During a game, much of the focus is on the pitcher and the batter. However, strategists would argue that the catcher wears the most hats during the game. She has an incredible amount of responsibilities behind the plate. From calling pitches, catching (hopeful) strikes, blocking errant pitches, throwing out baserunners, catching foul balls and fielding bunts, and tagging runners out at home it is a wonder she can keep it all straight! Not to mention the addition of a full set of gear that can make agile movement difficult. It is no wonder that softball catching drills would differ so greatly from other fielding team members training drills. While she should participate in running, throwing and stamina drills, the following is a list of drills meant to specifically enhance the skills and abilities of the catcher. Softball Catching Drills.

Home Plate Block – Softball Catching Drills.

As players try to score, it is up to the catcher to tag them out as they reach home plate. Two very important factors weigh in at this moment. First, did the player touch the plate before the catcher tagged her? Second, did the catcher drop the ball? These situations will result in a player sliding into home and trying to knock the catcher off her game.

To practice these skills, split the team into two groups. Have your catcher, in her full gear, take her position behind the plate. Have 1 group of players in second base position, have the other group at 3rd base. At the beginning of each rotation have one girl on 3rd base as a base runner, the other at 2nd base as a fielder. Roll or hit the ball towards 2nd base and have the base runner take off. The catcher should spring from her position; blocking the side of the plate with her knee. She must catch the throw from second, tag the runner out, and not drop the ball. The catcher should reset, baserunners and fielders should rotate and the play should run again.

2nd Base Steal – Softball Catching Drills.

As coaches, we usually tell our players to take every opportunity to steal second base. As the furthest from home plate, the likelihood of a successfully gained base is high. On the occasion that the catcher is unable to accurately complete a throw, the opportunity for an additional base arises. The best way to combat this is to ensure that your catcher is able to accurately and confidently complete the play the majority of the time (hey, no one is perfect). While the best way to achieve this is often to have the pitcher, shortstop and the catcher run the play repeatedly, that can take a lot of time away from pitching and fielding drills for your other players. 

The catcher can drill this skill on her own with some special equipment. If the diamond is occupied, measure the proper distance (84 feet 10 ¼ inches!) and place a tee raised to the approximate height of the glove of your shortstop. Place a ball on the top of the tee.The catcher should spring from her position, and complete the throw with the goal being to knock the ball off the tee. A player can be designated to work with the catcher and reset the ball or the catcher can practice running in her gear and reset herself.  

Wrap-up

Just as there are specific drills for pitching, hitting, and fielding, there are plenty of ways to include your catchers in every aspect of practice. You can still give them the opportunity to hone the specific skill set they need to successfully perform all aspects of their position. What are your favorite catcher’s drills to run during your practice? Comment below and let us know! If you have any questions or need clarification reach out at coach@elitesoftballdrills.com

Spring training is just around the corner, so gather your team, grab your gear, get out there and play ball!

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