only in a game but also when he throws a bullpen. Discuss and describe a strategy you as a pitching coach would use to improve the pitcher s command. 18
Throwing Strikes : The Value of Pitching to Contact Taken from MLB Stats: Batter ahead of the Count Batting Average 1 0.310 2 0.330 3 0.270 2 1.285 3 1.312 3 2.293 Batter Tied Batting Average 0 0.280 1 1.273 2 2.260 Batter Behind Batting Average 0 1.255 1 2.223 0 2.214 The pitcher behind in the count the pitcher is forced to throw over the white part of the plate in order to get a strike. The hitter is anticipating something straight such as a fastball and over the plate. When pitchers are faced with this situation they should throw a good fastball with something on it to avoid getting hit hard or if they have confidence in their arsenal of pitches they can throw something off speed to disrupt the timing. This is especially true facing a 3 or 4 hole hitter with runners on second and or third and first base open. Batter tied the pitcher is does not want to fall behind but also does not want to throw something on the meat of the plate. Fastballs on the black part of the plate or a pitchers best control breaking pitch is a good option in this situation. Often on a 0 0 count all a pitcher needs is the get me over curveball to baffle the hitter and really have him guessing. Pitcher ahead in the count Pitcher has big advantage over the hitter and can be more off the plate with his pitches. The pitcher can feel like he can really let one go without having to worry about falling behind. These counts we want the hitter to chase or try to hit a bad pitch. These counts also allow a pitcher to throw his best breaking pitch rather than his get me over the plate breaking pitch. Pitcher well ahead in the count the 0 2 count has the hitter in a huge hole. But it can also create a challenging situation for the pitcher. Often young pitchers throw a pitch so far off the plate the hitter will know that the pitcher is wasting the pitch and the effectiveness of being ahead 0 2 will soon find the pitcher in a 1 2 and 2 2 count. Therefore painting a low and away fastball just off the plate will often finish the hitter off. When coaches get visibly upset in a game over an 0 2 hit, the result may be a pitcher losing his aggressiveness and confidence. Conclusion pitchers who pitch to get ahead and pitch to contact (challenging the hitter) will be more efficient with his pitch count, keep the game moving, enable position players to stay mentally in the game and overall give the pitcher a mental advantage. Longtime college baseball coach Charlie Green said it best when you re behind in the count go back toward the middle of the plate when you re ahead in the count, go away from the middle of the plate. 19
Determining Pitch Selection Briefly describe how you would pitch to the following hitters: 1. Hitter with a hitch prior to his swing 2. Hitter with an uppercut 3. Batter with a long stride 4. Excessive crouch 5. Batter has a long swing 6. Batter is up in the front of batter s box 7. Hitter with an open stance 8. Hitter pulling off on the ball (shoulder and head) 9. Hitter stepping in the bucket 10. Closed stance 11. Batter dives at the pitched ball 20
Pitchers Fielding Practice PFP Fielding Responsibilites Once the pitcher has released the ball he becomes an infielder. A pitcher should never compromise his delivery in order to get into a good fielding position but a pitcher must be ready for balls hit in his area of responsibility. A pitcher who falls off too far from either side of the mound will find it more difficult to field their position compared to the pitcher that has better direction towards the plate. Fielding Comebackers pitchers must realize that they will have plenty of time to make a play once they field the ball or if they knock the ball down nearby where they can pick it up and throw it to first base pitchers should also give the firstbaseman time to get to first base the pitcher should shuffle step towards first base to make the throw be sure to see the ball into your glove if the pitcher bobbles the baseball don t put it back into your glove this takes more time be sure pitchers practice fielding comebackers by providing your staff with plenty of fungoes have the pitchers mimic their delivery and follow through before the fungo is hit. Fielding bunts pitchers must attack the ball quickly and the last 3 4 strides they must get their body under control to pick up the baseball once the pitcher get his body under control he must set his feet in a position where he is facing the direction of his throw if the ball has stopped the pitcher can use his barehand, if the ball is rolling scooping the ball into the glove and using both hands is recommended again, see the ball into the glove as you are picking it up if it is rolling slowly or has stopped many times a pitcher takes his eyes off the ball and mishandles the ball resulting in a hurried throw and/or bobbled baseball. set your feet in the direction of the target before you throw step and throw or shuffle and throw in sacrifice bunt situations and a badly bunted baseball, the pitcher should set his feet in the direction of the base in order to get the lead runner and as the pitcher is doing this he should listen for his catcher to dictate which base to throw to if there is no play to get the lead runner out then there should be time to get the batter running to first base. when the bunt is well placed and upon realizing the pitcher has no play at any base the pitcher should get in the habit of faking towards firstbase and then look backdoor at another base for a runner who has rounded the base too far. communicate with your infielders that you have the baseball good footwork leads to good throw get the feet in a good position before you throw be sure to practice throws where a pitcher doesn t have a lot of time and where he has to hurry their throw you will see they will have make throws like an infielder making a sidearm throw as that may be their only chance to throw out the runner Covering First Base Pitchers should get in the habit of any ball hit toward the 1 st / 2 nd base side of the infield they should instinctively start running in the direction of first base. There are times when the ball is hit between 1 st base and 2 nd base and 21
the second baseman fields the ball but the firstbaseman is too far out to get over to cover in time. This stresses the importance of the pitcher to get there anytime the ball is hit to that side of the diamond. The catcher should also always yell GET OVER THERE to remind the pitcher of his cover responsibility. Once they realize that the first baseman can cover the bag they can stop running but continue to head in that direction. If the first baseman fields the baseball and can t get over to touch the bag in time the pitcher is responsible for covering first base to receive the throw. When pitchers are running towards first base they should run to the line and up the line. The point a pitcher should run to is about 12 15 feet in front of first base and as they run up the line on the fair territory side they should have their hands ready to receive the ball from the infielder. The ball is thrown or tossed to the pitcher as he is running up the line. The optimal place to receive the throw is 2 or 3 strides before the pitcher touches the bag. As the pitcher gets close to first base the pitcher should break down or use choppy steps to get his body under control and prevent him from overstepping and miss touching first base. Other key points: every time the ball is hit to that side of the diamond catchers should verbally remind the pitcher to GET OVER THERE! when the ball is hit toward the second baseman and the first baseman is out of position to get over to first the pitcher should remind the 1B that he s got the bag... I VE GOT IT!! be sure to touch the inside corner of the bag not the middle of the bag to avoid the collision the pitcher must use his right foot to touch the bag. if the pitcher gets to the bag ahead of the throw, the pitcher should stop at the bag once the pitcher has received the ball look for another play. Controlling the Running Game Pitchers must spend the time to develop the skills involved in holding runners on base. It is inevitable that a pitcher will be in a situation where he needs to stop the running game. The ability to hold runners will help his cause and give his catcher and the rest of the infield a chance to make a play on a lead runner or a runner stealing a base. If a pitcher develops a variety of pick off moves, an efficient and quick delivery to home, and the ability to freeze the runner by varying his looks or the varying the time he delivers the ball, the opposing offense will be reluctant to steal. Furthermore, it deflates the confidence of opposing teams offense when a runner is picked off base in a key situation this can easily change the momentum of the game. Coaches do have to remember that young and inexperienced players who spend too much time in controlling the running game and preoccupy themselves too much to that goal often will lose focus in getting the batter out. Holding the runner With a runner on first, first and second, or just second the pitcher will be in the stretch position. The runner is constantly trying to time the pitcher and get good jump. A pitcher who vary his time or looks to delivering the pitch will hard to get a good jump on. Also pitchers should be aware of how long it takes to deliver the baseball to home. Key points to consider: The stretch position should be comfortable when the pitcher comes set. The feet should be shoulder width apart in the set position and the hands should be chest height this will allow a quicker move to 1B. 22
Use stop watch to determine how long it takes for the pitcher to deliver the baseball start the watch when the pitcher begins his motion stop the watch when the ball hits the catcher s glove. On a full size diamond the time of 1.2 seconds or less is excellent, 1.3 is good, 1.4 is average, and 1.5 or more and that pitcher will have problems holding runners on. In the stretch position, pitchers are encouraged to use a leg lift to maximize the power of their delivery. If their time to home is slow then an abbreviated lift is sufficient. A slide step can be used but pitchers may want to stay away from using it all of the time as they lose effectiveness of their pitch and often leave the ball up in the strike zone as their timing may be off. However, it may disrupt the timing of the hitter and is extremely useful with an exceptionally fast runner on the bases. The pitcher must come to a stop in the stretch position but once a pitcher stops he or she may deliver the ball quickly or freeze the runner by waiting for a count of 2 3 seconds. The runner will have difficulty in timing their jump. Also, taking one, two, or three looks (varying your looks) will disrupt the runners comfort level. Pick offs RHP Pick off to 1B In the stretch position the RHP will come set with his feet shoulder width apart and holding the ball in the glove at chest height. Holding the ball at the level of the belt buckle will be conducive to a longer arm arc and be slower to first base. The footwork that a RHP will use is a jump pivot a small quick jump in the direction of first base as you are taking the baseball out of the glove quickly will be a good move to first. Remind pitchers to set their feet before they throw. Young pitchers want to throw the ball as they are spinning and the result will be an errant throw. Some pitchers will refer to this as their A move that they won t show unless they know that it is an ideal steal situation or when the runner has extended their lead. Showing other types of picks to first may give the runner a false sense of the pitcher s arsenal of moves. With the above mentioned footwork the pitcher must make the throw to 1b if the pitcher doesn t, it is a balk. Other moves to 1B: Step behind the RHP or LHP will step behind the rubber and glance at the runner or glance and throw or just step behind and throw. The pitcher does not need to throw the ball once he completes this move. LHP Pick off to 1B In the stretch position the LHP will have a obvious advantage of facing the runner rather than having to look over the shoulder as a RHP requires. The LHP move allows the pitcher to lift his stride leg and at the balance point the pitcher may step toward 1b in an attempt to pick the runner. This move is very deceptive as the runner will be reluctant to break toward 2 nd on the leg lift and go only when he knows the pitcher is delivering the ball to home. Also, pitchers can also make the move deceptive when they separate their hands at the top of the leg lift. A pitcher can take the ball out of his glove lead the glove toward home as the stride leg is going down and then quickly step towards 1 st base and make a pick attempt. The separation and lead glove towards home can really sell the LHP pick to 1b. Other points : the LHP pick should vary their look towards home don t have the same look or the same number of looks. the LHP should know before he lifts his leg whether or not he will throw home or pick it is impossible and not recommended for a LHP to change his mind as he is delivering the baseball. 23
the rulebook states the pitcher must step directly towards 1b there is no 45 degree rule but some umpires use this as a mental guideline in determining whether or not the move is bordering on a balk the tempo of the leg lift and separation of the hands should be consistent making it hard for the runner to read the move Picks to 2b A pick off at second base is often easier than the pick at first base. A pick to 2b is a timing play between the pitcher and the middle infielders. The ss or 2b will not be standing on the bag to hold the runner on like at first base but rather playing behind the baseline in their normal infield position. IF the pitcher sees that there is little room between the infielder who is covering the bag and the runner who is diving back then a throw is not needed. Coaches often refer to this as daylight is there enough space between the infielder and runner for a possible play resulting in an out. The infielder will often signal to the pitcher with an open glove if he feels there is enough daylight. There are three methods for a pick to second base: Jump pivot the RHP will spin to his left and around to set his feet in a position to throw the ball over the bag at second base. The RHP will spin leading with his glove side shoulder keeping in mind that he must set his feet before he throws don t spin and throw at the same time this will lead to a throwing error. The middle infielders must let the pitcher come to the set position before they consider to starting breaking towards second base in hopes of daylight. It becomes a timing play between the pitcher and the middle infielders as the pitcher will release the ball when he sees the open glove meaning daylight between the runner and the infielder covering second base. The arm action should be short and quick to match the action of the footwork. Inside pick off or Spaghetti move This is used when the defense sees a runner on 2b that is aggressive with their secondary lead or they extend their lead on the leg lift of the pitcher. The pitcher gets to his balance position by lifting his glove side leg and then rotating on his pivot foot while in contact with the rubber as the glove side foot lands in the direction of 2b. If he sees the runner freeze, then the pitcher can come off the mound and force the runner to break towards a bag in a rundown situation. The pitcher does not need to make a throw in this move. A signal to the middle infielders is recommended in order for them time their break towards the bag on the lift and spins of the pitcher. Wind up Position Pick When 3b and 2b are occupied the pitcher may go to the full wind up position. The runner on second will notice this and may lose his focus and forget about the potential of being picked. The pitcher should have his pivot foot on top of the mound. The catcher will initiate this play by signalling (wave or drop of the glove) to the pitcher when to make the move as the catcher will see when the middle infielder is near enough to the bag. The pitcher simply has to pivot with his arm side foot while still being in contact with the rubber and his glove side foot will step and land in the direction of 2b. Remember the pitcher does not need to throw the ball with all picks to 2b upon realizing there is no daylight. There is a lot of risk with this play as an errant throw will allow a runner on third to score and the runner on second to advance. Picks to 3B If the pitcher is concerned that the runner on third is a possible steal or squeeze threat then the pitcher should be in the stretch position. Rarely are there pick off attempts to 3b. The third baseman should not be holding the runner on like the first baseman does. Therefore if there is a pick play to 3b then it will be timing play between the pitcher and the third baseman. The method would be the same as the LHP pick to 1b. The LHP pick to 3b is not 24
recommended as the LHP will not be able to see the timing of the third baseman getting to the bag. RHP 3 rd 1 st move If there is a runner on 1 st and 3 rd and you are facing an aggressive team every RHP pitcher should have this move in their repertoire. If the defence believes that the runner on 1 st will be stealing the pitcher will lift his glove side leg and step and separate towards third base as if he was attempting a pick towards 3 rd. Once his glove side foot lands toward 3 rd the pitcher will spin around and look for daylight towards first base and possibly have the runner on 1 st in a rundown situation. Pitchers shouldn t have to arm fake towards 3 rd they simply just have to lift and step towards third. The runner on first may go on the lift of the leg and get caught. Even if the play doesn t work the defence will show the play and the runner on 1 st will be hesitant to take a big jump or the opposition will not be as aggressive. Be sure your team practices the run down situation with a runner on third. Group Activity With your team, how would you communicate in a game the following pick plays to your catcher, pitcher, and infielders. pick to 1b jump pivot pick to 2b inside or spaghetti move to 2b 3 rd / 1 st move Group Activity With partner complete the following. You have 8 9 pitchers on your staff. Design a drill where the whole staff can practice various PFP/ and or picks on the same diamond with the rest of the infield players. Be sure there is a lot of movement and involvement where there is little standing around. Share your drill with others. 25
Catching Controlling the Running Game A catcher with an accurate and strong arm is a valuable asset for any team. A catcher who throws out a runner trying to steal deflates the confidence of the opposing offence and may ultimately shift the momentum in the game. Arm action of the Catcher The arm action of the catcher will be considerably shorter than a pitcher or an outfielder who possess a long arc when taking the baseball out of their glove the arm goes down, back and then up. A catcher will have a shorter arm arc when the catcher takes the ball out of the glove the arm goes back and then up. A. Throwing to Bases Feet, Feet, Feet!! As with many skills in many sports, proper execution of a good, accurate throw depends on proper footwork. Our feet get us in position to execute a good throw. It is important to begin these drills slowly and gradually increase the speed as catchers master the correct footwork. Throws to Second Base - As you receive the ball, take a short jab step with your right foot (for right hand throwing catchers) into the middle of your stance, slightly in front of you (close to replacing your left foot) - Transfer the ball from the glove to the throwing hand and take the throwing hand back to initiate the throwing motion - As you stride toward your target (second base) with your left foot, be sure to point your lead shoulder to your target as well your body should be perpendicular to second base (sideways) - Keep your elbow up at shoulder height as you throw the ball - Keep your hand behind the ball, fingers on top of the ball as you release and reach out to your target feeling the ball come off your fingertips * Note: Whether the location of the pitch is down the middle, inside or outside, catchers must clear themselves of the hitter. Stay in the middle line of home plate and second base much like a runway. Hitters are entitled to the batter s box and will not be charged with interference if you make contact with them while they are in their box. 26
Ball in Middle of Plate Use above footwork Ball to your Left (with right handed hitter) - Rake ball in by reaching to receive the ball, then bring ball back to middle of body and execute above footwork Ball to your Right - This becomes a mini pitch out with a right hand hitter. Initiate footwork with a jab step with right foot toward left hand hitters batters box, then execute above footwork * Pitch Down and Away - Rock and Fire Reach to your back hand and just load up on right foot and stride to target to execute throw Small Group Activity: Detect and Correct Fundamentals - Get into small groups and evaluate one another on your footwork and exchange. Throw balls to catcher from about 15 feet away and have each catcher work on this skill. Check your feet each time. Be sure feet are lined up with second base to execute accurate throw. Throwing Runners out a 3 rd Base Some players consider stealing 3 rd easier than second despite the throw being shorter for the catcher. Often the runner can get a bigger lead at second and the pitcher will often abbreviate his leg lift with a runner on second resulting in a big jump. Furthermore, with a right handed batter up to bat the view is obstructed for the catcher and the batter is somewhat in the way as a catcher tries to complete a throw down to third. Throwing to third with a RH batter Depending on where the ball is thrown will determine whether you throw behind the batter or in front of the batter. Catchers want to stay away from throwing over top of the batter. The most used is stepping with the right foot back then clearing the left foot and throwing behind the batter. This method is used when pitches are around the plate. A general rule of thumb is to go in the direction of where the throw takes you. If the pitch is up and away this will lead you to throw in front of the hitter. In this situation the catcher will step with his right foot slightly forward and then get into a good throwing position. A catcher should also know where the hitter is within the batter s box before a pitch is thrown this may help predetermine the footwork the catcher will use. Without a RH batter to shield and somewhat block the catcher from throwing the catcher simply has to receive and step toward third to throw when there is a LH hitter. Tag Plays at the Plate Coaches should not ignore the importance of demonstrating the proper technique and implementing drills to 27
reinforce tag plays. Furthermore, proper technique will prevent injury in a potential collision at the plate. Some important points - the catcher should position themselves so they are square to the direction of the throw while placing their left heel on the front middle of the plate. This position allows the runner a place to slide. By definition the catcher cannot block the plate if he doesn t have the baseball. - when positioning the left heel on the plate make sure the toes are pointing at the runner. If the ankle is pointing at the runner the catcher may injure their knee with a hard slide from the runner as the knee doesn t bend sideways. - be sure to catch the ball before moving into the tag Throw from Left Field - Right foot/toes pointing toward LF so body is square to thrown ball Throw from Centre Field - Right foot/toes pointing toward CF so body is square to thrown ball (body opens up slightly) Throw from Right Field Right foot/toes pointing toward RF so body is square to thrown ball (body is really opened up) - Be sure to keep knees bent and anticipate a bad hop or short hop much like an infielder - Stay low like an infielder hands ready as if receiving a ground ball (palms facing out to ball) - Receive low throw like a ground ball (fingers pointing down), receive high throw (fingers pointing up) - Catch ball and immediately transfer ball into throwing hand and bury throwing hand into glove to apply tag - Fall down to left knee and apply tag with back of glove forcing runner away from home plate - Allow your momentum to follow runner if no tag is applied due to hook slide - After applying tag, always show the umpire the ball Note: Ball arriving on line with home plate hold position and receive throw - Ball off line to the right (up 1B line) slide right to catch it and dive back to front left edge of plate leading with glove - Ball off line to the left (up 3B line) move straight up baseline forcing runner to run around you so the ball does not hit runner on balls in the dirt or low it is important for catchers to work from the ground up or stay down on the throw and come up to receive the thrown ball in the dirt. catch the ball in the glove and use the bare hand to squeeze the ball in the glove. when moving towards the plate to make the tag stay low to the ground so that the left thigh will be in contact with your chest as the weight is transferred forward onto the left leg. The right knee may be dropped to the ground to stabalize. Again, be sure the left foot is facing the runner as you move to make the tag. when making the tag be sure to hold the ball in the glove with the bare hand. The catcher should tag the runner with the back of the glove. the catcher should understand that the runner is trying to touch home plate and the catcher shouldn t 28
have to reach out to make the tag let the player come to the plate. - Group Activity: In groups practice tag plays at the plate. Be sure you use a plate and soft core balls or tennis balls. Throw balls that are off the plate, in the air, and short hopped. Fielding Fly Balls from the Catching Position List the important factors for each point one must consider when fielding a pop up in the catching position. Once completed share with another coach and be prepared to discuss with the group: Locating the ball: tossing the mask: Spin of the baseball: Getting underneath the baseball and receiving it Priority system Ball park/wind/sun 29
Signs from the catcher It is important for a team to design a set of signals that are simple enough for the catcher and pitcher to use and for the defence to peek in in order to position accordingly. The catcher should be in a comfortable position in his stance while using his glove to hide the signals from the batter and the third base coach. The catcher must be aware of the first base coach and runners on base who may be relaying the signs to the batter. Often the runner on base will clench their fists or place their hands on their knees for a breaking ball or the first base coach may yell the batter s name for breaking pitch. It is important for the catcher to have a system to rely on when this situation arises. List the basic signs you would use for the following pitches. Compare your signs with another coach. Discuss the signs as a group. Fastball Curveball Slider Change Other such as fork, sinker, etc Pitchout Pickoff to 1b, 2b, 3 rd / 1 st move Other signs you would use: What method would you use if the pitcher had difficulty in seeing the signs? What method would you use if the runner on base or coach was relaying the signs and/or what would be your method of signs be with runners on base? Defensive Signs: Regular bunt defense Aggressive bunt defense 1 st and 3 rd Situation 30
Blocking Balls in the Dirt Blocking balls in the dirt is must skill that all catchers must master. A pitcher who throws a good curveball with lots of bite will have confidence in this pitch. Especially if he knows that the catcher has the ability to block these types of pitches that a hitter may chase in the dirt. Balls in the Dirt Catchers must be sure to BLOCK the ball, not catch the ball. Blocking balls in the dirt prevents runners from advancing and helps to win games. It is a skill that is not noticed by many people but it is very important. Ball in the Middle - Catchers can either drop straight to their knees or kick their feet back. - Be sure knees are slightly wider than shoulder width on the ground, body is square to the pitcher - Keep arms tight to body and cover 5 hole (between legs) with catcher s mitt. With both palms facing forward, tuck throwing hand in behind glove and be sure to hide throwing hand fingers - Tuck chin down into throat area to protect throat - Chest should be cupped forward slightly so balls will hit chest and be directed straight into the ground in front of you - Catcher must be ready to get to his feet quickly to make a play on base runner Ball to Left - push with right foot so body slides over, slightly angling back to middle use same blocking mechanics as ball in the middle Ball to Right - push with left foot so body slides over, slightly angling back to middle use same blocking mechanics as ball in the middle Group Activity Get into groups of 3. Read the information on blocking balls in the dirt above. One participant will be the coach who will demonstrate the skill and highlight the important aspects of blocking balls in the dirt. The second participant will be the athlete receiving instruction from the coach. The third participant will be the observer who will provide feedback on the coaches instructions. 31