Catchers Core Skills: Catchers Stances
As a catcher, you have a lot of responsibilities. Not only do you have to be able to hit, but you also have to field your position well and have a solid arm to throw out runners. The most critical responsibility of a catcher is to manage the pitching staff. A big part of that is knowing when to call for specific pitches and being able to receive them properly. That's where your stance comes in. The way you position yourself can have a significant impact on the way you receive pitches and the way you manage the pitching staff. This article and this accompanying YouTube video will introduce you to primary and secondary stances and explain why they're essential for catchers. We'll also give tips on finding your proper posture and how to perfect it.
The primary stance is a catcher's position before the pitch is thrown. This is where the catcher is most comfortable and can receive and frame pitches most effectively. Conversely, the secondary stance is the position the catcher takes after the pitch is thrown. This position allows the catcher to block pitches in the dirt and throw out base runners. The primary and secondary stances are vital because they enable catchers to do their job effectively. A catcher with a strong primary stance will be able to receive pitches in the strike zone consistently which can help the pitcher throw strikes and keep the opposing team off balance. A catcher with a strong secondary stance will allow you to block pitches in the dirt and prevent runners from advancing to the next base. The key to mastering both stances is practice.
Primary Stance: The primary stance is the catcher's starting position when waiting for a pitch. In this stance, the catcher is in a squatting position with their knees bent, feet shoulder-width apart, and their weight evenly distributed on both feet. The catcher's glove hand is out in front of their body, and their throwing hand is positioned behind their back.
Secondary Stance: The secondary stance is used when there are runners on base. In this stance, the catcher is still in a squatting position, but their feet are positioned slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. The catcher's throwing hand is positioned between their legs, and their glove hand is angled downward to block any balls in the dirt.
Catchers must practice receiving and framing pitches from various pitchers with different pitching styles and velocities. They must also practice blocking pitches and making accurate throws to bases. Catchers must also be aware of their body position and how it affects their ability to do their job. For example, a catcher who is too upright may have difficulty framing pitches that are low in the zone. A catcher who is crouched too much may have difficulty blocking pitches in the dirt. Catchers must find the right balance between being low and athletic while still being able to move quickly and effectively. With proper practice and awareness of their body position, young catchers can master this important aspect of the game and become influential leaders on their teams.
Don't let your stance hold you back. At DREAM Team Sports Center, our catching instructors will teach you how to properly set up your stance, including how to position your feet, knees, hips, and hands. We will also show you how to adjust your stance for different pitch locations and situations. In addition to stance, we will cover other important catching skills such as framing pitches, blocking balls in the dirt, and throwing mechanics. Our experienced coaches will work with you one-on-one to help you develop the skills you need to become a successful catcher. Sign up for a lesson today and take your catching skills to the next level!